See floating shoes, turf dress in expo's future fashion week

Asahi Shimbun

5 days ago

Magnetically levitating shoes will be on display at the Osaka-Kansai Expo's future fashion show in September. The footwear, along with other conceptual future fashion items, is showcased at a preview in Osaka on July 18. (Kazuhito Suwa)
OSAKA—Shoes that float, dresses that grow living plants and garments that fold like origami—these are just a few of the futuristic fashions that will be on display at the Osaka-Kansai Expo in September.
These imaginative designs, revealed during a preview on July 18, reflect a spirit of experimentation and wonder, prioritizing innovation and inspiration over immediate practicality.
The preview, held at the Osaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry, featured prototypes developed by local small and midsize businesses aiming to spark curiosity about what the clothes of the future could look like.
Among the standout pieces are levitating shoes created by shoe manufacturer Re:getA and wetsuit material company Yamamoto Corp.
The shoes hover using magnets embedded in the soles that repel against magnets in the display base, lifting the shoes off the ground—though not strong enough to lift a person.
Re:getA President Yasuo Takamoto explained that stronger neodymium magnets, typically used in electric vehicle motors, could theoretically support the weight of humans.
However, the cost and technical challenges—such as the need for a maglev-style ground platform—make that a distant dream.
'Like flying cars, there's something magical about floating objects,' Takamoto said. 'I hope our floating shoes will inspire children to explore the world of manufacturing in the future.'
Although the floating shoes remain conceptual, the company is exploring ideas for footwear that uses magnets to improve shock absorption.
Another eye-catching concept is a photosynthetic outfit, co-developed by four Osaka-based companies including textile maker Toki Sen-i Co. and cosmetics firm Momotani Juntenkan.
The clothing features a mesh fabric infused with moisturizing lotion and seeded with plants such as cat grass, clover and turf. With regular misting, the garments sprout greenery in a week.
'Roots grow inward toward the skin, so we need to improve the fabric's comfort,' said Yoshiaki Oshita, executive director at Toki Sen-i. 'There are still many hurdles to commercialize this.'
Despite this, the concept has already sparked public imagination.
Observers suggested using it as a fur alternative, turning wearers into walking greenery in urban environments, or even growing edible plants.
Meanwhile, an 'origami garment' project by auto dismantling firm Yoshimura Industry Co. and Osaka Institute of Fashion combines sustainability and versatility.
Made from repurposed airbag fabric salvaged from scrapped vehicles, the garments can be folded into various styles. A single piece transforms into multiple outfits without any cutting, reducing waste.
'We hope the technology packed into this piece can inspire what fashion could look like in the future,' said Yuki Nakagawa, a third-year student at the institute and a member of the project team.
These exhibits will be open to the public from Sept. 23 to 29 inside the Osaka Healthcare Pavilion at the expo site.
No reservations are required for entry.