Otago polytechnic

New Zealand

Lorna Ryan

New Zeal

 New Zeal explores the question of whether zero waste fashion processes can be commercialised creating an entirely zero waste collection. This was achieved by developing special pattern cutting techniques to reduce garments waste to less than 1%, using 100% natural fibre so the garments are biodegrade at the end of their lives and won’t release micro plastics when washed and replacing zips with biodegradable elastic, fabric ties and wooden buttons. The collection aims to fill a gap in the market for sustainable clothing for the modern young woman, who dresses neither femininely nor as a tomboy. The collection strives to quash the idea that sustainable fashion must conform to one aesthetic and one target market.