#Textiles & Apparel / Garment

2021-07-29

LYCRA® FitSense™ technology delivers breakthrough benefits in modesty and bra foam replacement

The LYCRA Company, a global leader in developing innovative solutions for the textile, apparel, and personal care industries, today introduced a breakthrough LYCRA® FitSense™ technology innovation that reduces or eliminates the need for bra foam. This patent-pending bra cup application can be used in intimate apparel such as traditional wired, non-wired or unlined bras (including bralettes and sport bras), plus activewear and swimwear.

LYCRA® FitSense™ technology is a water-based, solvent-free dispersion that is comprised of the same molecule as LYCRA® fiber. The dispersion is screen-printed directly onto the bra fabric, increasing the power of the fabric in precise areas. The power increase in the bra cup effectively reduces nipple protrusion while providing symmetrical support, shaping and lift for the bustline—reducing or eliminating the need for sewn-in panels or insertable pads.

Zones of support can be applied to the bottom and sides of the bra cup for shaping, as well as the wing for maximum comfort and smoothing. LYCRA® FitSense™ technology also can be applied between fabric layers in the bra cup to mask nipple protrusion while retaining the original fabric aesthetics.

“With LYCRA® FitSense™ technology, the print does the work of the pad and enables brands to build a better bra for all sizes, styles and silhouettes—a true breakthrough development,” said Melissa Stewart, global technology director-R&D materials innovations. “With this new innovation, women have more choices in bras that provide functionality, style and comfort.”

Bras can be rigid, bulky, and hot, with multiple components and structures creating an uncomfortable, restrictive wearing experience. LYCRA® FitSense™ technology can be used to design functional bras that are lighter, thinner, and more breathable, without sacrificing modesty, all-day comfort, durability, support or shaping. And unlike polyurethane foam—which discolors and can move around or even get lost in the wash—LYCRA® FitSense™ technology is built into the garment and is highly durable to machine washing and regular wear. Further, in swimwear applications, the technology provides chlorine resistance and fast drying benefits versus foams and dual fabric layers.

LYCRA® FitSense™ technology offers intimate apparel makers versatility to create intentional design aesthetics by incorporating delicate patterns and artistic details that align with their brand identities. “Designs and colors can be easily customized to deliver on-trend fashion cues—from feminine, lacelike designs to sporty geometric shapes—that satisfy all tastes,” said Stewart. “With LYCRA® FitSense™ technology, a designer’s imagination is the only creative limitation.”

A woman wears a bra and panty set with LYCRA® FitSense™ technology for nipple concealment and lightweight, targeted support. (Photo: Business Wire)

LYCRA® FitSense™ technology, which achieved the ECO PASSPORT by OEKO-TEX® sustainability certification, is applied using standard screen-printing processes, eliminating the need for specialty equipment or major supply chain upgrades. The LYCRA Company provides technical guidance to enable brands, retailers, and garment makers to easily access this innovation.

For more information, download our white paper on the LYCRA FitSense™ technology and screen-printed bra cup application.

https://www.lycra.com/en/business/news/lycra-fitsense-technology-delivers-breakthrough-benefits-modesty-and-bra-foam

Texprocess 2026: Automation, digitalisation and AI redefine textile processing

Making investment decisions in textile processing has become significantly more demanding. Increasing energy costs, a shortage of skilled labour and ongoing geopolitical uncertainties are compelling companies to focus on technologies that deliver clear gains in efficiency and process reliability. This applies equally to apparel manufacturing and to the processing of technical textiles and high-performance materials. As a result, modernisation initiatives are assessed more carefully – even as the need to upgrade production systems continues to intensify.

Techtextil 2026: Between innovation pressure & market reality

From 21 to 24 April 2026, Techtextil in Frankfurt am Main will once again become the central meeting point for the international technical textiles and nonwovens industry. Running in parallel, Texprocess will focus on the industrial implementation of textile processing technologies as the leading platform in this field. Together, the two trade fairs form a closely integrated presentation and working platform along the entire textile value chain – from material development to finished applications.

Between geopolitical pressure and industrial resilience

In this interview, Dr. Janpeter Horn (VDMA) discusses the current challenges facing textile machinery manufacturers, shaped by geopolitical tensions, regulatory developments and subdued investment. He also outlines why innovation strength, integrated solutions and strategic positioning remain key to global competitiveness.

Messe Frankfurt commits further to East Africa: three textiles trade fairs during Africa Sourcing and Fashion Week from 2027

Messe Frankfurt and its Texpertise Network continue their steady, successful trajectory in the region. As Africa Sourcing and Fashion Week (ASFW) opened today, Member of the Executive Board Detlef Braun announced that Messe Frankfurt is licencing its three leading international trade fair brands Texworld, Apparel Sourcing and Texprocess to Nairobi, Kenya for the first time in 2027. From now on, they will take place annually as part of the Africa Sourcing and Fashion Week (ASFW) Nairobi.

“We Believe in the Value of Textiles”: Successful Opening of the KARL MAYER TEXTILE INNOVATION CENTER

KARL MAYER inaugurated its new, state-of-the-art TEXTILE INNOVATION CENTER (TIC) with a four-day opening week from April 21 to 24. The highlight of the week was the grand opening on Thursday, which drew a strong turnout from the international textile industry: around 220 customers, brands, and partners from across the textile value chain came to the company’s headquarters in Obertshausen for a first-hand look at the new high-tech development environment and lively exchange with industry peers.

Texhibition Istanbul signals stability and global connectivity

From 4 to 6 March 2026, Texhibition Istanbul once again brought together the international textile industry at the Istanbul Expo Center. Organized by İTKİB Fuarcılık A.Ş. in cooperation with the Istanbul Textile Exporters Association (İTHİB), the fair confirmed its role as one of the most important international sourcing platforms for fabrics and textile innovation. With 500+ exhibitors across 5 halls on 42,850 sqm, the trade fair attracted 19,325 visitors. Among them, 5.565 international visitors represented Europe, Asia, the Middle East, North Africa, North America, and other regions, underlining the show’s expanding global reach.

Val:ue Milan unveiled – a curated boutique business hub for high-end apparel textiles

Messe Frankfurt continues to expand its international textile network with the announcement of Val:ue Milan. Moving beyond the traditional trade fair model, Val:ue Milan debuts as a prestigious, boutique-style business hub exclusively dedicated to elected fabrics and accessories for apparel. Taking place from February 3 to 5, 2027, at The Mall in Porta Nuova, the event breaks away from conventional formats through a strictly curated environment designed for strategic networking. By bridging the gap between high-end international manufacturers and top-tier segment buyers, Val:ue Milan further strengthens the Group’s global portfolio with a unique, high-impact concept built around a refined and carefully selected offering.

BTMA backs global growth while investing in future UK leaders

As one of a number of new initiatives launched this year, the British Textile Machinery Association (BTMA) is launching the UK-India Textile Machinery Coalition. The UK-India Free Trade Agreement, signed in July 2025, has implications that extend across sourcing, competitiveness and long-term trade dynamics, believes BTMA CEO Jason Kent.

China projected to increase cotton production, yields, and imports in 2026/27

World cotton production in the 2026/27 season is projected at 25.9 million tonnes, exceeding global consumption of 25.2 million tonnes, according to the May 2026 issue of Cotton This Month. That means both production and consumption are expected to remain close to current season levels, while global cotton trade is projected to decline by 2.7% to approximately 9.6-9.7 million tonnes.