Hong Kong with Ford Design Challenge

Last January 2016, Ford whisked me away to Hong Kong to witness the Redress Forum 2016: Ford Design Challenge. The event is designed to bring together emerging fashion designers and thought leaders to drive the conversation about the future of sustainability in both the fashion and automotive industries.

During the event, the designers were tasked to create high-fashion pieces using Ford’s sustainable seat fabrics. These seat fabrics are made from REPREVE® – a hybrid fiber invented by Ford, made from recycled plastic water bottles and post-industrial waste. Super cool, right? But before the designers got to work on their pieces, in true Project Runway style, they all embarked on a quick inspiration tour around Hong Kong first. They were instructed to take photos of things and places that will serve as their inspiration for their pieces. After that, they were given a few hours to make their designs. All of them were partnered up though so at least they got to help each other out. Even so, I was still amazed at all the pieces they came up with! Most of which entailed highly intricate fabric manipulation. Props to all the designers!

Witnessing the designers’ final pieces come to life was truly exciting but the real highlight of my trip was really all the things I learned from Ford. I have to be honest, I never knew Ford was so environmentally conscious and aware. Sustainability is ingrained in every facet of its business, but one of the most inspiring areas is the rapid development of Ford’s sustainable materials. Just imagine: recycled denim transformed into sound-absorbing hood insulation; soybean oil into soy-based foam used in its seat cushions and seat backs; plant-based oils like castor oil to create a special foam for Mustang’s instrument panel; wheat straw for car storage beans; the wonder plant, kenaf, to create interior door panels; and eventually, tomato skins (yes, TOMATO SKINS) to use for wiring brackets and storage bins, and dandelions to turn into a natural rubber alternative. Who would’ve thought these are possible? It feels good to know that such a big company like Ford is doing its part in taking care of world, without compromising quality and design. It’s possible after all.

21 Responses to “Hong Kong with Ford Design Challenge”
  3. MT

    Wow Camille you look extremely good in the both outfits. The one with the pants is very cool and you wear it nicely and the one with the coat is soo chick and classy in the same time! Yes it is nice to learn new things and it is good some companies actually care about environment. Good job Ford (before I red the article I thought it is Tom Ford :-) And finaly about Hong Kong. I always find it similar with New York City.

    Reply
  5. Maebs

    Thanks for this post. :) i enjoyed reading it. I didnt know that things that we see/ eat can turn into some carparts. How amazing :)

    Reply
  6. Bea Cruz

    Hi Ate Camille!

    I am a big fan of your Instagram and blog. You are my inspiration :) Would you mind sharing with me your filters used? It would mean the world to me. Thank you so much, Ate! :)

    Reply
  10. Elizabeth T.

    It’s so nice that you got to go to Hong Kong for such a meaningful project :) Sustainability really is the direction that we all need to be heading for the greater good of our environment. Loving all of the designs, and Hong Kong looks amazing! BTW, loving the vertical striped pants that you’re wearing! It literally makes your legs go on forever!

    XO, Elizabeth
    http://clothestoyouuu.com/

    Reply
Leave a Reply