Major
Textiles, Fashion Merchandising, and Design
Minor(s)
Communications
Advisor
Hannel, Susan
Advisor Department
Textile, Fashion Merchandising and Design
Date
5-2024
Keywords
Sustainability; Fashion; Design; Textiles
Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 4.0 License.
Abstract
The convergence of fashion and sustainability remains a pressing problem, necessitating coordinated efforts from corporate entities and individuals. In today's era dominated by new media and technology, the allure of fast fashion has captivated consumers, prompting them to prioritize quantity over quality purchased at a fraction of the usual cost. However, the resultant overproduction in the fashion industry is a pressing issue, now being acknowledged and reevaluated by numerous businesses and policymakers alike. This study delves into the intricate relationship between fashion and sustainability, seeking to delineate steps for consumers to adopt more environmentally conscious purchasing habits and textile repurposing practices. As a student studying Textiles, Fashion Merchandising, and Design, I embarked on a quest to emphasize the importance of repurposing and recycling textile waste. My endeavor culminated in creating an entirely recycled dress, crafted from fabric scraps—a project that drew inspiration from the innovative designs showcased in the ITAA (International Textile and Apparel Association) design catalogs. Utilizing my expertise in textiles and design, I meticulously crafted a cohesive ensemble that was visually appealing and stood as a tangible representation of attainable solutions when consumers embrace a mindful approach to fashion consumption. In doing so, I aimed to inspire viewers by showcasing how a conscientious consumer mindset can effectively tackle the prevailing challenges confronting the fashion industry.