Author Date

2026-03-05

Degree Name

Department

Family Life

College

Family, Home, and Social Sciences

Defense Date

2026-01-28

Publication Date

2026-03-05

First Faculty Advisor

Natalie Hancock

First Faculty Reader

Amber Williams

Honors Coordinator

Jocelyn Wikle

Keywords

Sustainable, Denim, Textiles, Fast Fashion, Circular Economy, Environmental Impact

Abstract

This literature review and recommendation report was created in order to compile the current research surrounding sustainable fashion, denim textiles, and textile waste. The review is focused on the current state of the fashion industry, specifically with denim textiles. Denim is a high-use fabric, known for its durability and versatility. However, with the rise of the fast fashion industry, in which textiles are being produced at a faster rate but at a lower quality, and denim is no longer being designed to last. There is limited research on how this shift in consumption patterns has impacted textile creation and the use of resources, and the research that has been conducted contains conflicting statistics and conclusions. This literature review attempts to synthesize the available information and put forth ideas for further research. It explores the possibilities for the implementation of a circular economy and discusses what an effective circular economy looks like. It delves into the environmental impact of the denim industry, including water and chemical usage as well as sustainability efforts made throughout the supply chain and potential consumer actions.