At Origyn, we’ve always believed in the power of material innovation. Not just for aesthetic creativity, but as a core part of how fashion can tread more lightly on this planet. That’s why next-generation materials, especially those that avoid petrochemicals and questionable supply chains, have been at the heart of our design vision from day one.
One of the most exciting materials we planned to work with was MIRUM® — a plant-based, plastic-free alternative to leather developed by Natural Fiber Welding (NFW). For years it epitomized the kind of sustainable disruptor we love: made from coconut husk, rice hulls, natural rubber, and mineral fillers, engineered to replace leather with something regenerative and circular. Industry publications even highlighted MIRUM as a promising plant-based leather alternative for fashion and accessories.
Industry Reality Check: MIRUM Production Has Shifted
Over the past year, MIRUM’s story has taken an unexpected turn. After years of innovation and growing attention from brands and media, Natural Fiber Welding wound down its core manufacturing operations, bringing production to a halt as the company re-evaluated its business and financial structures.
This shift has been covered by fashion and industry outlets noting that the company had begun “winding down” its operations: a tough but honest acknowledgment of the challenges facing early-stage material innovation.
Just recently, there are reports that NFW may restart production on a smaller scale after securing new funding, a hopeful sign for materials innovation, but the timeline and scale remain uncertain.
What This Means for Origyn
We fully stand behind the vision that MIRUM, and materials like it, represent: a future where fashion materials aren’t extracted and discarded, but stewarded and circular. That’s why we initially built our initial collection to work with MIRUM and similar innovations.
However, with MIRUM’s availability now uncertain, we’ve made the thoughtful decision to pivot our material strategy moving forward. We’ll be expanding into a broader set of innovative, sustainably-focused materials, including other plant-based and low-impact alternatives, while maintaining the quality, performance, and design integrity you expect from Origyn.
A True Limited Edition
Because of these industry shifts, our initial collection (including pieces crafted with MIRUM where available) is now truly a limited edition, the first and only run made under this original material vision. There won’t be a second production of these exact pieces in the same materials, and that rarity is something we’re proud to honour.
Looking Ahead: Materials That Move Us Forward
Our commitment to next-generation materials hasn’t changed: it has evolved. We’re actively exploring a range of alternatives that align with our values:
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Bio-based leather alternatives from other innovators
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Regenerative natural fibers and composites
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Circular and reclaimed material systems
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Materials with transparent supply chains and verified low impact
Each new collection will spotlight solutions that dream just as boldly as MIRUM did, and that are viable today.