What parts of fashion’s problems can innovation solve, and what parts require us to rethink our own behavior?
In this episode of Trash(ed), we sit down with Dr. Jessica Ciarla, a design educator and sustainability researcher at The University of Texas at Austin whose career has taken her from running a couture bridal business in New York to developing innovative alternatives to conventional fashion materials. Jessica shares how becoming a mother changed the questions she was asking about clothing, textiles, and the products we bring into our homes, ultimately inspiring her to focus on sustainability research.
From biodegradable sequins inspired by a challenge from fashion pioneer Stella McCartney to emerging biomaterials and the future of circular fashion, we explore how innovation can reshape what we wear. Together, we discuss trends, advertising, identity, and belonging, why fashion consumption can be so difficult to change, and what it will take to build a more sustainable relationship with clothing.
