The goal of this project is to identify the bestselling products of popular high-street retail brands and replicate the same products using zero-waste pattern cutting method. Subsequently, the product’s impact will be compared in terms of fabric usage, design, cost and time.
In terms of sustainability in fashion, this project focuses on the details and a single part of the messy overall complex fashion supply chain, which is, the pre-consumer textile off-cuts generated in the cutting process.
The brands in focus would be H&M and Primark. These brands offer some must haves and bestselling products on their websites which are manufactured every season and/or in large quantities. The products in focus were Linen Blend Shirt, Jersey Dress from H&M and Wide leg Trousers, Oversized Tee from Primark.
By blending the two principles of design as a problem solving tool and overcoming textile waste, it becomes evident that dedicating more time to the design stage can reduce the environmental impacts, making the adoption of zero waste design the favourable path forward.
This project identifies with the following SDG’s and works towards achieving them:
9- Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure
12 – Responsible consumption and production
17- Partnerships for the goals
Ultimately, this project underscores that zero waste pattern cutting is not just a design technique; it’s a profound shift towards reimagining the entire fashion supply chain. By adopting this approach, retailers have the power to drive positive change, shape consumer perceptions, and lead the industry towards a more harmonious coexistence with the planet.
Zero waste plays a pivotal role in establishing a circular fashion system and should be integrated right from the initial phase of the process – the design and pattern development stage – and should persist throughout the entirety of the supply chain.