Agolde, a Los Angeles-based premium denim label, has debuted jeans made with bio-derived Lycra EcoMade, a renewable spandex alternative sourced from dent corn-based Qira, developed by Qore. This breakthrough fiber is featured in three women’s styles, representing the first time the innovation has been used in denim.

Citizens of Humanity Group CEO Amy Williams expressed excitement over the launch, stating that it demonstrates the brand's trust in the new technology and its ability to meet, if not exceed, customer expectations while supporting the push for sustainable fashion.

“We’re proud to be pioneers in using bio-derived Lycra EcoMade in denim,” Williams said. “Our goal is to inspire other brands to embrace sustainable alternatives and collectively strengthen the industry’s environmental efforts.”

Agolde collaborated with long-standing mill partner Orta to develop comfort-stretch denim made with 99% regenerative cotton and 1% bio-derived Lycra EcoMade, aiming to use the most responsible base fibers possible.

With 70% of its content sourced from corn, the bio-derived Lycra EcoMade cuts carbon emissions by 44% compared to fossil-fuel-based spandex. Although full renewability is the goal, this marks a meaningful step.

While bio-based feedstocks cost more than conventional ones, Williams said the cost impact is minimal and offset by the brand, considering the small proportion of Lycra in jeans and the environmental benefits.