Digital fashion designs are downloadable and customizable

Post-Couture produces editable clothing designs, which consumers can print and self-assemble at their local makerspace.

As the maker movement advances, nurses are able to create customized hospital equipment, just as beatmakers are able to invent parts for their production tools. Netherlands-based collective Post-Couture brings the concept to clothing, producing customizable designs that users assemble in their local makerspace.

Post-Couture’s range uses Spacer fabric — a 3D-knitted material made from recycled PET plastic bottles. Users first choose a design on the collective’s website, and input their measurements — they can even customize the design file using Illustrator or Rhinoceros. They then receive the fabric and download the pattern, which they use to etch out the item with laser-cutting equipment at their local makerspace. Interweaving tabs form the seams of the pieces, meaning that material can be assembled into the correct shape without any need for sewing. Users also have the option to receive the materials pre-cut, or buy the digital design files from EUR 5 to print themselves. Any trimmings or discarded garments can be returned to Post-Couture for recycling.

With an opening range designed by fashion label mphvs, Post-Couture’s products are priced between EUR 40 — 130. What other ways can fashion facilitate greater consumer customization?