Design Realisation in Fashion Education – Embedding Sustainable Approaches Through ‘Phygital’ Practices

Mechan, Jayne ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8072-2051, Thornton, Adrian ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8092-3961 and De-Lacy, Becky (2023) Design Realisation in Fashion Education – Embedding Sustainable Approaches Through ‘Phygital’ Practices. In: Fashion and Climate Change: Exploring Global Challenges and Opportunities in Design, Production and Consumption. Ethics Press, Cambridge, UK. ISBN 9781871891973 (In Press)

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Abstract

This study set out challenges and opportunities affecting sustainable approaches in fashion higher education. A novel ‘phygital’ framework of hybrid practices is proposed, informed through reference to student work, staff and student experience and submission criteria. Reflections are informed by the shifting focus from onsite studio practices to online learning, home studio practices encompassing working in 3D at ½ scale, the new proposed process to take part in the creation of mannequins as a new design task, along with the nascent practice of avatar creation/customisation and hybrid 3D digital and physical sampling and prototyping. It is hoped this case study and framework will encourage those involved in these processes to find their own way of embedding sustainability; by presenting an example of tangible changes and quantifiable results to serve in raising consciousness, to challenge habitual ways of doing, and consider technologies integrated with physical craftsmanship. The significance of the emerging role of nascent practices of engagement with the body within fashion practice is illuminated by presenting the findings as a framework and contributes new dimensions in the discipline of design. Whilst this case study sits in the context of higher education, it has the potential to act as a compelling catalyst for future interpretation within business environments as a real-world example of how practical changes can have a positive impact.