Sustainable Fabric Development & Sourcing Consultant

Job ID: 40158051

Budget: £20 – £250 GBP

Project Title

Textile Engineer / Material Specialist for Sustainable Fabric Development & Sourcing

Project Overview

I am the founder of an emerging premium fashion and lifestyle brand focused on mindful, sustainable design. I am looking for an experienced textile engineer or material specialist to support the research, formulation, and sourcing of sustainable fabrics aligned with my brand’s values of low-impact production, durability, comfort, and responsible innovation.

This is a consulting and advisory role, with the potential for ongoing collaboration as the brand develops.

Scope of Work

The consultant will support the project across the following areas:

1. Sustainable Fiber & Material Research

Research and recommend sustainable fibers suitable for apparel and lifestyle products (e.g., plant-based, regenerated, recycled, blended fibers).

Evaluate fibers based on environmental impact, performance, durability, comfort, climate suitability, and scalability.

Advise on pros/cons of different fiber blends from both sustainability and commercial perspectives.

2. Fabric Development & Formulation Guidance

Recommend fabric constructions (woven, knit, blends, GSM ranges, finishes) aligned with brand positioning.

Provide guidance on fabric formulation for comfort, drape, breathability, longevity, and care.

Advise on low-impact dyeing, finishing, and processing methods.

3. Sourcing & Supplier Direction

Guide on sourcing sustainable yarns, fabrics, or mills (India and/or international, depending on expertise).

Help assess supplier claims around sustainability, certifications, and material traceability.

Suggest best practices for working with mills at small-to-medium production volumes.

4. Sustainability & Compliance Advisory

Advise on relevant certifications and standards (e.g., organic, recycled, low-impact processes).

Help align material choices with realistic sustainability goals for an early-stage brand.

Identify potential risks, trade-offs, and cost considerations.

Skills & Expertise Required

Degree or professional background in Textile Engineering, Material Science, or related field

Strong experience with sustainable textiles and fibers

Knowledge of fabric construction, yarns, blends, and finishing processes

Familiarity with textile sourcing and manufacturing ecosystems

Understanding of sustainability standards, certifications, and lifecycle considerations

Ability to translate technical information into clear, actionable guidance

Experience working with fashion, apparel, or lifestyle brands (preferred)

Deliverables

The consultant is expected to provide:

A material & fiber recommendation report aligned with brand needs

Suggested fabric constructions and formulations for intended product categories

A shortlist of recommended sustainable materials and sourcing approaches

Guidance on certifications, compliance, and sustainability best practices

Written documentation and/or consultation calls summarizing recommendations
Related categories: Textile Engineering Fashion Consulting