“Adapting Lindqvist’s Kinetic Garment Method for an Upcycled, Zero-Waste Childrenswear Romper”

Abstract

<p>A current upcycling trend is creating little girls' garments from menswear, exemplifying some tenets of sustainability. The purpose was to research methods for creating a sustainable little girls’ garment by upcycling menswear, which revealed a gap in the market for bifurcated, zero-waste designs. This design focused on specific elements of sustainability to increase useful lifespan: zero-waste and garment adjustability. Lindqvist’s (2013) experimental patternmaking technique, kinetic garment construction, was chosen for experimentation in conjunction with upcycled textiles to test adaptability for creating upcycled, zero-waste garments. Adapting Lindqvist’s (2013) method of kinetic garment construction by using the original technique along with ribbon casings resulted in a successful, upcycled, zero-waste romper. Implementing adjustability permits longer wear time and accommodates multi-sizes, approximately 3T – 5X. The coordinating headband constructed of men’s ties reinforced the concept of zero-waste upcycling. Implications regarding sustainability and experimental patternmaking exist for childrenswear apparel design courses and the children’s clothing market.</p>