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

Ana Neto and João Ferreira
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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

Sustainability, 2020, vol. 12, issue 18, 1-22

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.

Keywords: wearer–clothing relationship; person–product attachment; clothing use; clothing longevity; sustainable fashion (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2020
References: View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (2)

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