Assessment of user democratization in 2D to 3D garment assemblage
Abstract
This research study aimed to explore strategies for transformable clothing design to engage consumers in the design process, in turn, establish an awareness of sustainable fashion. The first goal of this design research was to create a 2D to 3D apparel design process that places agency in the hands of the user. The 2D to 3D apparel design in this research study was related to the transition of a 2D flat textile into a 3D garment. Therefore, the second goal of this research study was to evaluate the sense of control and connection between a user and a transformable garment. The primary purpose of this process was to investigate whether this involvement was tied to prolonged clothing lifespan. To achieve this goal, this study used the participatory design research method. The information received from the participatory design stage was combined with the researcher's tacit knowledge and the information found in literature about specific design strategies for a 2D to a 3D process to develop the final designs. This study's findings support the underlying argument of democratization, which suggests that design democratization is achieved when designers involve consumers in the final stages of the garment-making process. Democratization can provide the users with a simple hands-on activity and a sense of satisfaction
Degree
Ph. D.