A hearts and mind change for the fashion system

18 Mar

As part of the Melbourne Fashion Festival the beauty and complexities of circular economy were discussed by Courtney Holm, Professor Alice Payne and Jackie King. Moderated by Maggie Zhou, the panel explained that circularity isn’t readily integrated into fashion design and systems yet, not because we don't know how, but because people have to pay. Other barriers include education for citizens & designers, the latter of which can make great use of the guide Refashioning: Accelerating Circular Product Design at Scale, launched at this event.

Remote Repairs is an example of circular business thriving. ‘The changes I am seeing: they are positive and they are huge. ’ It was delightful to hear Jackie King’s passion and joy for her business, and to listen to her resourcefulness. Brands flourishing in the design space use the limitations of circularity to evoke creativity and are resourceful. Jackie shared with us that one damaged garment can be used to fix six others.

As fashion designer of A.BCH, Courntey Holm revealed how powerful the design stage is. ‘At design we have the opportunity to make changes that will snowball impact.’ Indeed, vast opportunity arises from the challenges of the current fashion system.

Professor Alice Payne invited guests to become ‘life cycle partners,’ the importance of sharing (as a means of keeping materials in use) and her vision for garments that demonstrate thriving craftsmanship; made for people to participate in the circular economy.

Panelists shared their vision of thriving craftsmanship; investment in repair, interorganisational collaboration, and reduced garment production. A desire to not just close the loop, but also extend the product life as long as possible, which requires systems change, education and good design.

If you are a designer or in industry please be sure to read and utilise the resources contained in Refashioning: Accelerating Circular Product Design at Scale