Last week, the Clec Fashion Festival in Valencia brought together fashion, technology, and sustainability under the main theme Stop Global Warming, where fashion met environmental activism. The festival was held in the strikingly futuristic L’hemisfèric, creating a cutting-edge backdrop for talks and showcases that explored bold innovation, eco-conscious practices, and extravagant ideas.
The fashion was inventive and multifaceted; some collections captured the lively, passionate spirit of Spanish culture, while others carried a more urban, edgy vibe reminiscent of Berlin. Each design reflected the individuality and boldness of its creator, combining creativity with daring experimentation. The runway became a celebration of personality, innovation, and the courage to push boundaries, leaving a lasting impression of both style and vision.
Among the festival’s standout honorees were:
Laia Grassi – Clec Communication Superstar Award
Laia Grassi, a specialist in advertising with Generative Artificial Intelligence, shared insights on creating campaigns in virtual environments using avatar models. @laiyls
Daniel Lismore – Clec Art Superstar
Daniel Lismore, a British artist, designer, and environmental visionary, lives as his own work of art. Renowned for his sculptural ensembles, he transforms upcycled materials, couture pieces, and found treasures into wearable statements of identity and sustainability. Each creation tells a story—a dialogue between history, beauty, and the urgency of protecting our planet. Exhibited internationally, from the Tate Modern to the Venice Biennale, Lismore’s work challenges the culture of excess and celebrates individuality, authenticity, and environmental consciousness. @daniellismore
Timpers – Clec Entrepreneurship Superstar Award
Timpers is a Spanish footwear brand with a mission to normalise disability in fashion. Originally a project where visually impaired designers crafted sneakers by touch, it has grown into a fully inclusive enterprise. All staff have some form of disability, and every shoe is designed and manufactured in Spain using sustainable materials, such as organic cotton laces and recycled rubber soles. Tactile details, like Braille embossing, enhance both design and accessibility. Guided by the motto “the most normal brand in the world,” Timpers challenges perceptions of ability while combining style, comfort, and purpose. @timpersbrand
Dolores Cortés – Clec Fashion Superstar Award
Dolores Cortés is a family-run business deeply rooted in its community. Most of their team comes from the same town—and often the same families—creating a supportive environment. They prioritise local production, sustainable sourcing, flexible schedules, and eco-friendly commuting. With a predominantly female workforce, the company champions equality and inclusion. Certified by OEKO-TEX for over 15 years and active members of Ecoembes, they focus on safety, sustainability, and innovation in every collection. @dolorescortesswimwear
Noelia Beltrán (CEO of NOB166) – Clec Sustainability Superstar Award
NOB166 provides sustainable, long-lasting antimicrobial protection against bacteria, viruses, and fungi, including antifungal properties to prevent mould. Their fabrics reduce infection risks in healthcare and everyday environments while maintaining hygiene, comfort, and safety. Noelia Beltrán’s Castelló-based R&D firm is a pioneer in embedding fragrances into antimicrobial textiles, enabling garments like lemon-printed shirts to literally smell like lemon. Their innovations combine safety, sustainability, and a sensory experience.
Manuel Conejero Espasa – Clec Emergent Superstar
Manuel Conejero Espasa, 22, is a fashion student at EASD Alcoy from Villena, Alicante. Growing up surrounded by fashion, he was inspired by his family’s work with textiles. Motivated by emerging designers, he pursued his own creative path, with his first collection crafted entirely from paper, a reflection of his experimental approach. Manuel has since developed a unique design language, exploring volume and textile experimentation while tailoring each collection to its concept. Passionate and dedicated, he continues to push boundaries, blending creativity and technical skill to make his mark on contemporary fashion. @maikvrfi
