Threads of Change: Advancing Sustainable Fashion Through New Materialist Perspectives

Abstract

In the Anthropocene epoch, marked by significant human impact on the planet, the fashion industry stands at a critical juncture. This paper delves into the transformative potential of Jane Bennett’s New Materialism to reimagine fashion design practices in response to the climate crisis. Bennett’s concepts of “thing-power” and “vital materiality” challenge the conventional perception of materials in fashion, advocating for a sustainable and ecologically responsive approach. This study explores the intersection of fashion design and environmental ethics, emphasizing the need for a radical rethinking of material use and design processes in the fashion industry. It highlights the industry’s substantial environmental footprint, from resource depletion to waste generation, and presents case studies where New Materialist principles have been effectively applied in fashion design. These examples demonstrate a shift toward embracing material vitality and agency, fostering innovative, sustainable practices. The paper contributes to sustainable fashion discourse, offering theoretical insights and practical implications for future research and practice. It argues that integrating New Materialism in fashion design is not just an esthetic or ethical choice but a necessity for environmental stewardship, ultimately leading to a more sustainable, creatively rich, and ethically responsible fashion industry.