Chemical reaction: Clothing responds to the elements

London – The Unseen is a collective that explores the relationship between art and science, materials and chemicals, through performances and producing works of design.For a recent performance piece during London Fashion Week, the house presented a headdress that alters colours in reaction with changes in the surrounding air.

The headdress, made from panels of leather that had been stitched together, was sprayed with heat-reactive ink, created by The Unseen Alchemist Lauren Bowker. In the performance, the headdress was lit with candles and, as the heat from the candles’ flames came into contact with the material, the ink began to change colour. Bowker also layered other similar leather pieces with wind-reactive ink, causing the material to change colour in response to the movement of air.

Designers are showing more interest in working with heat-reactive materials, to bring added awe and mystique to their clothing. For more, read our Innovate on Alexander Wang’s latest collection.