Leeds Museums and Galleries object of the week- The world’s most sustainable suit

It may look fairly ordinary, but this remarkable piece of tailoring can actually lay claim to the title of world’s most eco-friendly suit.

Created in 2007 by Marks and Spencer, the suit is one of the many fascinating and unusual sartorial exhibits on show as part of Tailored: A Very British Fashion at Leeds City Museum.

Made from organic wool, dyed according to Global Organic Textile standards, the lining of the suit is made of recycled plastic bottles.

The zips and care label are made from recycled polyester and the pocket linings, waistband and buttons are all reclaimed.

The suit in on loan from the Marks and Spencer company archive at the University of Leeds campus and was created over four years as part of the company’s drive to become the world’s most sustainable major retailer.

Councillor Brian Selby, Leeds City Council’s lead member for museums and galleries, said:

“Like many of the exhibits in Tailored, this suit is a great example of how fashion and design can be a real mirror for the attitudes of society as a whole.

“With many industries looking at how they can be more sustainable, this goes to show just what can be achieved with some innovation and invention.”

Tailored: A very British fashion showcases tailoring from the eighteenth century to today.

Other suits on display include a child’s white silk suit from the seventeenth century, a Victorian lady’s walking suit and a suit worn by Edward, Prince of Wales.

Tailored is at Leeds City Museum until January 3.

ENDS

Leeds City Museum – Entrance is free

Opening hours: Monday closed (except bank holidays)

Tues – Fri: 10am-5pm

Sat, Sun and bank holidays: 11am – 5pm.

www.leeds.gov.uk/citymuseum

Millennium Square, Cookridge Street, Leeds, LS2 8BH

Tel: 0113 2243732.

Email: city.museum@leeds.gov.uk