Developing a typology of sustainable apparel consumer: An application of grounded theory
- UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
- Elena Karpova, Putman & Hayes Distinguished Professor (Creator)
- Institution
- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
- Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
Abstract: The purpose of the study was to develop a data-driven typology to explain sustainable apparel consumers’ orientations towards clothing acquisition and use. Using grounded theory, we analyzed comments of New York Times readers to a sustainability-focused article and identified the two core constructs that allowed for a systematic and effective classification of sustainable apparel consumers: (1) importance of personal appearance and (2) willingness and/or ability to pay for clothing. The typology was developed based on the discourses of several hundred people’s comments to share and encourage sustainable practices for acquiring and using clothes. As a result of applying the two constructs to the data, four groups of sustainable apparel consumers were established: classy affluents, chic thrifters, functional minimalists, and austeritics. The paper outlines each group’s unique apparel needs and priorities that manifest in everyday practices.
Developing a typology of sustainable apparel consumer: An application of grounded theory
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Created on 1/16/2024
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Additional Information
- Publication
- of Global Fashion Marketing
- Language: English
- Date: 2023
- Keywords
- sustainable apparel consumer, affluent, thrifter, fashion sustainability, sustainable consumption typology