Circular Thinking in Fashion Accessories Design: From Material Innovation to Product Lifecycle

Abstract

The fashion industry is increasingly challenged to adopt sustainable practices; however, discussions on circular economy have predominantly focused on apparel, leaving fashion accessories relatively underexplored. Despite their smaller scale, fashion acces sories involve complex material combinations and short product lifecycles, which present significant sustainability challenges. This study investigates how circular thinking can be systematically integrated into fashion accessories design by examining mate rial innovation and product lifecycle strategies. The research aims to: (1) analyze circular design principles as applied to fashion accessories, (2) examine material innovations suitable for circular accessories, including biomaterials and recycled materials, and (3) propose a comprehensive framework to support lifecycle -based circular design in accessories. A qualitative design research approach was employed, combining a systematic literature review with comparative case studies of contemporary fashion accessories brands that actively implement circular strategies. The selected cases were analyzed through a lifecycle lens, encompassing material sourcing, design development, production, use, and end-of-life stages. The findings reveal that effective circular accessories design relies on early -stage material selection, mono -material or modular construction, and design strategies that enhance durability, repairability, and emotional attachment. However, current practic es often address isolated stages of the lifecycle rather than adopting an integrated approach. In response, this study proposes a Circular Accessories Design Framework that synthesizes material innovation with lifecycle thinking to guide designers in making informed and sustainable design decisions. This research contributes to the expanding discourse on circular design by providing an accessories-specific framework that bridges theory and design practice. The proposed framework offers practical implications for designers, educators, and industry stak eholders seeking to advance sustainable innovation within the fashion accessories sector.