A blog from the University of Borås

Friday, 31 May 2024

Logistics Intern 3/3

 Hi! 


As my last week as a logistics intern has just passed, I would like to assign this post to summarize my experiences during these past ten weeks. 


Since a couple of years back I have worked within logistics during the summers, and I therefore had an image in my mind of how the processes at my internship company would be like in general terms. However, I quickly realized how different the task of supplying products to customers can be depending on the company and which industry it operates in. From my experiences, I believe that logistics within the fashion industry differs from many other industries, due to it being highly dependent on both seasons and offshoring production to the east. This combination creates an additional need for speed within the logistic operations, since the time frame from when purchasing a new collection from the manufacturer to it being delivered to the customers need to be as short as possible. 


Furthermore, supplying to B2C customers was a new experience for me, and something that has really made an impact on me is how much resources the handling of returns require. When returns are free and easily accessible as a consumer it is easy to not think twice before placing an order with items you are not 100% sure of, however, the work behind the scenes when sending a return are major and causing both additional emissions and costs for the retailer. I believe that this is something that consumers need to become more aware of to achieve a more sustainable fashion industry in the future. 


Finally, it has been amazing to be a part of a workplace where everyone feel so passionated about their work and committed to the brand they represent. It really shows that standing for the right values as a company both attracts and remains amazing employees, which is necessary for long-term success. I am so thankful that I took the chance to be an intern during this course, and I highly recommend everyone everyone else who has the possibility to do the same.

Thursday, 30 May 2024

Days as a Garment Tech at GANT #2

Embarking on my journey as a garment tech intern at GANT has been an enriching and transformative experience. Over the past few weeks, I have had the opportunity to work closely with the youth and women's outerwear team, a dynamic and innovative group that has broadened my understanding of the fashion industry. One of the most exciting aspects of my internship has been my hands-on experience with CLO 3D, a revolutionary software that has significantly enhanced my skills and knowledge. CLO 3D has proven to be an invaluable tool, not just for me, but for the entire product development (PD) team. This cutting-edge technology allows us to create detailed and accurate 3D garment simulations, streamlining the design process and reducing the need for physical samples. Through my work with CLO 3D, I have learned how to visualize and adjust designs in real-time, making the process more efficient and collaborative. It has been fascinating to see how this software aids in achieving precise fits and finishes, ensuring that each piece meets GANT’s high standards of quality and style. Working with CLO 3D has also highlighted the importance of technology in modern fashion design. The ability to experiment with different fabrics, colors, and patterns digitally has opened up new creative possibilities and enhanced our ability to innovate. For the PD team, this means faster turnaround times and more sustainable practices, as we can make better decisions without the waste associated with traditional prototyping methods.

Friday, 24 May 2024

Exploring CLO 3D for Enhanced Digital Product Development (3/3)

Hey,

As our field study project on developing a self-learning module for CLO 3D in apparel design concludes, I would like to share the valuable lessons we've learned. Our first major takeaway was understanding the importance of tailoring the module to meet beginners' needs, ensuring it was both accessible and relevant. This focus on the target audience was complemented by the power of teamwork, where sharing tasks and supporting each other led to enhanced results and a more streamlined process. Embracing feedback from learners allowed us to view it as an opportunity for continuous growth, making significant improvements to the module. Integrating multimedia elements such as text, images, and videos made the content more engaging and catered to various learning styles, enhancing the overall learner experience. Overcoming technical challenges, like software compatibility and hardware limitations, underscored the need for preparation and creative problem-solving. Additionally, effective time management and planning were crucial in meeting deadlines and ensuring the project's success. This entire process has not only improved our instructional design skills but also highlighted the importance of adaptability and ongoing enhancement. We are grateful for the support and encouragement we received along the way and look forward to applying these lessons in future projects. Thank you, everyone!

 

Best regards,

Thilini

An unforgettable company trip

 

24.5.

Today, I want to share a bit about the company trip which I was extremely privileged to join in late April. To briefly explain the context of the trip: at the sustainable swimwear company where I work, we were creating a new collection of swimwear, which the founder wanted to do a photoshoot for. However, since the company is based in Helsinki, there were still no summer feelings, not even green trees in the city (it was still snowing in April). Therefore, a one-week company trip was booked to --- Italy!!

It was an extremely long process organizing the trip and finding locations where we could shoot. When the whole team — three employees, two interns, two models, and one photographer — finally arrived in Italy, it felt a little surreal. For me, being at a photoshoot that wasn't just in front of a white wall was a dream come true! This whole week was indeed a dream come true!

I learned a lot about being flexible when it comes to photoshoots since you have to keep an eye on the weather. Unfortunately, we were not too lucky with the weather and had to change our plans very often, so when the sun came out, everyone started to do their job and work as efficiently and quickly as possible. I was in charge of taking a lot of behind-the-scenes content from the photoshoot, which was a lot of fun! Seeing the photographer and models being extremely confident and in their element was super inspiring to me!

Now, being back in Helsinki, we are slowly starting to share the footage on our social media accounts, and it seems quite surreal that I was part of this experience and this new collection. Experiencing the whole process, from creating the pieces to finally sharing them with the customers, is exciting. At the moment, we are busy planning a launch event for the new collection in Helsinki and also starting a community project to offer weekly swims at the beach in the early mornings.

I am beyond grateful for experiencing such memorable things, and it is wonderful to see that the company is growing a lot this summer!

Summer has now finally arrived in Helsinki. I hope you're enjoying the warm weather too!

Kindly,

Hana Schwalbe

Interning at a sustainable swimwear company in Helsinki

  

3.5.24

At the end of March, I started my internship journey at a sustainable swimwear company in Helsinki, Finland. Despite our small team of five, including myself, I've been given the opportunity to immerse myself in every facet of the brand. This comprehensive exposure has proven to be extremely beneficial for my professional growth.

In my initial weeks, I used various software systems of the company and operational workflows. As the marketing intern, my responsibilities include various tasks, from curating engaging social media content to organizing collaborations with influencers and assisting in event coordination.

Drawing upon my expertise in social media, I took the initiative to expand the company's network of influencers, leveraging my connections to establish partnerships through barter deals. This experience into influencer marketing has been a learning for me, offering insights and expanding my skills in ways I hadn't previously encountered.

Additionally, I've been entrusted with integrating behind-the-scenes content into our social media channels, with a focus on Instagram. While I create spontaneous content on my personal platforms, the structured approach required in a professional setting presents a challenge. Encouraging team members to participate in front of the camera has been particularly rewarding, albeit time-consuming.

Planning content creation sessions, complete with considerations for lighting, audio quality, and wardrobe variations, has underscored the importance of planning and adaptability. The dynamic nature of the small company has further emphasized the need for flexibility, as we navigate through spontaneous changes and unexpected opportunities that arise.

Each day presents new possibilities and challenges. I really appreciate the company's ever changing daily rhythm and the constant change, which makes me feel like we are always on the move. I will share more about my enriching experiences, including an unforgettable company trip, in the upcoming blog.

Best regards,

Hana Schwalbe


Tuesday, 21 May 2024

Entrepreneurship Programm 3/3

Hello everyone!

I hope you're all enjoying the first summer days to the fullest! :)

Time is flying, and I'm excited to hear about all your experiences during your field study.

Recently, I've shifted my focus from developing my business idea to the research I’m currently working on. As I mentioned in my last blog post, I'm planning to create a concept café/store where emerging designers can rent space to showcase their first collections. I also shared my "why" in the first blog post: I want to make a difference in the lives of young artists and designers, to make them feel seen and heard, and to encourage them. This inspired me to write my final report on "Exploring the Influence of Customer Experience on the Success of Emerging Designers in the Fashion Industry."

To gather insights, I conducted qualitative interviews with four emerging designers at various stages of their careers. These interviews were invaluable for understanding their experiences, feelings, perceptions, and the challenges they face. This helped me assess the need for my business idea and whether designers and artists would see potential in it.

In the coming weeks, I'll be further analyzing these needs and working on creating a Minimum Viable Product (MVP). I'm considering hosting a pop-up store in Gothenburg for a weekend, collaborating with a coffee seller and some emerging designers — probably design graduates or creative friends—who would be willing to test this approach. So if you know someone who would be interested in that, feel free to reach out to me :)

Finally, I am a bit sad that this time already comes to an end and I am pretty sure that I want to continue the work with Drivhuset as they are really helpful and experienced in what they do!

Let's see what the next time holds!

Enjoy the Summer!

Kristin


Sustainability Intern 3/3

 Hello everyone!!

As my internship is coming to an end, I find myself experiencing a mix of emotions. This time has been incredibly educational and fun, but it has flown by quickly. It feels a bit strange to be leaving now, but at the same time I am very thrilled because it means summer is just around the corner!

In the recent weeks, we have been focusing on the assessment of the identified impacts, risks and opportunities. It has been interesting to delve into the various performance measurements and get a grip of how broad the scope of the reporting will be. It is a game changer! Although there will be a few years of transition period as everyone adapts to these new regulations, I am optimistic that they will enhance transparency and traceability in the textile industry. During the internship, I have also participated in meetings with companies that offer different digital solutions to support this development. Learning about the crucial connection between IT and sustainability has been exciting. 

Have a great summer! :)

Olivia Svensson


Monday, 20 May 2024

Building a sustainable fashion community (2/3)

 

Hi everyone!


With my last post, I told you how I am trying to make sustainable fashion a more light-hearted and inspiring topic by creating a space where people can come together for interactive workshops, talks, and events. I went back home to the Netherlands to interview my target audience to get a better understanding of their views on this topic. 


The last weeks, I have been busy transcribing these conversations and gathering initial insights. This is when I found out that transcription programs are clearly trained in English and that transcribing Dutch interviews will reveal some very interesting and creative results. So a pro tip for all of you who are planning on doing interviews in the future… English is the way to go ;) !


The initial analysis of the conversations showed some interesting insights, however! The type of role that fashion plays in the participant’s life seems to have a big influence on how they view and address sustainability in fashion. Moreover, I learned that how sustainability is prioritized does not only differ per consumer, but also per clothing item and per scenario. I had read before how there is a disconnect between people’s principles related to sustainability and their actual consumer behavior. Interestingly, some of the participants shared more insights into their thought process when it comes to purchasing new clothing items, shedding light on where this disconnect may come from. 


Through this initial analysis, I was able to identify my themes; The value of fashion, Views on sustainability in fashion, Knowledge and awareness of sustainability, Barriers and improvement.


I am excited to delve deeper into the analysis and answer the following questions!:

  • How are different people looking at the role of fashion in their life?

  • How do these different personas view sustainability?

  • What topics are considered by Dutch consumers and where do they learn?

  • What challenges do people face while learning about, or engaging in, sustainable fashion?



Cheers, Hanne


Design Process in the Automotive Industry 3/3

 Hello everyone!

2 weeks left of this internship and my last blog post, let's gooo!

I've had such an amazing time here at Lynk & Co and the colleagues have been so nice and welcoming. But, as with all things, this to must come to an end. In this last blog post, I will try to summarize what I've been up to and try to get a grip of this whole experience.  

So, without further ado, let's get into this!

I've done 2 major projects for the company, which both delve deeper into the importance of storytelling. Not just for marketing and communication, but more particular for design aspects and principles and how to foster cohesive a design structure, a “guiding light” amongst departments. these projects have tugged my intellectual strands in all kinds of directions, from trying to define the most abstract phrasings into physical form. To becoming completely lost in studies, exploring the differences of Chinese and European communication strategies regarding sustainability. However, looking back at the immense learning experience this has been, I wouldn't have wanted it any other way.

I've learned a lot about what the future might hold for the automotive industry, and what challenges and opportunities it may bring. And even though I cannot tell you much, I can say this. The future's looking bright for the Automotive sector in China and the European market have a Herculean task catching up with what is about to come. 

The work and insights I've provided for the company has been well received, and I will now partake in the very un-Swedish act of bragging. I did good, very good, and some ideas I provided has already starting to be conceptualized into the companies storytelling device moving forward. 

In conclusion, this was fun, I'm happy, the sun is shining, hopefully you're happy, now I'm heading out to get some ice-cream.

Have a great summer and see you guys in September!

With smiles and regards,

Karl Sedeborn Holst

Days as a Garment Tech at GANT #1

Embarking on my journey as a Garment Tech intern at GANT has been an incredibly enriching experience, blending technical precision with creative collaboration. From the moment I joined the team, I found myself immersed in a dynamic environment, working closely with both the product developer and designer. This synergy was pivotal in ensuring that each garment not only met our high standards but also resonated with the brand’s aesthetic.

One of my core responsibilities is measuring samples meticulously. This task, while seemingly straightforward, required a keen eye for detail and a thorough understanding of the design specifications. Each measurement had to be accurate to ensure that the final product would fit perfectly and maintain the integrity of the original design. After measuring the samples, I comment on them, highlighting any discrepancies or potential issues. These comments are crucial as they informed subsequent revisions and adjustments, ensuring the quality of the final product.

Updating the measurement lists is another critical aspect of my role. This involved keeping detailed records of all changes and adjustments made to the samples. These records served as a comprehensive reference for the team, facilitating smooth communication and decision-making processes. It was imperative that these updates were precise and timely, as they directly influenced production schedules and outcomes.

The process of creating new measurement lists following a handover from the designer was particularly exciting. During these handovers, I have the opportunity to gain insights into the designer's vision and the intricate details of new designs. Translating these creative concepts into technical specifications is a challenging yet rewarding task. 

Throughout my internship, I am constantly learning and evolving. The hands-on experience at GANT has significantly enhanced my skills in garment technology and product development. More importantly, it has given me a profound appreciation for the collaborative effort that goes into creating each piece of clothing. Every measurement, every comment, and every update is a step towards achieving perfection in fashion. My time at GANT has not only equipped me with valuable technical skills but also instilled a deep respect for the meticulous process that underpins the creation of high-quality garments.

Saturday, 18 May 2024

Exploring Fashion Ads 2/3

Exploring GSR and Eye-Tracking Technologies in Research

As part of my field study project, I've been diving into the fascinating world of physiological and behavioral data collection using advanced technologies. Here, I'll share my experiences and reflections on two key technologies: Galvanic Skin Response (GSR) and eye-tracking glasses.

GSR Technology: Challenges and Insights

Initially, I planned to use GSR technology in my research to measure changes in the electrical conductivity of the skin, which can indicate emotional responses. However, I quickly realized that GSR isn't suitable for short-term experiments. This technology excels at detecting changes over time, and if those changes are minimal, they barely register on the device. This makes it difficult to obtain meaningful data in short-duration experiments.

Additionally, GSR readings can be affected by variations in the participant's emotions and health, which need to be stabilized. However, some variations are inevitable and can't be fully controlled. Therefore, GSR is more effective for experiments involving sudden emotional changes or longer durations, like watching a movie, to gather valid data.

Eye-Tracking Glasses: Opportunities and Limitations

In another part of my research, I used eye-tracking glasses with participants viewing a set of prepared photos. The eye-tracking technology is incredibly interesting because it even captures details like the participant's iris. So you can see your own IRIS from different angles.

However, there are some limitations. Eye-tracking glasses are best suited for environments with a limited number of areas of interest or for identifying general patterns. In my case, I need to record the fixation time on each object and the sequence of looking across multiple objects. Analyzing data from eye-tracking glasses becomes quite complex with multiple sets of photos compared to just one set. And the challenge from different views and angles of participants made the analysis even more difficult.

Thursday, 16 May 2024

Marketing Intern (2/3)

Hi! Several weeks have now passed since the start of my marketing internship. I'm currently working on my second project, which involves developing a comprehensive plan for the company to offer custom-made jackets to its customers. My task is to develop the plan from start to finish. What will the concept look like? How much will it cost? How should we market this in the most effective way? This project is extremely interesting, and I'm really enjoying it. I have also spent time in the photo studio assisting with various tasks, which has been very engaging. Additionally, I helped out with two outlets in Stockholm that the company participated in. There isn't much time left before my internship ends and I move back to Gothenburg. In my next update, I'll share details about my final project and my experience visiting the headquarters in Åre.

Performance Marketing Intern #3

 Hi everybody!

This is going to be my last blog post. Time really does fly! 

As I mentioned in my last blog post, there has been some major changes to the B2C department here. Starting from last week, the digital marketing for US and Canada has been fully assigned to the local marketing agency. It's great to see the company is opening up every opportunity to optimize their digital marketing results. Hopefully the local marketing team will contribute even better sales!

That means there has also been a bit shifts for my daily work. I'm focusing on market research now for the online team here together with some assistance for my coworker with performance data. As the market research is going to be part of a background proof for development in every target country market, the information to seek is huge. I've tried to use Google as searching tool for almost two weeks, but the information was quite scattered. So I then tried different AI tools like GPT, research AI from Statista (we have access to premium as a student in Högskolan, remember to use that if you need!). The results are amazingly helpful. For example,  I could easily identify all big competitors in all target country, even with the ones that are not born there but receive great presence there. This experience also corresponds to my report on big data in international marketing!

It was also great to see this company keeps seeking for better customer experience and improvements. I observed my coworker’s jobs on modifying the trousers website with pop-ups. It is such an improvement for the difficulties that some people are not sure which kind of performance wear they need. In this pop up, customers get to fill in a survey where they can base on their gender, toughness of material required, functions, fit, and budget to help with the purchase decision. Previously, there was data showing the long time people stay on the trousers page, and low conversion on some expensive pairs, so this improvement will really help people to know better about the exact product to purchase. For companies that have many SKUs of products, this for sure is very helpful.

Last but not least, the passed months I've also trained more on my Svenska! As all my coworkers are Swedish, I listened to their conversations to train my listening during lunch, and also tried to embark with some conversations, had a few meetings in full Swedish 😆Buut it took me almost two months to fully get around with everybody in my team. So I can say it was definitely not the easiest thing to blend in a company full of Swedes. If I can give some words to international students who want to work in a Swedish company: don't give up when Swedes are a bit distant in the beginning, they are actually very nice, so give it a bit time!

Two more weeks to go. See you at the presentation time! Good luck to you all!


Ruiqi Pan


Monday, 13 May 2024

Production Internship 3/3

Hello everyone,

We're approaching the end of the internship, with only 3 weeks left until I move back home to Gothenburg. The past few weeks have been hectic with a heavy workload, but I'm slowly but surely starting to feel like a part of the team and not just the "new intern" anymore. With more responsibility, I feel more independent, which has allowed me to grow and learn so much. I'm becoming increasingly fascinated by Fjällräven as a company, and I feel that I'm gaining more trust from the people in my team. Recently, my tasks have involved analyzing a variety of products, ensuring they meet the standards for bulk production, reviewing current methods to streamline our processes, and how we work with production, productivity, sustainability, and strategies. 

I hope everyone is doing well!

Tuesday, 7 May 2024

Entrepreneurship Programm 2/3

Hi everyone!

I hope you're all doing fantastic.

Since my last update, I've had the chance to reflect on the seminars I attended as part of my entrepreneurial program with Drivhuset at the end of April.

During the four seminars, we explored topics such as business models and utilized tools like the Business Model Canvas (BMC) to further develop our ideas. The most fascinating part was learning about financial structures and presenting our business ideas to a jury from Drivhuset. The feedback I received was incredibly valuable, making the business planning process feel more tangible and highlighting various options for financing and profitability.

Although the group was smaller than expected, which limited the diversity of business ideas, the seminar leaders compensated by sharing their own experiences and providing inspiring insights into the world of entrepreneurship.

To give you more insight into my business idea: I'm planning to support emerging designers by creating a physical space where they can expand their businesses and rent sections to showcase and sell their first collections and samples. By combining this with a café, I aim to offer an intimate shopping environment that fosters connections among creative peers, customers, and enthusiasts of fashion and art.

In the upcoming weeks, I'll be connecting with more young designers and creatives to better understand the challenges of the industry, explore ways to support them, and investigate how customer experiences in such an environment can boost emerging designers.

Until soon!

Kristin



Insights of the past weeks: Blogpost 3/3

Going into my second half of the internship at the Management Department of the company.

I find myself reflecting on insights gained over the past few weeks during this internship period. During these weeks I’ve worked with market research and consumer behaviors in different cultures. It has been a great opportunity to collaborate and learn from talented and experienced colleagues. Whether it has been meetings where brainstorming ideas for re-branding has been the focus or problem-solving in the face of unexpected challenges or how to work with sustainability related issues, teamwork has been crucial. Looking ahead, I'm excited to continue writing the report based on the knowledge, reflections and skills I've gained during my internship. I’ve also gotten aware of how important it is to take the opportunity to gain practical insights with an open mind in order to learn and grow within the industry.


Sunday, 5 May 2024

Exploring CLO 3D for Enhanced Digital Product Development (2/3)

Hey everyone,

I’m excited to share more details in my second blog post about my field study project. In my last post, I talked about how I learned CLO 3D software myself. Now, I'll share how my colleague and I developed self-learning materials for beginners.

Learning CLO 3D on my own was quite a journey, and it really helped me understand what beginners might struggle with. Working alongside my colleague, we brainstormed ways to make the learning process not just informative but also enjoyable. We wanted our module to be like a friendly guide, motivating learners to keep going even when things got tough.

We started by laying down the basics, making sure to explain everything in a simple and clear way. But one of the biggest challenges we faced was finding good learning materials and practice files. We realized that having access to these resources is crucial for effective learning for the learners. So, we made sure to include them in the module, giving learners the chance to practice what they’re learning.

In addition to text explanations, we also included visuals and videos. Why? Because we know that different people learn in different ways. Some people might find it easier to understand a concept when they see it visually, while others prefer watching a video demonstration. By including a variety of materials, we hope to make the learning experience as effective and enjoyable as possible.

To sum it up, our goal with this module is to make learning CLO 3D not just educational but also fun. We want to support beginners every step of the way and help them build confidence in their skills. So, whether you’re just starting out or looking to improve your CLO 3D expertise, we’ve got you covered!

Malucette Adventure 3/3

 Hello everyone, I hope you're all well!

The last few weeks have been very intense at Malucette. As I said in the last blog, MALUCETTE has moved to a new office, which is still very nice. I can do my personal project and my internship in the same environment, which is so nice.

Speaking of my internship. 

In the last week of April, I focused on CSR and CS (Customer Service).

- CSR:

I had a meeting with the manufacturer of MALUCETTE from Portugal, which was super nice, I'm still missing some information because the person I talked to was the middle woman: she's the link between MALUCETTE and the manufacturer. During this meeting I focused on 2 main topics

1. Discover the company Malucette has chosen to work with.

2. How to improve the relationship between MALUCETTE and the manufacturer.

I can't talk about the result because it's confidential, but it helped me a lot to understand the supply chain and how MALUCETTE works with it.

I also had a meeting with the manufacturer of MALUCETTE in Tunisia, I met the CSR manager who's also a salesman and works in human resources. At the same meeting I met another trainee, she's working in CSR. The meeting was very interesting in a way that we (she and I) prepared for this meeting together. So I skipped this part "1. Discovering the company Malucette has chosen to work with" and focused more on this part "2. How to improve the relationship between MALUCETTE and the manufacturing company". I still can't talk about the results, but I understood 100% MALUCETTE's supply chain, how the company works with its manufacturer.

I did a feedback to both CEO of MALUCETTE and we're going to work on supply chain together. I'll see what can be done directly and what can be improved in the future.

- CS:

I'm still calling customers, MALUCETTE is having stock problems, so 80% of my time is spent on customer service, trying to find out if they want to exchange products, get a refund or wait for MALUCETTE to get the stock back.

It's not fun every day because customers can be very rude because they can be very nice. 

In the first week of May,

 we had a big meeting in the intern, it was very necessary. MALUCETTE has been on a roll for over a month now and the team members, including myself, were overwhelmed by many things. 

We booked a whole day to talk and communicate with transparency. In a start-up like MALUCETTE, 7 members, the mood in the intern is very important. 

It's getting better now :)

This week I didn't work more on CSR and focused on customer service like last week. 

I also think I'm going to focus my internship on "How to set up a compensation policy at MALUCETTE".

I'm still thinking about it.

Have a good week everyone!


Logistics Intern 2/3

Hi again! 

Since I made my first post a couple of weeks ago, I have been exploring the world of transportations and hauler management. As with the majority of fashion brands, my internship company does not own any own vehicles and all transportations are outsourced to different haulers depending on where the customer is located, if it is a B2B or a B2C customer, the volume of the shipment, and so on. Since the transportation industry is continuously changing with new innovations and new actors on the market current contracts needs to be continuously overlooked in order to evaluate if more efficient solutions are available. 

The past week, I have been looking into our possibilities of expanding the use of electrical trucks and analyzing which destinations this would be a good solution for. This has been a really interesting investigation, since there is more parameters to consider when it comes to electrical trucks compared to the "old school" ones. Access to loading stations is one parameter since that is still not available everywhere. Therefore, it is not obvious that closer destinations is a better fit than destinations further away since the efficiency of having fully electrical routs is highly dependent on that there is loading stations along the way- which is not always the case. Nevertheless, it feels really hopeful that we are moving towards a less polluting transportation industry and that both haulers and contractees are invested in its development so that we together can create a more sustainable future. 

Friday, 3 May 2024

Building a sustainable fashion community (1/3)

 Hi everyone! 


It has been a while since we all embarked on our own individual adventures. For some time I have had a business idea in the back of my mind. Slowly but surely taking shape. Therefore, I decided to start taking it seriously by dedicating my field study to developing it further with the help of Drivhuset. 


For a couple of years, I have been a sustainable fashion enthusiast both personally and professionally. What I have noticed over time is that a lot of people are interested in learning how to enjoy fashion sustainably, but often don´t know where to start as there is a lot of misleading information out there. People have expressed that they feel overwhelmed and demotivated after hearing all the negative stories. Therefore, I decided to make it my mission to bring joy and inspiration back into sustainable fashion by making it a more accessible and light-hearted topic. I want to do this through organizing frequent inspiring workshops, events, lectures and discussions, blending the academic, professional and consumer.

 

The past weeks I have been refining my idea. Who is my target audience? What value can I bring? And how can I make such a social initiative profitable? Drivhuset has provided invaluable guidance in approaching these questions. Last week, the other entrepreneurship students and I finished a 4-day crash course in starting a business, gaining insights into researching the target market, competitors, branding, financing and pitching. It was great to have the opportunity to work with our ideas while getting real-time feedback from experts! 


Finally, I had the chance to go back to The Netherlands, my target market, to interview my potential target audience. I had very interesting conversations about their views on the topic! The upcoming weeks I am going analyse these conversations to better understand how young adult consumers consider sustainability in fashion and how it influences their consumer behavior. 


I am excited to share these new insights with you! 


Hanne