Reuse of textile waste: upcycling and design as a viable alternative for fashion brands

Abstract:

The project investigated the possibility of reusing discarded fabrics in Belo Horizonte’s small and medium-size garments and factories through upcycling, design and collaboration. The first part of the project sought to describe the theoretical foundations of the concepts of sustainability and upcycling, the cultural reflection of fashion, as well as demonstrate the role of design in building value for products. Then, after an initial survey to better understand the functioning of the confectionery market with some stakeholders, semi-structured interviews were conducted with owners, production managers and brand designers (apparel) to verify the possibility of implementing a model for factories reusing fabrics, producing new products through upcycling, designing and collaborating with external partners. In conclusion, we raise the existing problems and opportunities within the current scenario. Finally, despite the difficulties found, it can be concluded that the project was positive. Bearing in mind that the main purpose of the research was to test the feasibility of designing and developing upcycling products within the brands of the apparel industry, using their used textile waste with the outside collaboration of designers can use what was considered by most respondents.

Ana Carolina Andrade Penido – MA Design MAR19 https://www.linkedin.com/in/carol-penido-2036b5a/

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