Estonian scientist invents longer-lasting jeans, enters global brand collection

Estonian scientist Nele Mandre has achieved a significant breakthrough in textile innovation, developing a remarkably durable denim fabric that has now been incorporated into a fashion collection with a globally recognized brand. Seven years after beginning her industrial doctorate at Denim Dream, Mandre's work has culminated in a collection that reached store shelves and e-shops in autumn 2025, and was featured at Tallinn Fashion Week in spring 2026. Mandre's innovative fabric is the result of extensive research and development conducted at TalTech's Textile Technology Laboratory, with the support of international manufacturing partners. The developed fabric is praised for its exceptional durability, comfort, and contemporary appearance. A key goal of Mandre's project was to significantly extend the lifespan of jeans, which are typically worn for only two to three years. The project's success also underscores the growing consumer appreciation for science-based solutions in the fashion industry, as evidenced by the strong interest in the collection's design and its scientific background. This project is unique in Estonia, as no previous scientist has collaborated with a company to develop denim fabric that subsequently becomes a clothing collection. The project's visibility has been further amplified by public attention, with Mandre being recognized from news coverage. Before her doctoral studies, Mandre worked as a chief constructor in product development at Põldma Kaubandus's Denim Dream brand, eventually becoming head of the department. She also serves as a visiting lecturer at TalTech's Textile Technology Laboratory. Looking back at her industrial doctorate, Mandre identified finding manufacturing partners as the most challenging aspect. With no denim weaving factories in Estonia, the search extended abroad. The project faced additional constraints due to large minimum production quantities and the use of standardized yarns by factories. Any desired changes to yarn or fabric composition involved complex and costly processes, and many manufacturers were unwilling to accommodate such specific requirements. The geographical distance of partner companies and the limited expertise in denim fabric production within Estonia further complicated the doctoral research.

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Especially pleasing is that people value the background of the collection alongside its design.