Milan - Italian lingerie brand Ritratti has teamed up with Invista to create an entire collection of high end intimate apparel using Lycra 2.0 tape to replace stitching within the garments.

Compared to other heat-bonding solutions already available, Invista says that the exclusive stretch and recovery features of Lycra 2.0 tape enable the creation of ultra-flat seams and sleek garments with smooth finishings.

“Lingerie garments made with Lycra 2.0 tape offer outstanding comfort, allowing them to accompany the body’s natural movements,” Invista says. “Hems made with Lycra 2.0 tape keep their shape and performance even after repeated washes.”

Lycra 2.0 tape is a patented polyurethane-urea (PUU) elastic film with outstanding stretch and recovery power, made by Invista. In substitution of the traditional seams, it enables the creation of heat activated bonded hems, bands and seams that stretch and recover in response to the fabric they are applied to, following the body’s movements and providing new levels of comfort.

Available in different specifications to match various needs, Invista offers the technology in a family of three distinct products:

• Lycra 2.0 tape T070 is designed with power and recovery suitable to replace narrow elastics and thanks to its thickness, offers outstanding comfort. It bonds at low activation temperatures. It is produced in different widths: 6, 8, 10, 12 mm and wide film 1524 mm.
• Lycra 2.0 tape B040 is designed with power and recovery for smooth, non-buckling seams perfectly following the body’s movements. It bonds at low activation temperatures. It is produced in different widths: 6, 8, 10, 12 mm and wide film 1524 mm.
• Lycra 2.0 tape H020 is designed for a wide range of applications and is the thinnest tape of the family. Allows stitch–free aesthetics without blocking the fabric performance it is applied to. It is produced in 1524 mm width.

The Sensation 2.0 collection by Ritratti is composed of two lines – Basic-Everyday and Shapewear.

The first micro-collection comprises of bras and three lower garments, creating a refined, elegant line. The high quality garments are made with the latest generation of fabric from Penn Textile Solutions, containing Lycra fibre while the first bra is a redesign of a Ritratti icon – Soft Air – and now has straps made with Lycra 2.0 tape for improved comfort.

The Caresse bra is a soft, preformed model (without wire) that features Lycra 2.0 tape in the neckline to shape the cup onto the cleavage without leaving any mark. The lower garment line comprises of pieces with definite everyday appeal – a slip, a brief and a thong.

The Lycra 2.0 tape is used around the legs and waist to make these garments soft and ultra-flat, allowing them to adapt perfectly to every silhouette, creating a gently caressing “second skin” effect.

The Shapewear line is made with a technical fabric from Piave Maitex, also containing Lycra fibre. These garments are the latest generation of designs for classics which have been given an ultra-modern revamp – a bodysuit with preformed cups, a high-waist brief and a panty. They are described as elegant garments for women who seek delicate figure support for a sculpted profile. They are made with Lycra 2.0 tape, which means much less stitching and which allows entire sections of the garment to be constructed with ultra-flat trim.

For an exclusive interview with Alistair Williamson, European Sales Manager for Invista's Legwear business see the latest issue of Knitting Trade Journal magazine. CLICK HERE to obtain your copy.