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Fall/Winter 25/26
x Louisa Smith
x Louisa Smith Fall/Winter 25/26 TRENDS Louisa Smith is an international textile trend consultant who works with leading companies throughout the supply chain. Her knowledge of sustainable developments, along with her detailed research into what consumers will want in advance, gives companies a competitive edge. “Working with the Unitex team has been a pleasure. The company’s philosophy is centered around sustainable solutions that are implemented on-site and throughout the entire supply chain. Unitex is not just a company that relies on sustainable ingredients to offer a green message, but a company that understands the importance of cleaner technologies in the performance sector at every level, from the grassroots up.”
SUSTAINABLY SOUND Welcome to the UNITEX Trendbook for Fall/Winter 2025/2026, where we showcase the latest developments of our collection that highlight sustainability, creativity, and performance for the sports and outdoor market. This season, UNITEX has collaborated with international textile trend consultant Louisa Smith to define the direction of the latest textile developments. Four key trends have been outlined: E-motion, Controlled Pace, Mono Movement, and Boundless, all delivering a new level of versatility, sustainability, and innovation for today’s consumer. At UNITEX, we prioritize sustainable practices in everything we do. As an award-winning circular and warp knitter, we take an all-around responsible approach to achieve this. We use wind and solar power, practice eco-dyeing, and even use recycled cards for hangers. We aim to make the UNITEX production process as efficient and environmentally friendly as possible while maintaining high-level quality by partnering with premium ingredients. We are proud to offer the latest fully transparent and traceable circular and warp-knit developments, and we are committed to being your reliable sourcing partner. Happy sourcing! The Team
TREND 01 - F/W25/26
E-MOTION
UNITEX x Louisa Smith
THE MOOD An emotional journey through the combination of fabrics and performance defines this trend. Urban landscapes become the workout arena, with running still a strong sport as consumers pound the streets and circumnavigate the parks. Power and performance protect the wearer’s body, moving in synchronicity. An emotional connection features through camaraderie and community in the urban workout environments with gym meets and running
clubs. The major factor here is motion, fast or slow, and how we can support and ehance it.
UNITEX x Louisa Smith
CONSUMER ATTITUDE COLLABORATION
24/7 urban gyms have become the workout mecca, attracting homeworkers and hot deskers to hit the weights. Strength training has become a crucial factor in everyday lives, it is no longer just about defining a physique, but also the benefits to joints and a healthier, active lifestyle. Running, using the streets and city parks to get the hit in all weathers. Base layers and layering creates diversity in apparel that can easily transcends into active lifestyle. There is a need for performance but also ease, fabrics have to react to the occasion. TREND 01 - E-MOTION
NEON FUTURISTIC
Karsten Winegeart Unsplash
There is also an emotional connect in this trend, with running groups and workout meetups all part of a positive approach to the collaboration and community needed for health and mental fitness too.
MOTION
Vladislav Nahorny - Unsplash
SOCIAL CONNECTION
COLLECTIVELY CONNECTED TOUGH & TENACIOUS
URBAN GYMS UNITEX x Louisa Smith
TREND 01 - E-MOTION
TREND 01 - E-MOTION
MATERIAL INSPIRATION High-compression fabrics deliver varying levels of support required. Thermal ingredients and finishes allow for layering systems for the urban outdoor run in winter temperatures. Moisture management, anti-odor, and cool touch features, with FIR yarns deliver a reactive warming experience through motion.
COLORS
The hand feel is smooth, with solid surfaces and dry hands. Look to double knits for a scuba feels for protective outer shells and four-way stretch from enhanced movement and support in second skin essentials.
The urban landscape inspires from gritty grey through to black and deep blues. Watch for the brighter tones that can be applied as trim and transfer details, especially orange for the warmth factor.
19-4009 TPG
UNITEX x Louisa Smith
15-0535 TPG
16-1501 TPG
15-1153 TPG
15-4031 TPG
What’s trending at UNITEX?
PERFORMANCE
• Bio-based synthetics • High power spandex • FIR yarns - reflecting heat to the body for warmth and a sense of wellbeing • Mechanical stretch for softer stretch • Permanent performance in nylon 6.6 for sensual second skin touch • Compact, lightweight knits that mimic a woven • Clean-cut fabrics - better fit and less CMT • Lightweight power fabrics with a crisp finish
COMPRESSION & SUPPORT COMPACT & COLLECTIVE EMBEDDED PERFORMANCE IRRIDESCENT HEAT TRANSFERS FOR TRIMS MECHANISM THERMAL REGULATION UNITEX x Louisa Smith
TREND 01 - E-MOTION
TREND 01 - E-MOTION
DESIGN DEVELOPMENTS • Gym-wear is very unisex, it is also very versatile in design, with this trend taking a nod to the traditionally industrial gyms gritty, tenacious and hardcore.
Scott Webb- Unsplash
• Clean and supportive, anatomically designed base layers feature for men and women, embracing the body in motion for running. The built-in function in the fabrics is crucial to attaining the high-end goals, and this is where UNITEX’s fabrics deliver—high compression, soft touch, all packed full of performance. • For men compression knee-length shorts and running tights under a streamlined short, with smoothing moisture management Ts. For the women’s market, body mapping features, as does the increased interest in all-in-one unitards. Unisex tops and hoodies
UNITEX x Louisa Smith
HOME WORKOUT
Logan Weiner- Unsplash
UNITEX x Louisa Smith
TARGET MARKETS • Running • Gym workout • Urban living — apparel that works at the gym to the coffee shop — the growth of urban, industrial gyms is global — offering high-performance products that can be worn to and from the gym is part of the diversity of products consumers are looking for • Pre and post-gym soft shells • For women, gym wear is body mapped and clean lines— no fuss. • Climbing • High-level studio workouts • Dance • Cycling
TREND 01 - E-MOTION
FABRICS E-MOTION Unitex 25/26 FW trends
TREND 01
Ref: 2S0845WN 78% Nylon 22% Spandex
Ref: 2S0986EN 82% Nylon 18% Spandex
Ref: KS0092WN 69% Nylon 6.6 31% Spandex
Ref: DS90359EN 86% Nylon 14% Spandex
FABRICS E-MOTION Unitex 25/26 FW trends
TREND 01
Ref: DS20518CL 75% FIR Polyester 25% Spandex
Ref: 3N90086WL-D1 46% Polyester 54% Bio-based Polyester
Ref: 2S0971AN 80% Nylon 20% Spandex
Ref: DS80546MN 92% Polyester 8% Spandex
TREND 02 - F/W25/26
QUIET PACE
UNITEX x Louisa Smith
THE MOOD Slow it down and digitally disconnect; there is a need for being at one. Connecting with your mind and body is not just for physical fitness but also for mental wellness. A sense of calm creates a protective shell and controlled breathing can take you from a high state to a new level of peace. This trend is geared towards collecting ourselves and remembering there is more to life than a hyperconnected being. Yoga has become the saving grace for many, and this trend encourages it as part of a healthy and balanced lifestyle.
UNITEX x Louisa Smith
CONSUMER ATTITUDE Consumers want a balance; they want to reconnect with themselves and maintain their active lifestyles. Well-being is a force of nature, as healthy eating options and disconnected pastimes, including reading physical books rather than staring at a handheld screen.
TREND 02 - QUIET PACE
Our homes become a sanctuary, the pinnacle of our life, living and working from them. You don’t need much space to reclaim a quiet, contemplative spot. Some plants, a yoga mat, a chair, and a book recharge your inner psyche.
Elijah-Hsiett - Unsplash
Hans Issacson - Unsplash
Step out into the park and breathe, or cycle to the store for healthy ingredients that add to your well-being. Burnt out and under the weather are all in the past. The tools are here to ensure we are kind to ourselves, and we have to follow them.
DISCONNECT FROM SOCIAL MEDIA
Vladislav Nahorny - Unsplash
URBAN MOBILITY
PEACE & TRANQUILITY
UNITEX x Louisa Smith
TREND 02 - QUIET PACE
TREND 02 - QUIET PACE
SMOOTH PERFECTION
MATERIAL INSPIRATION The touch of fabrics is exquisite on the skin, from barely there circular knits through to double knits that feel light as a feather but will offer rounded protections. A cozy touch and a natural feel complement the flickering of natural shine.
COLORS
Thermal regulation and moisture management ensure this direction offers versatility in responsible design - from being in a downward dog to heading to the deli or the home desk - again, this slower pace influences the amount of apparel we genuinely need for multiple end uses, a less is more theme dominates, for a sustainable choice.
Natural in inspiration from rose quarts to wheat and algae green. Surfaces are precise and compact, rounded for enhanced smoothness.
12-0811 TPG
UNITEX x Louisa Smith
17-1341 TPG
15-0535 TPG
16-1501 TPG
11-4606 TPG
What’s trending at UNITEX?
PERFORMANCE
• Thermal regulation • Moisture management • •
Sensational touch
• Protective spacer-inspired double knits Nylon and polyester permanent performance Veiled circular knits • Tri-global yarns for a shiny quartz contrast
CURVACEOUS FEATHERWEIGHT FREEDOM NOURISHING SHINE STRUCTURE UNITEX x Louisa Smith
TREND 02 - QUIET PACE
TREND 02 - QUIET PACE
DESIGN DEVELOPMENTS • Yoga - a barely there feel from the garment for true yogis, where the focus is on the body’s movement and the stabling of the mind • Versatile active living - responsible design for multiple end uses, from the protection of your home out to comfort and safety on the street, • Molded silhouettes from sponge-like structures - can be used for intimate apparel molded cups or a new direction for rounded outerwear silhouettes for men and women. • Soft touch for layering, tied in with thermal regulation, and we hit the lightweight performance trend. This is a unisex trend, as a new relaxed yet functioning apparel direction delivers on all levels.
Tais Varela- Unsplash
UNITEX x Louisa Smith
Ian Stauffer- Unsplash
UNITEX x Louisa Smith
TARGET MARKETS • • • • • • •
Active living Homewear Yoga Urban outdoor Studio fitness Pilates High-level performance in fit and flare silhouettes Loving life apparel — perfect to team with denim Street sports • Homeworking • Responsible design for versatility in end uses
TREND 02 - QUIET PACE
FABRICS QUIET PACE Unitex 25/26 FW trends
TREND 02
Ref: DS80517CL 87% FIR Polyester 13% Spandex
Ref: 2S0857AN-W 80% Nylon 20% Spandex
Ref: SS20280WN 87% Nylon 13% Spandex
Ref: 2S91116XL 54% Nylon 31% Polyester 15% Spandex
FABRICS QUIET PACE Unitex 25/26 FW trends
TREND 02
Ref: KN90062WN 100% Polyester
Ref: KS0228CL 74% Polyester 26% Spandex
Ref: KL80710WM 70% Nylon 6.6 30% Spandex
Ref: DS80546MN 92% Polyester 8% Spandex
TREND 03 - F/W25/26
UNITEX x Louisa Smith
MONO MOVES
THE MOOD Circularity is emerging as the future champion of sustainability, as textile-to-textile circularity addresses the current waste problem in the apparel industry. For performance fabrics, synthetics that belong to the same molecular gene pool can be returned to the cicular economy at end of life. However, for blends, the process is not as straightforward. Therefore, the focus is on mono fabrics, where performance is still maintained without the use of other fiber ingredients. This is a critical aspect in terms of promoting longevity and responsible consumerism
UNITEX x Louisa Smith
CONSUMER ATTITUDE Consumers are becoming increasingly concerned about the environment and climate change, and are striving for a cleaner lifestyle. They want brands that are responsible, care for the environment, and practice traceability and responsible sourcing and design. However, what concerns them the most is the end-of-life of a garment - where does it go?
to the circular economy and generating zero waste. This trend is driven by a growing environmental awareness among consumers, who are equally responsible for ensuring a healthy planet. The trend includes initiatives such as collective vegetable gardens, reusable drinking bottles, and biodegradable items that were previously made of plastic.
The mono moves trend offers a sustainable solution, returning garments
TREND 03 - MONO MOVES
Dave Goudreau - Unsplash
BIO-BASED WASTE Vladislav Nahorny - Unsplash & REUSABLE
While environmental responsibility is important, consumers also want high-performance and travel-friendly products that balance their eco-credentials. Products made with premium ingredients and quality manufacturing have a longer lifespan and can be resold as ‘pre-loved,’ making them more sustainable across all the trends.
PURE FOOD
CONSCIENTOUS
ECO FRIENDLY
GREEN COMMUNITY UNITEX x Louisa Smith
TREND 03 - MONO MOVES
TREND 03 - MONO MOVES
MATERIAL INSPIRATION Performance comes in varying guises through structure and finishes. Moisture management and anti-bacterial performance arise in bio-based polyester. Being a pure direction, the mono relies on increased development in mechanical stretch, either through the yarn or fabric construction. It delivers a comfortable space, but spandex yarn is required for a higher power.
COLORS
Eco-dye processes with water-saving finishes enhance this trend and promote a natural color palette. Varying green tones morph up into blue hues. Neutral stone tones in knits work with chinos and denim, providing a performance layer for active living.
Natural to touch, almost cotton-like, textures feature from textured yarns from a grainy surface to waffle knits and a featherweight single jersey that feels like micro-fine merino wool. Fit and flare feature here, with soft comfort stretch and innovative textile construction creating added body.
16-6324 TPG
UNITEX x Louisa Smith
18-3949 TPG
18-3949 TPG
12-0720 TPG
15-4031 TPG
What’s trending at UNITEX?
PERFORMANCE
• • • • • • • • • •
Mono fabrics for easier circularity Textured yarns for a grainy touch Cotton-touch knits plain and textured Moisture management Cozy touch Bio-based polyester Eco-dyeing processes FIR performance Mechanical stretch Breathable polyester with a natural hand
BIO-BASED CIRCULARITY DIGITAL PRINTS MECHANICAL STRETCH MONO STRENGTH ELEMENT
UNITEX x Louisa Smith
TREND 03 - MONO MOVES
TREND 03 - MONO MOVES
DESIGN DEVELOPMENTS • The performance comes from the premium yarns and fabrics, creating great foundations for a circular garment.
CITY TO OUTDOOR BIKING THE GOOD LIFE
• Zero waste — reduce seams, trims, and stitching, developing more responsible manufacturing. • Clean-cut fabrics for reduced stitching and time stripping at the end of the garment’s life for disposal. • Base layers from T-s to second layers feature urban outdoors Unisex styling. • Work backward— consider the end of life of the product before the design • Garment structure reinforced through flatlock seam details • Clean cut finishes
MEDITATE
ATHLEISURE UNITEX x Louisa Smith
Logan Weiner- Unsplash
UNITEX x Louisa Smith
TARGET MARKETS
• Classic tailored pants and tops replace wovens with double knits • Streamlined silhouettes • Outdoor sports — hiking, camping, mountain biking • Homewear • Eco-travel • Urban sports — skateboarding • Urban mobility — cycling as the primary mode of transport • Gym-wear • Active lifestyle
TREND 03 - MONO MOVES
FABRICS MONO MOVES Unitex 25/26 FW trends
TREND 03
Ref: JN90113WN 100% Bio-based Polyester
Ref: JN0095WN 100% Bio-based Polyester
Ref: JN80116WN 100% Polyester
Ref: JN0094WN 100% Bio-based Polyester
FABRICS MONO MOVES Unitex 25/26 FW trends
TREND 03
Ref: JN80115WN 50% Bio-based Polyester 50% Polyester
Ref: DN90051CN 100% FIR Polyester
Ref: 3N90078TN 56% Polyester 46% Bio-based Polyester
Ref: SN20083WN 60% Polyester 40% CDP
TREND 04 - F/W25/26
BOUNDLESS
UNITEX x Louisa Smith
THE MOOD The great outdoors offers unlimited space and generates a sense of exertion and energy. It’s a pursuit of freedom from the confines of urban life as we immerse ourselves in nature’s glory. From camping to skiing, hiking to winter wild swimming, we enjoy and respect all that the outdoor landscape has to offer. However, there are consequences when exploring the great outdoors, especially in winter weather. Thermal regulation is crucial, along with added performance features that enhance the comfort level. When combined with the lighter-weight versions available, you are all set to embark on your next outdoor adventure.
UNITEX x Louisa Smith
CONSUMER ATTITUDE There is a growing need for complete disconnection from everyday life, and we’re not just talking about putting down our smartphones. Much of today’s outdoor experiences are achieved off-grid, such as wild camping, country skiing, and the desire to connect with nature for improved well-being.
TREND 04 - BOUNDLESS
Consumers today are conscious of their impact on the environment and want to protect it, while also safeguarding themselves from the elements. Ecotourism, living and cooking outdoors, and slow travel with minimal environmental impact are all part of the outdoor adventure experience.
Hans Issacson - Unsplash
By embracing this outdoor lifestyle, people are creating some of the most remarkable experiences and becoming more adventurous. The zero-footprint ethos is vital, with the wild camping motto of “leave no trace” applicable to all outdoor activities. This principle helps to protect and preserve the countryside and coastlines.
PUSHING BOUNDARIES
Vladislav Nahorny - Unsplash
NATURE RESPONSIBLE PROTECTION
ECO-TOURISM UNITEX x Louisa Smith
TREND 04 - BOUNDLESS
TREND 04 - BOUNDLESS
MATERIAL INSPIRATION Texture plays a significant role, with surfaces have varying degrees of roughness and liveliness, but their appearance can sometimes be deceiving. Certain physical textural features create a two-tone effect on soft and hybrid puffa garments, especially through the use of melange and space-dyed effects. The irregularity of natures surfaces also emerge in single and double knits.
COLORS
Nature-inspired - greens and neural tones dominate, offset with brighter accents and anchored with black and indigo.
These fabrics have a natural touch and are highly tenacious, malleable, and lightweight without sacrificing functionality. In line with the natural inspiration, the brand uses premium virgin synthetics that are durable, recyclable, and bio-based. 19-4111 TPG
UNITEX x Louisa Smith
12-2024 TPG
18-3531 TPG
17-1341 TPG
16-6324 TPG
What’s trending at UNITEX?
PERFORMANCE
• • • • • • • • • •
Soft touch - 4-way stretch Power Stretch Bio-based synthetics Recycled synthetics Thermal regulation and moisture management key functions Heat-generating double knits for soft shells Rib knits Contrasting colored/textured double knits for the second Cozy finishes Anti-bacterial/anti-odor for fresher, longer
DOUBLE SIDED PERFORMANCE MELANGE STYLES MOCK & REAL TEXTURES & RIBS PFC-FREE DWR PROTECTION POLISHED SURFACES UNITEX x Louisa Smith
TREND 04 - BOUNDLESS
TREND 04 - BOUNDLESS
DESIGN DEVELOPMENTS • Design development — outer layer hybrid down puffa jackets • Double-sided outer shell with PFC-free DWR • Circular knit thermal base layers and intimate apparel • Layering systems • Performance apparel that is lightweight and easy to pack. • Lightweight warmth — running tights • Swimwear — wild swimming and postswim warmth apparel • Active performance tops with thumbholes
UNITEX x Louisa Smith
UNITEX x Louisa Smith
TARGET MARKETS • Camping • Hiking • Mountain running • Wild swimming • Skiing - thermal base layers • Mountaineering • Trail running • Versatility in design - urban outdoors
TREND 04 - BOUNDLESS
FABRICS BOUNDLESS Unitex 25/26 FW trends
TREND 04
Ref: DAR80536RN 91% Recycled Polyester 9% Spandex
Ref: KA90551WS 77% Bio-based Nylon 6.6 23% Bio-based Spandex
Ref: DS90498CF 63% Nylon 6 21% CDP 16% Spandex
Ref: 2S0705CN 64% Nylon 6 36% Spandex
FABRICS BOUNDLESS Unitex 25/26 FW trends
TREND 04
Ref: DSR80555CN 21% CD Polyester 27% Recycled Polyester 35% Bio-based Polyester 17% Spandex
Ref: DAR80522T 62% Recycled Polyester 21% CD Polyester 17% Bio-based Spandex
Ref: DA80533EN 76% Nylon 6 8% IONIC Nylon 16% Spandex
Ref: DAR80439TN 90% Bio-based Polyester 10% Recycled Spandex
UNITEX is a green-level factory that specializes in circular and warp knits. The company firmly believes in sustainability, which is why it is deeply ingrained in the foundation of the company. UNITEX uses regenerative energy, invests in the most efficient textile manufacturing and finishing equipment, eco-dyeing machines and works in partnership with the best premium ingredients available to ensure they remain environmentally friendly. It is this commitment to sustainability that has earned UNITEX numerous awards for their perfomance fabrics.
www.sinounitex.com
UNITEX trendbook editorial generated in collaboration with textile trend consultant Louisa Smith. Photo credits: Unsplash, iStock, Shutterstock, Thea Westwater The Pantone® TPG color references proposed are for guidance only. Colors may differ. Pantone® is a registered trademark of Pantone.Inc.
E-mail: admin@sinounitex.com Address: Yuanhong Investment Zone, Chengtou Town, Fuqing City, Fuzhou, Fujian, China