In the SmartShade project a groundbreaking sun shading solution using shape memory polymer (SMP) fibers is developed, capable of dynamically adjusting to solar irradiance for optimal shading. These innovative fibers, developed in the melt-spinning process and functionalized with cellulose nanocrystals (CNC), are capable of reacting to changing environmental influences like temperature or humidity. Custom surface modification on the CNCs allows for increased compatibility with the SMP, while adding further enhancements such as UV blocking, hydrophobicity, antibacterial, and conductive properties to the textile. Integrated into a textile surface using a warp knitting process, an efficient smart shading system is developed, setting new standards in environmental sustainability and practical application. The end result is an adaptive sun protection textile, capable of dynamically adjusting its shading properties in response to solar irradiance. The presentation will explore the innovative integration of Shape Memory Polymer fibers enhanced with cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) and the creation of warp-knitted shape memory fabrics, demonstrating a pioneering approach to dynamic sun shading solutions.