Sustainability and Social Responsibility

Sustainability of African-Americans' HMD clothing within the Clothing Life Cycle

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Abstract

This paper examines African Americans use of hand-me-down (HMD) clothing in the clothing lifecycle from the perspective of sustainability. This paper suggests African-Americans use of HMD clothing is a remedy for the rapid and unsustainable disposal of garments. Little is known about HMD behavior, and less is known how ethnicity influences HMD behavior. Qualitative data was collected from ten interviews with African-American undergraduate students, regarding their experience with HMD clothing. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed. Analytical coding based on the clothing life cycle model was conducted for data analysis. Findings reveal that ethnic background seems to impact HMD behavior through familial and perhaps historical influences. The findings suggest that understanding the culture holds the key in introducing and promoting a sustainable practice that can positively impact a society. Findings can provide insights to organizations that wish to introduce a sustainable practice to a group of people.

How to Cite:

Collins, L. M., Min, S. & Yurchisin, J., (2017) “Sustainability of African-Americans' HMD clothing within the Clothing Life Cycle”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 74(1).