Inspiria Knowledge Campus’ New Initiative for Sustainable Style
As the fashion world struggles with environmental challenges, a positive shift is happening. The industry is moving towards sustainability to address issues like waste, pollution, and carbon emissions. And Inspiria Knowledge Campus, a top college of Siliguri is leading this decisive change. Inspiria opened a new horizon in education in this region by offering a range of professional undergraduate degree courses that match present-day industry requirements.
“Denim Reborn” by Inspiria’s Department of Fashion is a remarkable initiative. It ensures that the latest fashion trends remain environmentally sensitive in a bid to reduce the carbon footprint. This blog explores the journey of Denim Reborn, revealing how it turns discarded denim into stylish pieces, contributing to a more eco-friendly fashion future. From collecting denim to the runway, we unravel the creative processes behind this sustainable fashion revolution.
Transforming Fashion with Sustainable Style
The fashion industry’s considerable environmental impact, evident in the form of excessive textile waste, has sparked global concern over issues like landfills, carbon emissions, pollution, and heightened water consumption. Just look at these facts:-
- Every second used, discarded garments that could fill a garbage truck is dumped
- 500,000 tons of microfibers, equivalent to 50 billion plastic bottles, are released into the ocean each year
- The fashion industry releases 8-10% of humanity’s carbon emissions
- The fashion industry is responsible for around 20% of global industrial wastewater pollution
The response to this is a marked shift towards ‘sustainable fashion’! With the increasing demand for more sustainable practices, consumers and stakeholders are urging a shift in the traditional fashion production model toward responsible and eco-friendly approaches.
Inspiria’s Department of Fashion has joined the movement for change. Projects like Denim Reborn, combining fashion expertise and environmental care, show a dedication to reshaping how the industry works. More than just a product, ‘Denim Reborn’ signals a shift towards a more environmentally conscious approach to fashion. Rooted in upcycling and eco-friendly practices, this idea turns old denim into trendy, stylish, and earth-friendly outfits.
Inspiria Knowledge Campus, known for offering one of the best fashion designing courses in Siliguri, shapes fashion-forward individuals. “Denim Reborn” not only celebrates creativity and sustainability but also sends a powerful message about embracing sustainable practices in the ever-evolving world of fashion. The runway becomes a dynamic canvas, displaying the convergence of fashion, creativity, and environmental responsibility.
Before we delve into the concept of Denim Reborn, let’s know first what Sustainable fashion actually is.
What is Sustainable fashion?
Sustainable fashion is a holistic and responsible approach to clothing production that aims to minimize the environmental impact of the fashion industry. It operates on the principles of ethical practices, social responsibility, and environmental consciousness. One key aspect of sustainable fashion is the consideration of the entire lifecycle of a garment, from the sourcing of materials to its production, use, and eventual disposal. This approach aims to tackle the fashion industry’s negative consequences, including excessive waste, carbon emissions, and pollution. It strives to rectify these issues and pave the way for a more sustainable and eco-friendly fashion landscape.
Sustainable fashion places a strong emphasis on eco-friendly materials like organic cotton, hemp, and recycled fibers. These alternatives are chosen for their lower environmental footprint compared to conventional fabrics. Additionally, sustainable fashion promotes ethical practices throughout the supply chain, including fair labor conditions and wages for workers involved in the production process. Sustainable fashion aims to extend the lifespan of clothing by embracing practices such as upcycling and recycling. This approach significantly reduces the demand for new production and contributes to a more environmentally conscious fashion industry. This approach minimizes textile waste in landfills and promotes a more environmentally conscious lifecycle for fashion items.
The movement towards sustainable fashion is also characterized by a shift in consumer behavior. Conscious consumers are increasingly prioritizing brands that align with their values of environmental stewardship and ethical manufacturing. This shift has led to the rise of sustainable fashion brands globally, challenging the conventional fast fashion model. Sustainable fashion marks a transformative and positive shift in the industry, encouraging a mindful and responsible approach to production, consumption, and perception of clothing. It symbolizes a collective commitment to ethical and eco-friendly practices, shaping a more conscientious future for fashion.
Why is sustainable fashion important?
Sustainable fashion is important for several reasons, as it addresses a range of environmental, social, and economic concerns. Here are some key reasons why sustainable fashion is crucial:
Environmental Impact
Sustainable fashion is essential for the environment. Traditional fashion practices often lead to excessive waste, pollution, and carbon emissions due to the use of harmful materials and manufacturing processes.
For instance, innovative brands like Reformation focus on using eco-friendly fabrics such as Tencel and recycled materials in their clothing lines. By incorporating sustainable materials, fashion brands aim to minimize the environmental footprint of fabric production. This contributes to a cleaner and greener fashion industry.
Ethical Practice
Sustainable fashion can be ethical by promoting fair labor practices and improving working conditions for individuals involved in the production process. This ensures that workers are treated fairly and work in safe environments.
Leading the charge in ethical fashion, Patagonia is renowned for its commitment to fair labor practices and worker well-being. The company ensures that its supply chain adheres to strict ethical standards, providing fair wages and safe working conditions. By championing such ethical practices, Patagonia sets an example for the industry, emphasizing the importance of treating workers with respect and dignity.
Eco-Friendly
Sustainable fashion involves eco-friendly practices, using materials that have a lower environmental impact and reducing the overall carbon footprint of the fashion industry.
Eco-friendly practices in sustainable fashion are exemplified by Stella McCartney, a pioneer in luxury sustainable fashion. McCartney is dedicated to using cruelty-free and sustainable materials, such as vegetarian leather and recycled fabrics, in her designs. She prioritizes eco-friendly alternatives, demonstrating that high-end fashion can align with environmental consciousness. Her choices influence the industry, encouraging a shift towards more sustainable material options.
Reduction of Waste
Sustainable fashion helps reduce waste in the form of discarded garments. By adopting practices such as upcycling and recycling, the fashion industry can significantly reduce its contribution to landfills. This shift toward circular approaches promotes sustainability by extending the lifespan of materials and minimizing waste.
Circular fashion initiatives, like those by Eileen Fisher, focus on reducing waste by promoting garment recycling programs. Eileen Fisher allows customers to return old clothing items, which are then reworked and resold as part of their “Renew” collection. This approach minimizes the environmental impact of fashion waste and encourages a more sustainable and circular lifecycle for clothing.
Positive Impact
Sustainable fashion contributes to a healthier environment, ethical business practices, and community support, creating a positive impact on the world. Prioritizing eco-friendly measures and fair labor conditions transforms the fashion industry into a positive force for environmental and social well-being. It aligns fashion with ethical practices, contributing to a sustainable and responsible future.
Known for its positive impact, Toms Shoes goes beyond footwear to address social issues. Toms follows a “One for One” business model, where for every pair of shoes sold, a pair is donated to a child in need. This commitment to social responsibility demonstrates that fashion brands can make a positive impact by integrating philanthropy into their business practices.
Consumer Awareness
The rise in conscious consumerism has led to an increased awareness of the impact of purchasing decisions. Sustainable fashion caters to consumers who prioritize ethical and environmentally friendly products.
As consumers become increasingly aware of their choices, brands like Everlane embrace transparency. Everlane provides detailed information about the production process, costs, and markups of each product on their website. This transparency empowers consumers to make informed and ethical purchasing decisions, aligning with the growing demand for transparency in the fashion industry.
Global Impact
The fashion industry operates on a global scale, and its practices can have widespread effects. Embracing sustainability in fashion contributes to global efforts to combat climate change, protect biodiversity, and promote responsible consumption and production patterns.
H&M, through its Conscious Collection, showcases a global impact by embracing sustainability on a large scale. The collection incorporates recycled materials and promotes responsible sourcing and production. As one of the world’s largest fashion retailers, H&M’s commitment to sustainability influences global industry practices, emphasizing the importance of adopting eco-friendly measures on a broad scale.
What is the concept of Denim Reborn?
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Now that we know what is Sustainable fashion, lets move on to the concept of Denim Reborn.
Denim Reborn is a sustainable fashion initiative by Inspiria’s Department of Fashion. It is the process of transforming discarded denim into stylish and eco-friendly garments. Addressing environmental challenges posed by the traditional fashion industry, Denim Reborn pioneers a holistic approach that goes beyond being just a product. It breathes new life into materials, mitigating adverse environmental effects through responsible practices.
The process involves sourcing high-quality discarded denim from various channels, sorting materials meticulously, and cleaning them for transformation. Fashion design students contribute creative designs, leading to the cutting, stitching, and shaping of denim into new forms.
Process of Denim Reborn
Denim Reborn undergoes a transformative journey—from collecting discarded denim to meticulous sorting. Following is the process of how Denim Reborn redefined sustainable fashion.
Collection and Sorting
In the initial step, discarded denim is collected from various sources, including donations, thrift stores, and manufacturing scraps. These materials are then meticulously sorted based on colour, texture, and quality.
Cleaning and Preparing
Once sorted, the denim pieces went through a cleaning process to remove stains and odors, ensuring they were in suitable condition for transformation.
Design and Creativity
Fashion Design students conceptualized and sketched unique garment designs that were crafted from the available denim materials, emphasizing their creative and imaginative skills. They innovated new, fresh designs, turning limitations into opportunities.
Cutting and Stitching
The discarded denim was then transformed into new shapes to ensure the final garments met both aesthetic and functional standards.
Fit Trials
Readiness for commercial release is confirmed only when they perfectly fit the models. Students conducted a thorough quality check implementing necessary adjustments with a keen eye for detail to ensure the durability, comfort, and overall appeal of the garments. Fashion models participated in trials and assessments to ensure that the fit met the standards for a flawless rollout.
Runway
The newly crafted upcycled denim pieces, the ‘Denim Reborn’ collection were now ready to be showcased to a wider audience.
Challenges & Obstacles
Sourcing High-Quality Discarded Denim
Acquiring high-quality discarded denim presented a considerable challenge. The denims were outsourced from thrift stores, home donations and charity from the affluent.
Balancing Creativity with Material Limitations
Navigating the delicate balance between creative expression and the constraints imposed by available materials required rigorous innovative thinking patterns. The challenge was in consistently developing stylish garments that resonated with consumers while working within the limitations posed by sourced denim.
Why is ‘Denim Reborn’ significant for sustainable fashion?
Denim Reborn stands as an example, illustrating the potential to create stylish and desirable garments while also taking care of the environment. By crafting new apparel from existing denim, this initiative not only reduces energy consumption compared to traditional manufacturing processes but also lessens the demand for new denim production. This approach leads to substantial water savings and actively diminishes the volume of textile waste that would otherwise accumulate in landfills.
In response to the rising awareness of the environmental and social impacts of the fashion industry, there’s a noticeable shift in consumer preferences. Denim Reborn plays a pivotal role in this transformation by not only providing sustainable alternatives but also educating consumers about the environmental consequences of fast fashion.
The initiative underscores the importance of making conscious and ethical choices to support eco-friendly options, sticking to circular fashion principles through its commitment to upcycling and recycling, ultimately extending the lifespan of denim materials and minimizing waste.
Recognizing the need for corporate responsibility, numerous fashion brands are proactively adopting sustainable practices, with collaborations and governmental initiatives further emphasizing the industry’s shift towards eco-conscious measures.
Inspiria’s Fashion Show: Denim Reborn Brings Sustainable Style to Life
In a groundbreaking move, Inspiria’s Fashion Design department recently hosted an event called “Denim Reborn.” During this showcase, old and stained denim pieces were transformed into innovative and stylish garments in an amazing display of the students’ creativity and skills. From brainstorming ideas to the final touches, students were hands-on in every aspect, showcasing their talents and the institution’s commitment to shaping self-reliant professionals.
Beyond promoting sustainability, the event celebrated the creative possibilities of upcycling. What made it unique was the active involvement of students of Inspiria Knowledge Campus as models confidently flaunting these newly upcycled creations on the runway. “Denim Reborn” not only blended creativity and sustainability but also showcased Inspiria’s dedication to nurturing fashion-forward individuals with a sense of craftsmanship and responsibility.
The runway turned into a vibrant canvas, displaying the fusion of fashion, creativity, and environmental consciousness. This combination of sustainable fashion and student participation highlighted the importance of repurposing materials and emphasized the institution’s commitment to a holistic and socially responsible approach in education.
Fashion Designing at Inspiria Knowledge Campus
Fashion Design is the artistic fusion of dressmaking and design principles, evolving into a unique and substantial creation within the design world. When seamlessly integrated with management, it transforms into a comprehensive industry package encompassing design, development, and marketing. The B.Sc. in Fashion Design & Management Programme at Inspiria Knowledge Campus is an aesthetically driven exploration of ideas in clothing design, incorporating diverse global cultures.
Program Overview
Artistic Foundations: Introducing students to the fundamental elements and principles of fashion designing.
Technical Proficiency: Equipping students with essential techniques and tools crucial for effective fashion designing.
Industry Insight: Providing exposure to the intricacies of the fashion industry, including target market dynamics and management aspects.
Trend Awareness: Keeping students abreast of the latest industry trends and fostering the creation of new trends.
Conscious Fashion: Encouraging awareness of conscious fashion, aligning with sustainable development and environmental ethics.
Versatile Roles: Preparing students for diverse roles in the fashion sector, ranging from designers and influencers to business managers and entrepreneurs.
Admissions Criteria
To enroll in the B.Sc. in Fashion Design and Management Program at Inspiria Knowledge Campus, Siliguri, candidates must have successfully completed their 10+2 exams with a minimum of 45% marks from a recognized board.
Embark on a journey at Inspiria to delve into the world of fashion, combining creativity with managerial expertise, and emerge prepared for a dynamic and rewarding career in the ever-evolving fashion industry.
Fashion brands worldwide practicing sustainable fashion
The fashion industry, due to its vast scale and influence, has a significant impact on the environment. The environmental impact is largely attributed to excessive textile waste, carbon emissions, and pollution. There is a growing global concern over these issues, prompting a shift towards sustainable fashion. Sustainable fashion brands are emerging as key players in this transformation, recognizing the need for responsible practices that prioritize the well-being of the environment.
H&M
As a global fast-fashion giant, H&M has made significant strides in adopting sustainable practices through initiatives like the H&M Conscious Collection. This collection emphasizes the use of sustainable materials, including organic cotton and recycled polyester. H&M actively promotes circular fashion by encouraging customers to recycle their old clothes through in-store collection programs. By integrating recycling and upcycling initiatives, H&M contributes to reducing the environmental impact of the fashion industry and fosters a more sustainable approach to clothing consumption.
Patagonia
Patagonia stands out as a trailblazer in environmental commitment. Beyond producing outdoor clothing, the brand actively addresses environmental issues. Patagonia’s focus on using recycled materials, such as recycled polyester, exemplifies its dedication to waste reduction. Moreover, the brand advocates for fair labor practices and worker welfare, reinforcing a holistic approach to sustainability. By setting high standards for ethical and eco-friendly practices, Patagonia establishes itself as a leader in responsible fashion.
Stella McCartney
Stella McCartney, a luxury fashion brand, leads the way in sustainable luxury fashion. Known for her vegetarian and cruelty-free designs, McCartney incorporates innovative materials like mushroom leather and advocates for eco-friendly practices. The brand’s commitment to using sustainable materials extends to its supply chain, emphasizing transparency and responsible sourcing. Stella McCartney’s influence showcases that luxury fashion can align with sustainability, inspiring the industry to prioritize ethical and eco-conscious choices.
Eileen Fisher
Eileen Fisher is synonymous with timeless and sustainable clothing. The brand’s dedication to sustainability is reflected in its use of organic fibers, responsible dyeing processes, and commitment to ethical manufacturing. Eileen Fisher’s transparency in the supply chain allows consumers to trace the journey of their clothing items. By prioritizing longevity, quality, and environmental considerations, Eileen Fisher contributes to reshaping the fashion industry into a more sustainable and responsible entity.
These brands collectively demonstrate that sustainability in fashion is achievable across various segments of the industry. Whether through large-scale initiatives like H&M’s Conscious Collection or the conscientious luxury approach of Stella McCartney, each brand plays a vital role in driving positive change and influencing the industry towards more responsible practices.
Sustainable fashion brands in India:
Anita Dongre – Grassroot
Anita Dongre, a prominent figure in Indian fashion, showcases her commitment to sustainability through her brand Grassroot. Grassroot focuses on eco-friendly practices, particularly in the realm of handwoven textiles. By incorporating traditional craftsmanship and emphasizing ethical production, Anita Dongre’s Grassroot aims to promote sustainable fashion that celebrates India’s rich textile heritage.
Biba
Biba, a well-known Indian ethnic wear brand, integrates sustainable practices into its production processes. The brand prioritizes ethical sourcing and utilizes eco-friendly materials in crafting its ethnic wear collections. Biba’s dedication to sustainability extends across its diverse range of traditional Indian attire, showcasing that ethical fashion can be seamlessly woven into cultural expressions.
Nicobar
Nicobar, recognized for its chic and contemporary clothing, places a strong emphasis on sustainability. The brand distinguishes itself by using natural fabrics and adhering to responsible manufacturing processes. Nicobar’s commitment to sustainable and eco-conscious fashion aligns with the modern Indian consumer’s desire for both style and ethical choices.
Raw Mango
Raw Mango, founded by designer Sanjay Garg, stands out for its dedication to traditional craftsmanship and sustainable practices. The brand’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its approach to using eco-friendly materials and supporting local artisans. Raw Mango’s creations reflect a harmonious blend of traditional Indian aesthetics and contemporary sustainability, contributing to the larger movement of responsible fashion in India.
These Indian fashion brands exemplify the growing awareness and adoption of sustainable practices in the country. By combining traditional craftsmanship with modern eco-conscious approaches, these brands contribute to the global shift towards sustainable fashion, creating a positive impact on both local and international scales.
How can you contribute to Sustainable fashion?
Choose Ethical Brands
Opt for fashion brands that prioritize sustainability, ethical practices, and transparency in their supply chains. Look for certifications such as Fair Trade or labels indicating eco-friendly materials. Supporting these brands encourages responsible production practices and ensures that your fashion choices align with ethical standards.
Buy Secondhand or Vintage
Embrace secondhand shopping by buying pre-owned clothing from thrift stores, online platforms, or vintage shops. This not only reduces the demand for new production but also gives a new life to existing garments. It’s a sustainable way to stay stylish while minimizing the environmental impact of the fashion industry.
Support Local and Sustainable Designers
Explore and support local designers who prioritize sustainable and ethical practices. Attend local fashion markets or seek out designers who use eco-friendly materials and follow fair labor practices. By investing in local talent, you contribute to the growth of sustainable fashion within your community.
Wear and Care Mindfully
Extend the lifespan of your clothing by following proper care instructions. Mend and repair items when needed instead of discarding them. By adopting a mindset of mindful consumption, you reduce the frequency of replacements and contribute to a more sustainable approach to fashion.
Consider Renting or Swapping
Instead of purchasing clothing for one-time use, consider renting outfits for special occasions or participating in clothing swaps with friends or local communities. This approach not only reduces the demand for new garments but also fosters a sense of community and sharing.
Educate Yourself
Stay informed about sustainable fashion practices, materials, and the environmental impact of the fashion industry. Follow reputable sources, blogs, or documentaries that delve into the complexities of the fashion supply chain. Understanding these issues empowers you to make informed and conscious choices.
Minimize Impulse Buying
Avoid impulse buying and take time to consider your purchases. Prioritize quality over quantity, investing in versatile, timeless pieces that can be worn across various occasions. This approach contributes to a more intentional and sustainable wardrobe.
Recycle and Upcycle
Responsibly recycle old clothing by utilizing designated programs or bins. Additionally, explore creative ways to upcycle old garments into new items or repurpose them for different uses, such as turning old jeans into a bag or creating new accessories. This not only minimizes waste but also unleashes your creativity.
Reduce Microfiber Pollution
Be mindful of microfiber pollution by choosing natural fibers over synthetic ones. Washing clothes in a Guppyfriend bag or using a lint filter can help capture microfibers, preventing them from entering water systems. This small adjustment in your laundry routine contributes to minimizing environmental harm.
Advocate for Change
Use your voice to advocate for sustainable practices in the fashion industry. Engage with social media campaigns, support initiatives promoting ethical and eco-friendly fashion, and encourage brands to adopt more sustainable approaches. By actively participating in the conversation, you contribute to the broader movement for positive change within the fashion industry.
By incorporating these practices into your lifestyle, you can play a significant role in promoting and contributing to sustainable fashion.
Role of Social Media in encouraging Sustainable Fashion
Social media has played a pivotal role in increasing awareness and promoting sustainable fashion. Here are several ways in which social media has contributed to the rise of sustainable fashion:
Awareness and Education
Social media platforms serve as powerful channels for spreading awareness about the environmental and ethical issues associated with traditional fashion practices. Influencers, brands, and activists use these platforms to educate a global audience on the impact of fast fashion and the benefits of embracing sustainable alternatives.
Influencer Campaigns
Influencers, especially those with a focus on sustainability and ethical living, use their platforms to endorse and showcase sustainable fashion brands. Their influence helps bring these brands into the mainstream, reaching a wider audience that might not have been exposed to eco-friendly fashion otherwise.
Transparency and Accountability
Social media encourages transparency in the fashion industry. Brands that adopt sustainable practices often share behind-the-scenes content, showcasing their supply chains, production processes, and ethical initiatives. This transparency builds trust among consumers and holds brands accountable for their sustainability claims.
Global Community Building
Social media creates a global community of individuals interested in sustainable living and fashion. Platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook enable users to share their sustainable fashion journeys, discoveries, and tips. This sense of community fosters collaboration and supports the overall growth of the sustainable fashion movement.
Hashtag Campaigns
Hashtags related to sustainable fashion, such as #SustainableFashion, #EthicalFashion, or brand-specific sustainability campaigns, help aggregate content and create trends. These campaigns can go viral, significantly increasing the visibility of sustainable fashion topics and encouraging conversations on social media.
Collaborations and Partnerships
Social media facilitates collaborations between sustainable fashion brands, influencers, and other stakeholders. Partnerships often lead to joint campaigns, events, or product launches, amplifying the reach of sustainable fashion messages and products.
Consumer Empowerment
Social media empowers consumers to make informed choices. Shoppers can research brands, read reviews, and access real-time information about a company’s sustainability practices. This transparency encourages consumers to support brands aligned with their values, thereby influencing the market demand for sustainable fashion.
Fashion Challenges and Trends
Social media platforms have been instrumental in creating sustainability-focused challenges and trends. Users participate in challenges like “30 wears” or “closet remix” that encourage mindful consumption and promote the idea of maximizing the lifespan of clothing items.
Advocacy and Activism
Activists leverage social media to advocate for sustainable and ethical fashion practices. Online campaigns, petitions, and movements gain momentum on platforms like Twitter and Instagram, urging both consumers and industry stakeholders to adopt more responsible approaches to fashion.
In summary, social media acts as a catalyst for change within the fashion industry by raising awareness, connecting like-minded individuals, and providing a platform for sustainable fashion advocacy. It has become a powerful tool for transforming consumer behaviors, influencing industry practices, and fostering a global community dedicated to ethical and eco-friendly fashion.
Conclusion
Fashion’s Sustainable Revolution
In the ever-changing realm of fashion, the surge in sustainable practices is reshaping the industry into a conscious and eco-friendly landscape. The groundbreaking “Denim Reborn” initiative at Inspiria Knowledge Campus stands as a beacon, seamlessly integrating creativity, education, and a commitment to environmental responsibility. Denim Reborn shows how being creative and sustainable can make a big difference in fashion. By turning old denim into stylish clothes, it not only helps reduce waste but also changes the way we think about and buy fashion. The undeniable environmental impact of the global fashion industry, highlighted by alarming statistics, underscores the urgent need for a sustainable revolution. Inspiria Knowledge Campus, through its pioneering initiative, not only shapes education but also contributes to forging a responsible future for the fashion industry.
A Shift Towards Conscious Consumption
Sustainable fashion, epitomized by initiatives like “Denim Reborn,” goes beyond being a passing trend; it represents a transformative approach to address pressing environmental concerns. This initiative embodies the ethos of turning discarded denim into stylish and eco-friendly garments, signaling a pivotal shift towards conscious consumption and responsible production.
In essence, “Denim Reborn” and the broader landscape of sustainable fashion envision a future where style coexists with substance, showcasing fashion as a potent catalyst for positive change. The call to action urges readers to become mindful consumers, considering the environmental and ethical impact of their fashion choices. As the runway transforms into a canvas for creativity, it also becomes a pathway to a more sustainable and responsible future in the ever-evolving world of fashion.
In threads of blue, a tale retold,
Denim reborn, in green and gold.
From discarded threads, a fashion reclaims,
Sustainability, in every stitch, it proclaims.
