Zero-Waste Design for Kaftans: Enhancing Wearability and Cultural Preservation

The global fashion industry faces mounting pressure to address its environmental footprint, with textile waste representing one of the most urgent challenges. This study demonstrates that zero-waste pattern-making, when applied to the kaftan’s inherently rectangular geometry, can achieve 100% fabric utilization while honoring centuries of cultural heritage. Tracing the kaftan’s evolution from ancient Persia (circa 600 BCE) through Ottoman opulence to contemporary Indian adaptations, we argue that this timeless garment offers a scalable blueprint for sustainable fashion. Through experimental prototypes integrating geo-cuts, tessellation, and traditional artisanal techniques—including handloom weaving and natural dyeing—we find that zero-waste kaftans eliminate the industry-standard 15% fabric waste without compromising aesthetic appeal or wearability. Case studies of pioneering Indian designers—Urvashi Kaur, Abraham & Thakore, and Anavila Mishra—reveal how cultural preservation and ecological responsibility can advance together. Our findings position the kaftan not merely as a garment but as a paradigm for ethically mindful, resource-efficient fashion that aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goal 12.