Designer creates a decomposing dress from algae

London-based designer Scarlett Yang has created a means to use algae extract and silk cocoon protein to create a glass-like dress that grows over time and can decompose in water within 24 hours. The biomaterial dress changes shape in response to different humidity and temperature levels, twisting and creasing as these conditions increase. These changes will vary with geographic location and the season in which the garment is worn. During a dry winter, for example, the garment would stiffen and look more sculptural. When exposed to water, the garment will decompose more quickly or less, according to the water conditions. The garment would degrade naturally in rain, river or sea water as well. This project is currently under entrepreneurship development with Imperial Enterprise Lab, London, U.K. The designer hopes her creation can offer a sustainable alternative to fashion products.