Sustainable Fashion Design Practices: An Analytical Study of Challenges and Opportunities in Emerging Economies

Abstract

Sustainable fashion design has emerged as a transformative approach to mitigating environmental degradation and fostering social equity within the global apparel sector. However, emerging economies face unique systemic, cultural, and economic barriers in adopting sustainable practices. This study analytically examines the challenges—including high production costs, limited consumer awareness, inadequate infrastructure—and the opportunities—such as rising eco-conscious demand, digital technologies, and circular economy models—affecting sustainable fashion in emerging markets. A mixed-method approach combines a systematic literature review with survey analysis from stakeholders in South Asia, Latin America, and Sub-Saharan Africa. Findings reveal that while sustainable fashion presents significant growth potential, its scalability is constrained by cost pressures, supply chain complexity, and unequal market access. Strategic interventions in policy, technology, and education are recommended to support resilient transition pathways.