The future of fashion co-created with YUIMA NAKAZATO
Epson’s technology was used in the creation of parts of YUIMA NAKAZATO’s latest collection, "INFERNO," presented during Haute Couture Week in Paris on July 8, 2026.
Inspired by the dramatic landscapes of Tenerife, Spain, the collection features graphic expressions created using Epson’s digital textile printing technology. Epson also expanded the applications of non-woven fabric sheets regenerated from used clothing and mill ends using its proprietary Dry Fiber Technology1. Developed in collaboration with YKK Corporation, the material was used in zipper tape, further broadening its potential applications.
©Mika Inoue
Expressing "Duality" Through Digital Textile Printing
The collection draws inspiration from the rugged volcanic landscapes of Tenerife, Spain, where the coastline shaped by underwater volcanic activity meets the vast Atlantic Ocean. The scenery transforms under the contrasting light of the sun and the moon, creating ever-changing impressions.
Drawing on photographs of the sea that he captured himself, Mr. Nakazato digitally processed a single image to create two distinct graphic expressions, one in blue and the other in red.
Epson's digital textile printing technology was used to reproduce intricate details of the waves and water surface with exceptional precision, while faithfully capturing the subtle colors, tonal gradations, and textures of each graphic on fabric.
The blue graphic evokes the depth and stillness of the ocean, while the red graphic recalls the intensity of blazing fire. Although both originate from the same photograph, each takes on an entirely different presence through color, transforming the image into something that can be perceived as either water or flame.
By bringing together the realism of photography and graphic expression transformed through digital processing, the design visually expresses the relationship between fire and water. Epson's advanced color reproduction capabilities symbolically bring to life the concept of "Duality" in the collection.
Expanding the Possibilities of Recycled Materials Through Dry Fiber Technology: Application to Zipper Tapes
Dry Fiber Technology played a key role in the collection. Non-woven fabric sheets recycled from used clothing and mill ends have previously been incorporated into costume pieces and sneakers.
For INFERNO, Epson took on the challenge of applying the non-woven fabric sheets to zipper tape for the first time, with the aim of exploring their potential for broader uses. The material was developed for use in zipper tape in collaboration with YKK and featured as a concept item in EXCELLA®, YKK's premium metal zipper line. The zipper tape incorporates non-woven fabric sheets printed with graphics using Epson's digital textile printing technology.
Because the non-woven fabric sheets differ structurally from conventional woven zipper tape, ensuring the strength, flexibility, and operability required for zipper applications presented a significant challenge. Building on insights gained through previous development efforts, Epson and YKK worked together to evaluate and optimize the structural design and processing conditions to suit the characteristics of the material. As a result, the partners successfully realized a zipper that combines both functionality and aesthetic quality.
By applying recycled materials not only to garments but also to garment components, the project demonstrated new possibilities for circular materials in fashion.
Epson continues to collaborate with YUIMA NAKAZATO, exploring new possibilities in sustainable fashion by combining creativity with environmental responsibility.
1 Epson’s proprietary technology for defibrating a wide variety of materials for functional applications using very little water. For details, please click the link to the Dry Fiber Technology website. Dry Fiber Technology
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