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Mademoiselle Moo-Moo? |
By studying micro-biology by day and managing her firm by night, Anke Domaske created something truly moo-ving. Her newest line of clothing, Mademoiselle Chi Chi, is made out of “milk fiber.”
She perfected the process of creating silky threads out of what the average joe would call spoiled milk. This took her years of trial and error. Domaske said, “It [was] like experimenting with the ingredients in your kitchen cupboard. A bit like baking, in a way.”
Fabric like silk, but made of milk? One of the best aspects of these products is actually how eco-friendly they are. The threads themselves take less than an hour to make and require no pesticides unlike silk threads. Made of all natural ingredients, these clothes can be washed normally and require no intense maintenance. Mademoiselle Chi Chi designs run anywhere in the $200-$300 price range, and are all made using this revolutionary material.
However, not to be a “cattle-tale,” Domaske was not the original user of milk fiber. In the 1930’s it was named “casein fiber” and was actually used in combination of wool and other fabrics for designs in America and Italy. It was also used as a part of army rations in World War I. So, though Domaske perfected the technique to make it applicable to her clothing line, the stuff has actually been grazing around for decades.
Lastly, this textile actually has some health benefits for you and the environment. Milk actually softens the skin and absorbs moisture better than other fabrics such as cotton. It has been considered anti-bacterial and anti-fungal as well. Clothing and other items made by milk fiber are biodegradable and renewable.
Who knew cattle products could be so eco-friendly and fashionable at the same time? While cow print may still be a no-no in the fashion society, these products will not only lower your carbon hoof-print, but will also beef up your stylish wardrobe.
Ashley Swazey
