The fashion industry is massive, influential and constantly changing. Consumer attitudes and priorities play a significant role in shaping this evolution, pushing designers and brands to stay ahead of the curve.
Today’s consumers care more than ever about sustainability and ethical manufacturing. Questions like, Where do my clothes come from? Who made them? What impact does their production have on the planet? are now shaping purchasing decisions.
Australian Gen Z consumers are increasingly valuing sustainability over brand names, with environmental concerns shaping their shopping habits. Studies show that 88% of Gen Z shoppers distrust sustainability claims from companies, highlighting the need for greater transparency.
Across all generations, willingness to pay for sustainable clothing has risen compared to previous years, indicating a broader cultural shift toward ethical consumption.
Fashion is a vast industry with countless roles and career opportunities. With a foundation in sustainable and ethical fashion, you could become a:
Fashion Designer: Create and grow your own sustainable fashion brand.
Textile Designer: Innovate new materials for use in the fashion industry.
Designer-Maker: Conceptualise and produce your own unique designs.
Production Manager: Oversee the manufacturing process with a focus on sustainability.
Sustainability Consultant: Guide brands towards more ethical and environmentally friendly practices.
Fashion Journalist: Advocate for change by shaping public and industry perspectives.
Design Assistant: Work with established brands to bring their collections to life.
At Collarts, we encourage our students to see these shifts in purchasing decisions and environmental impacts as opportunities to innovate rather than challenges to overcome
Fashion and Sustainability Program Leader Meg Parry says,
“Our program prepares students to be innovative, independent thinkers who champion social values throughout all stages of the fashion supply chain. With a growing need for adaptable professionals, there is a crucial space for sustainable fashion practitioners in the industry.”
Collarts ensures every graduate from the course leaves with key industry knowledge and a shared commitment to driving positive change.
“It’s a dynamic, innovative program that combines technical skill development with deep conceptual exploration. Students investigate key social and environmental issues, explore circular fashion systems, and experiment with innovative technologies and processes to shape the future of fashion,” explains Meg.
Our classes, led by seasoned industry professionals, give students hands-on experience with cutting-edge tools like CLO3D—a virtual garment visualisation software that builds design and manufacturing knowledge while reducing environmental impact. By minimising the need for physical samples and materials, you’ll learn how to create while reducing waste.
Real-world experience is another cornerstone of our program. You’ll gain industry insights through internships and partnerships with organisations like Ethical Clothing Australia, Textile Recyclers Australia, Thread Together and the Collingwood Library Clothing Swap. Our major partnership with Melbourne Fashion Week is also an incredible opportunity to work in industry and showcase your designs.
Ready to stand out in the fashion industry? Explore our Fashion courses and take the first step toward your future.