“During the fall of 2021, I took KSU’s Sustainable Fashion & Color course. This class gave a glimpse into diverse ways designers can help reduce specific environmental, ethical, and/or social impacts associated with the production, use, and disposal of a product, as well as coloration strategies, systems, and standards. One of our projects during this course was to create a zero-waste garment to minimize as much waste as possible during the production process. The first step is to pick out what material you are going to use and figure out the dimensions you are working with. For my fabric, I picked a deadstock fabric that KState's Alumni at Puma had donated for the fashion program. From there, I carefully articulated and visualized on paper how I could map out the garment to get the result that I desired. With leftover scraps, there is always an accessory to be made, so I chose to make a bag. The hardest but most satisfying challenge is visualizing what the garment will look like without touching a piece of fabric, but the result will always be unique and personal.”

— Darbi Rice