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too," explained Asta Bakanauskiene, product development manager. Sustainability, like functionality, had a low profile at this year's Interfilière New York. But again, what vendors had on hand was high quality. Austrian mill Willy Hermann, for example, has a new collection featuring recycled cotton, nylon and polyester. Known for expertise in fine gauge knits, the eco-fabrications were soft with a natural feel. "A lot more people are asking about recycled and sustainability," commented sales manager Sarah Ritter. Serafina with Paive Miatex agreed, however, and noted that buyers still hesitate when it comes to recycled. He explained that reluctance was not so much about the cost of the fabric, but the "promotional cost" necessary to educate consumers. "There is a lot of confusion still around what makes something sustainable. The outdoor industry is ahead," said Serafina. "It's not happening in this market — yet. But eventually it will." It will be interesting to see how Interfilière New York evolves going forward. Will the show remain tried and true to intimates and swim, or swing back to a broader outlook that includes an active influence? The crossover possibilities definitely exist, as does consumer desire for apparel that provides comfort yet features function and fashion. l Left: La Lame stretch flash seersucker. Right: 3T Transfers specializes in eye-catching prints. Look for Insect Shield products from these trusted brands - Heather Hearst Founder & President, Project Lyme Tested & Proven " As a recovering Lyme disease patient, and mother of two based in the beautiful, but tick-rich state of Maine, I do everything I can to protect our family from ticks. I'm comforted knowing that Insect Shield technology is protecting us always while we enjoy the outdoors. Tested. Proven. Mother approved. " W18-OutdoorInsight-9x5.875.indd 1 9/11/18 9:15 AM November/December 2018 ~ Textile Insight • 13 textileinsight.com