Implementation of a Sustainable Apparel Design Framework for Felted Women’s Garments Made of Local Wool

Abstract Over the last decade, the issues of sustainability have gained significance in the fashion industry throughout the supply chain and more fashion brands are now considering sustainable materials and practices. The purpose of this research was to implement a Cradle to Cradle sustainable Apparel Design framework (C2CAD) by creating felted garments made of underexploited natural material (organic domestic wool) and evaluate the acceptability of the product from consumers’ perspectives. The study procedures consist of two main stages – product development and the evaluation of the garments’ acceptability. In the first stage, a C2CAD comprehensive framework was adopted, tested, and validated in four main steps: (a) making felt fabric samples from different types of domestic wool fibers that usually go to waste in Saudi Arabia, (b) experimenting with natural dyes, (c) developing the pattern digitally via computer-aided design (CAD), and (d) felting the final product. The study provides an application of using natural fiber unblended with others to create a sustainable design to increase its recyclability. In the second stage, 157 Saudi female consumers tried on two garments and evaluated them. Consumers found the organic wool to be acceptable for fashion products, with reduced thickness and monochromatic garments being favored characteristics. The results show the suitability of using the unblended organic wool to make women’s garments with variations in color and thickness. They also present valuable insight for fashion designers to use biobased materials and an under-exploited local resource to help the fashion industry depend less on non-renewable fiber sources and reduce its environmental impact.