ECO CHIC COLLECTION.
DESIGN CONCEPT.
ECO CHIC is a sustainable fashion collection. The name of the collection is derived from the words ECO (not harmful to the environment) and CHIC ( elegantly stylish/fashionable and a play on the brand's name CHI. The collection consists of three separate but interconnected pieces: A utility pants suit, a jumpsuit and a trench coat. The color palette (purple, pink, green ad blue) was inspired by the Hummingbird, which is native to the Americas with the highest diversity in the Caribbean Tropics. The garments in this collection were designed to be versatile and worn by individuals regardless of their body type or gender expression. Initially, this collection was conceptualized to be gender non-conforming to foster inclusivity and self-expression. In thinking about the silhouette of each piece, it came to mind that many people enjoy relaxed, oversized clothing with movement for functional purposes. For this reason, the garments were designed to be loose fitting, with the option to cinch as desired. Additionally, the garments were created to offer multi-functional options, as they can be converted into other pieces of clothing. For instance, the cargo pants were constructed to be detachable at the knees so that they can easily be converted into shorts. Likewise, the utility vest is also versatile and can be transformed into a utility bag. The trench coat features a detachable lower half, so it can be worn in a short or long style. Combining different fabrics and garment construction allowed for the reinforcement of each garment, so as to be physically durable, resisting damage and wear over long periods of time. Overall the pieces can be characterized as wearable, stylish and transitional fashion pieces.
INSPIRATION.
Inspiration was taken from a variety of Caribbean cultures to create a collection that is unique and diverse. The main inspiration for this collection was streetwear, a cultural and creative force that continues to reshape the fashion industry, making it more inclusive, adaptable, and socially conscious. Streetwear reflects a cultural shift that celebrates comfort, diversity and authenticity; it encompasses people from all sociocultural backgrounds which defines Caribbean identity and culture. The collection is fun and playful, yet polished. It encapsulates new expressions of fashion that transcends traditional formats with a mix of unconventional styles, inspired by the Caribbean’s diverse cultures. Lastly and most importantly, the collection was designed to empower individuals to integrate sustainable fashion into their daily lives; by showcasing that it is possible to dress with flair while consuming ethically.
MANUFACTURING AND CREATIVE PROCESSS.
The first step in the manufacturing process was to source organic fabrics such as cotton, linen and upcycled fabrics. The next step was to design the garments with durability and versatility in mind. The idea was to create garments that could last for a long time and be worn in several different ways; to reduce the need for frequent repairing or replacing. In order to do this, techniques such as stitching and patching to reinforce fabrics were used. Features such as clips, zippers and snaps were incorporated to allow the garments to be easily adjusted or transformed. Zero-waste pattern making in the form of patchwork, was used to allow all of the fabric to be used without leaving any scraps. The patchwork on the trench coat was created with scraps of fabrics repurposed from deadstock and old pieces of material. Finally, the garments were made in such a way so that they could be disassembled and their components and materials be remade or recycled into new products. This prevents the garments from becoming waste and can maximizes the positive environmental outcomes even further.
ADDRESSING SUSTAINABILITY.
To stand the test of time, truly innovative fashion requires an element of impact. Innovation means turning bold ideas into reality and changing lives for the better; specifically reducing fashion waste in an empowering way. In this collection fabrics are utilized in a way that significantly minimizes the impact of its conventional alternatives. In order for value of the collection to be captured fully, a circular manufacturing process is considered. Circularity also fits well with streetwear fashion, which is characterized by casual, comfortable, often oversized clothing. This is the perfect style for second-hand clothing and clothing that can be used more often. Additionally, streetwear is inherently creative so it encourages individuals to participate in upcycling which is a powerful way to promote circularity. Streetwear enthusiasts usually have an emotional connection with their favorite pieces, especially if they are limited editions or one-of-a-kind pieces. Thus, restoration services to garments can rekindle these relationships and extend the lifespan of a garment. Extending the life of a garment is a vital aspect of sustainability.