Sustainability and Social Responsibility

Integrating Sustainability in a Garment Construction Course

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Abstract

This paper describes changes made to an apparel design course to integrate sustainability into the content. The 200-level course focuses on assembly methods for ready-to-wear apparel. Within the course, students are guided through the construction steps of several different garments. Since it is widely accepted that product designers are responsible for as much as 80% of the decisions related to environmental and economic, it is critical to educate apparel design students so they will make sustainable choices in their personal and professional design practices. Assignments were modified based on design for sustainability (D4S) strategies outlined by the United Nations. The three garment assignments to be modified are discussed below. The focus was on three sustainable practices for apparel design: design for disassembly and recyclability (pant), designing a multi-look garment (reversible vest), and zero waste pattern design (skirt).

Keywords: sustainable, garment construction, design, teaching

How to Cite:

Carrico, M., (2022) “Integrating Sustainability in a Garment Construction Course”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 78(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.13301