Sustainable consumption and practice theories: connecting elements of clothing sharing

Abstract

Changes in lifestyles and clothing consumption patterns as paths to a sustainable society defines sharing as one of the strategies of slow fashion. Through practice theories, this research explores materials, competences and meanings that make up the practice. Thus, we sought to identify how the elements and the dynamics of clothing sharing are configured. Using a qualitative case study, data were collected through observations, semi-structured interviews (individual and group), and a focus group carried out with practitioners and providers of a collaborative store. Our results revealed that: (a) for practitioners, the practice of sharing means exclusivity, economy, and sustainable consumption; (b) for providers, the practice is linked to a conscious consumption as an opportunity for more sustainable business, including financially (c) and different materials guide the practice of sharing clothes. The elements of clothing sharing are similar between practitioners and providers; therefore, they indicate the effectiveness of the practice, in addition to pursuing sustainable consumption. The research then contributes to the development of research on sustainable consumption once it identifies management practices aimed at the collaborative consumption of clothing.

Keywords:
Sustainable Consumption; Collaborative Consumption; Slow Fashion; Practice Theories; Clothing Sharing