MOISTURIZED, HYDRATED, AND PROTECTED SKIN ALL FROM JUST WEARING A SHIRT? Indeed, says Joey Rodolfo and Stacy Bennett, co-founders of Seattle-based luxury technical clothing retailer Buki, which recently debuted a line of collagen-embedded clothing and accessories following the launch of the brand in 2016, that does just that.
“Unlike other technical fabrics that are constructed using topically applied chemicals or dipping processes, Buki uses state-of-the-art technology to embed technical elements within each fabric,” Rodolfo says. “This ensures the marine collagen does not deteriorate in the fibers while worn or washed.”
Buki’s Collagen Collection includes super soft, wrinkle-resistant tees, a turtleneck, hoodie, scarf and pillow cover, all of which offer an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating of 50 and work to moisturize the skin with each wear. “Your skin feels softer in less than a minute,” Bennett says.
Later this year, the retailer will launch a collagen-embedded men’s line, including a crew neck tee and polo shirt.
Why produce a line of collagen-embedded clothing? Where did the idea come from?
JR: We expect the collagen market will experience massive growth in the coming years due to rising demand for collagen-based products across health and wellness, cosmetics and food and beverage. The fashion, beauty, and wellness industries are colliding as consumer interest increases in the advantages of collagen. Moving from beauty and hair products to dietary supplements, collagen is also now available in clothing.
What is the fabric that the collagen is embedded into?
JR: Unlike other technical fabrics that are constructed using topically applied chemicals or dipping processes, Buki uses state-of-the-art technology to embed technical elements within each fabric. This ensures the marine collagen does not deteriorate in the fibers while worn or washed. The Collagen Collection fabric is an industry first, and a Buki exclusive engineered to relay the moisturizing benefits of collagen directly onto the skin.
Does it leave any sort of residue on the skin?
SB: The collagen fabric just leaves your skin feeling hydrated and moisturized, there’s no residue! Your skin feels softer in less than a minute.
Once it’s washed, does that affect the collagen benefits?
SB: As with all Buki fabrics, the Collagen Collection pieces are easy to care for with a cold-water machine wash and cool dry. Since the collagen peptides are embedded into the fabric fibers, it will not wash out, ensuring you stay comfortable, moisturized and protected wear after wear.
Any plans to expand this line beyond the few pieces currently offered?
JR: We will launch a men’s Collagen Collection later this year with a Crew Neck Tee and a waffle Polo. We’re starting with timeless men’s essentials that can work into any wardrobe.
What’s the first thing you want a shopper to feel when she tries on an item from this line?
SB: This clothing is supremely soft and luxurious, and also moisturizes and protects the skin with each wear. We hope women feel the immediate softness not only of the fabric, but also of their skin, and the resulting comfort with the first and every subsequent wear. With classic silhouettes that take you from desk to dinner, our Collagen Collection offers fashion-forward comfort.
bukibrand.com
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