History of Clothes That Grow

Brand Introduction

Petit Pli is a material innovation and Fash‑Tech company on a mission to clothe the future of humanity with Clothes That Grow.

Founded in 2017 by aeronautical engineer Ryan Mario Yasin, Petit Pli applies aerospace engineering and origami principles to design childrenswear that expands bi-directionally, growing up to seven discrete sizes.

Our best‑selling Versatile range champions circularity by design. Our expandable garments grow with children up to 7 sizes, reducing waste and reimagining fashion as a force for positive change. Each piece is crafted from recycled PET plastic bottles, transformed into durable Ripstop fabric that’s rainproof, Oeko‑Tex® certified, and machine‑washable at 30°C.

Our values are captured in our mission statement: The Future Belongs to the Curious. We design for LittleHumans, the explorers of today and the innovators of tomorrow. By fusing material science, playful design, and a commitment to the planet, we help families nurture curiosity, creativity, and care for the world they’ll inherit.

The invention of Petit Pli (2016–2017)

The spark of inspiration 

In 2016, aeronautical engineering graduate Ryan Mario Yasin bought clothes for his newborn nephew, Viggo. By the time they arrived in Denmark, Viggo had already outgrown them. This experience highlighted the frustration of many parents and immense waste in children's clothing.

Engineering meets Design

While studying for his master's in Global Innovation Design at Imperial College London and the Royal College of Art, Yasin combined his knowledge of deployable satellite structures with origami principles. He began experimenting, heating pleated samples using his oven to create a structure that could expand and contract.

Material Technology

The breakthrough came with an auxetic structure, which allows the fabric to expand in all directions when stretched. After more than 500 prototypes, Ryan developed a lightweight, waterproof, and windproof textile that could stretch to fit a growing child.

First recognition

In 2017, Yasin won the UK James Dyson Award for his innovation. Sir James Dyson stated, “Petit Pli intelligently applies engineering to the tactile and fashion industry to create a unique and compelling invention that addresses a global problem.”

Building the Company (2017–2020)

Commercialising the Concept

Soon after winning the James Dyson Award, Ryan established Petit Pli as a London-based startup. The first collection featured rainproof and windproof outerwear designed to fit children aged 6- 36 months.

Sustainability from Day One

From the start, the company's ethos was rooted in sustainability. By creating garments that grow, Petit Pli aims to reduce clothing waste and pollution. Each garment is made from recycled materials, such as plastic bottles, and is designed for a long lifespan of hand-me-downs.

Expanding the Team and Awards 

The company expanded to tackle the growing demands of commercialisation. Petit Pli quickly gained momentum winning multiple design awards, including: Dezeen’s Wearable design of the year 2018, became the first UK-based brand to win the H&M Foundation Global Change Award in 2019 and the Best of the Best: Red Dot Product Design Award in 2019.

Adult and PPE expansion

We applied our technology to adult clothing and created the MSK, a face covering for adults made from recycled plastic bottles to help tackle PPE challenges during the COVID- 19 Pandemic. Time Magazine named it one of the Best Inventions of 2020.

Growth and Future (2021-Present)

Global Reach

By 2021, Petit Pli had sold tens of thousands of products in over 60 countries and launched a successful crowdfunding campaign to fuel expansion.

First physical store

We opened our flagship store in the Battersea Power Station in London and quickly became the highest‑rated children’s clothing shop in the city. Designed by Landini Associates, the space‑age storefront reflects our values of innovation, sustainability, and delight.

Museum Recognition

In 2023, Clothes That Grow became part of the permanent collection at the Young V&A Museum, displayed alongside works by Bridget Riley, Issey Miyake, Christopher Raeburn, and Yves Béhar. Visitors can explore themes of sustainability and responsible consumption through our designs in the museum’s Design Gallery.

New Innovations and Collaborations

Petit Pli continues to push boundaries with our newest collection KNOT‑TILE made from 100% Extra Fine Merino Wool. Research and partnerships in sustainable textiles keep us moving toward our long‑term goal: becoming a leader in sustainable material innovation.

Join the Journey 

The future belongs to the curious. Be part of our story by joining our mailing list below. Share the mission and watch the next chapter of sustainable design unfold.