The Sustainable Fashion Handbook

Description

This book encompasses not only the environmental issues presented by a wasteful and fast-moving fashion cycle, but also the social impact of the global fashion industry, which employs up to 40 million people worldwide in manufacturing and agriculture. Positive in outlook, the book promotes an understanding of the complex issues surrounding modern clothing production, use and disposal, while celebrating the inherent value of fashion and the creative opportunity that the growing trend towards sustainability offers.

Sandy Black, one of the world’s pioneering authorities on sustainable fashion, has assembled a remarkable range of perspectives, ranging from designers and technical experts to academics and journalists, environmental and social action campaigners, craft specialists and artists, eco-entrepreneurs and representatives of global corporations. Each chapter presents an array of illustrated articles, including essays by leading writers and thinkers, interviews and statements from designers such as Stella McCartney, Vivienne Westwood and Hussein Chalayan and case studies on everything from the life-cycle of jeans to smart textiles and fair trade schemes.

The book is divided into five thematic chapters covering every aspect of contemporary fashion: fashion cultures and patterns of consumption from couture house blogosphere; design and innovation; working conditions and corporate transparency; the eco-footprint of the industry; and outlooks for the future and the role of technology in greening fashion. A resources section provides comprehensive listings of leading organizations involved in campaigning, advising, certifying and promoting sustainability in fashion.

Packed with authoritative facts and inspiring images and ideas, this is an indispensable reference for design professionals, students and anyone with an interest in fashion, sustainability and innovation.