Fashion Practices Research Articles

An Eco-Friendly Alternative to Orange Peel, Sustainable Fashion Hair Accessories

The fashion industry contributes around 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions and 35% of plastic micro-fibers released in oceans [4][5]. This impact is amplified by the increasing demand for hair accessories, which are often made from plastic or metal and contain harmful chemicals. The global market for hair accessories is estimated to be worth Rs. 1,96,566 Crs. in 2023 and is forecasted to reach Rs. 3,50,201 Crs. by 2030 with a growth rate of 8.60%. To address the significant environmental impacts of hair fashion industry, there is a need to emphasize sustainable and eco-friendly fashion practices, including the use of organic waste. This action research project explores the use of bio-plastic made from Orange Peels, for creating sustainable and eco-friendly hair accessories. Due to high cellulose content in orange peel, bio-plastic produced using simple techniques have shown promising results, with excellent strength, flexibility, and biodegradability [1]. This research not only showcases the ‘best from the waste’ concept but also opens the door of additional income source to the orange farmers & consumers. A comprehensive online survey was conducted to get feedback from key stake holders toward promotion of eco-friendly fashion. The ‘Sakhi Paryavarnachi’ campaign has been initiated to promote the bio- plastic hair accessories amongst the end users. Overall the combined efforts of experimentation, observation, evaluation and survey based campaign have been explored herein to promote ‘Orange peel eco-friendly alternative for sustainable fashion in hair accessories.’

Dressing the Future: The Bibliometric Interplay Between Sustainability and Fashion Studies Amidst the Neoliberal Era

The concept of sustainability has significantly influenced various industries, notably the fashion sector. This study conducts a thorough quantitative and qualitative analysis of the interplay between fashion studies and sustainability. Utilizing data from the Scopus database, 890 articles published between 2000 and 2023 were scrutinized through an integrated approach combining bibliometric and content analyses. The aim was to explore how sustainability, initially an economic notion, left its imprint on academic research in fashion studies. This research was accompanied by a critical assessment of the neoliberal context, which envisions a market-oriented political economy model in which the concept of sustainability emerged. Key findings include a steadily increasing emphasis on sustainability in fashion research. Notable journals leading the discourse include Sustainability, Journal of Fashion Marketing and Management, Journal of Cleaner Production, Fashion Practice, and International Journal of Fashion Design Technology and Education. Interestingly, while fashion is rooted in the arts, significant contributions emerged from researchers in diverse disciplines, reflecting the field’s interdisciplinary nature. The study identified five critical thematic clusters within: sustainable fashion design, sustainable fashion production, sustainable fashion marketing, sustainable fashion consumption, and the theoretical foundation in sustainable fashion. This research not only enriches the literature by mapping the trajectory of sustainability in fashion studies but also highlights the evolving nature of fashion research, bridging traditional boundaries and embracing a more holistic approach to sustainability.

Unisex Fashion as a Social Practice: A Comparative Study Between Young Heterosexual Consumers in the United States and China

Using Alan Warde’s tripartite model of practice theory (understanding, procedure, and engagement) as our theoretical framework, we compare how young heterosexual consumers in the United States and China understand, follow the perceived rules of, and engage with unisex fashion, and how different socio-cultural values and political ideologies in these two countries shape consumers’ gendered perceptions and practice of unisex style. We interviewed 15 participants in each country. Our findings suggest that unisex fashion is a more routinized practice for US participants, who appreciate gender fluidity due to a long history of fighting for gender equality and the current political emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Chinese participants, however, demonstrate a more deliberate and reflexive attitude. While they claim to embrace unisex fashion to express their gender identity, they are still restricted by a heteropatriarchal definition of gender, particularly with the recent revival of traditional gender ideologies advocated by the Chinese leadership. This comparative study of a gender-related fashion practice contributes to a reappraisal of cultural meaning within practice theories. We hope this study will stimulate further intellectual interest in the intersections of fashion studies, consumption research, and cultural sociology.

Sustainable fashion knowledge: nurturing individual responsibility through spiritual and emotional sustainable capacities in the fashion industry

Purpose This study aims to explore the role of sustainable fashion knowledge in shaping individual sustainable responsibility within the dynamic landscape of the fashion industry from a novel perspective, by exploring the intricate interplay between sustainable fashion knowledge, emotional and spiritual sustainable capacities. Design/methodology/approach A quantitative study was used, and a causal model with partial least squares structural equation modeling was developed. A total of 211 valid responses were obtained, and data were analysed to confirm the proposed hypotheses. Findings The findings confirm the positive impact of sustainable fashion knowledge on individual sustainable responsibility, mediated by both spiritual and emotional sustainable capacities. This study underscores the significance of individuals in influencing societal norms, prompting fashion companies to adopt sustainable practices. Research limitations/implications The proposed conceptual framework integrates insights from the emotional and spiritual knowledge dynamics. This study uncovers the pathways through which individuals contribute to a more sustainable society. Originality/value The study not only advances the understanding of sustainable fashion practices but also provides actionable insights for policymakers, businesses and individuals seeking to foster a culture of sustainability in the fashion ecosystem.

Sustainable Fashion: Exploring the Concept of Greenwashing and New Trends in the Fashion Industry

The fashion industry, characterized by rapid cycles of production and consumption, has emerged as a global economic powerhouse, generating significant revenue and employment opportunities worldwide. However, this growth has come at a substantial environmental and social cost, marked by extensive resource consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and labor exploitation. This paper critically examines the environmental and social impacts of the fashion industry, focusing on issues such as textile waste, water pollution, and unethical labor practices. It explores the transition towards sustainable fashion practices, highlighting initiatives like circular fashion and consumer behavior shifts towards eco-friendly choices. The study employs a comprehensive review of current literature and case studies to analyze the challenges and opportunities for achieving sustainability within the fashion sector. By synthesizing diverse perspectives and research findings, this paper proposes strategies to combat greenwashing, enhance transparency, and foster a circular economy in fashion. Ultimately, it aims to provide a framework for stakeholders to navigate towards a more ethical and environmentally responsible future for the fashion industry.

Leveraging computational systems for lifecycle management and enhancement of circular economy in fashion: A study on tracking, recycling, and reuse technologies

This paper investigates the role of computational systems in managing the lifecycle of fashion products to enhance circular economy practices. By integrating technologies such as IoT, blockchain, and AI, we explore how these systems can track, recycle, and reuse clothing items efficiently. The study highlights the advancements in smart recycling bins, the transparency provided by blockchain, and the optimization of recycling operations through AI. Additionally, the research delves into the impact of online second-hand marketplaces, clothing rental services, and upcycling initiatives, facilitated by computational systems, in promoting sustainable fashion practices. The findings underscore the potential of these technologies to significantly reduce environmental impact, extend garment lifecycles, and foster sustainable consumer behaviors. By leveraging these innovations, the fashion industry can transition towards a more sustainable and circular economy.

Strengthening sustainable consumption behavior in high school students: Evaluation of an experiential training intervention targeting psychological determinants

Designing effective educational measures constitutes a key area of action for achieving global sustainability goals. Therefore, the present study examined a training addressing sustainable consumption practices in plastic reduction, fashion and food. An interactive training was held in a German comprehensive high school with grade 11 students, addressing psychological drivers of sustainable consumption behavior, namely, awareness and knowledge, emotional, rational and value-based factors. The training was evaluated in a pretest(t1)/posttest(t2)/follow-up(t3) design. Final self-report data was obtained from 77 pupils in t1 and t2 and 56 pupils for all three points of measurement. Results of a repeated measures MANOVA indicate significantly higher levels of all outcome variables directly after the training. Significant long-term effects emerge on the knowledge of sustainable consumption alternatives, anticipated feelings of guilt, perceived norms in the individual’s social environment, perceived control over one’s own behavior, as well as sustainable consumption behavior in everyday life. Taken together, results suggest the training to be an effective instrument for furthering actual sustainable consumption practices of young pupils. Its implementation during school hours with regular-sized classes offers a low expenditure educational approach for sustainable consumption.

Transnational Chinese Beautyscapes: Ghetto Glamour and Fake Beauty in Abidjan

This article explores how beauty and fashion practices and imagination have evolved in Ivory Coast since the early 2000s, using secondary sources and ethnographic research conducted in Abidjan in 2017. In addition to identifying alternatives to prevalent Western norms of beauty and style, the article highlights the expansion of Chinese beautyscapes and the ongoing Sinonization of local fashion and aesthetic cultures. It also draws attention to the contradictory features of bobaraba, a term increasingly used to describe Chinese-made clothing and beauty accessories. Though bobaraba is praised as a ghetto glamour and an expression of the urban poor's participation in the global consumer culture, it is frequently viewed as “fake beauty” intended to create an illusion of beauty. This article demonstrates that Chinese consumer goods are increasingly influencing contemporary African fashion culture, beauty ideals, body stylisation, and even sexuality.

Conceptualizing Australian First Nations Fashion, Art and Style

Decolonial scholars call for fashion definitions and perspectives from all cultures, and this article responds to these requests. Numerous theories and positions have inspired and shaped this conceptual model, including valuable insight from First Nations scholars who have explored fashion theories that integrate First Nations philosophies and ontologies. This First Nations fashion, art and style conceptual model explores the practice and outlines the themes of Culture, Expression, and Self-determination. First Nations fashion, art and style, as a term, acknowledges the holistic practice and industry, which includes fashion design, style, and the intersection of art via textiles and garments. The Cultural element within the model explores the continuation of cultural practice through design and dress and how it can contribute to cultural well-being. The Expression element describes contemporary cultural and intersectional identity forms through traditional and modern garments. The Self-determination component explores the autonomy of First Nations fashion practices and how First Nations people self-determine their fashion brands via cultural, financial, and environmental sustainability. This article concludes with recommendations for further theoretical and empirical research on First Nations fashion, art and style.

Fashioning identity and resistance: Shilpa Chavan's HUM (we/us)

ABSTRACT Shilpa Chavan's short film HUM (we/us) blends fashion design, filmmaking, and social critique into a powerful artistic statement. This essay examines Chavan's innovative approach, exploring how she has collaborated to craft a visual and sonic narrative about identity, resistance, and community through a lens of postcolonial India. The analysis employs multiple theoretical frameworks, including gender theory, critical fashion practices, postcolonial studies, psychoanalysis, and sound analysis. Chavan's use of recycled materials and hybrid aesthetics creates a critical space for reimagining fashion's activist role in society, challenging dominant norms while envisioning new possibilities. The essay situates HUM (we/us) within the context of contemporary Indian and international art, drawing comparisons with works by artists such as Tejal Shah, Pushpamala N., Isaac Julien, and Zanele Muholi. It also examines the film's social and cultural impact, its critical reception, and its potential influence on future artistic practices. Through detailed analysis, HUM (we/us) emerges as a compelling example of interdisciplinary art practice sparking meaningful dialogue about complex social issues, demonstrating the power of art to challenge hegemonic narratives and imagine alternative futures.

Key Issues in Surgical Residency Education

In September 2022, a summit was convened by the American Board of Surgery (ABS) to discuss competency-based reform in surgical education. A key output of that summit was the recommendation that the prior work of the Blue Ribbon I Committee convened 20 years earlier be revived. With leadership from the American College of Surgeons (ACS) and the American Surgical Association (ASA) , the Blue Ribbon Committee (BRC) II was subsequently convened. This paper describes the output of the Residency Education Subcommittee of the BRC II Committee. The Subcommittee organized its work around prioritized themes including curriculum, assessment, and transition to practice. Top recommendations, time-based action steps, potential barriers, and required resources were detailed and vetted through group discussion, broader Committee review and critique, and subsequent refinement. Primary concluding emphases included transitioning to a competency-based training model, facilitating dynamically capable curricular reform emphasizing the digital transformation of surgical care, using predictive analytic assessment strategies to optimize training effectiveness and efficiency, and creating mentorship strategies to govern the transition from training to independent practice in an outcomes-accountable fashion. It was recognized that coordinated efforts across existing organizational structures will be required, informed by dataset integration strategies that meaningfully measure educational and related patient outcomes.

Investigation of customer behavior regarding circular fashion

Circular fashion aims to reduce the environmental impact of the fashion industry by creating a closed-loop system where waste is minimized and materials are reused, recycled, refurbished, remanufactured etc. Consumer behavior is crucial for this movement as individuals have the potential to utilize circular economy initiatives (i.e., reuse, second hand etc.). Adopting a circular mindset and making sustainable choices can significantly contribute to a more environmentally friendly fashion industry. However, barriers such as lack of education and awareness hinder the widespread adoption of sustainable fashion practices. This study utilized a questionnaire administered to 650 individuals in Cyprus to examine textile disposal practices and consumers' willingness to pay for circular fashion products. The questionnaire, comprising 13 questions, targeted participants primarily aged 20 to 49, most of whom held university or master's degrees. Results indicated a notable willingness among participants to engage in sustainable practices, with many expressing a desire to purchase from second-hand or rental clothing markets and support recycled clothing initiatives. Spearman correlation analysis revealed a strong positive correlation between educational level and knowledge of sustainable fashion (0.946), circular economy (0.919), and circular fashion (0.910). These findings underscore the importance of education in promoting sustainability within the fashion industry. Understanding consumer knowledge levels regarding sustainable and circular fashion can enhance efforts to educate the public on the impact of their purchases on environmental, economic, and social sustainability. This research provides valuable insights into the correlation between consumer characteristics, education, and their needs concerning circular fashion.

Fashion as an Expression of Cultural Identity in the Digital Age

Fashion has long been a powerful medium for expressing cultural identity, reflecting various communities' values, traditions, and social dynamics. This expression has evolved dramatically in the digital age, shaped by the pervasive influence of technology and social media. This study explores how fashion serves as a conduit for cultural identity in the contemporary digital landscape. It examines the interplay between traditional fashion practices and modern digital platforms. It highlights how individuals and communities use fashion to navigate and assert their cultural identities in an increasingly globalised world. The research investigates the role of digital platforms, such as Instagram, TikTok, and fashion blogs, in disseminating and transforming cultural fashion trends. These platforms provide a space for cultural exchange and the democratisation of fashion, allowing underrepresented voices to showcase their heritage and creativity. Additionally, the study delves into the impact of virtual fashion shows, digital influencers, and online retail on cultural identity expression. It considers how these elements contribute to preserving and evolving traditional fashion practices. Furthermore, the research addresses the complexities of cultural appropriation in the digital age, where fashion trends can be rapidly adopted and commercialised, often detached from their cultural significance. By analysing case studies and engaging with fashion designers, influencers, and consumers, the study offers insights into the ethical considerations and responsibilities involved in cultural fashion representation. The findings suggest that while digital platforms can facilitate celebrating and sharing cultural identities, they pose challenges related to authenticity, appropriation, and commercialisation. This duality underscores the need for a nuanced understanding of fashion as a cultural expression in the digital era. The study concludes with recommendations for fostering a more inclusive and respectful digital fashion ecosystem that honours and preserves cultural identities while embracing innovation and diversity. Through this exploration, the research aims to contribute to the broader discourse on cultural identity, fashion, and digital media, offering valuable perspectives for academics, industry professionals, and cultural advocates.

Eco-chic or trendy-chic? Decoding consumer preferences in sustainable and fast fashion across the EU

Abstract The ongoing transformation of the fashion industry is driven by an increasing focus on sustainability, ethical practices, and responsible consumer behavior. Simultaneously, social media platforms have emerged as influential forces in this field, shaping fashion trends and consumer preferences. Despite a substantial body of literature investigating consumer preferences between fast and sustainable fashion, a gap in understanding the intricate relationship between fashion preferences, socio-economic profiling, and social media engagement is evident. Thus, this research was aimed at comparatively decoding EU consumers’ preferences for fast fashion against sustainable fashion by exploring the interplay of demographic factors ‒ age, gender, and geographical location ‒ on fashion preferences, as expressed through the digital engagement with fashion-related content on the Meta social platforms. The research methodology implied resorting to logistic regression analysis, aiming to uncover the underlying patterns that fundamentally characterize consumers’ preferences for fashion in the EU. The results provide novel insights into how digital engagement with fashion-related content can act as a barometer for regional fashion identities and preferences, useful for the identification of both convergence and inflection points. Moreover, findings offer a robust foundation for crafting strategies that promote sustainable fashion practices, tailored to specific EU age, gender, and location demographics, by leveraging the insights gained about EU consumer preferences.

Artificial Intelligence-Based Conversational Agents Used for Sustainable Fashion: Systematic Literature Review

In the past five years, the textile industry has undergone significant transformations in response to evolving fashion trends and increased consumer garment turnover. To address the environmental impacts of fast fashion, the industry is embracing artificial intelligence (AI) and immersive technologies, particularly leveraging conversational agents as personalized guides for sustainable fashion practices. In this research article, we conduct a systematic literature review to categorize techniques, platforms, and applications of conversational agents in promoting sustainability within the fashion industry. Additionally, the review aims to scrutinize the solutions offered, identify gaps in the existing literature, and provide insights into the effectiveness and limitations of these conversational agents. Utilizing a predefined search strategy on IEEE Xplore, Google Scholar, SCOPUS, and Web of Science, 15 relevant articles were selected through a step-by-step procedure based on the guidelines of the PRISMA framework. The findings reveal a notable global interest in AI-powered conversational agents, with Italy emerging as a significant center for research in this domain. The studies predominantly focus on consumer perceptions and intentions regarding the adoption of AI technologies, indicating a broader curiosity about how individuals incorporate such innovations into their daily lives. Moreover, a substantial proportion of the studies employ diverse methods, reflecting a comprehensive approach to understanding the functionality and performance of conversational agents in various contexts. While acknowledging the historical precedence of text-based agents, the review highlights a research gap related to embodied agents. The conclusion emphasizes the need for continued exploration, particularly in understanding the broader impact of these technologies on creating sustainable and environmentally friendly business models in the e-retail sector.

Driving Factors for Consumers Behaviour to Buy Slow Fashion

The fashion industry plays a significant role in the global economy but is also a major contributor to environmental and ethical issues. Fast fashion has been dominant but has brought about various sustainability challenges and ethical considerations, such as labor exploitation and environmental degradation. In response to these issues, the slow fashion movement has emerged, advocating for ethical and sustainable practices in fashion. The present paper aims to identify driving factors for consumer behavior to buy products of slow fashion, using methods of primary marketing research and evaluating results using advanced statistical methods.

Fair Data is the New Black: Online Shopping, Data Leaks, and Broadening the Understanding of Sustainable Fashion

Fashion is an embodied form of culture. It builds on intimate information about the wearer, concerning e.g. body shape, size, age, weight and style. As fashion is digitalized, intimate body data is shared in online environments, which raises novel concerns about the privacy of fashion consumers. This is especially visible in online shopping, which has revolutionized fashion retail and data collection practices in fashion, particularly as concerns the secure and fair use of consumer data. We argue that the datafication of fashion should be investigated as part of sustainability discourse, and data fairness be established as a responsibility criterion. We analyzed 32 popular Finnish online clothing stores. Data management was studied by analyzing the online stores’ network traffic to third parties, investigating the transparency of their privacy policy documents and analyzing possible dark patterns in the website’s cookie banners. Our findings raise concerns over data responsibility and privacy in various areas. The analyzed websites had a high number of third-party services, averaging 5.2. Only 17 online stores out of the examined 32 (53%) clearly mentioned that they collected identifying information and product information in their privacy policies, and only five of the stores (16%) had no dark patterns in their cookie banners. Our results also suggest that several brands that are otherwise considered ethical may need to pay more attention to their fair data processing and privacy. This indicates that a wider discussion about data privacy and data handling practices is needed. Fair management of data must be part of the process of evaluating the sustainability of clothing companies.

Designing Sustainability Today: An Analytical Framework for a Design for Sustainability Model in European Fashion and Furniture Industries

The proposed article addresses pressing sustainability challenges, advocating for a profound transformation of existing development models, particularly emphasizing sustainable production and lifestyles. Utilizing a research method grounded in a comprehensive international knowledge base, the study explores the evolution of design for sustainability (DfS) approaches. Its significant contribution lies in systematically investigating connections among diverse DfS approaches, providing an initial framework for situating practices within the fashion and furniture industries. The research outcomes obtained iteratively involve mapping design-driven sustainability practices in European fashion and furniture companies. This mapping reveals a transition from a product-centric to an organization-centered design perspective, calling for a holistic ecosystemic framework to revolutionize business operations. The article analyzes contemporary design-driven practices, proposing an interpretative model that identifies ongoing practices fostering incremental changes toward sustainability guided by design. Furthermore, the article outlines a three-stage design-driven sustainability continuum, synthesizing potential future trajectories. Beyond contributing to the understanding of current practices, the research provides insights into future possibilities, highlighting the transformative role of design in reshaping consumeristic systems. Ultimately, the study offers valuable insights into the transformative power of design, paving the way for sustainable business practices in the fashion and furniture industries.

IS INDIA READY FOR SUSTAINABLE FASHION

Sustainable fashion has emerged as a crucial global movement in response to the environmental and social challenges posed by the fashion industry. With India being a significant player in the global textile and apparel market, it is pertinent to evaluate its readiness to embrace sustainable fashion practices. This research paper aims to analyse various aspects of India's fashion industry, including its current state, challenges, initiatives, and future prospects concerning sustainability. Through a thorough examination of existing literature, policies, and industry practices, this paper provides insights into India's readiness for sustainable fashion and proposes recommendations for fostering its adoption. KEYWORDS: Sustainable fashion, India, textile industry, environmental impact, social responsibilit

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT AND GREENWASHING: AN ANALYSIS OF SUFFICIENT CONSUMPTION IN THE FASHION INDUSTRY

The article examines how the fashion industry has been exploiting marketing tactics that encourage overconsumption and generate a mass consciousness among consumers, where a person's social status is determined by the clothes and accessories they use. However, these tactics have contributed significantly to global environmental pollution and socio-economic issues. The fashion industry has been driven by profit-first interests that rely on cheap materials, accelerated aging of products, aggressive advertising, and an offshoring strategy that provides cheap labor and low tax rates. It is high time that companies reassess their marketing strategies and focus on sustainable development. The current climate crisis demands that companies make informed decisions and take proactive measures toward sustainability. This article revealed the impact of fast fashion marketing on consumer behavior and the environment, highlighting the need for sustainable fashion practices. The article analyzes the initiatives fashion companies take to incorporate sustainability into their core business strategies, for instance, innovative raw materials, recycling, and repair services. The article examines the practice of greenwashing, where companies make false or exaggerated claims about their environmental efforts to appear more sustainable. The article emphasizes the need for companies to encourage consumers to sufficient consumption to stay sustainable and achieve zero emissions to solve climate problems. Achieving and maintaining consumer well-being and social equity are critical goals in today's global business environment. One strategy for achieving these goals is through sufficient consumption, which involves optimizing resource use and reducing waste. Sufficient consumption can be realized by revaluing personal needs and desires, limiting excessive consumption, and minimizing waste. By adopting a mindful and responsible approach to consumption, consumers and companies can promote social equity and cultivate a sustainable business environment.