Ethical and Sustainable Fashion (DST63904)
Content
Task 01
This semester marks the beginning of Ethical and Sustainable Fashion, and on the first day of class, we were briefed on the module information booklet and assignment brief. The project focuses on exploring global issues aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and developing a design concept that addresses one of these issues through a fashion-related product.
We were tasked with researching global issues connected to the SDGs and preparing a PowerPoint proposal for Assignment 1, which required us to design a laptop sleeve.
Initially, I considered two topics:
- Discarded fishing nets
- Bank cards and gift cards
After consulting with my lecturer, I decided to focus on discarded fishing nets, also known as ghost gear. I began by researching what ghost gear is, the types of synthetic ropes used in fishing, and how they contribute to microplastic pollution. I also explored which SDG goals align with my topic, particularly SDG 14: Life Below Water.
Finding reliable data and active organizations addressing ghost gear pollution proved challenging. Although a few regional organizations were raising awareness and collecting data, most initiatives were led by individual volunteers or small communities, making it difficult to find well-documented statistics.
By Week 2, I started sourcing materials for my laptop sleeve. I ordered fishing nets online and searched for synthetic ropes, suitable fabrics, and other components both online and in physical stores. Since most materials were purchased online, it took some time for everything to arrive.
Once I began constructing the laptop sleeve, I used black denim as the base fabric and black fleece for the inner lining to provide softness and protection. To highlight the concept of ghost gear, I used transparent PVC fabric to encase the manipulation of fishing nets and ropes. For structure and cushioning, I added an aquarium base leveling mat as the internal sponging layer.
The making process was both challenging and rewarding. I used a hot glue gun to secure the nets and ropes to the denim base, but this step was tricky, some synthetic materials melted under the heat. After that, I stitched the zipper to the two layers and sewed the edges together.
Flipping the sleeve right side out after sewing the lining was quite difficult, especially when fixing the corners neatly. After completing the stitching, I realized I had made a mistake with the zipper placement, which affected the final finish slightly.
Reflection
This project taught me the importance of planning ahead, understanding materials, and experimenting with techniques before final construction. Despite the challenges, I gained valuable experience working with unconventional materials like fishing nets and PVC, which helped me think more critically about sustainability in fashion design.
Researching ghost gear opened my eyes to the severity of marine pollution. Overall, I’m proud of my progress and look forward to improving my technical, conceptual and time management approach in the coming weeks.
Task 02
We had to write a report for Task 02 of the Ethical and Sustainable Fashion module, which was based on a field trip to the LLCM factory. The purpose of this visit was to provide us with firsthand knowledge about sustainable techniques in the fashion and textile recycling industries.
On the day of the visit, we were first given a brief introduction to the company. They explained their mission, operations, and role in promoting sustainability through textile collection and recycling. To make the session more engaging, we participated in a quiz and a survey that assessed our existing knowledge about sustainability and ethical practices. This activity helped highlight how much we already knew—and how much we still needed to learn.
During the factory tour, we observed the process of collecting and separating clothes and other donated items. It was interesting to see how different materials were sorted and managed before being reused, recycled, or redistributed. The process required careful inspection and organization, which emphasized how much effort goes into reducing textile waste and extending the life cycle of garments. We also learned that LLCM does not only receive clothes, but other usable items as well, further reinforcing their commitment to minimizing waste.
After the tour, we were asked to complete another survey, which allowed us to reflect on how much knowledge we had gained from the experience. Comparing both surveys made it clear that the visit significantly improved our understanding of sustainability in practice.
To support our report, we documented the visit by taking many photos and videos, which helped us capture the processes and environment of the factory. Overall, the visit was eye-opening, educational, and inspiring.
Reflection
This trip was a great learning experience that helped bridge the gap between theory and real-world application. Seeing sustainable practices firsthand made the concept of ethical and sustainable fashion feel more tangible and impactful. The visit encouraged me to think more consciously about consumption, waste, and my role as a future fashion professional. It was truly an insightful and meaningful experience.
Task 03
For Task 03, the final assignment of the Ethical and Sustainable Fashion module, we were required to design and produce a bag using IKEA Frakta bags. This task focused on upcycling and transforming an everyday, non-fashion material into a functional and sustainable fashion product.
I began the project with a brief research on IKEA and the background of their Frakta bags, understanding why they are widely used, durable, and suitable for reuse. After that, I explored different bag designs that could be created using Frakta material. The three design ideas I proposed were:
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A mini duffle handbag
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A heart-shaped tote bag
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A convertible carryall
Bag Design Ideas from Pinterest
After presenting these ideas, my lecturer selected the convertible carryall as the final design to be developed. I first created a sample bag using calico fabric to test the size, structure, and construction. During this stage, I realized that the bag was slightly too small, especially at the bottom, so I had to adjust the pattern before moving on to the final version.
While constructing the actual bag with the Frakta material, I made further changes to the top section to properly attach the zipper and D-ring hooks for the straps. I particularly liked the strap design from the sample, so I reused the sample straps for the final bag. This decision was also influenced by material limitations, as I did not have enough materials to make new straps and was unable to purchase more.
After completing the bag, we were required to take detailed photographs showing all sides of the product, as well as lifestyle photos to demonstrate its use. Additionally, we had to create a 30-second to 1-minute promotional video of the bag. I really enjoyed the video shoot, especially working together with my friend.
However, the editing process was challenging, as I needed to carefully decide on
clip selection, sequencing, and placement to create a smooth and engaging video.
Reflection
This final task was both challenging and rewarding. It helped me understand the importance of prototyping, problem-solving, and adapting designs when working with limited materials. Using IKEA Frakta bags pushed me to think creatively about sustainability and upcycling in fashion. The experience also strengthened my skills in product presentation through photography and videography. Overall, this project deepened my appreciation for ethical and sustainable design practices and was an enjoyable and valuable learning experience.
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