This project aims to solve issues related to disability and getting dressed and seeks to empower the wearer by giving them ways to feel more independent. For years, the clothing industry has only vaguely explored the challenges that people living with disabilities (PLWD) face every day when getting dressed. While many concerns have been solved for the environmental and societal barriers in other fields of interest, the real struggles that PLWD are facing are the mundane tasks. Samples were done to determine the strongest closures for placing along high stress seamlines, while still maintaining accessibility to the body. The goal was to keep seamlines sleek and reduce bulk while still creating “normal” clothing.

My research is on garment modification for those with limited arm mobility due to unilateral, bilateral amputated upper limbs or hemiplegia. Prosthetics do not sufficiently serve the need of every person with amputations. Garment modification is necessary to make dressing easier without the use of prosthetics. Garment adaptations are as inconspicuous as possible, adding accessories like loops for dressing sticks, loose-fitting clothing and using slippery woven fabric instead of knit fabric for convenience, using a magnetic snap in place of buttons for manageability, use of larger than usual buttons that protrude higher so they can be used with a dressing stick. Pockets are modified to be larger and at the front, instead of side and back for easy reach. Shoelaces are replaced with snap closures or elastics.

The fashion industry is responsible for most of the world’s pollution due to mass textile disposal. Even though there are better alternatives, consumers still seem to choose cheap over environmentally friendly. The objective of this study is to examine US consumers’ clothing disposal behavior and explore the potential value they perceive in reusability and biodegradability in apparel products. To achieve this objective, exploratory research was conducted on consumer behavior, fast fashion, and biodegradable fibers. Then a content analysis was conducted to examine how consumers react to certain characteristics of this subject. As a result, a potential marketing strategy was brainstormed to help promote the value and use of natural fibers over synthetic in apparel.

The purpose of this study was to explore the impact of a series of 10 informational lectures on increasing cultural sensitivity and understanding. Knowledge gained in major and minor classes was supported with intensive research on many aspects/styles of Japanese subculture. A series was developed and presented through live stream, recorded, and posted with participants voluntarily completing a Qualtrics survey after each session. Results were analyzed to gain insights and draw conclusions on Japanese Street Fashion, specifically, and Japanese Culture, overall. Respondents indicated a greater awareness and appreciation for fashion contributions from Japan. Furthermore, this experience broadened intercultural understanding. The presentations provoked thought about cultural expression through dress, encouraging participants to be more mindful about using inspiration respectfully and avoiding misguided appropriation.

This research focused on understanding consumers and the consumers’ priorities when they are shopping for new clothing. Taking the different steps in this research process such as literature research, a content analysis of consumer reviews on YouTube videos, and an online survey that was created, it is found that consumers are not well educated on the usage of water in the fashion industry and that companies need to become more transparent about this topic. Results being that consumers would be willing to shop more sustainable brands if they were aware of the harm the fashion industry has on the environment. Even if the cost of each garment were higher consumers would shop these brands knowing they are helping the environment.