Helsinki library to lend artist-designed clothes

Helsinki's Central Library Oodi is set to launch a unique "clothing library" in early September, offering patrons the chance to borrow garments designed by artists and fashion designers using a regular library card. This innovative service aims to make high-quality, sustainable fashion more accessible.

The trial program will run for six months, during which users can borrow up to two items at a time for a one-week period. Each garment comes with care instructions and must be checked out at the customer service desk. The library will feature 58 pieces of clothing, all made from recycled materials, catering to both children and adults. Designer Onerva Luoma noted that many pieces are designed with adaptable sizing.

This initiative builds on previous successful clothing lending experiments in Helsinki. Luoma, who participated in an earlier project featuring her hand-painted clothes, has assembled a team of designers for this larger endeavor. The garments draw inspiration from meaningful books, with designers like Luoma referencing "Berlin Alexanderplatz" and Jere Vilo inspired by Claire Aho's "Helsinki 1968."

Beyond the lending service, the project includes related workshops, such as bead embroidery and textile collage, as well as author visits. The clothing library officially opens its doors on September 2, coinciding with the launch of the lending service.

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Many designers have created clothes where the size is adaptable