By Vincent Leong Jia Hou
The fashion industry is shifting gears, driven by a growing call for sustainability and the need to mitigate its environmental impact. The Ellen MacArthur Foundation reports that the industry generates a staggering 92 million tons of textile waste each year, making textile production one of the leading contributors to global pollution and waste. Traditional fashion practices, which often rely on mass production and synthetic fabrics, only amplify these challenges. Materials like polyester and nylon, derived from fossil fuels, shed harmful microplastics into waterways when washed, further contributing to water and environmental pollution.
Fashion is not only a means of self-expression but also a powerful tool for shaping identity, making it imperative to approach fashion with a sense of responsibility that champions zero waste and supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), in conjunction with International Day of Zero Waste.
To bring this vision to life, innovative solutions are needed, one such solution being the Zero-waste and One-seam dress project. This initiative is designed to empower students with the skills and knowledge to adopt sustainable design practices from the very beginning of their education, cultivating a new generation of designers who are deeply committed to environmental responsibility. Built on the 3Rs of sustainability—Reuse, Rethink, and Repurpose—the project reimagines the very process of garment creation.
Zero-waste fashion, as the name suggests, strives to eliminate fabric waste by maximising every inch of material. In contrast to traditional garment production methods, which often leave significant amounts of leftover fabric, zero-waste draping starts with a single piece of fabric that is shaped directly on a dress form or body. This technique minimises cutting, ensuring that every inch of fabric is fully utilised in the final garment. By reducing textile waste, zero-waste draping significantly mitigates the environmental impact of garment production.
Beyond its environmental advantages, zero-waste draping sparks creativity among designers. Working with the fabric’s texture, drape, and form, designers are encouraged to think innovatively and experiment with novel construction techniques. Each fold, pleat, and tuck becomes an integral design element, fostering a deeper connection between the designer and the material, while ensuring no fabric goes unused.
The one-seam dress takes sustainability a step further by employing a single, continuous seam to construct the garment. This minimalist approach eliminates the need for multiple panels, zippers, or other fastenings, reducing both fabric waste and labour costs. The result is a sleek, functional, and modern garment that embodies the principles of sustainable fashion. The simplicity of the one-seam dress accentuates the beauty of the fabric itself, showcasing its inherent qualities rather than relying on excessive ornamentation or embellishments.
The revolution does not stop at traditional techniques as digital transformation offers another powerful avenue for achieving zero-waste fashion. Browzwear vStitcher, a cutting-edge 3D fashion software, enables a fully digital sampling process that can reduce fabric waste by up to 80 percent. Currently, Sunway College’s Fashion Design Technology Studies is the only institution to incorporate this advanced software into its curriculum, empowering students to create and visualise digital patterns on 3D avatars. This technology not only minimises material waste but also enhances efficiency by enabling real-time adjustments and instant visualisation of design changes.
Incorporating sustainable fabrics such as organic cotton or recycled materials into garment production ensures that the final product is both environmentally responsible and durable. These materials enhance the garment’s eco-friendliness while promoting versatility, making it adaptable to various body types and wearable across seasons. This approach helps reduce the demand for constant new clothing consumption, encouraging a more mindful and lasting relationship with fashion.
A vital component of the zero-waste and one-seam dress project at Sunway College is its emphasis on local sourcing. By tapping into locally sourced materials, students not only reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation but also support regional economies. The inclusion of locally sourced Batik fabric by students in the one-seam dress project exemplifies the seamless integration of traditional textile techniques with contemporary design. This approach not only preserves cultural heritage but also creates meaningful economic opportunities for local artisans.
Educational institutions are key in preparing the next generation of designers by equipping them with expertise in digital technologies and sustainable materials, while also nurturing their problem-solving skills to create innovative, eco-conscious designs. Fashion’s true evolution lies in designing with purpose, where every stitch honours both the planet and its heritage.
The author is the Head of Programme, Diploma in Fashion Design Technology (FDTS) at Sunway College
