How to Achieve Conscious Design in Fashion

Conscious Fashion Design Principles

Curious about Conscious Design- what it means and how can you implement it into your own design process? Check out our Conscious Design on-demand webinar. Listen in as we chat with Author and Entrepreneur Ian Peteraman, based on his book Conscious Design in which he breaks down the design process into 5 Key Pillars to achieve Consciousness in design.

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When designing a new item, fundamental elements are usually taken into account: shape or silhouette, line, color, and texture. As the industry grows more conscious of our environmental impact, a new element is added to the list: Consciousness.

So what is Conscious Design? What does that mean?

Conscious design is ethical, sustainable, organic, animal-friendly, or vegan. It is the idea of caring about where your fashion comes from, how much energy and resources went into them, and who made them. It's a process of respecting the planet and all those involved in creating said fashion. Yes, it's true that it's easier said than done; however, as we know from watching many brands achieve a conscious design goal, it is not impossible. The more companies, brands, and consumers start looking at the world (and design) more consciously, the better off our planet will be.

Ian Peterman's Book Conscious Design

Author of the book "Conscious Design," Ian Peterman says there are five pillars of conscious design:

1. Observation

2. Impact

3. Connection

4. Inclusion

5. Legacy

Incorporating these five pillars into the design, brands, and products they produce will help restore and sustain our planet. That is a big enough "why" in our minds, but let's go deeper into the pillars and give you more reasons to use this philosophy.

On-Demand Lesson: Watch here

Ian Peterman

1. Observation

Being conscious involves observing. By dedicating time to observe, we enhance our understanding of what we perceive through sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell. Increased observation leads to a deeper comprehension of the details. Consequently, the more you observe the topic, the more consciously you will design.

In design, you don't simply put something on paper and proceed with it. You evaluate how the design will function as a whole, including materials, manufacturing, and shipping. To determine its success, you invest time in contemplation, brainstorming, research, and understanding the process and its impact on your business and customers. By dedicating time to assess how your designs influence the world's well-being, the benefits you receive surpass those of any product hastily placed on the shelf.

Factory

2. Impact

Regrettably, it's quite typical for companies to overlook the overall impact of a product. Many adopt the mindset of releasing the product as inexpensively and swiftly as possible to meet deadlines and sales goals, While it's impossible to fully understand the product's impact before it reaches the public, maintaining awareness throughout the entire process can significantly influence its effect on the world.

Whatever you create will have an effect. Most creators are aware of how their designs will affect their consumers, as they tailor products for their target audience. However, we may not be aware of both the immediate or longer term effects. What about the effects of the materials used and the working conditions? The impact of your design and product is your responsibility.

Group of women enjoying company

3. Connection

To connect is to join together, to provide access and communication. All designs connect one thing to another, one human to another, and how it connects the two is essential when thinking consciously. It's no coincidence that when we use an eco-friendly, ethical, or animal-friendly product, we feel better about our experience. A product that is consciously designed to support the systems of our world and not break them down connects us to not just the product itself but the result of the product's impact.

4. Inclusion

This principle emphasizes the importance of considering all stakeholders in the design process, not just the end-users or consumers. By integrating Inclusion, designers and entrepreneurs can create products and brands that are accessible, ethical, and beneficial to a diverse range of people, regardless of their background or abilities. It encourages designers to think beyond their immediate target market and consider the broader social and environmental implications of their work. Inclusion also extends to the manufacturing and production process, ensuring fair and ethical practices throughout the supply chain. By prioritizing Inclusion, designers contribute to a more sustainable, socially responsible industry that fosters positive change and creates meaningful impact in the world.

What Legacy will you leave?

5. Legacy

Consider the possibilities you can unlock by dedicating time to these steps before your begin creating . By beginning with these five pillars and intentionally integrating them into the core of your design process, you will create more thoughtfully designed products, leading to a brighter future for your company, your consumers, and our world.

"Legacy branding means you have considered and designed the impact your mission and values will have on future generations. It will also make you think about what you want to leave behind for your family, community, country, and even the planet". Ian Peterman, Conscious Design

I thought about leaving a legacy, but I hadn't considered achieving it through my design work. This is my favorite insight from Peterman's book, Conscious Design. Designing with awareness naturally results in a positive influence on people, the planet, and profits, creating a lasting brand and a legacy to be proud of.

Model in Sustainable Dress

About: Join us for an exclusive webinar featuring Ian Peterman, a leader in conscious design thinking, where he will share groundbreaking methods from his book Conscious Design, podcast, and public appearances. Ian’s innovative approach prioritizes restorative, sustainable, and inclusive values to build a legacy of positive impact for his clients’ brands. His work presents an exciting and rewarding vision for the future of ethical business.

As a Senior Fellow at Nexus Council and Chapter Chair for IDSA LA, as well as the founder of the Peterman Design Firm,, Ian has guided countless brands toward sustainable success. He is also the co-founder of Odin Materials, a startup focused on developing eco-friendly materials, including innovative applications of hemp fiber for industrial use. Through his firm, Ian specializes in developing and commercializing products, while also offering branding and marketing support that aligns with his clients' conscious missions.

Ian’s passion for circularity extends through his work as the founder and board member of the Conscious DesignHaus, a collaborative space uniting businesses and industry leaders committed to bringing circularity to the global economy. Together, they aim to create a circular society that supports sustainability across every industry.

During this webinar, Ian will discuss his approach to “Conscious Design”  and how you can apply it to fashion. Viewers will explore the principles of Observation, Connection, Impact, Inclusion and Legacy, learning how to integrate these concepts into their creative process. Implementing “Conscious Design Principles” will empower you to craft products that are both aesthetically pleasing and environmentally responsible, attracting mindful consumers and contributing to a more sustainable fashion industry.

Key Takeaways:

- Learn how to incorporate conscious design principles into your fashion design process.

- Understand the importance of creating a lasting, positive impact through your brand.

- Gain insights into building strategies that align with sustainable and inclusive values.

- Explore the future of sustainable fashion and how it can contribute to a circular economy.

Whether you're a seasoned designer or a fashion enthusiast, this webinar will provide you with valuable knowledge and tools to implement conscious design and build a brand with a purpose.

Don't miss this opportunity to learn from a leader in the conscious design movement.

Thank you for reading today- I hope these Conscious Design Pillars inspire you to think differently in areas you may have not considered previously. We welcome all into our community. Subscribe today to keep up with all the latest news and happenings. Thank you for spending some time getting to know us, we value & appreciate you! We are stronger together!

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