Abstract
The aim of this study is to investigate the possible application of slow fashion, as it is being applied in other parts of the world, to the South African garment manufacturing industry. Slow fashion presents an alternative model to the currently dominant fast fashion system, by designing, producing and consuming fashion and clothing that respects the earth and its inhabitants whilst encouraging economic growth and skills development within local communities. Existing literature suggests that slow fashion may be present in some sections of the South African garment manufacturing industry, however, only in a medium-to-small scale. It is unclear how their manufacturing processes reflect slow fashion. The value of this study lies in the potential for developing sustainability in the South African fashion industry. The study follows a qualitative approach to research and employs an intrinsic case study research design. The case study consists of four purposively selected participants owning their own local garment manufacturing companies and noting slow fashion concepts within their company descriptions. Using the data collected from the interview transcripts for qualitative content analysis, the participants’ manufacturing processes and approaches are located within the relevant line of reflection of the Three Pillars of Sustainability indicating slow fashion. The findings offer insights and rich descriptions of how local slow fashion garment manufacturers reflect slow fashion. Although the findings of the research are limited to a sample size of four participants, a holistic examination suggests several notable findings. Sustainable fashion in South Africa focuses on supporting the local economy, particularly the garment manufacturing sector, and ensuring ethical practices throughout the production value chain. It also emphasises interaction between the design, production, and the end of life of the product. Local slow fashion manufacturers aim to provide sustainable products that are durable in order to extend the product’s life and ultimately reduce overconsumption. Discussed emerging findings reveal several opportunities for the development of slow fashion in South Africa as well as further avenues of research for future research relating to slow fashion manufacturing.
M.A. (Design)