Does Mass Customization Enable Sustainability in the Fashion Industry?

Abstract

Circular economy business models are based on the establishment of closed production systems where resources are kept on using for a longer period. Despite the strong desire and demand of the fashion industry to become circular, less is understood regarding the concepts and application of circular economy in the fashion business. This paper offers a holistic understanding about circular fashion, by synthesizing the literature to derive a comprehensive definition for circular fashion and providing a framework of strategies that facilitate the move from linear to circular fashion. Moreover, the barriers and enablers for the transition are discussed by consolidating different viewpoints. This analysis provides useful insights for the designers, researchers, businesses and innovators to support the transition towards circular economy in fashion.