How NextPrinting Makes One of Denim’s Biggest Trends More Sustainable

From Diesel to Kseniaschnaider, some of the most innovative names in denim are embracing trompe-l’œil effects in their collections, and the popularity of this novel technique continues to rise.

Italian printing system NextPrinting is working on ways to make the process more sustainable, however.

NextPrinting is dedicated to making this process more sustainable. They have developed a bespoke printing system that creates realistic and repeatable effects on garments while achieving an authentic aesthetic. Philippe Mignot, NextPrinting’s project manager, notes that their method “drastically reduces” energy, water, and chemical consumption from fabric creation to the final garment.

“This season, based on our digital printing technology, we are testing new color components to reduce the use of chemical binders and focusing on alternative finishing products,” he said.

For trompe-l’œil designs, NextPrinting is integrating knitted fabrics made from recycled or sustainable yarns. Mignot emphasizes that their print bases enhance ease and wearability, allowing brands to experiment with fashionable effects on lightweight, soft, and comfortable fabrics—qualities that are increasingly sought after as many mills focus on softness and summer-friendly denim made with cotton and Tencel for Spring/Summer 2026.

“Our trompe-l’œil printing can replicate any vintage or denim look, reducing scrap and fabric waste due to the technical lows of traditional printing. By minimizing laundry use and impact on water, energy and chemical consumption, we ensure that our garments are suitable for every season and every style,” he said.

Additionally, NextPrinting is exploring ways to mimic textures and hand feels. “We have introduced a leather feel to our digital printing, which gives 100 percent GOTS cotton a leather-like touch and appearance,” Mignot said, adding that it is a new sustainable way to reproduce the properties of leather on different fabric bases.

“We aim to provide new tools to the fashion market, responding with innovative solutions to any trend. Our ability to quickly develop new projects combined with our in-house facilities, enables us the skill to respond promptly to designers’ needs. We offer an enthusiastic and positive approach to transitioning the future of textiles,” he said.

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