Chapter One: Introduction
This chapter of Circular Design for Fashion introduces us to the concepts of the circular economy and sustainable fashion. It explains how the current fashion system works—one of linear manufacturing and consumption where clothes are produced, bought, worn, and then disposed of once they no longer meet changing trends or wear out. In contrast, circular economy principles seek to keep clothing in use for as long as possible, whether through the reuse of textiles or the incorporation of sustainable materials. The chapter then goes on to outline the potential benefits for both the environment and fashion industry. For example, it explains how circular fashion strategies such as upcycling, rental models, and the use of sustainable materials could reduce fashion-related waste and water use while helping to create jobs and earning potential.
Chapter Two: Design Model
This chapter dives deeper into the development of a circular design model for fashion. It starts out by explaining the concept of context-based design, which focuses on taking a holistic view of how a product is used and how to minimize its negative environmental impacts. It then goes on to introduce Design 4 Circularity (D4C), a model with four steps: assess, design, integrate and verify. Each step involves looking at a product’s entire life cycle (from raw material to disposal) and how to reduce potential environmental damage associated with it. The chapter goes on to offer tips and guidelines for each step, from product design to lifecycle analysis, to help fashion brands make the switch to circularity.
Chapter Three: Seamless Material Chains
In this chapter, the authors focus on one of the most important components of a circular design model for fashion: the materials used to produce clothing. It takes an in-depth look at the different types of sustainable materials available, from eco-friendly fabrics to plant-based dyes, as well as their benefits and limitations. It also addresses the supply chain, emphasizing ethical sourcing and the importance of selecting materials with minimal negative environmental and human impact. The authors also provide practical advice on how to switch to more sustainable materials, whether through finding new alternatives or reforming existing methods, to make the fashion industry more sustainable.
Chapter Four: Exchanging and Circulating
This chapter looks at how fashion brands can transition to a more circular economy. It emphasizes the need for collaboration between all stakeholders in the fashion industry and provides a framework for a circular fashion system. Topics include from the promotion of second-hand products to the adoption of innovative models such as subscription services and product repair, both of which aim to keep clothes in circulation for longer. Additionally, the authors examine different types of business models that can help to make fashion more circular-conscious, such as the sharing economy and the use of digital currency.
Chapter Five: The Road Ahead
This final chapter takes a look at the future of circular fashion. It highlights the importance of technology and data in driving the transition to a circular economy, as well as the need for clear policies and legislation to support the development of more circular fashion systems. It also emphasizes the need for greater public engagement and education around circular design and sustainable fashion, in order to achieve the ultimate goal of creating a fashion industry that is both socially and environmentally responsible.
