i found this why doing some research made me giggle
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Friday, September 26, 2008
steve i dont no your email. so this was the only way i could get it to you.
Research Project.
Environmentally sustainable materials and processes
The production process of wool, is it environmentally sustainable?
With in my research project I will be making a video on weather the wool industry is sustainablie suitable for the environment? Is the long process from the berth of a lam to a wool knit jumper necessary and is it infact that we are just damaging our land and environment by producing wool?
Or are we not putting enough support in to the wool industry as it is a biodegradable fiber it also has thermal properties it’s water resistant, static resistant, dirt resistant and even noise resistant. If wool has all these great qualities then why don’t we use it for other products than just clothing?
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Copyright Laws
There are so many personal issues to consider with copyright laws and as an up and coming designer this affects me personally. There are o many questions and I don't have any answers!! I will blog further when I find some...
Copywright
How much difference is enough difference for a design to be original?
If a design is innovative and unique with a lot of depth in the meaning behind the work, I think it deserves to be copyrighted. For it to be counterfeited and sold at 1/10th of the price, as the designer I would feel betrayed. I think its okay to look into the work and concept of other designs but take inspiration from it and make it your own.
If a design is innovative and unique with a lot of depth in the meaning behind the work, I think it deserves to be copyrighted. For it to be counterfeited and sold at 1/10th of the price, as the designer I would feel betrayed. I think its okay to look into the work and concept of other designs but take inspiration from it and make it your own.
Copyright...
Um, i wouldnt want ppl ripping off my designs, but its kinda hard to design, say, a dress for a specific pourpose (to look pretty for a cocktail party, flattering, not too out there, but still striking) and to have NO features of anyother cocktail dress in existance.
I think maybe its too late for copyright laws? As in all our culture is so mixed around.... and no one knows what is really whos, maybe if it had been carefully documented over time (way, way back) then everyone (as in countires, tribes, not individuals) would have a copyright over what was oringinally theres.
But i think its human nature to copy each other... So maybe (tho i would never like it) but if u want to be a designer or artist, once ur work it put out there its free for all....and expect others to copy that, maybe we are too posesive..?
I think maybe its too late for copyright laws? As in all our culture is so mixed around.... and no one knows what is really whos, maybe if it had been carefully documented over time (way, way back) then everyone (as in countires, tribes, not individuals) would have a copyright over what was oringinally theres.
But i think its human nature to copy each other... So maybe (tho i would never like it) but if u want to be a designer or artist, once ur work it put out there its free for all....and expect others to copy that, maybe we are too posesive..?
Copyright
Copyright i feel is important to some extent... As a designer in training naturally my designs are inspired by designers, cultures, political views, art work and a number of other things, before now i have not thought about the people who im inspired by and weather they would want me to be inspired by them. If someone wanted to copy or incorporate my designs i would actually want to be told, in away i feel to someextent it is flattering. On the other hand i do belive copyrighted fashion would make it extreemly difficult for me as a new designer and like designers before me i can try to turn styles of the past into styles of the future.
Have a great day Steve!
Legislation on Counterfieting....
More than 100 organisations from countries such as United states, European Union, Switzerland, Japan, South Korea, Canada, Mexico, Australia and New Zealand have signed the Anti- Counterfeiting Treaty Agreement. This provides a means for companies within these countries to keep the copyright on designs created under the umbrella of this treaty. However... Because other asian countries haven't signed the treaty and are refusing to counterfeiting is still a major problem. Hence why at markets such as Paddys are able to sell cheap versions of the original designs because they are mass produced in China and then sent to be sold around the world for a fraction of or the full amount, making money off of another designers creations. It really peeves me because when i'm a consumer wanting to buy an original or real version. I feel there has to be some way to force other countries to sign the treaty to prevent the market from abusing the lack of copyright laws.... just a thought....
Copyrigns? ant you a copy cat?
when it comes to the issues of copyright and my future designs and a fashion designer. i must not lie even though i was agents copy right. i strongly think that if some on was to take one of my hard work designs i would be less than impressed about the situation.
how ever like i have said before copying is every were for instant. a fashion forecaster's job is find out what the new trends are and what us the public are wearing.
so for all those kid trying to be different and stand out by having there own style. along comes a forecaster and turns there individuality in to a brand new trend and take the credit of it. so ist'n copying just a never ending circle of riping each other off. so in the end a so called original design by a fashion designer is really getting the inspiration from a forecaster who in tern stole it of a kid trying to be an individual.
ant we all copycats??
how ever like i have said before copying is every were for instant. a fashion forecaster's job is find out what the new trends are and what us the public are wearing.
so for all those kid trying to be different and stand out by having there own style. along comes a forecaster and turns there individuality in to a brand new trend and take the credit of it. so ist'n copying just a never ending circle of riping each other off. so in the end a so called original design by a fashion designer is really getting the inspiration from a forecaster who in tern stole it of a kid trying to be an individual.
ant we all copycats??
Copyright!!
Is something that is really hard to control, how do we pick the original? i wish we could be like the aboriginals and have an unwritten code. As they have such a strong meaning behind their work. ( or are they now starting to do it for money... from the western influences)
The prints on Hawaiian shirts have a special meaning to the traditional people there, but the shirts themselves also have a meaning to us/Australian culture as a happy holiday shirt or maybe tacky. It may not be a very deep meaning but nether the less these shirts have a meaning to us. So does this mean they belong to us also because we have given them meaning?
I think copyright is definitely a western phenomenon, as we are very greedy, materialistic and money driven, wanting something to belong to us and are so worried that others will come and take it and be better off than us. Now non-western cultures are catching on after seeing we can make money from exploiting these different prints etc.
The prints on Hawaiian shirts have a special meaning to the traditional people there, but the shirts themselves also have a meaning to us/Australian culture as a happy holiday shirt or maybe tacky. It may not be a very deep meaning but nether the less these shirts have a meaning to us. So does this mean they belong to us also because we have given them meaning?
I think copyright is definitely a western phenomenon, as we are very greedy, materialistic and money driven, wanting something to belong to us and are so worried that others will come and take it and be better off than us. Now non-western cultures are catching on after seeing we can make money from exploiting these different prints etc.
I don't know what I think about copyright, but I'm sure if I was a designer and someone was ripping off my designs I would not be impressed... But then again I it depends how unique and different my designs were. If they were based on trends, and I was designing for mainstream fashion I might not mind so much. But If I was designing couture clothes or designs which were personal to me I would be angry that they had taken my design without knowing the menaing behind it.
Copyright
I think copyright laws are essential. Hard work, long hours and a large amount of money go into the design process, it should not be ok for someone to then copy.
Good designs are precious and are worth protecting.
Good designs are precious and are worth protecting.
I believe that copyright should exist! But it needs to be improved to include anyone involved in the fashion industry. To protect everyone equally, and provide a stability within fashion industry.
But who and how do we determine the fine lines?
Copying or taking inspiration.
One fabric or another.
These fine lines need to be cleared up.
But who and how do we determine the fine lines?
Copying or taking inspiration.
One fabric or another.
These fine lines need to be cleared up.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Handmade v. Mass Production
Does the notion of the "handmade touch" really impact on what why do or do not purchase? I think it's interesting that consumers will choose items that seemingly have been handmade or "by hand" over ones that have been factory of mass produced. If the product or garment is IDENTICAL then what is the issue? What makes one better or more deirable than the other?
I think that the discussion re double dressing or people dressing the same yet still attempting to be individual is interesting, why do we try so hard to strive for a sense of belonging and individualism? Are they not polar opposites? Can you achieve both, at the same time? And why strive for them at all? What is to be gained by this? Does it change who you are or how you're percieved by others? And if so is that really important? In a superficial industry such as fashion this sense of acceptance and being visually appealing seems to be such a priority and has a trickle down affect to the rest of society. It then manifests itself into this perpetual cycle that we all find ourselves in, trying to find a sense of individuality and also acceptance. It doesn't seem to have an end! Yet realisticly we only have ourselves to blame... We as a society and active consumers dictate for ourselves what is "in" and "accepted" so within this can we find this sense of individuality? Or is there always going to be someone that is"in" and someone that is "out"?...
I think that the discussion re double dressing or people dressing the same yet still attempting to be individual is interesting, why do we try so hard to strive for a sense of belonging and individualism? Are they not polar opposites? Can you achieve both, at the same time? And why strive for them at all? What is to be gained by this? Does it change who you are or how you're percieved by others? And if so is that really important? In a superficial industry such as fashion this sense of acceptance and being visually appealing seems to be such a priority and has a trickle down affect to the rest of society. It then manifests itself into this perpetual cycle that we all find ourselves in, trying to find a sense of individuality and also acceptance. It doesn't seem to have an end! Yet realisticly we only have ourselves to blame... We as a society and active consumers dictate for ourselves what is "in" and "accepted" so within this can we find this sense of individuality? Or is there always going to be someone that is"in" and someone that is "out"?...
CONFUSED?!?!?!?!?!?!
From our debate today i was having a think... seeing as we have discussed sustainable fashion in the past i thought i would relate todays topic back to that because i feel quite confused about it... Really, is hand made more sustainable... like with mass production if it was on the same scale as hand made would it be more economic or less?!? I dunno... just a thought...
Individuality in fashion...
I think rather than trying to SHOP for an indiviadual piece of clothing, maybe we should be buy the cheap (and hopefully ethical) mainstream fashion, and then change them ourselves, to BE individaul...Individually...
And also perhaps Twin dressing is a good idea, to get people to be more open minded about fashion in a "safe" environmnrt (after that of course, dressing to match will not be tollerated!!!!)
And also perhaps Twin dressing is a good idea, to get people to be more open minded about fashion in a "safe" environmnrt (after that of course, dressing to match will not be tollerated!!!!)
Handmade Vs. Mass Production
I think people who prefer to buy handmade products are looking for the exclusive human connection between the product and the consumer, however I don’t think there is a large market of consumers who are specifically looking for handmade goods. Today, supply needs to keep up with demand at a faster rate, so although it would be nice to increase the amount of handmade products, it would not account for the demanding consumer mentality.
handmade and mass produced
dear steve, seeing as you are not here, here is what we talked about...
so, my focus for the debate was the idea of clothes losing their sentimentality and original meaning and the idea of not relying on designers to provide personalized garments, but personalizing them ourselves so they have meaing for ourselves.
To me, the point of fashion is to stand out, but also people are looking for somewhere to belong. So is there goin to be continuous pull between the desire to the stand out and the need to fit in?
Is it not more personal and meaningful for us to personalise a mass produced garment, than buy someone elses sentimentality in the form of a garment?
you guys decide
so, my focus for the debate was the idea of clothes losing their sentimentality and original meaning and the idea of not relying on designers to provide personalized garments, but personalizing them ourselves so they have meaing for ourselves.
To me, the point of fashion is to stand out, but also people are looking for somewhere to belong. So is there goin to be continuous pull between the desire to the stand out and the need to fit in?
Is it not more personal and meaningful for us to personalise a mass produced garment, than buy someone elses sentimentality in the form of a garment?
you guys decide
Handmade & Mass Production
In our discussion, Laura brought up a point that intrigued me.
If we buy handmade individual clothes are we in fact buying the designers individuality and creativity? Rather if we continue buying mass produced clothes and customise them ourselves to suit our individuality then does that make them truly individual?
OR does the way we put handmade clothes together reflect the want to express individuality.
As a designer I have a deep interest in producing garments that are one off, limited edition.
As Steve mentioned, it gets boring when you are making one particular dress 10 times.
If we buy handmade individual clothes are we in fact buying the designers individuality and creativity? Rather if we continue buying mass produced clothes and customise them ourselves to suit our individuality then does that make them truly individual?
OR does the way we put handmade clothes together reflect the want to express individuality.
As a designer I have a deep interest in producing garments that are one off, limited edition.
As Steve mentioned, it gets boring when you are making one particular dress 10 times.
D.I.Y
Do It Yourself!
Trying to convey YOU ARE WHAT YOU WEAR simply isn't happening as much as it should . the power of chain store culture and global manufacturing has left us dressing, furnishing, and decorating alike. This statement specifically really made me think about how individual i am? i may have an individual personality and i may be an individual person but to be honest i don't think (for a fashion design student) i dress as individually or as personally as i want to, especially because 95% of my my wardrobe is mass produced! So studying this debate topic has really made me want to branch out, do things myself and to not be so afraid to be unique!
Trying to convey YOU ARE WHAT YOU WEAR simply isn't happening as much as it should . the power of chain store culture and global manufacturing has left us dressing, furnishing, and decorating alike. This statement specifically really made me think about how individual i am? i may have an individual personality and i may be an individual person but to be honest i don't think (for a fashion design student) i dress as individually or as personally as i want to, especially because 95% of my my wardrobe is mass produced! So studying this debate topic has really made me want to branch out, do things myself and to not be so afraid to be unique!
P.s. Bast debate topic yet Steve!
handmade
I like the idea of something being hand made, as Fairlie said with love and passion. I don't think I would mind wearing something that stood out and was individual if it had a personal meaning too me. But people these days don't seem to care about what they wear and how they present themselves, yet visually presenting yourself is just as important as verbally preseting yourself... if you get my drift.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
thinking of the posibilitys.
intelligent fibers
in relation to the fashion industory and intelligent fibers, scientis have been devoleping new fibers and ways they can be used for years so this is not a new subject, how ever i feel that only recently we are starting to take further notice to the effects weather for the benefits of war and health reasons or deficits such as the damage it may be doing to out environments and if it is a waste of our money and resources.
so although intelligent fibers are not new to us, how does it affect the fashion industry today. well one way of looking a it is all the exciting new technology such as fibres in which can prevent asthmatics from having an allergic reaction. heat sensitive fibers with thermal protection for people working in climate whether being extremely cold or hot.
indeed creating such products can be harmful to the emvierment but who's to say intelligent fibers can tomorrow mean fibers that are beneficial to the environment. why does it striclie have to be fibers that are for making a mood sensitive t-shirt that lights up when your happy. who's to say when cant spend some of this tax payers money on inventing fibers that do all these wonderful thing but are also enviermentaly friendly?
in relation to the fashion industory and intelligent fibers, scientis have been devoleping new fibers and ways they can be used for years so this is not a new subject, how ever i feel that only recently we are starting to take further notice to the effects weather for the benefits of war and health reasons or deficits such as the damage it may be doing to out environments and if it is a waste of our money and resources.
so although intelligent fibers are not new to us, how does it affect the fashion industry today. well one way of looking a it is all the exciting new technology such as fibres in which can prevent asthmatics from having an allergic reaction. heat sensitive fibers with thermal protection for people working in climate whether being extremely cold or hot.
indeed creating such products can be harmful to the emvierment but who's to say intelligent fibers can tomorrow mean fibers that are beneficial to the environment. why does it striclie have to be fibers that are for making a mood sensitive t-shirt that lights up when your happy. who's to say when cant spend some of this tax payers money on inventing fibers that do all these wonderful thing but are also enviermentaly friendly?
Fashion applications for smart fibres...
um.....
First off, i think that with alot of issues like this thast are potentially environmnetally hazardous, WE have to choose between either our own lives now, or the future of or planet. we can destroy the planet and never die, orrrr we can let 10% of the population die and live for at least another 4 generations...
Anyway, fashion and intelligent fibres....
I like the idea of chemically grown leather, i think it would maybe take away the prestige of leatehr if we could produce it so freely, but it would be awsome!( i mean, benifical to the fashion indusrty) becasue of the sheer size of the pieces of leather that could be produced, colours texture etc..
I agree with Emma that we dont reaaly need all this new things, like clothes that break ur fall, we will all end up wraped in cotton wool. i think its healthy to have a little bit of...acidence, even if its only to build character( patience or toterance)...or start convosation ("gee man, how did u break ur arm?") I think a world with out bad things (such as injury) tho it seems like a wonderful vision...i think it would take away the exilleration of being alive if we cant..die or be horrifically injured?
First off, i think that with alot of issues like this thast are potentially environmnetally hazardous, WE have to choose between either our own lives now, or the future of or planet. we can destroy the planet and never die, orrrr we can let 10% of the population die and live for at least another 4 generations...
Anyway, fashion and intelligent fibres....
I like the idea of chemically grown leather, i think it would maybe take away the prestige of leatehr if we could produce it so freely, but it would be awsome!( i mean, benifical to the fashion indusrty) becasue of the sheer size of the pieces of leather that could be produced, colours texture etc..
I agree with Emma that we dont reaaly need all this new things, like clothes that break ur fall, we will all end up wraped in cotton wool. i think its healthy to have a little bit of...acidence, even if its only to build character( patience or toterance)...or start convosation ("gee man, how did u break ur arm?") I think a world with out bad things (such as injury) tho it seems like a wonderful vision...i think it would take away the exilleration of being alive if we cant..die or be horrifically injured?
Intelligent fibres and smart fabrics in fashion..
Most of the fibres and fabrics developed are not useful for the fashion industry although there are a few like the Photonic ones. Which sound extremaly exciting, the ability to change the appearance of the garment would extend its life span. This would only really be beneficial if it could change allot, to last throughout multiple seasons. They would also be very good for basic clothes, where you could change the colour of a plain singlet to match your outfit. That way you would not need to buy similar clothes in different colours, cutting down consumption.
Although as the fashion industry is forever reinventing itself, the issue of trends arise. These high tech fashion designs may just be in for a couple of season and then a natural movement might become stronger,(possibly like the art nouveau movement after the industrial revolution) then what do we do with all of the smart garments we were going to wear for years and years to come?
Although as the fashion industry is forever reinventing itself, the issue of trends arise. These high tech fashion designs may just be in for a couple of season and then a natural movement might become stronger,(possibly like the art nouveau movement after the industrial revolution) then what do we do with all of the smart garments we were going to wear for years and years to come?
Intelligent fibres...
As much as i was on the affirmative side of intelligent fibres, i wonder is it really worth the efforts of scientists. In a way i feel if we can help regenerate cells from these fibres then it is worth it... but is playing god the way to go?!? over population is a problem as it is, and to help make people live longer by technology rather than just pure commonsense such as leading a healthy lifestyle we're aiding the overpopulation growth and at the same time hurting our environment. As people were saying before.... whats the point of living if we don't have an earth to live on?! Its kinda a waste... And don't we have enough technology as it is? though these advancements would be awesome for the fashion industry, we already make enough of an impact on the environment. Why do more? I am definately in 2 minds about smart fabrics.... but what i wonder is do the pro's outweigh the cons when it comes to their development?
Imagine the possibilities
Imagine what we come up with next......
- We could further modernise the Chastity belt.....
- Create fibres that patch the hole in the ozone layer....
- Even jackets that will suck out poison or infections...
- Have jackets that have multiple hands so you can do more than one or two things at once...
- Have condoms that 100% guarantee no pregnancies instead of a 99% chance...
- Or even a condom that never breaks.....
- A pair of glasses that could read for you...
- A suit that with a press of a button it could transform into a jet pack that makes you FLY!!!
- A car that you could fold up to put in your pocket..
- Lipstick that could change colour when you want it to..
- A tiny hot dress that holds everything you need on a night out on the town.... except you never see pockets.....
Just a few imagine if"s for you to think about, intelligent fibres and the future... we can have and do anything!!
'Imagine a shirt that can protect you from heart disease or a dress that sends you a text message telling you to take it easy when your vital signs go into the danger zone — imagine no more. European project BIOTEX has created just that. Clothes that monitor your body temperature and track your heart activity are already on the market but the European project BIOTEX goes one step further, using miniaturised sensors to analyse body fluids such as sweat.'
(http://health.ninemsn.com.au/article.aspx?id=440834)
Developing smart fabrics such as BIOTEX has done can provide helpful warnings for people who want to be made aware if there is a problem with their body. But what if the clothing malfunctioned and gave improper readings to the wearer?? Could it make the subject spend money on pointless check-ups with the docotor, and provide unwanted stress?
The cost of developing smart fabrics often gets into the hundreds of thousands of dollars due to the sophisticated nature of the technology. In fact, many programs like BIOTEX's smart clothes can only take place through government funding and private investors. Plus, do we really need the smart fabrics? We've done without their applications for this long.
xoxo
Gossip Girl
(http://health.ninemsn.com.au/article.aspx?id=440834)
Developing smart fabrics such as BIOTEX has done can provide helpful warnings for people who want to be made aware if there is a problem with their body. But what if the clothing malfunctioned and gave improper readings to the wearer?? Could it make the subject spend money on pointless check-ups with the docotor, and provide unwanted stress?
The cost of developing smart fabrics often gets into the hundreds of thousands of dollars due to the sophisticated nature of the technology. In fact, many programs like BIOTEX's smart clothes can only take place through government funding and private investors. Plus, do we really need the smart fabrics? We've done without their applications for this long.
xoxo
Gossip Girl
Intelligent Textiles
There is no doubt that fashion and science work hand in hand to invent fibres for elite sports and defence forces. These intelligent fabrics are starting to trickle down into general use but do we really need it?
If a textile can monitor heart rate will we become reliant on these fabrics to diagnose health problems rather than seek professional medical help?
If a textile can monitor our movement and location is it a breach against our human right to privacy?
I think intelligent textiles need to be used for practicality. If these fibres are produced for commercial fashion purposes it will leave a lasting impression on our already damaging environment.
If a textile can monitor heart rate will we become reliant on these fabrics to diagnose health problems rather than seek professional medical help?
If a textile can monitor our movement and location is it a breach against our human right to privacy?
I think intelligent textiles need to be used for practicality. If these fibres are produced for commercial fashion purposes it will leave a lasting impression on our already damaging environment.
Smart Fabrics and Intelligent Fibres
Are there valid fashion applications for smart fabrics in the fashion industry? Or are these developments more essential to the medical world?
Fair enough developmetns such as Photonic textiles are a positive step forward in the medical industry, but what is there application in the fashion industry? And if there is an application in the fashion industy, is it simply a superficial use in the industry?
Personally, I think the application to the fashion industry is unneccessary and unwarranted, I think if we can develop these fibres and fabrics for medical reasons, we can change medical history for the better. As Mai pointed out, if we can develop a fabric that can detect cardiovascular disease in its early stages, can we not stop this illness from taking so many lives?
The question is however, if developing these fabrics is overly damaging to the environment, yet can, say, cure cancer, is it worth the production of such fabrics?
So in fact, I guess its a catch 22, we either live our naturasl lives as intended, and what happen will happen, in an environemtn we are trying to sustain and save, or we live longer due to these fabrics, but rapidly destroy our environment because of it.
Which would you choose?
Fair enough developmetns such as Photonic textiles are a positive step forward in the medical industry, but what is there application in the fashion industry? And if there is an application in the fashion industy, is it simply a superficial use in the industry?
Personally, I think the application to the fashion industry is unneccessary and unwarranted, I think if we can develop these fibres and fabrics for medical reasons, we can change medical history for the better. As Mai pointed out, if we can develop a fabric that can detect cardiovascular disease in its early stages, can we not stop this illness from taking so many lives?
The question is however, if developing these fabrics is overly damaging to the environment, yet can, say, cure cancer, is it worth the production of such fabrics?
So in fact, I guess its a catch 22, we either live our naturasl lives as intended, and what happen will happen, in an environemtn we are trying to sustain and save, or we live longer due to these fabrics, but rapidly destroy our environment because of it.
Which would you choose?
Smart Fibres and Fashion
The technology becoming available through the research into smart fabrics is very interesting... Like Steve said how cool would it be to grow your own human skin jacket?! The possible advancement and application of these fibres into the medical world is also a very interesting prospect and has the potential to be very beneficial yet in a world where we seem to have too much do we need more? Will these new fibres just lend themselves to the wasteful nature of fashion and the industry? Emma (Chilly) raised a fair point in her argument saying will this new technology just become trend based? Will it be in one season and out the next? I think inorder to have these fibres in "everyday fashion" we need to make them more sustainable. Somehow we have to extend their shelf life and longevity in the industry otherwise what is the point?
Applying these fabrics and fibres specifically to designing and garment production would be very interesting and potentially extend the range of clothing available. If there were fabrics that were "self-stiffening" and had the potential to turn this feature on and off the scope for design could be extended and changed. This could cause designers to think even more laterally when designing and have their impossibilites realised. Then where would it end? Would the scope for creativity and design just continue to grow and expand even further? Would this then influence trends and what people want to buy? If all that was available was "weird and wacky" designs would this then cause peoples ideas of what is "cool" and was isn't change? Would this change our perseption of "in" fashion? And how would this affect designers or fashion houses? Would the mission statements and aesthetics of these designers/houses be compromised? WHO HAS ANSWERS?! Steve...?
Applying these fabrics and fibres specifically to designing and garment production would be very interesting and potentially extend the range of clothing available. If there were fabrics that were "self-stiffening" and had the potential to turn this feature on and off the scope for design could be extended and changed. This could cause designers to think even more laterally when designing and have their impossibilites realised. Then where would it end? Would the scope for creativity and design just continue to grow and expand even further? Would this then influence trends and what people want to buy? If all that was available was "weird and wacky" designs would this then cause peoples ideas of what is "cool" and was isn't change? Would this change our perseption of "in" fashion? And how would this affect designers or fashion houses? Would the mission statements and aesthetics of these designers/houses be compromised? WHO HAS ANSWERS?! Steve...?
Smart and Intelligent Fibres
I think that smart and intelliegent fibres have a huge amount of potential. Textiles like Kevlar have been useful for a long time and for numerous applications, as a designer I am very interested in investigating smart and intelligent fibres that have numerous applications.
The possibility of integrating fibres into garments that have the potential to change colour, texture and style are exciting. The majority of objects we have and use have consequences, however with extensive research is it possible to create smart and intelligent fibres that are no worse on the environment than for example, cotton?
The possibility of integrating fibres into garments that have the potential to change colour, texture and style are exciting. The majority of objects we have and use have consequences, however with extensive research is it possible to create smart and intelligent fibres that are no worse on the environment than for example, cotton?
Smart & Intelligent fabrics
Isn't fashion about creating a piece of fabric into some thing with structure and which is a 3d form.... so if the fabric stiffens and hardens by itself, isn't that taking the challenge out of the design. Fashion needs to have barriers that designers themselves have to over come.
Friday, September 5, 2008
green is the new black?
I think to be sustainable is to be aware of the issues concerning the environment and contributing to resolve the problem which can work on different levels such as purchasing an organic t-shirt once in a while, re-using and recycling clothes or transforming every aspect of a lifestyle into a sustainable one.
A sustainable fashion industry is a complex definition that involves employment conditions, fair trade, the use of recyclable materials, a minimal impact of production and transportation on the environment, and no animals used to make a garment. To convert the fashion industry into a sustainable one will not happen overnight. The transformation would need involvement from farmers, fabric producers, designers and consumers over a long period of time.
A sustainable fashion industry is a complex definition that involves employment conditions, fair trade, the use of recyclable materials, a minimal impact of production and transportation on the environment, and no animals used to make a garment. To convert the fashion industry into a sustainable one will not happen overnight. The transformation would need involvement from farmers, fabric producers, designers and consumers over a long period of time.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
In my view sustainable fashion is applying methods that help sustain the enviroment, i think anything thats helping the enviroment is good. i feel that fashion designers need to believe in what they do and to only do something such as sustainable fashion if they truely want to help not just as a publicity stunt.to become sustainable i feel that there would have to be a clear defintion of what sustainable is. that way designers can truely take credit for what they are doing. i also feel that designers that still contribute but in small ways should also recieve credit for what they do. i feel that sustainable can become to sustainable when it is forced onto other people, it should be a choice that people can freely make.
Fairlie,Emma and Penny
We believe to be sustainable is to obtain a thought or have an intention to do something for the future of our earth.
Whether it be riding your bike to work, re-using shower water, using natural compost for you garden, re-using or re-designing op shop cloths or even just using materials bags when shopping.
To be sustainable you need to be aware about your actions, how they affect the earth and what you can do to help.
By starting slowly to be sustainable and creating a Eco friendly lifestyle it will eventually become more recognised, more common and therefor like anything that starts out as a new trend it will become less costly. So in time hopefully, sustainable fashion will be our way of life and helping our planet and our children's children have a better future.
Is sustainable fashion worth it?
Questions
What are we to exspect if we do not change?
What can we do to promote change?
In what new way can we help?
Do you as future fashion designers think by the time we are out on our feet, will sustainable fashion become, with every design you do somthing you will consider?
Or will by then it just be as big a part of the fashion industory as winter, summer, spring and aurtom?
Penny
What are we to exspect if we do not change?
What can we do to promote change?
In what new way can we help?
Do you as future fashion designers think by the time we are out on our feet, will sustainable fashion become, with every design you do somthing you will consider?
Or will by then it just be as big a part of the fashion industory as winter, summer, spring and aurtom?
Penny
Sustainable FASHION? Sustainable clothes...Or a sustainable industry?
(Sustainable) Capable of being continued with minimal long-term effect on the environment
I think to achive a sustainable fashion industry would be very difficult, and would not be an over night thing and it would need to happen on a global scale, it would require many smaller changes to the way we work. One change is as follows:
Sustainable clothes!-
* As far as i can see, either no one cares about ssustainable clothes and/or no one can afford them.
*there are many loop holes in what is sustainable (eg, electricity, cradle to cradle, employees conditions ect) so its hard to pin point what IS sustainable so that it can be corectly marketed without buyers being misleaded.
THEREFORE! I think that if INSTEAD of starting up a new "sustainable fashion market".... small (and hopefully not toooo costly) changes can be made to the current, mainstream market, that will only increase prices slightly (ideally by 10-15 dollars per garment for a garement ususally costing 60ish dollars).Theses changes can include using properly paid workers, or fibres such as bamboo or hemp, or using clean electricity.
If these sort of changes are made within all clothing companys, gradually the clothes will becaome greener, and because sales are staying up, the technologies used to keep green (solar power or hemp plantation) will hopefully get cheaper as it tends to do (remeber when the iPod first came out and it was like $400?it was a giant brick with only a few gig memory, now u can get one for around 150 thats super tiny and with tonnes of space)
It is still possible for companies to NOT go green and make more money from cheaper clothes ect, but thats will happen in any industry with any new change.
Inconclusion, instead of making a new sector and trying to get everyone to convert, why not just slowly adjust the old one (lol, like the catholics did to the pagans (ooooh!)) But it worked for them why wont it work for fashion..?
I think to achive a sustainable fashion industry would be very difficult, and would not be an over night thing and it would need to happen on a global scale, it would require many smaller changes to the way we work. One change is as follows:
Sustainable clothes!-
* As far as i can see, either no one cares about ssustainable clothes and/or no one can afford them.
*there are many loop holes in what is sustainable (eg, electricity, cradle to cradle, employees conditions ect) so its hard to pin point what IS sustainable so that it can be corectly marketed without buyers being misleaded.
THEREFORE! I think that if INSTEAD of starting up a new "sustainable fashion market".... small (and hopefully not toooo costly) changes can be made to the current, mainstream market, that will only increase prices slightly (ideally by 10-15 dollars per garment for a garement ususally costing 60ish dollars).Theses changes can include using properly paid workers, or fibres such as bamboo or hemp, or using clean electricity.
If these sort of changes are made within all clothing companys, gradually the clothes will becaome greener, and because sales are staying up, the technologies used to keep green (solar power or hemp plantation) will hopefully get cheaper as it tends to do (remeber when the iPod first came out and it was like $400?it was a giant brick with only a few gig memory, now u can get one for around 150 thats super tiny and with tonnes of space)
It is still possible for companies to NOT go green and make more money from cheaper clothes ect, but thats will happen in any industry with any new change.
Inconclusion, instead of making a new sector and trying to get everyone to convert, why not just slowly adjust the old one (lol, like the catholics did to the pagans (ooooh!)) But it worked for them why wont it work for fashion..?
Sustainable fashion
What does it mean to be sustainable?
To me, sustainable fashion is really hard to determine, it is a big cycle that is hard to start and therefore less likely to be completely done, however, these are the steps i feel are included in sustainable fashion. From how it is grown- without pesticides- fibres that use less water etc- no animal furs- could cause extinction of animals if animal furs are still used, how the fabric is made- solar energy powered factories, to how the garments are made- with solar powered sweat shops- people being ethically treated in said sweat shops- award wages- clean conditions etc, to how fast the fashion is released- slowing down the cycle of fashion where disposable fast fashion is less normal for the world.
How can you become sustainable?
As i am not at the head of a multimillion dollar fashion house i can't really contribute much to what i feel is sustainable fashion. However, the bit i can do is stop buying fast fashion as much, stop buying as many shoes etc. I can recycle my clothes that i get bored with and i can deconstruct and reconstruct them (doing this already). It's not much but it is a start, and may be once i become rich old ugly and famous i can help create awareness about sustainable fashion and make it more "normal" for the fashion industry.
How sustainable is too much to work in the market?
I don't think there could be too much to work in the market. It depends on the view point of the people running the market and the consumers. If the heads of companys are willing to lose some money in order to make the company more ethical, and people are prepared to pay that little bit more sustainable fashion is achieveable. Though i hate to say it.... I don't think this is going to happen any time soon... At the moment and for a while now and for some time to come... this industry is fuelled by greed... it is going to have to take a rude shock to fix all the problems within the industry... however every little bit counts.
To me, sustainable fashion is really hard to determine, it is a big cycle that is hard to start and therefore less likely to be completely done, however, these are the steps i feel are included in sustainable fashion. From how it is grown- without pesticides- fibres that use less water etc- no animal furs- could cause extinction of animals if animal furs are still used, how the fabric is made- solar energy powered factories, to how the garments are made- with solar powered sweat shops- people being ethically treated in said sweat shops- award wages- clean conditions etc, to how fast the fashion is released- slowing down the cycle of fashion where disposable fast fashion is less normal for the world.
How can you become sustainable?
As i am not at the head of a multimillion dollar fashion house i can't really contribute much to what i feel is sustainable fashion. However, the bit i can do is stop buying fast fashion as much, stop buying as many shoes etc. I can recycle my clothes that i get bored with and i can deconstruct and reconstruct them (doing this already). It's not much but it is a start, and may be once i become rich old ugly and famous i can help create awareness about sustainable fashion and make it more "normal" for the fashion industry.
How sustainable is too much to work in the market?
I don't think there could be too much to work in the market. It depends on the view point of the people running the market and the consumers. If the heads of companys are willing to lose some money in order to make the company more ethical, and people are prepared to pay that little bit more sustainable fashion is achieveable. Though i hate to say it.... I don't think this is going to happen any time soon... At the moment and for a while now and for some time to come... this industry is fuelled by greed... it is going to have to take a rude shock to fix all the problems within the industry... however every little bit counts.
Sustainable Fashion
What does it mean to be sustainable?
I believe to be sustainable is to be aware of the footprint you are leaving on the planet.
Make conscious decisions that will have a positive impact.
Make your new jacket last more than one winter and buy material from op shops.
Take or give your unwanted clothes to somebody who will appreciate them.
Lastly, design clothes that have multiple lives!
How can you become sustainable?
I think it is important to appreciate the objects you have and not get bored of them, and therefore buy things you don't really need. Make you clothes last and when you are bored of something deconstruct it and construct it into a new garment.
How sustainable is too much to work in the market?
I think the concept of organic cotton may be to much to work in the market, it is a grey area and I don't think it's imapct is significant enough. I think there is more potential in the concept of cradle to cradle and garments that can be used multiple ways.
I believe to be sustainable is to be aware of the footprint you are leaving on the planet.
Make conscious decisions that will have a positive impact.
Make your new jacket last more than one winter and buy material from op shops.
Take or give your unwanted clothes to somebody who will appreciate them.
Lastly, design clothes that have multiple lives!
How can you become sustainable?
I think it is important to appreciate the objects you have and not get bored of them, and therefore buy things you don't really need. Make you clothes last and when you are bored of something deconstruct it and construct it into a new garment.
How sustainable is too much to work in the market?
I think the concept of organic cotton may be to much to work in the market, it is a grey area and I don't think it's imapct is significant enough. I think there is more potential in the concept of cradle to cradle and garments that can be used multiple ways.
Sustainable Fashion
Like all the other issues we have spoken about in Social and Cultural Studies there are so many different questions and issues to consider!! Sustainable fashion is no different...
I think that being sustainable suggests a longevity and I don't think this can be easily achieved. It would be a lengthy and complicated process. I think that to be truly sustainable with regards to being a designer you should do so at every level. From the materials you use to the energy you use to the treatment of your employees etc. The question then is, is this even possible?
When money is thrown into the equation it opens a whole other can of worms... If you are not profitable what's the point? I don't agree with the whole financial focus and that everything in the end is about money but unfortunately that's the way our world works (for the moment) and sustainable fashion doesn't seem to fit. Too expensive, too difficult to set-up, to difficult to sustain etc etc. So where do we begin?
It is fair to say that it is a collective responsiblity between designers and consumers to initiate change. However I don't think that anyone can simply palm off the problem to another. We are ALL apart of this thing we call "society" and therefore we all need to be held responsible. Equally we are all responsibly for ourselves. For our own actions, choices and decisions so it is up to us, ourselves, to make these conscious desicions as to wether or not we want to help save the world.
I think that being sustainable suggests a longevity and I don't think this can be easily achieved. It would be a lengthy and complicated process. I think that to be truly sustainable with regards to being a designer you should do so at every level. From the materials you use to the energy you use to the treatment of your employees etc. The question then is, is this even possible?
When money is thrown into the equation it opens a whole other can of worms... If you are not profitable what's the point? I don't agree with the whole financial focus and that everything in the end is about money but unfortunately that's the way our world works (for the moment) and sustainable fashion doesn't seem to fit. Too expensive, too difficult to set-up, to difficult to sustain etc etc. So where do we begin?
It is fair to say that it is a collective responsiblity between designers and consumers to initiate change. However I don't think that anyone can simply palm off the problem to another. We are ALL apart of this thing we call "society" and therefore we all need to be held responsible. Equally we are all responsibly for ourselves. For our own actions, choices and decisions so it is up to us, ourselves, to make these conscious desicions as to wether or not we want to help save the world.
sustainable fashion
How far do we need/have to take the term 'sustainable fashion'? i mean, are we, as fashion designers responsible for sustainable fashion alone, or a sustainable lifestyle??
Personally, Im not too sure of the 'correct' definition of sustainable, but I think it is the way in which clothes are produced (grown, construced, sold) that determins whether they are 'sustainable' or not. But we need a standardaised definition of what exactly sustainable fashion is so as to form a positive direction for the fashion industry to head in.
I think sustainable fashion is acknowledging how and where a garment/fabric is produced and by who (aka, were workers paid award wage? how damaging/draining to the environment was the production of fabric and garment etc)
To become sustainable, i think we as designers need to make conscious and educated decisions that are informed by our morals and values. I think if we design and do things because we think we are making and difference and because its what we want to do, we are doing oit for the right reasons. I think designers and people who jump on the 'trendy' bandwagon are selling out and perhaps not setting a good example for fellow designers, and arent fully dedicated to the cause.
I also think there needs to be more awareness and information about how the fashion industry is negatively contributing to the environment and global warming etc. Prior to this course/class, I didnt realise the fashion industry was/is having such an impact on the environment. I think people need to realise, consumers and whoever, that this is a serious issue, and we need to do something about it before its too late. But without the knowledge and awareness I dont think we have the necessary tools.
If other up and coming designers of our generation have the same mindset as us, so the future of the fashion industry can evolve and adapt to the environmental and social issues of the time.
BAM
Personally, Im not too sure of the 'correct' definition of sustainable, but I think it is the way in which clothes are produced (grown, construced, sold) that determins whether they are 'sustainable' or not. But we need a standardaised definition of what exactly sustainable fashion is so as to form a positive direction for the fashion industry to head in.
I think sustainable fashion is acknowledging how and where a garment/fabric is produced and by who (aka, were workers paid award wage? how damaging/draining to the environment was the production of fabric and garment etc)
To become sustainable, i think we as designers need to make conscious and educated decisions that are informed by our morals and values. I think if we design and do things because we think we are making and difference and because its what we want to do, we are doing oit for the right reasons. I think designers and people who jump on the 'trendy' bandwagon are selling out and perhaps not setting a good example for fellow designers, and arent fully dedicated to the cause.
I also think there needs to be more awareness and information about how the fashion industry is negatively contributing to the environment and global warming etc. Prior to this course/class, I didnt realise the fashion industry was/is having such an impact on the environment. I think people need to realise, consumers and whoever, that this is a serious issue, and we need to do something about it before its too late. But without the knowledge and awareness I dont think we have the necessary tools.
If other up and coming designers of our generation have the same mindset as us, so the future of the fashion industry can evolve and adapt to the environmental and social issues of the time.
BAM
Thursday, August 28, 2008
sweat shops
it is a very gray areia sweat shops , we can use sweat shops but were suporting how poorly they are treat, then if we dont are we takeing away job oppitunities. then they end up dieing of poor life stayle anyway. so when it comes to makeing the distion how to change theway we think of them and if we will use them as designers, i myself will have to wait tell the time comes but it is and issue that i will serious think about it.
When i am a world famous multi-billionaire fashion designer....
I dunno, i spose ideally id like to have all my stuff made by ....like sewing teachers (those sort of ppl) and there will be a factory sort of place, but it would only be 9 to 5, and the workers would get paid an avarage wage, it would be like DT, lol, and they would sew all day, with lots of breaks.
But of course id have to be a billionaire to afford that, but in the mean time, i would make the clothes myself, or hire some one better at sewing than me to do the sewing, and id only make as many as i needed, so less stress on the worker, and less finaincial loss if the garments arnt sold (like steve does)...
But of course id have to be a billionaire to afford that, but in the mean time, i would make the clothes myself, or hire some one better at sewing than me to do the sewing, and id only make as many as i needed, so less stress on the worker, and less finaincial loss if the garments arnt sold (like steve does)...
I don't know what i'd do to change the problems with sweat shop workers etc. Like you need to make money in the first place to be able to make decent conditions for your workers... As a designer i feel i'd either have to win the lotto or save till i was 50 just to make decent conditions for my workers. I feel i'd have to do the work myself and only have a small scale operation. but if every designer does that then what will happen to the other people who need the work? It's a vicious cycle that shouldn't have been started in the first place, and though locally we can do small things to fix this... i don't think the conditions will ever fully be satisfactory for all sweat shop work
I believe using third world labour is important as it creates opportunity for people who otherwise would have vey poor living conditions.
However the key issue as a designer is to stay in control of the working conditions and pay your workers receive. It is vital that we don't succumb to temptation in order to cut costs meanwhile sacrificing the welfare of human beings.
Don't allow people to work and live in conditions that you yourself would never work or live in.
However the key issue as a designer is to stay in control of the working conditions and pay your workers receive. It is vital that we don't succumb to temptation in order to cut costs meanwhile sacrificing the welfare of human beings.
Don't allow people to work and live in conditions that you yourself would never work or live in.
Knowing your rights!
I have been working at the same place for 7months only to find out yesterday that the whole time I have been there I have been paid under the award wage! now I am aware can take action to get back paid.
But if I am so easilly cheated of my rightful pay what chance does a imagrant with basic or no english have? Not only cheated by their rate of pay but their living and working conditions extreamly poor. The treatment of 'outworkers' and factory workers overseas are horrific, SO what am I going to do as a designer... i guess start small, make sure i make educated choices on the way I source and produce garments. Look into organisations like Oxfam and what they are doing, that can help me become more eco and ethically friendly. other than that i dont know how to make a huge change and still make a profit.
But if I am so easilly cheated of my rightful pay what chance does a imagrant with basic or no english have? Not only cheated by their rate of pay but their living and working conditions extreamly poor. The treatment of 'outworkers' and factory workers overseas are horrific, SO what am I going to do as a designer... i guess start small, make sure i make educated choices on the way I source and produce garments. Look into organisations like Oxfam and what they are doing, that can help me become more eco and ethically friendly. other than that i dont know how to make a huge change and still make a profit.
Today we live in a money driven culture with an underlying exploitation of workers behind the scenes of a so called 'glamorous' industry. Between the fibres on the field and the clothing on the rack, someone in the process of production has been ripped off. We may have no control over the big companies exploiting on-shore and off-shore workers but as the next generation of up and coming designers we have control over our contribution to the fashion industry. Personally i have alot of respect for Collette Dinnigan and her choice to design and sell clothes that have been produced ethically which is proof that one person can have such an influence on many to raise questions about our morals. At the end of the day it comes down to each individual designer and the ethics we stand by.
What am I going to do about the exploitation of workers?
As designers we ultimately have the power to change... It is OUR industry after all... I agree with Steve that we can start small and our actions can inturn influence industry but I also think that it will take a global push for people to really become aware on a larger scale. I think that as long as money dominates and these global companies are only concerned with their bottom line then there will always be issues re exploitation of workers, sustainable fashion etc. I agree with Maya and I too feel that this industry should not ALL be about money but the reality is that it is and I think if us, as up and coming designers, are conscience and aware then we can help to make the rest of the industry, population or world aware and possibly encourage change in that way...
Just thinking...
I wonder, if the whole world was to convert back to an organic lifestyle....Would the planet be able to support us?? Or have we out-grown our planet...
Thursday, August 21, 2008
forcasting
if forcasting is a way of prodicting fashion were do the prodictions come from is it the kid trying to be diffrent of a group of girls diciding to all were a head scarf to show they are part of a group. really are designers copie cats?
What does fashion say about the individual in society?
- we communicate our status, values and religious beliefs.
We dress to be excepted by society, but in doing that we try to be individuals. How do we find a balance between being individual and being excepted?
Re-occuring clothing - its a reflection of a lifestyle. Being individuals why do we want to re-live someone elses life style?
Trend and design vs. drapping and construction? whats more important?
Question to be answered: HOW DO OUR CLOTHES EFFECT OTHERS AND HOW DO OTHERS EFFECT OUR CLOTHES?
- we communicate our status, values and religious beliefs.
We dress to be excepted by society, but in doing that we try to be individuals. How do we find a balance between being individual and being excepted?
Re-occuring clothing - its a reflection of a lifestyle. Being individuals why do we want to re-live someone elses life style?
Trend and design vs. drapping and construction? whats more important?
Question to be answered: HOW DO OUR CLOTHES EFFECT OTHERS AND HOW DO OTHERS EFFECT OUR CLOTHES?
forcasting or stealing idea of the public?
if as fashion designers we are trying to sell our designs then its better to inferlised people with our designs but then is fashion taken from forcasting witch is just seeing what is already out there. if it catche on every one will start designing the same thing.
designers are one of the bigest sheeps out as soon as there is one big thing like the flano. with in weeks every store out there is trying to clame that they had the idea first.
designers are one of the bigest sheeps out as soon as there is one big thing like the flano. with in weeks every store out there is trying to clame that they had the idea first.
fashion in society- can fashion change society?
After our discussion today, as per usual we are all more confused than when we first walked in the classroom.
We researched the idea of the meaning behind fashion changing society and not necessarily the piece of clothing on its own... Fashion is a representation of the story within the wearer and the meaning or sentimentality of the piece i am a stupid smelly head to that person, ie, Jane Shrimpton wore a mini skirt to Randwick races in 1965, caused an uproar and ended up symbolises the freedom and future role and social norms of the mini skirt in modern society.
Other examples of pivotal fashion pieces that have impacted on society include the t-shirt, originally popularized by icons such as marlon brando and james dean. The t-shirt was originally underwear, and again, caused outrage when it was worn as everyday clothing by the screen icons. So, in turn, these aspirational figures paved the way for the rest of society to wear the t-shirt as an acceptable form of outerwear. So is it to make a true difference in the fashion industry, a mediator, an actor? a sportstar? is needed to promote an idea and present it to society, who in turn accept it with open arms because of who has presented it to them?
Is it naive, or ignorant to only accpet fashion that is presented to us, the trend of the time? are we by doing this, conforming and contradicting our constant want to be percieved as individual and 'out there'?
So as Megan pointed out, if we seek individuality, we need to sacrifice our need to belong, and thus to belong must we sacrifice out desire to be individual???
i have no answers....
We researched the idea of the meaning behind fashion changing society and not necessarily the piece of clothing on its own... Fashion is a representation of the story within the wearer and the meaning or sentimentality of the piece i am a stupid smelly head to that person, ie, Jane Shrimpton wore a mini skirt to Randwick races in 1965, caused an uproar and ended up symbolises the freedom and future role and social norms of the mini skirt in modern society.
Other examples of pivotal fashion pieces that have impacted on society include the t-shirt, originally popularized by icons such as marlon brando and james dean. The t-shirt was originally underwear, and again, caused outrage when it was worn as everyday clothing by the screen icons. So, in turn, these aspirational figures paved the way for the rest of society to wear the t-shirt as an acceptable form of outerwear. So is it to make a true difference in the fashion industry, a mediator, an actor? a sportstar? is needed to promote an idea and present it to society, who in turn accept it with open arms because of who has presented it to them?
Is it naive, or ignorant to only accpet fashion that is presented to us, the trend of the time? are we by doing this, conforming and contradicting our constant want to be percieved as individual and 'out there'?
So as Megan pointed out, if we seek individuality, we need to sacrifice our need to belong, and thus to belong must we sacrifice out desire to be individual???
i have no answers....
Conforming is it good or bad???
If you conform to a group for an occasion etc are you insulting it because you don't hold the beliefs which the dress code represents? is that disrespectful?
OR is it a sign of respect because you are opening your mind to what this group believes in, and not standing out and communicating your opinion.
Is the degree in which you conform important?
OR is it a sign of respect because you are opening your mind to what this group believes in, and not standing out and communicating your opinion.
Is the degree in which you conform important?
So confused!!!
I feel that fashion can change society... but as we brought up, society changes fashion so which comes first the egg or the chicken?!? Fashion only changes as society is ready for it... but certain aspects of fashion can change peoples views and feelings on society... dammit steve why are we going around in circles with this?!?!?!?!?!
Also with fashion, it doesn't create individuals in society... that is why it is a fashion... people can style all they want but collectively they always end up as a part of group in society cancelling out the individuality of a person in their fashion choices. Individuality is shown through personality and as much as personality can affect a persons fashion choices we're limited to whats available therefore also cancelling out the individuality within a persons clothes.
I feel so confused.... dammit!!!
Also with fashion, it doesn't create individuals in society... that is why it is a fashion... people can style all they want but collectively they always end up as a part of group in society cancelling out the individuality of a person in their fashion choices. Individuality is shown through personality and as much as personality can affect a persons fashion choices we're limited to whats available therefore also cancelling out the individuality within a persons clothes.
I feel so confused.... dammit!!!
Emo kid rant...
I no a guy, super emo kid, Who thinks he's a victim, yet, he considers being a drummer in a band "a carreer choice"! Now this makes me very angry, i think if he was truly a victim, he would be selling himself on the street trying to get enough money to keep from starrving!
I think modern day kids (not just the emos) have NO idea how good they have it. I no im not that old, and things have been worse for other generations, but i remeber when u had to hand write and rewrite and rewrite assignments with information from books and it took ages and ages to find a book with anything good in it. (ps, very weak example( but times were tough) now days u can find totally relevant and upto date info in a second using the net, and get pages and pages in hard copy in seconds with ur new laser jet printer.
Back in the day, my grandmother moved out of home (after she left school in about yr 5) at 16 to be a nanny for the ppll down the road because her parents couldnt afford to keep her in thier house and it was super exciting to get a single orange for christmas (as opposed to yet ANOHER xbox).
I dont think kids today realise how wonderful their life is....
P.S My grandma could still touch her toes from standing position at age 83...from all that potato picking experiance when she was a child. And some ppl think they have it tough...!
I think modern day kids (not just the emos) have NO idea how good they have it. I no im not that old, and things have been worse for other generations, but i remeber when u had to hand write and rewrite and rewrite assignments with information from books and it took ages and ages to find a book with anything good in it. (ps, very weak example( but times were tough) now days u can find totally relevant and upto date info in a second using the net, and get pages and pages in hard copy in seconds with ur new laser jet printer.
Back in the day, my grandmother moved out of home (after she left school in about yr 5) at 16 to be a nanny for the ppll down the road because her parents couldnt afford to keep her in thier house and it was super exciting to get a single orange for christmas (as opposed to yet ANOHER xbox).
I dont think kids today realise how wonderful their life is....
P.S My grandma could still touch her toes from standing position at age 83...from all that potato picking experiance when she was a child. And some ppl think they have it tough...!
To conform or not to conform........
In order to move forward and beyond the idea that fashion follows, we need to become non conformist. We need to explore ways in which we can produce fashion that uses techniques and principles that haven't previously been explored. Maybe we need to turn to science in order to create materials that have properties that would not normally be associated with fashion.
Personal or public fashion
I'm confused about whether we are supposed to design for society or whether we design for ourselves... Is it an art form that has to be understood by the public or is it personal? I would like to design personal fashion but which communicates to the public clearly...
Week 4 Sand C topics
Fashion and Society,
1. What does fashion say about the society it is worn in?
2. Can fashion change society?
3. What does fashion say about the individual in a given society?
Don’t forget to give examples and look at issues e.g.: childlike models
1. What does fashion say about the society it is worn in?
2. Can fashion change society?
3. What does fashion say about the individual in a given society?
Don’t forget to give examples and look at issues e.g.: childlike models
Green Soy Beans ((and Bamboo) and Mitch Dowd)
Mitch Dowd is a designer who specilizes in underware and sleep wear. His "green range' (available from Myer) I though was made from soy bean fibre (im sure thats what it said on the label), but after i reserched it i think its made from organicly grown cotton and bamboo fibre. But anyway, i looked into soybean fibre and it sounds like really cool stuff, its comfortable, and breathable and feels like silk, holds its colour, is moisture absorbant. The only downside is it looks like the brazilians are knocking down their forests to grow the soy beans...
However, I think its very interesting and encouraging to see a range made form organic fabrics being sold in mainstream stores.
http://www.mitchdowd.com.au/green.htm
http://www.swicofil.com/soybeanproteinfiberproperties.html
However, I think its very interesting and encouraging to see a range made form organic fabrics being sold in mainstream stores.
http://www.mitchdowd.com.au/green.htm
http://www.swicofil.com/soybeanproteinfiberproperties.html
Sunday, August 17, 2008
every little bit adds up
Fridays lesson was a real eye opener for me. I didn't realise the fashion industry was rated so highly in terms of waste production, and I had no idea my suburb was so wasteful.
I left fridays class with inspiration to plant a veggie patch and make a conserted effort around my house to reduce my carbon footprint. It is so so easy to fall into the trap of "I am one person in a population of 22 million I am not going to make a difference" However every little bit really does make a difference, and the only way to change the future is if we act now.
We have so much power as young designers to make people aware. The best thing we can do is take a risk with our designing and create controversy about issues that have the potential to save our beautiful planet.
I left fridays class with inspiration to plant a veggie patch and make a conserted effort around my house to reduce my carbon footprint. It is so so easy to fall into the trap of "I am one person in a population of 22 million I am not going to make a difference" However every little bit really does make a difference, and the only way to change the future is if we act now.
We have so much power as young designers to make people aware. The best thing we can do is take a risk with our designing and create controversy about issues that have the potential to save our beautiful planet.
Friday, August 15, 2008
Fast Fashion
Clothes are a fundamental part of our lives. Trends come and go so fast the clothes we buy are considered 'fashionable' for a short amount of time. I was shocked to discover the negative impact fashion is having on the environment. But at the end of the day it comes down to each individual consumer and the choices we make that may or may not benefit the environment. Whether we buy 'fast fashion' frequently, recycle our unwanted clothes, purchase second-hand clothes, or simply send it all to landfill. We live in a disposable culture with too many options
Thursday, August 14, 2008
'canberrans the most wasteful"
A report from ABC news on the 7/8/08 claims that canberrans are the most wasteful in the entire nation. Discussion turned to what we can do as individuals to reduce the impact our lifestyle choices have on the environment. Can obvious things such as growing our own personal produce (fruit and veges) make a positive change on the environment, a noticeable change?
Plastic bags are another issue contributing negatively to the environment. Is it a positive thing that at certain outlets customers are asked to pay for plastic bags or alternatively bring their own eco-bags from home to carry their puirchases. As pointed out by Megan in class, she has accumaleted numerous eco-bags which she now has no use for, so are we doubling the problem by still producing plastic bags and also introducing and trying to encourage the use of these eco bags??? do we not need to reduce the production of plastic bags and gives consumers no option so they are forced to use eco friendly bags and hence help the environment?
Jeff pointed out that such companies that produce these plastic bags will not cease production since they are making money, so doesnt it need to a unanimous decisions between these corporations to abolish plastic bags completely and only offer eco-bags to consumers, hence eliminating the plastic bag and making room for a more eco friendly society in the future?
is this even a possibility??
Plastic bags are another issue contributing negatively to the environment. Is it a positive thing that at certain outlets customers are asked to pay for plastic bags or alternatively bring their own eco-bags from home to carry their puirchases. As pointed out by Megan in class, she has accumaleted numerous eco-bags which she now has no use for, so are we doubling the problem by still producing plastic bags and also introducing and trying to encourage the use of these eco bags??? do we not need to reduce the production of plastic bags and gives consumers no option so they are forced to use eco friendly bags and hence help the environment?
Jeff pointed out that such companies that produce these plastic bags will not cease production since they are making money, so doesnt it need to a unanimous decisions between these corporations to abolish plastic bags completely and only offer eco-bags to consumers, hence eliminating the plastic bag and making room for a more eco friendly society in the future?
is this even a possibility??
Environment
Ruth convinced me to start growing a vegetable garden... I like the ideas we discussed regarding communities that have systems of bartering with home grown foods and produce etc. I think this would be an interesting notion to explore on a large scale. Would it be sustainable? I don't think it would be easy to implement immediatly and a lot of time would be involved in making it an efficient way of life. The issues of money, power and greed would also be difficult to overcome. Ultimatly I belive that it's the mindset of the people that need to be changed before any real physical change can occur...
waste of canberra
in our discussion today about wastefulness we discussed how bad canberra is in its level of waste. Because we have a pretty shotty transport system people are more likely to drive rather than catch a bus to get from a to b. i know i massively contribute to this when i am spending up to $100 a week on petrol to get around. This is not just me burning money but also me adding to the deterioration of the ozone layer. ontop of this our lives are now about convenience. take away stores are popping up every where, fast fashion is mainly the only fashion we have access to in canberra. no wonder we are so wasteful... but it takes the people to break the cycle... and humans are creatures of habit. once we have decided to accept and run with the wastefulness its very difficult to break...
Slow Fashion the next trend??
Slow fashion is designed to be benifit all of those involved including the enviroment. Constructed by well paid workers and and made to be worn year after year, they are classic designs produced locally and with love :). But is this just the latest fashion craze? do designers converting to slow fashion have good intentions or is it a money maker? will big companies forfit profits to join the trend?
Thursday, August 7, 2008
double dressers and more
http://sarahrabia.blogspot.com/
This is the blog of Sarah Rabia, she is the author of double dressers and is an interesting thinker
This is the blog of Sarah Rabia, she is the author of double dressers and is an interesting thinker
Chinese Fur farms.. inethical? may be not...
Watching a video on the Peta website showed me just how controlling the western world is when it comes to fashion. Peta is a western organisation and they seem to like to pick on organisations from all over the world over the killing of animals for their fur. Though we in the western world do take some level of offence to seeing an animal skinned half alive (chinese fur farms video clip) in china they are brought up with a whole different bunch of ethics... so who is to say what is ethical in fashion and what is not? Yes people are killing innocent animals for fashion but in china these people probably haven't recieved a proper education, most likely perceieve the skinning of a half live animal as a normal every day practice at work and don't have the same ethics as us westerners. Though i may feel it is wrong to kill a half alive animal whose to say that some of the things i perceive as normal practices may be inethical???
ideal body look
why is it porn modles larger than fashion modles are they the real ideal look as they are what is desiered or do we iderlise to look like fashion modles beacuse they are wareing cloths that we like and there for we wish to look like them?
Thinspirations
So, it seems there is a movement among people to see being ultra thin as something to aspire to.
http://blogs.healthcare.com/medusa/category/thinspiration/
http://www.freewebs.com/ana-beauty/
are examples, take a look and tell me why this is going on...
http://blogs.healthcare.com/medusa/category/thinspiration/
http://www.freewebs.com/ana-beauty/
are examples, take a look and tell me why this is going on...
Fur in Fashion
After reading the PETA websites page on Fur in Fashion I was astonished and thought it was very wrong. However after going to a not so biased website (the British Fur Trade Website) I realised that it isn't bad IF it is done legally and ethically.
However on the PETA website I found the following quote:
"It is hard to fathom that anyone is still wearing fur. It is so plain to see that killing animals for their fur is completely barbaric. The only purpose is vanity." —Joaquin Phoenix
Is this a fair statement, when in countries such as Iceland fur is essential to survive the below zero temperatures.
Luv ME
Source: http://www.peta.org/feat-fatalfashion.asp and http://www.britishfur.co.uk/
However on the PETA website I found the following quote:
"It is hard to fathom that anyone is still wearing fur. It is so plain to see that killing animals for their fur is completely barbaric. The only purpose is vanity." —Joaquin Phoenix
Is this a fair statement, when in countries such as Iceland fur is essential to survive the below zero temperatures.
Luv ME
Source: http://www.peta.org/feat-fatalfashion.asp and http://www.britishfur.co.uk/
As a designer I believe we have the ultimate power in the way we advertise and produce the clothing we design. We have the option to choose our models, ranging from size 0 to 20+. Do we choose the thin models in which make the clothing appealing? Or do we use + sized models which make the clothing more realistic? We have the option to choose where our clothes are manufactured, be it in Australia or Asian countries. Producing our clothing in Australia reduces our profit, yet the workers are treated fairly. If the clothes are produced in Asian countries, profit is increased, yet the workers are treated worse then those exisiting in Australia. Regardless, no matter what we do there will always be a level of negative/positive criticisim brought upon us by our actions. It comes down to our own ethics and morals which will determine the way in which we design and produce our clothing be it sellfish or genrous.
xoxo
Gossip girl
xoxo
Gossip girl
Child Labour
An estimated 158 million children ages 5 - 14 are exploited in child labour. These children are forced into poor working conditions. In third world countries it is common to hire children to annually labour in plantation fields, sweatshops, and domestic homes because it is financially efficient for companies. Fashion labels such as Levis, Nike and Gap have been associated with an unethical production process.
These children are forced to work between 10 - 14 hours a day and earn the minimum wage which is deducted if they don't work hard enough. They are left weak with insuffiecient food and do not recieve any form of education.
If child labour cannot be stopped then it can be imporved by increasing wages, providing better working conditions and supplying education.
- How else can fashion be produced efficiently without exploiting children?
- As consumers, would fasion that has been produced unethically make a difference to our purchasing habits?
- Are we supporting child labour if we purchase fashion that has been unethically produced?
- As consumers, would fasion that has been produced unethically make a difference to our purchasing habits?
- Are we supporting child labour if we purchase fashion that has been unethically produced?
Source: UNICEF (online) 'Child protection from violence, exploitation and abuse' 2008
Picture: < http://www.ejfoundation.org/page141.html >
Ethics
The role of the designer...
As up and coming designers what are our responsibilities? Should we be aware and address issues such as Anorexia in models, Offshore production and working conditions, Climate Change etc? Are we required to have an ethical stance? There are so many different issues to think about and to consider that at times you think what's the point? Why is it my responsobility to change these things or to make others aware? Am I responsible?
Perhaps the reality of the situation is that without change there will not be a fashion industry of which we can be apart of? Will it at some stage become obsolete and we will once again be wearing nothing as first man once did? Is this something we need to consider?
Does anyone have any answers?
As up and coming designers what are our responsibilities? Should we be aware and address issues such as Anorexia in models, Offshore production and working conditions, Climate Change etc? Are we required to have an ethical stance? There are so many different issues to think about and to consider that at times you think what's the point? Why is it my responsobility to change these things or to make others aware? Am I responsible?
Perhaps the reality of the situation is that without change there will not be a fashion industry of which we can be apart of? Will it at some stage become obsolete and we will once again be wearing nothing as first man once did? Is this something we need to consider?
Does anyone have any answers?
Ethics and Society
I think alot of ethical issues are heavily influenced by the values and norms of the society we live in.eg, to use a sweat shop? hireing size 12 models? only realeasing limited collections to cut down on waste?
Because modern society vaules money, status and looks, I think its difficult for one individual or designer to break away.
For example, If i use size 12 models on my cat walk to represent the lifestyle im selling, i will sell less that the size 6 model designers. Although! I am being ethically sensitive, all the other designers are doing better because i am going out side what society sees as desirable, therefore presenting a weaker 'advertisment' of my label.
So unless there is a legislation that says no super thin models, ppl with weaker ethics will still have a foot up in the market unless new societal ethics are formed, unlikely...
ps im not saying being individual isnt possible, but in a compeditive, money-making, image orientated feild, its difficult to achive whilst still making money...
Because modern society vaules money, status and looks, I think its difficult for one individual or designer to break away.
For example, If i use size 12 models on my cat walk to represent the lifestyle im selling, i will sell less that the size 6 model designers. Although! I am being ethically sensitive, all the other designers are doing better because i am going out side what society sees as desirable, therefore presenting a weaker 'advertisment' of my label.
So unless there is a legislation that says no super thin models, ppl with weaker ethics will still have a foot up in the market unless new societal ethics are formed, unlikely...
ps im not saying being individual isnt possible, but in a compeditive, money-making, image orientated feild, its difficult to achive whilst still making money...
Models!
In terms of underage and anorexic models... I think a worldwide a set of worldwide guidelines needs to be set up about a healthy lifestyle. But how can we make changes when our society is obsessed with being skinny but not necessarily healthy.
Why do designers not wear the clothes they design??
The designer represents the label, yet there are not many that are always seen in their own designs. do they need to if they create a desirable lifstyle through their through their catwalk shows and other advertising means? Is this because designers work so hard generating ideas/ concepts and how others dress..
Is Karl Largerfled just lazy wearing practically the same style of suit everyday, or has he found a way to promote a profesional image for himself; representing a label whilst not having to worry what he will wear each day after a staying up or night working on his latest collection??
Vivienne Westwood hmmm, she does not promote a typically desirable image, or is it good representation of what her label is about, raising controversy, causing intrege?
Are designers to busy to think about what they wear or do they think too much and is it all just a marketing ploy.....
Is Karl Largerfled just lazy wearing practically the same style of suit everyday, or has he found a way to promote a profesional image for himself; representing a label whilst not having to worry what he will wear each day after a staying up or night working on his latest collection??
Vivienne Westwood hmmm, she does not promote a typically desirable image, or is it good representation of what her label is about, raising controversy, causing intrege?
Are designers to busy to think about what they wear or do they think too much and is it all just a marketing ploy.....
ethics
i beleive that it is wrong to use supper skinny models on the cat walk. designers should use there ability to promote "the norm style" to show awareness to people about the dangers of anorexia. fashion designers have a lot of power to change the world and its views on certian things. people need to become aware and realise that there is alot more to looking good then being skinny and designers need to get behined that too!!
p.s i cant spell :)
p.s i cant spell :)
ethics
Ethical fashion is an up and coming issue within the industry. Do we as designers have the responsibility to make these decisions and thus influence society and consumers? Is it necessary for us to fully practice the issues we are representing? or is it acceptable to raise awareness and leave the 'changing' to society as a larger force?
An ethical issue that I was interested in is the living and working conditions of workers, those who produce our garments. Is it ethical for us, as Australian desginers to ship our designs off to developing countries for cheap labour, and in saying that, are we exploiting the workers in these factories? Or, on the otehrhand, are we helping these developing countries by providing work and job opportunites for them?
Personally, I believe the issue is driven by money, so we, whether is be knowingly or unknowingly, send off for production in foreign countries because it is cheaper and our profit margin is larger. therefore workers work longer hours for less money and we still get the same result.
What does everything else think about this issue???
leave comments guys!
not you gossip girl.. aka jakecro
An ethical issue that I was interested in is the living and working conditions of workers, those who produce our garments. Is it ethical for us, as Australian desginers to ship our designs off to developing countries for cheap labour, and in saying that, are we exploiting the workers in these factories? Or, on the otehrhand, are we helping these developing countries by providing work and job opportunites for them?
Personally, I believe the issue is driven by money, so we, whether is be knowingly or unknowingly, send off for production in foreign countries because it is cheaper and our profit margin is larger. therefore workers work longer hours for less money and we still get the same result.
What does everything else think about this issue???
leave comments guys!
not you gossip girl.. aka jakecro
Eating disorders
Eating disorders in fashion models - Do we have the power as fashion designers to change the 'ideal' body image?
The society has made the sterotypically thin image famous and popular - Can we change the way the society thinks?
Whats the normal body image?
As designers we should be promoting a healthly image. But in reality, whats healthy?....
The society has made the sterotypically thin image famous and popular - Can we change the way the society thinks?
Whats the normal body image?
As designers we should be promoting a healthly image. But in reality, whats healthy?....
Week 2 Ethics
Ethics
What are some of the main ethical concerns facing fashion designers today?
Is it ethical to design clothes for consumption?
Does the impact the fashion industry has on the environment alter what and how you design?
Can design change peoples minds? And the way we see waste? Cradle to cradle rather than cradle to grave
When does fashion design stop being just clothes and start becoming a communicative social tool?
Is it ethical to produce fashion overseas? Pay and conditions and credit
Is it ethical to produce fashion in unsafe working conditions in Australia? Pay and conditions
Pesticides and crops, are they harmful to people?
Animals often suffer for fashion is this ethical?
Is it ethical to portray unattainable body shapes in fashion? (Anorexia and Bulimia)
When is young too young for a model?
Do we over sexualise children in fashion? Look at tweens (9-13)
Child labour friend or foe? Small hands work fast
Is it ethical to use someone else’s intellectual property for your own profit?
Can designers use the “fair go” principles or is it not profitable?
Double dressing or twinning, do we want to dress alike as a primal need to belong? (follow on from last week)
What are some of the main ethical concerns facing fashion designers today?
Is it ethical to design clothes for consumption?
Does the impact the fashion industry has on the environment alter what and how you design?
Can design change peoples minds? And the way we see waste? Cradle to cradle rather than cradle to grave
When does fashion design stop being just clothes and start becoming a communicative social tool?
Is it ethical to produce fashion overseas? Pay and conditions and credit
Is it ethical to produce fashion in unsafe working conditions in Australia? Pay and conditions
Pesticides and crops, are they harmful to people?
Animals often suffer for fashion is this ethical?
Is it ethical to portray unattainable body shapes in fashion? (Anorexia and Bulimia)
When is young too young for a model?
Do we over sexualise children in fashion? Look at tweens (9-13)
Child labour friend or foe? Small hands work fast
Is it ethical to use someone else’s intellectual property for your own profit?
Can designers use the “fair go” principles or is it not profitable?
Double dressing or twinning, do we want to dress alike as a primal need to belong? (follow on from last week)
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Thinking for week 1-read me
Chic theory.
Is the search for style hard wired? Does human nature make us seek fashion?
Does our character change when we change our appearance?
Fashion vs. dress, do new styles come out of snobbishness?
Do we have an individual identity or is it a construct of fashion?
Is cool a social construct?
Do we use fashion to become an individual but in fact end up being the same?
What does fashion mean to humans?
Is Chic theory simplifying a complex idea of fashion and identity?
Is fashion based on feelings? What part does you r psychological or physical state play on how you dress?
How does you lifestyle play upon how you dress? e.g. religion, culture, gender, class and sexual proclivities?
Is fashion a purely western phenomenon?
Is it vain to aspire to be stylish?
Think about the above questions...how do they relate to studio? how can you use them to help you understand the question?
Is the search for style hard wired? Does human nature make us seek fashion?
Does our character change when we change our appearance?
Fashion vs. dress, do new styles come out of snobbishness?
Do we have an individual identity or is it a construct of fashion?
Is cool a social construct?
Do we use fashion to become an individual but in fact end up being the same?
What does fashion mean to humans?
Is Chic theory simplifying a complex idea of fashion and identity?
Is fashion based on feelings? What part does you r psychological or physical state play on how you dress?
How does you lifestyle play upon how you dress? e.g. religion, culture, gender, class and sexual proclivities?
Is fashion a purely western phenomenon?
Is it vain to aspire to be stylish?
Think about the above questions...how do they relate to studio? how can you use them to help you understand the question?
Class Discussion
My brain is going to explode Steve!! Informative discussion though, we all definitely had varying opinions on the questions posed...
Here's a quote from 'Chic to Chic' by Jennifer Craik on Joanne Finelstein's 'Chic theory', '...confining fashio and chic to the city in a curiously metropolis-centred approachwhich ignores fashionable and chic behaviour in a range of other locales and situations...' Is this true? Are people who live further from cities less fashionable?
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