Status:

Fashion Dreaming is still ongoing, continuously evolving and expanding into new contexts.

Actors:

The Royal Danish Academy, Copenhagen Fashion Week, and professionals from the Danish fashion industry

Time period:

2024 and onwards

Other:

Fashion Dreaming is part of the larger initiative Planetary Dreaming

Fashion Dreaming – voices from fashion’s future

The fashion industry has one of the largest environmental footprints and faces a pressing need to rethink itself. Consumers are demanding greater sustainability, and authorities are imposing stricter requirements to reduce CO2 emissions and resource consumption. Despite the industry’s clear need for change, there are challenges in finding concrete solutions and taking the first steps toward reinventing itself.

In August 2024, during Copenhagen Fashion Week, the research center KLOTHING – Centre for Apparel, Textiles & Ecology Research at the Royal Danish Academy and Copenhagen Fashion Week invited the industry to a groundbreaking workshop. The goal was to dream big and create visions for the future of the fashion industry—a sector that is both more sustainable and relevant in a world that faces a necessary reckoning with overconsumption.

I was invited to facilitate the workshop and develop a method to collect and communicate visions for a more responsible fashion industry. In preparation, we gathered graduating students and researchers from the fashion program at the Royal Danish Academy and asked them to imagine how they would talk about the industry’s progress when they themselves were nearing retirement.

From this, 15 unique and personal stories were created, which, with the help of AI, were consolidated into six new themed stories, each describing a sustainable future for the fashion industry. These new stories were presented by six fictional individuals from the future through AI-generated videos during the workshop at Fashion Week. The videos served as the basis for group discussions about the future possibilities for a sustainable fashion industry.

Visionary Stories and Strategies for the Future of Fashion

The workshop concluded with participants creating their own future narratives about how they envisioned the fashion industry evolving until their retirement. These new stories, more than 50 in total, were further consolidated into 10 themed stories with the help of AI. These stories, told by fictional characters from the future, now form the core of a toolkit that includes 30 concrete strategies for how the fashion industry can become more sustainable.

This toolkit is designed to inspire companies, teams, and designers to develop a long-term vision for how they can contribute to rethinking the fashion industry. Additionally, it helps implement short-term strategies that point in the right direction.

A Method for Cross-Industry Inspiration

This approach to concretizing future scenarios and dreams is already inspiring similar projects in other industries. It is not only the fashion industry that faces challenges in visualizing and implementing the necessary changes for a sustainable future.

See the 10 stories from the future below

“As I approach the end of my career, I would like to reflect on the significant progress we have made.

As a global society, we have completely abandoned the notion of waste. Every item is repurposed, recycled, or upcycled. The idea of discarding anything has become taboo, and landfills are relics of a bygone era.

As a fashion industry, we have made it mandatory for all designs to incorporate at least 80% of recycled materials. The concept of ‘new’ no longer applies to the raw materials we use; everything comes with a history, a past life. Fashion has become a tapestry of stories woven from the fabric of old garments.

As a professional within the field, I have mastered the art of giving life to the discarded. My work has been about seeing potential where others saw waste, transforming rags into riches, both literally and metaphorically.

The thing from my work life that stands out the most is the moment we banned virgin materials. It was a radical step, but it forced the industry to innovate in ways we never imagined. The creativity that sprang from necessity was unlike anything we had seen before.

We overcame the addiction to newness and the belief that only the untouched has value. We realized that beauty and worth come from the stories an item carries with it.

Now my wishes for the next generation of professionals are that they continue to push the boundaries of what is possible with what already exists. Let them see that the past is not something to be discarded but something to be cherished and built upon.”

Theme: Circular Economy and Resource Efficiency
Reimagining Waste: From Disposal to Renewal

In a sustainable future, the fashion industry must adopt circular economy principles, where waste is designed out of the system, and every material is repurposed or recycled. This approach minimizes resource extraction and environmental impact while maximizing the value of materials throughout their lifecycle.

“As I approach the end of my career, I would like to reflect on the significant progress we have made.

As a global society, we have shattered the barriers that once divided us. Beauty is no longer defined by a narrow set of standards; it is as diverse and varied as humanity itself. Everyone is celebrated for their unique traits, and fashion is a reflection of that diversity.

As a fashion industry, we have embraced inclusivity in every aspect. From design to marketing, we have ensured that all voices are heard, all bodies are represented, and all stories are told. The runway is no longer a place for the few; it is a stage for all.

As a professional within the field, I have fought tirelessly to bring marginalized voices to the forefront. My designs have been worn by people of all shapes, sizes, colors, and identities, and each one has been a testament to the beauty of diversity.

The thing from my work life that stands out the most is the day our industry collectively agreed to ban the use of size labels. It was a revolutionary moment, a clear statement that fashion is for everyone, not just those who fit into a predetermined mold.

We overcame the exclusionary practices of the past, the idea that beauty is limited to a select few. We learned that true beauty is found in our differences, and that inclusivity is the only path forward.

Now my wishes for the next generation of professionals are that they continue to celebrate the full spectrum of humanity. Let them create for everyone, knowing that the world is richer when all voices are heard and all bodies are seen.”

Theme: Radical Inclusivity and Fair Representation
Fashion for All: Embracing Diversity in Every Form

A truly sustainable fashion industry is one that is inclusive and representative of all people. This means designing for a wide range of bodies, cultures, and identities, and ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard and respected.

“As I approach the end of my career, I would like to reflect on the significant progress we have made.

As a global society, we have redefined our relationship with the things we own. We no longer seek to possess more, but rather to form deep, meaningful connections with the few items we do have. Each piece in our lives has a purpose, a story, a soul.

As a fashion industry, we have shifted focus from mass production to crafting pieces that resonate with individuals on a profound level. Every garment is created with the wearer in mind, tailored not just to fit the body, but to connect with the heart and spirit.

As a professional within the field, I have dedicated my life to creating clothes that are more than just fabric and thread. My garments are imbued with emotion, designed to evoke feelings of comfort, confidence, and contentment.

The thing from my work life that stands out the most is when I saw someone weep as they put on a jacket I designed. It was not just a jacket to them; it was a shield, a memory, a piece of their identity.

We overcame the superficiality of fashion, the idea that clothes are just for covering the body or following trends. We made fashion about connection, about wearing something that speaks to your soul.

Now my wishes for the next generation of professionals are that they never lose sight of the power of emotion in their work. Let them create with the heart, knowing that true beauty lies in the bond between the wearer and the worn.”

Theme: Emotional Durability and Conscious Consumption
Fostering Deep Connections with What We Wear

In a future-oriented fashion industry, emotional durability will be key. This means designing garments that resonate with consumers on a personal level, encouraging them to cherish and maintain their clothing for longer periods, reducing the need for constant consumption.

“As I approach the end of my career, I would like to reflect on the significant progress we have made.

As a global society, we have struck a delicate balance between local traditions and global collaboration. We have learned that the best way forward is to honor our roots while embracing the innovations of others. Each community thrives on its own terms, yet we are all connected in a global network of shared knowledge and resources.

As a fashion industry, we have returned to the essence of craftsmanship. The clothes we wear are made with care, using techniques passed down through generations, yet infused with the creativity and technology of the present. Each piece is a collaboration between the past and the future, the local and the global.

As a professional within the field, I have spent my career bridging these two worlds. I have worked with artisans from remote villages and tech innovators from bustling cities, bringing them together to create something truly unique.

The thing from my work life that stands out the most is the first time we created a garment that combined ancient weaving techniques with cutting-edge sustainable materials. It was a symbol of what we can achieve when we respect the old while embracing the new.

We overcame the disconnect between the local and the global, realizing that both have value and that the true power lies in their combination. We learned that fashion is not about choosing between tradition and innovation, but about finding harmony between the two.

Now my wishes for the next generation of professionals are that they continue to explore this harmony. Let them honor their heritage while remaining open to the ideas and innovations of others, knowing that the best future is one we build together.”

Theme: Local Empowerment and Global Responsibility
Balancing the Global with the Local

The future of fashion lies in striking a balance between global innovation and local empowerment. By supporting local artisans and sustainable practices, while also embracing global collaboration, the industry can create a harmonious and resilient supply chain.

“As I approach the end of my career, I would like to reflect on the significant progress we have made.

As a global society, we have finally found a way to merge the past and the future. Technology no longer threatens our traditions; instead, it enhances them, allowing us to preserve and even revive the skills and knowledge of our ancestors while pushing the boundaries of what is possible.

As a fashion industry, we have created garments that are not only technologically advanced but also deeply rooted in cultural heritage. The latest 3D-printed designs are crafted with the same care and attention to detail as handwoven textiles from centuries past.

As a professional within the field, I have been at the forefront of this revolution, blending the old with the new. My work has been about finding that perfect balance between innovation and tradition, creating pieces that are both futuristic and timeless.

The thing from my work life that stands out the most is the moment we successfully integrated AI-driven design with indigenous craftsmanship. It was a turning point, a demonstration that technology and tradition can coexist, each enhancing the other.

We overcame the fear that technology would erase our cultural identity, proving instead that it can be a tool to preserve and celebrate it. We learned that progress does not mean abandoning the past but building upon it.

Now my wishes for the next generation of professionals are that they continue to explore this synergy. Let them use technology as a means to honor tradition, and tradition as a guide to humanize technology, creating a future that respects and elevates both.”

Theme: Technology Integration and Cultural Preservation
Merging the Old with the New

The future fashion industry must blend technological advancements with cultural preservation. This synergy can lead to innovative designs that honor tradition while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

“As I approach the end of my career, I would like to reflect on the significant progress we have made.

As a global society, we have finally prioritized people over profit. We have dismantled the systems of exploitation that once plagued our industries, ensuring that every worker is treated with dignity and respect. Fair wages, safe working conditions, and humane treatment are no longer goals but realities.

As a fashion industry, we have committed to ethical production practices. Every garment is made with transparency, from the sourcing of materials to the final stitch. We no longer turn a blind eye to the suffering behind our clothes; we ensure that every hand that touches them does so willingly and fairly.

As a professional within the field, I have been dedicated to advocating for these changes. My work has not just been about creating beautiful garments but about creating a better world for those who make them.

The thing from my work life that stands out the most is the day we signed the global accord for fair labor practices. It was a monumental step, a commitment from the entire industry to do better, to be better.

We overcame the greed and apathy that once dominated our field, realizing that fashion should not come at the cost of human suffering. We learned that true luxury is not about exclusivity but about inclusivity, ensuring that everyone involved in the process benefits.

Now my wishes for the next generation of professionals are that they never lose sight of this responsibility. Let them continue to fight for social justice and ethical production, knowing that fashion can be a force for good in the world.”

Theme: Ethical Production and Social Justice
Putting People First

A sustainable fashion industry prioritizes the well-being of all workers involved in the production process. This includes ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and ethical labor practices across the supply chain.

“As I approach the end of my career, I would like to reflect on the significant progress we have made.

As a global society, we have faced countless challenges, from climate crises to pandemics, and yet we have emerged stronger and more resilient. We have learned to adapt, to innovate, and to thrive in the face of adversity.

As a fashion industry, we have become leaders in resilience. Our garments are designed not just to be beautiful but to withstand the tests of time and circumstance. We have created clothing that adapts to the needs of the wearer, responding to changes in the environment, lifestyle, and society.

As a professional within the field, I have been driven by the belief that fashion should not be disposable. My designs have focused on durability, versatility, and sustainability, ensuring that they remain relevant and useful no matter what the future holds.

The thing from my work life that stands out the most is the development of adaptive clothing that could change its form and function in response to the wearer’s environment. It was a breakthrough that redefined what fashion could be – not just a statement, but a solution.

We overcame the short-sightedness of fast fashion, realizing that in a world of constant change, resilience is the true measure of value. We learned that fashion must evolve with us, serving not just our aesthetic desires but our practical needs.

Now my wishes for the next generation of professionals are that they continue to innovate with resilience in mind. Let them create for the future, knowing that the world is unpredictable, and that the best designs are those that can adapt and endure.”

Theme: Resilience and Adaptability
Fashioning a Future That Can Withstand Crises

The fashion industry must become resilient to adapt to global challenges such as climate change, economic shifts, and societal changes. This involves designing clothing that is versatile, durable, and responsive to changing conditions.

“As I approach the end of my career, I would like to reflect on the significant progress we have made.

As a global society, we have come to value creativity over conformity. Art has reclaimed its place as the heart of culture, and fashion, as one of its most visible forms, has become a medium for personal expression rather than mass production.

As a fashion industry, we have moved away from trends and toward individuality. The clothes we create are no longer dictated by seasonal fads but by the unique visions of the designers and the personal tastes of the wearers. Fashion has become an art form, a canvas for self-expression.

As a professional within the field, I have dedicated myself to pushing the boundaries of what fashion can be. My designs have been bold, unconventional, and unapologetically artistic. They have challenged norms and invited people to see clothing as a form of personal and artistic expression.

The thing from my work life that stands out the most is the moment I saw someone wearing one of my most avant-garde pieces in their everyday life. It was a reminder that fashion, when it is true to its artistic roots, can transcend the runway and become a part of who we are.

We overcame the homogenization of fashion, realizing that true creativity cannot be boxed into trends or seasons. We learned that fashion, like any art, should be about expressing who we are, not about fitting in.

Now my wishes for the next generation of professionals are that they continue to push the boundaries of creativity. Let them see fashion as a form of art, and let their work be a reflection of the unique and diverse voices that make up our world.”

Theme: Creativity and Artistic Expression
Liberating Fashion from the Constraints of Mass Production

In a sustainable future, fashion will return to its roots as an art form. Creativity will be prioritized over mass production, encouraging unique, personalized, and artistic expressions through clothing.

“As I approach the end of my career, I would like to reflect on the significant progress we have made.

As a global society, we have rediscovered the importance of community. We have learned that our greatest achievements come not from individual efforts but from collective action. The power of collaboration has reshaped every industry, including fashion.

As a fashion industry, we have moved away from competition and toward cooperation. Designers, artisans, and consumers now work together to create garments that reflect a shared vision. The process of making clothes has become a communal effort, with everyone involved in the journey from concept to creation.

As a professional within the field, I have been committed to fostering these collaborations. My projects have brought together people from all walks of life, each contributing their unique skills and perspectives. The result has been clothing that is not just beautiful but meaningful, created by many hands with one purpose.

The thing from my work life that stands out the most is the first time I participated in a collaborative design project with artisans from around the world. It was a humbling experience, realizing that fashion could be a bridge between cultures, a way to unite rather than divide.

We overcame the isolation and competition that once defined our industry, realizing that we are stronger together. We learned that collaboration is not just about working with others, but about building a community where everyone has a voice and a role to play.

Now my wishes for the next generation of professionals are that they continue to embrace collaboration. Let them see the value in working together, knowing that the future of fashion lies in our ability to unite our talents and efforts for a common good.”

Theme: Community Building and Collaborative Efforts
Fashion as a Tool for Strengthening Bonds

A sustainable fashion industry is one that builds and strengthens communities. By fostering collaboration and collective creativity, the industry can become a force for unity and positive change.

“As I approach the end of my career, I would like to reflect on the significant progress we have made.

As a global society, we have finally learned to think beyond the present. We have realized that our actions today shape the world of tomorrow, and we have taken responsibility for the legacy we leave behind. Our decisions are guided not just by immediate needs but by a vision for a better future.

As a fashion industry, we have embraced this long-term perspective. Every garment we create is designed with the future in mind, considering its impact on the environment, society, and culture. We are no longer focused on fleeting trends but on creating a lasting legacy that future generations will be proud of.

As a professional within the field, I have spent my career thinking about the long-term impact of my work. My designs have been created not just for today but for tomorrow, with a focus on sustainability, durability, and cultural significance.

The thing from my work life that stands out the most is the day I visited a museum and saw one of my early designs on display, not as a relic of the past, but as a symbol of the future we were building. It was a moment of realization that our work is not just about making clothes but about shaping history.

We overcame the short-sightedness of fast fashion, realizing that the choices we make today will echo through the ages. We learned that our legacy is not just in the garments we create, but in the world we leave behind.

Now my wishes for the next generation of professionals are that they continue to think long-term. Let them create with the future in mind, knowing that their work will become part of the legacy we all share.”

Theme: Future Vision and Legacy
Creating a Fashion Industry That Endures

Sustainability in fashion requires a long-term perspective, focusing on the legacy that today’s actions will leave for future generations. The industry must prioritize practices that ensure its impact is positive and enduring.

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