RETHINKING PROCESSES: THE UPCYCLING METHOD FOR SUSTAINABLE APPAREL
2447-0899
Abstract
The concepts of sustainability highlight the importance of socio-environmental responsibility, and fashion companies have been adopting more conscious production models to reduce environmental impact. In this context, upcycling has gained prominence as a competitive strategy aligned with sustainable practices. This study aims to identify the contributions of upcycling to sustainable fashion. The research is qualitative in nature, with a descriptive approach and data collected through bibliographic research and a case study conducted with the brand In Core EcoDesign. The results indicate that upcycling contributes significantly to the sector by reducing textile waste, extending the lifecycle of materials, enhancing creativity in the design process, and fostering a more conscious relationship between product and consumer. Furthermore, it reinforces the role of the designer as a transformative agent and highlights the potential of this practice as a tool for building a more ethical, functional, and sustainability-oriented fashion industry.