Sustainable Fashion Identified: An Exploration and Education of Sustainable Apparel

Consumers today are searching for and are loyal to companies who support their views and concerns about sustainability. The fashion industry is one of the biggest industries in the world, but one that has many environmental and sustainability concerns. Fortunately, there are many ways the fashion industry and consumers can take steps to make sustainable change and better the planet. Small fashion businesses and boutiques can make positive changes to operate and provide sustainable options and services for customers which can help the planet become more sustainable. Through this manuscript, an assortment of sustainable methods and practices will be shared to help assist small businesses and consumers in their sustainability journey. A literature review will first present information on the urgent need for sustainability within the fashion industry. In addition, this manuscript explores details small businesses can be aware of when ordering supplies and inventory, choosing sustainable materials, teaching consumers how to care for their products, and sustainable services businesses can offer to consumers. Sustainable practices within the fashion industry have been identified which can be applied to small fashion businesses to increase their sustainability and offerings. A collection of five outfits was created to represent various methods of sustainability within fashion. The garments were displayed in a gallery exhibit to provide education, through visuals and signage, on sustainability within fashion and provide inspiration for sustainable techniques and practices in future designs. Advisor: Sandra Starkey