Overview
The Leeds Institute of Textiles and Colour (LITAC) is a world-leading research institute at the forefront of colour science, textile innovation, and sustainable fashion technology. By integrating expertise in science, engineering, design, and digital technologies, LITAC tackles global challenges in sustainability, textile material performance, environmental impact, healthcare solutions, and more.
Within the School of Design, LITAC contributes to dedicated research groups, which include:
- Colour technology
- Design history and material culture
- Fashion marketing and management
- Textile and fashion design
- Textile technology
Textile Science and Technology at LITAC
Our textile research spans the complete lifecycle of fibres, yarns, and fabrics, driving innovation in multifunctional polymers, advanced biomedical textiles, low-impact dyeing, sustainable finishing processes, and fibre-to-fibre recycling. We develop groundbreaking techniques to enhance textile durability and reduce environmental impact. The School of Design’s extensive facilities in spinning, weaving (including 3D weaving), knitting, nonwovens, dyeing, finishing, printing, and material testing support high-impact research and pilot-scale production. This expertise has led to the creation of successful University of Leeds spinout companies.
Discover more about textiles at LITAC.
Colour Science and Technology at LITAC
LITAC’s cutting-edge colour research advances how colour is produced, measured, and perceived across diverse materials and environments. Colour science researchers pioneer sustainable dye development, eco-friendly coloration methods, green biological and functional colourants, and advanced digital printing formulations for smart textiles. Our strengths include colour imaging, appearance modelling and perceptual psychology. Long-standing collaborations with industry leaders such as VeriVide enable us to deliver state-of-the-art LED assessment solutions, shaping international standards and supporting businesses transitioning towards energy-efficient, colour-critical lighting solutions.
Learn more about colour research at LITAC.
Fashion Innovation and Circularity at LITAC
LITAC leads transformative programmes in circular fashion and sustainable garment design. Through the UKRI Circular Fashion and Textiles Network Plus, we coordinate national efforts to create environmental datasets, set industry benchmarks, and develop the next generation of fibre systems.
Our fashion and design research champions sustainable design practices, advanced garment engineering, data-driven creative processes, digital communications, virtual prototyping, textile heritage, and ethical supply chains. The Future Fashion Factory partnership accelerates these initiatives with digital tools, responsive manufacturing, and innovative circular business models.
Find out more about fashion at LITAC.
Research Facilities
Examples of our research facilities can be seen on the facilities webpage. A full list of available facilities in the School of Design is available via the School equipment page.