Leeds Institute of Textiles and Colour (LITAC) is a collaborative, multi-disciplinary research institute addressing global challenges in colour, fashion and textiles through research and innovation, as well as teaching. We are particularly focused on the development of innovative science and technology, materials, methods and processes. Technology-driven sustainable development is a major part of our work.
We are collaborative and international in our outlook and work with business, governments, NGOs and policy makers.
LITAC is built on a heritage of nearly 150 years of teaching and research in colour and textiles on the same site in Leeds, and we are proud to have been supported by The Clothworkers’ Company since our original founding in 1874.
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Our heritage
Discover more about the historical links between the University and the textiles industry in Leeds.
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Building on expertise
LITAC works collaboratively, bringing together the University’s academic expertise in areas related to textiles and colour.
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Research strengths
Cutting-edge research related to colour, fashion and textiles to find solutions to global challenges.
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The Clothworkers' Company
The Clothworkers’ Company and the University of Leeds have a rich history dating back to the foundation of the Yorkshire College of Science in 1874.
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The future of footwear
Future Fashion Factory community member Hylo is leading the way in accelerating environmental change in the athletic footwear market.
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Revolutionary dyeing process wins prestigious Circular Future Fund prize
Leeds Institute of Textiles and Colour in collaboration with the School of Chemistry, are developing a solution to separate dyes from fibre, enabling easier recycling of the polyester.
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The tragedy of the fast fashion landfill
Listen to Mark Sumner, an expert in sustainable fashion speak to Channel 4 about how the West's addiction to fast fashion is leaving an environmental disaster in West Africa.
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What is the effect of different fibre/yarn types on microplastics release?
LITAC member Dr Muhammad Tausif explores in his new paper the impact of key fibre types and yarn structures (rudimentary elements of textiles) on fragmented fibre release during laundry.
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Why wool matters
University of Leeds experts have taken part in a short documentary produced with His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales for the Campaign for Wool.
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Investing in solutions to improve the sustainability of UK clothing
Textiles 2030 is WRAP’s ground-breaking initiative, harnessing the knowledge and expertise of UK leaders in sustainability to accelerate the textiles industry’s move towards circularity in the UK.
