Clothed connections : a transition design-led ideation of a holistic future fashion system : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Design at Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand

Abstract

The fashion system exists within an intricate and dynamic network of interconnections that span ecological, sociological, political and economic systems. As these global systems interact with the behaviours of an anthropocentric, consumer capitalist, pro-growth, outcome-driven twenty first century society, more is being taken from the environment than is being regeneratively restored. Resultant, is a global climate emergency, evidenced by sustained earth temperature rise and biodiversity loss. Without repair through urgent system transformation, the pathway ahead is one of irrevocable environmental damage. A mindset shift of our thoughts and behaviours regarding fashion, may guide systems change. This research proposes a mindset shift through a transition design-led, multi-level perspective ideation of a sustainable future fashion system, integrating theories of everyday life and human need, to challenge the western fashion system at its core. Mixed methods and a reflective research approach synthesises future fashion system conception with design practice. Concepts of holistic future fashion systems are analysed and synthesised to develop a proposed Emergent Fashion Design Process Model with a Sustainable Design Criteria as outcomes for this research. These are applied through a participatory fashion design process, intended to facilitate stronger engagement between a wearer and their garment. A connective pathway forward is actioned and tested through this renegotiated fashion design process. A wearer-experience informed fashion design process, conducted two interconnected case studies that explore a circular practice of creation and reflection, through experience and connection. This exegesis offers a contribution to the growing body of scholarly thought, acknowledging the value of dynamic change in society’s engagement with fashion and clothing. A circular, connective, and generative pathway forward is proposed, further contributing to the evolving conversation of environmental conservation throughout fashion, and wider system transformation.