From Geodiversity to Garments: Methods for Territory-Informed Textile Prints and Fashion

This study investigates how cultural and natural heritage can inform surface design for fashion, focusing on the development of a capsule collection of geoproducts in the UNESCO Global Geopark of Caçapava do Sul, Brazil. The purpose is to expand the scope of existing geoproducts, often limited to food and souvenirs, by introducing textile-based items that reflect local identity and contribute to sustainability. The research employed an applied, qualitative, and descriptive approach, including bibliographic review, questionnaires with local artisans, and the mapping of existing geoproducts. Data were analyzed through content analysis, and the creative process followed the method of cross-fertilization, which stimulates innovation by combining knowledge from design, geology, and craftsmanship. The design process was organized into four phases—preparation, generation of alternatives, selection, and realization—culminating in the capsule collection Aflora. The collection comprised two thematic lines: Cactaceae, inspired by endemic flora, and Geo, based on local geomonuments. The results demonstrate that surface design can mediate the relationship between fashion and heritage, producing identity-driven and innovative textile products. Three surface-design modules were produced, six product mockups, and two geoproduct prototypes, developed with materials such as wool, felt, sarja, and cotton fabrics. The study contributes theoretically by linking apparel design with heritage valorization, and practically by proposing a replicable model for geoproduct development. Limitations relate to the single case study and qualitative scope, suggesting future research on replication, eco-friendly printing, and market feasibility.