Sustainable fashion is quickly gaining power in the world-wide market as the future of the industry. With celebrities, designers, and the media bringing attention to the importance of eco-friendly options for apparel in the marketplace, the world is taking note.
Portland has already burst on the scene, gaining recognition as a West Coast hub of eco-conscious fashion and design. Portland fashion week is increasing in popularity as the city becomes a more revered source of the “green” movement. With such easy access to this market, Eugene is a launching pad of sustainable fashion and style. Perhaps due to the community’s acceptance of self-expression and the desire to reduce our carbon footprint, this town has the potential of landing on the map in the world of sustainable design. Last year’s Deluxe Fashion Show was proof of the community’s interest in fashion design. Filling a venue to capacity with 600 people and turning away over a hundred more, those involved in the show were pleasantly surprised by the turnout. This year’s event is expected to double in numbers. In order to promote this growth and creativity, a space needs to be available for talents to be nurtured- hence the formation of ECWA- the Eugene Coalition of Wearable Art.
Our mission is to create a support and networking group for local designers of apparel in which they can find avenues to market their wares and share their experiences and skills.
What is needed:
-Classroom space- to be used for teaching classes and workshops to the community about all aspects of designing and fabricating apparel. Young people and aspiring designers seeking an outlet for expression of their interest in the fashion industry will be supported, furthering the goal of youth education and activities. Classes and workshops would create income for the continuation of the project.
-Studio Space- to be available for use by those wanting to construct garments for sale at Saturday market or other venues. Screen printing and dyeing studios should be available for the community to use. Clothing and accessories could be printed here for community projects and promotional materials, bringing in income for the space.
-Storefront Boutique-to be a co-operative run space for selling apparel designed by members of ECWA.
Ideas for application:
-Costume design workshops partnering with local theater companies and musicians to further the support of the larger artistic community and bringing in income.
-Fashion shows designed to showcase local talent in a public and social environment, creating networking opportunities and community involvement, also could include local musicians. These shows also bring income to fund the project.
-Mentorships with designers to encourage and support anyone interested in making income off of their sustainable and unique apparel. Mentors receive help with production from mentors, thus furthering their ability to create more stock and creating a mutually beneficial relationship. Also to include the older generation and seniors who have skills to share and a desire for multi-generational social interaction.
-Workshops on sustainable, natural fibers-for example, incorporating local sheep farms to supply wool that can be spun or felted by designers to make into apparel.
-Movies relating to the fashion industry may be shown and discussed. Also collections from Fashion Weeks around the world may be shown for inspiration and current market trend research.
-Agents hired to assist in the selling and promotion of Eugene designers in Trade Shows and boutiques across the country. Representing Eugene fashion designers will put the city on the map in the fashion world and create an awareness of the importance of a nurturing artist community.
-An online community or store, either using www.ETSY.com (a popular and fast growing website for independent designers to sell their wares) or a Eugene specific website where apparel can be sold worldwide.
Conclusion-
With access to the proper resources, a talented community of artisans has the ability to thrive and succeed, thus supporting the larger community. This network can expand worldwide, bringing attention to the city of Eugene and creating an outlet for self expression through sustainable fashion.
Portland has already burst on the scene, gaining recognition as a West Coast hub of eco-conscious fashion and design. Portland fashion week is increasing in popularity as the city becomes a more revered source of the “green” movement. With such easy access to this market, Eugene is a launching pad of sustainable fashion and style. Perhaps due to the community’s acceptance of self-expression and the desire to reduce our carbon footprint, this town has the potential of landing on the map in the world of sustainable design. Last year’s Deluxe Fashion Show was proof of the community’s interest in fashion design. Filling a venue to capacity with 600 people and turning away over a hundred more, those involved in the show were pleasantly surprised by the turnout. This year’s event is expected to double in numbers. In order to promote this growth and creativity, a space needs to be available for talents to be nurtured- hence the formation of ECWA- the Eugene Coalition of Wearable Art.
Our mission is to create a support and networking group for local designers of apparel in which they can find avenues to market their wares and share their experiences and skills.
What is needed:
-Classroom space- to be used for teaching classes and workshops to the community about all aspects of designing and fabricating apparel. Young people and aspiring designers seeking an outlet for expression of their interest in the fashion industry will be supported, furthering the goal of youth education and activities. Classes and workshops would create income for the continuation of the project.
-Studio Space- to be available for use by those wanting to construct garments for sale at Saturday market or other venues. Screen printing and dyeing studios should be available for the community to use. Clothing and accessories could be printed here for community projects and promotional materials, bringing in income for the space.
-Storefront Boutique-to be a co-operative run space for selling apparel designed by members of ECWA.
Ideas for application:
-Costume design workshops partnering with local theater companies and musicians to further the support of the larger artistic community and bringing in income.
-Fashion shows designed to showcase local talent in a public and social environment, creating networking opportunities and community involvement, also could include local musicians. These shows also bring income to fund the project.
-Mentorships with designers to encourage and support anyone interested in making income off of their sustainable and unique apparel. Mentors receive help with production from mentors, thus furthering their ability to create more stock and creating a mutually beneficial relationship. Also to include the older generation and seniors who have skills to share and a desire for multi-generational social interaction.
-Workshops on sustainable, natural fibers-for example, incorporating local sheep farms to supply wool that can be spun or felted by designers to make into apparel.
-Movies relating to the fashion industry may be shown and discussed. Also collections from Fashion Weeks around the world may be shown for inspiration and current market trend research.
-Agents hired to assist in the selling and promotion of Eugene designers in Trade Shows and boutiques across the country. Representing Eugene fashion designers will put the city on the map in the fashion world and create an awareness of the importance of a nurturing artist community.
-An online community or store, either using www.ETSY.com (a popular and fast growing website for independent designers to sell their wares) or a Eugene specific website where apparel can be sold worldwide.
Conclusion-
With access to the proper resources, a talented community of artisans has the ability to thrive and succeed, thus supporting the larger community. This network can expand worldwide, bringing attention to the city of Eugene and creating an outlet for self expression through sustainable fashion.