The Basics of Circular Fashion Design
What is Circular Fashion Design? Introducing circularity strategies.
Fashion has not evolved much in the past century. Much of the industry is still operating on a linear business model that assumes our resources are unlimited — but we know that is not the case. If fashion is to exist in the future, we must move into a circular model that makes the most of our materials and regenerates nature rather than depletes it. At Redress, we have established four circular design strategies to educate future generations of fashion professionals on how to create sustainably.
With an estimated 92 million tons of textile waste created annually by the fashion industry [1], designing for low waste is one way we can minimise waste right from the beginning by either reducing or revaluing textile waste. A few ways this can be achieved is through upcycling and reconstruction, which involves redesigning with existing resources; or zero-waste, arranging patterns so that 100% of the material gets used.
Across the value chain, many factors may add to a garment’s carbon footprint, which can be minimised by designing for low impact materials and processes. This involves understanding fibres and their impact, designing digitally with 3D software to reduce waste during sampling, as well as collaborating with suppliers and vendors to leverage manufacturing best practices such as not using harmful chemicals, operating in zero liquid discharge or relying on renewable energy.
Keeping products in use longer by designing for longevity directly lowers the impact of clothes, since it maximises the resources that went into making them. Quality materials, good workmanship, appropriate size and fit, clear care instructions for maintenance, and a compelling story to build emotional attachment are all ways to help consumers hold onto garments longer.
After prolonging the lifespan of garments by reusing, repairing, and even remanufacturing when possible, they eventually reach their end-of-life. Designing for recyclability ensures that when that time comes, garments can be recycled with minimal hassle. This can be established by using non-blended materials, minimising trims, and directing consumers towards local recycling.
For a more sustainable future, fashion designers must be intentional in implementing these four circular design strategies into their creations. Brands like Selyn, which preserves Sri Lankan handloom heritage while managing their own supply chain; and Classics Anew, which helps consumers to uncover their emotional connections with clothes through hands-on workshops, are leading the way. As these shining industry examples show, collaboration between all stakeholders — from designers to merchandisers, manufacturers to wearers — are the key to success.
The power rests in the hands that craft.
