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From Wearing Off to Wearing On: The Meanders of Wearer–Clothing Relationships

Author

Listed:
  • Ana Neto

    (CIAUD, Lisbon School of Architecture, University of Lisbon, Rua Sá Nogueira, 1349-063 Lisboa, Portugal)

  • João Ferreira

    (CIAUD, Lisbon School of Architecture, University of Lisbon, Rua Sá Nogueira, 1349-063 Lisboa, Portugal)

Abstract

The current patterns of production and consumption of clothes are known for their negative impacts on our planet, and the efforts towards a responsible fashion system must come from industry and users alike. Whereas the fashion industry may focus on achieving eco-efficiency, designers need to engage the wearers in long-term commitment with their clothes to counteract the ongoing increase of textile waste. However, current design strategies for product attachment have proven that it is difficult to succeed at this mission. In this paper we introduce the focus and theoretical framework of a research project that aims to study the relationship between wearers and clothes. We present our research perspective through a literature review that is supported by empirical testimonies of dozens of women, whose words illustrate the complexity of human relationships with garments. When we compare our connection with clothes to interpersonal love relationships, we find that the similarities are significant enough to justify a different approach in design practice, and we suggest a re-focus on the existing wearer–clothing relationships.

Suggested Citation

  • Ana Neto & João Ferreira, 2020. "From Wearing Off to Wearing On: The Meanders of Wearer–Clothing Relationships," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 12(18), pages 1-22, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:12:y:2020:i:18:p:7264-:d:408978
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    Citations

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    Cited by:

    1. Xinyi Huang & Sarah Kettley & Sophia Lycouris & Yu Yao, 2023. "Autobiographical Design for Emotional Durability through Digital Transformable Fashion and Textiles," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(5), pages 1-22, March.
    2. Kirsi Laitala & Ingun Grimstad Klepp, 2020. "What Affects Garment Lifespans? International Clothing Practices Based on a Wardrobe Survey in China, Germany, Japan, the UK, and the USA," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 12(21), pages 1-45, November.

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