Nature as a creative mentor: how Sri Lankan fashion designers embrace biomimicry

Abstract

Channelling nature as a profound source of inspiration for integrating design solutions has been a longstanding practice dating back to the dawn of human survival. This innovative approach involves perceiving biological functions and visuals, and then merging them with design to create product solutions. In recent times, this process has taken on a new form with biomimicry gaining traction as a valuable tool for industrial enterprises. The purpose of this study is to explore the potential impact of biomimicry on the fashion industry and its future landscape in fashion design. To conduct this research, primary data was collected through purposive sampling and semi-structured interviews with local designers, while secondary data was obtained from renowned fashion trend forecasting platforms, social blogs, and scientific literature. These were then subjected to mixed method analysis. Through this exploratory research, we draw conclusions about the efficiency of biomimicry as a design practice and its potential as a tool for advanced innovative concepts in Sri Lankan context. The study also highlights the gaps between biological knowledge and the fashion industry, which have been hindering the widespread adoption of this practice. By investigating the opportunities and possibilities that biomimicry presents, this research aims to empower local fashion designers to incorporate biomimetic principles into their creative and commercial practices. Ultimately, the findings infirm shaping a sustainable and innovative future for the field of fashion