Problem

Children are constantly, quickly growing, so they always need new clothing. This frequent need for new clothes can be expensive and time-consuming for parents. Additionally, the fashion industry is very harmful to the environment because it produces significant CO2 emissions, pollution, and waste. In this project, I explored the design of adjustable children’s clothing as a cost-effective and sustainable way to address these problems.

Process

I began this project by researching the adjustable children’s clothing already on the market, and interviewing parents about what kind of adjustable features they would like to see. Next, I sketched a wide variety of ideas inspired by this research, and then sewed samples to test different adjustment techniques. Using these techniques, I made sample garments and tested them on children so I could refine the garments’ fit and function. Finally, I created prototypes and technical sketches of my refined designs.

Solution

This project helps address the need for more sustainable and affordable children’s fashion through four adjustable garments: a pair of pants and a skirt with adjustable lengths to fit the child’s growing height, and two baby sleep sacks that transform into toddler’s pajamas—a romper and a nightgown—for when the baby outgrows the need for a sleep sack.