The aesthetic and functional role of silver-filled fabrics in fashion design

The textile industry, in parallel with advancements in material science and nanotechnology, is increasingly moving toward providing more functional and aesthetically innovative solutions. In this context, silver-infused fabrics stand out among materials due to their unique physical and chemical properties. Fabrics produced with silver coating or silver threads offer a wide range of applications thanks to their antibacterial properties, thermal conductivity, antistatic structure, and electromagnetic shielding capacity. This thesis aims to examine the production processes of silver-infused fabrics, their functional and aesthetic contributions, their usage in fashion design, and their relationship with the smart textile sector. In the first chapter, the fundamental framework of the research is outlined, the problem definition, research objectives, and significance are emphasized. In addition, the scope and limitations of the study are explained, and key concepts related to the topic are introduced. The second chapter discusses in detail the silver-coating techniques, the functional effects of textiles treated with nano-silver particles, and the impact of these processes on fabric durability. Furthermore, antibacterial and antimicrobial effects are examined in the context of silver ions' influence on microorganisms; odor control and thermal management are explored with a focus on silver-coated fabrics' ability to regulate body temperature and prevent perspiration odor. Electrical conductivity is evaluated particularly within the framework of smart textile applications, and the potential of silver fabrics in wearable technologies is discussed. In addition, the advantages of these fabrics in terms of durability, longevity, and ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) are analyzed.In the third chapter, the role of silver-infused fabrics in the smart textile sector is examined in depth. Within the context of smart textile technologies, the contributions of silver-based fabrics to technological innovation and sustainability are explained, while the production techniques of nano-silver coated fabrics and the environmental impacts of these techniques are analyzed. At the same time, their effects on consumer preferences and market trends are investigated. In the fourth chapter, in line with the findings obtained during the research process, a capsule clothing collection was designed to demonstrate the applications of silver-infused fabrics in fashion design. A total of twenty-four garments were created in both sporty and elegant categories, and these designs were explained in detail in terms of functionality and aesthetic value. The collection aims to produce hygienic and durable clothing by utilizing the antibacterial properties of silver-infused fabrics, while also enhancing user comfort through thermal and antistatic features. These designs reflect the integration of functional textiles with aesthetic fashion, shedding light on future clothing trends. In the fifth chapter, the findings are evaluated, and the future potential of silver-infused fabrics in the fashion industry is emphasized. This study provides an original contribution at the intersection of textile engineering and fashion design by examining the technological, aesthetic, and functional contributions of silver-infused fabrics to fashion design within an interdisciplinary framework.