Sustainable Fashion; why now? (analysis of book)

SUSTAINABLE FASHION: WHY NOW?


J. Hethorn and C. Ulasewicz

(Fairchild Books, 2008)


Fashion and sustainability together, is an issue that has been around for many years but has only become important within the last 15 years. This book investigates the relationship between fashion and sustainability and the importance the two have on the apparel industry. The authors Hethorn and Ulasewicz include a combination of interesting essays within the book that present a range of reflective perspectives. The book is constructed of three main parts: “Connecting With People On Sustainable Practices”, “Production and Economic Processes In The Global Economy”, and “The Environment, The Planet and Materials Used In Fashion Making”.

The first part presents arguments ranging from the history of the industry to the use of technology to support sustainable practices. Also it talks about strategies being used to inform the next generation of designers on how to include sustainability as part of their everyday thinking. Also the efforts in educating and listing to the consumer, and the ways they can have an impact. I think this is important to my research as I need to fully understand the consumer’s role and how they can in actual fact, help or destroy the eco-fashion world.

The second part addresses the theories and approaches that are starting to change the way we produce fashion and maintain this industry as a sustainable part of the economy. This is also good for my research as this part talks about different fibres and textiles, sourcing strategies and re-cycling which are all important to a sustainable way of producing eco-fashion. In this part of the book, the authors challenge the reader to begin thinking about what creative solutions there are to the issues surrounding sustainability and the global economic health. – Which is also another interesting area to investigate further for my research, because it will offer me arguments on the best possible ways to maintain a healthy economy and green environment and finding the right balance within them.

The final part focuses on what the textile/fashion industry is doing at present to adapt to the environmental issues that has caused global concern. There is an interesting discussion on what possibilities there is out there for the industry to change their use of materials to vintage and second hand garments.

The authors have designed this book to be of importance to anyone with connections to the fashion industry: designers, product developers, marketers, retailers, teachers, students and consumers who also have the desire to help the economy by adapting to green living. I think the authors’ aim in the book is to get the reader thinking about change and the importance it will have in the future. Sustainability is not like fashion trends where it will be tossed out next season, it is a growing trend that will become more and more involved in everyday life.