Exploring a framework for fashion design for sustainability

This chapter discusses a new framework for fashion design practice that aims to empower the designer to facilitate changes in the current production/consumption model of fashion garments. In the current forum the fashion designer is presented with a range of generic tools, guides and texts that explore the issue of sustainability and fashion design in broad terms. However, while these resources are of value it is often difficult for the fashion designer to establish an approach to design that can be applied specifically in the fashion design studio. Although a range of ideas and concepts are often discussed and advocated, to date no methodology for an improved model of fashion design practice has been presented. Developed as a practice-focused model for the fashion designer to reference and use within the studio environment during design inception, the Fashion Design for Sustainability (FDS©) model promotes the notion of life cycle thinking as an approach to fashion design practice. Based upon a re-examination of the design process, the FDS model helps the designer reflect upon current practices, and identify and engage with sustainable design strategies that can reduce / avoid specific environmental and social impacts. The chapter will introduce the development and application of the FDS framework and discuss a select number of sustainable design strategies in relation to the life cycle phases of a garment.