A Statement on Sustainability

The University of Delaware's fashion curriculum is heavily weighted on sustainability, with the topic incorporated into nearly every class.  It is an essential piece of the industry today as fashion continues to be one of the world’s most polluting industries.  Today, less than 1% of used clothing is recycled into new garments, with the rest ultimately finding their way to landfills.  There is not a lot of time to solve this issue, and recycling still has a long way to go before it can make a dent in the industry’s growing waste output.  However, recycling alone cannot solve the problem.  In order to move toward a more sustainable industry, consumers need to buy less clothing and hold onto their current wardrobes longer.  Additionally, companies that manufacture clothing will need to change the way they do business and stop overproduction.  One of my greatest interests in fashion is the topic of sustainability, and I believe that this topic is something that should not be overlooked.  As someone who is an environmentally conscious person, I believe that sustainability is a measure that must be taken immediately despite the many challenges and long transition it will require.

 

As a designer, I have strived to implement many sustainable practices into all aspects of the garment making process, including mono-materiality, seasonless design, organic materials, zero-waste, and designing for durability.  However, designing a garment with sustainability in mind can be extremely difficult.  For instance, making a garment zero-waste can alter the silhouettes and visual aspects of an original design because the designer must figure out ways in which they can use all of the fabric.  Additionally, creating a seasonless/timeless look can limit a designer’s color choices in order to make a garment more versatile.  While sustainability is something that many designers may fail to incorporate into their designs, it is important that they start considering the life cycle of their creations to ensure a more sustainable future.

 

Working for a brand that focuses on sustainability is of utmost importance to me going out into the industry.  Even when searching for a retail job, I wanted to ensure I found a brand I could say I was proud to work for and that was already known for its sustainable aspects.  I was extremely honored to be hired by the Athleta store in my hometown as a Brand Associate, as Athleta is a certified B Corporation brand that meets high standards of performance, accountability, and transparency in sustainability.  The brand focuses on using recycled materials like plastic bottles and fabric scraps, organic cotton, and renewable energy in their manufacturing processes.  Not only do they focus on environmental sustainability, but they also empower women and children through their high-quality clothing, mission, and values.  Athleta places an emphasis on size and community inclusivity, making sure that women of different races, abilities, and sizes are accounted for.  I truly feel proud to represent Athleta when I wear the brand’s garments because of their strong commitment to sustainability, transparency, and inclusivity in the apparel market.  Although it is simply a retail job, I truly have the best time working in such a positive and enlightening environment with the most incredible women as co-workers.  Whether my time at Athleta is coming to an end or just beginning, I will be sure to always keep sustainability at the forefront of my mind when it comes to applying for jobs in the fashion industry.