By Madison Duddy By Madison Duddy | January 31, 2025 | Feature, Art,
Explore the interconnections between fashion and nature at The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University’s newest exhibit.
Attendees can explore a variety of pieces at the exhibit, from this reusable cotton tote bag by Anya Hindmarch to a Hubert de Givenchy gown worn by Her Serene Highness, Princess Grace of Monaco.
The fallout of fast fashion is no secret, and its impact on nature feels personal. Since its inception, the fashion industry has found inspiration in the natural world, but mass production is damaging land, air, water and human rights. The Ecology of Fashion—a collaboration between The Academy of Natural Sciences (ansp.org) and the Robert and Penny Fox Historic Costume Collection (FHCC) of the Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts & Design—explores the history and future of this relationship through impactful works and pieces by designers like Givenchy and Oscar de la Renta. Here, curators Marina McDougall and Clare Sauro offer deeper insight into the exhibit, open through Aug. 31.
What was the inspiration for the exhibit?
MM: We realized we could illuminate the complex challenges behind fashion and sustainability by bringing together two major Drexel collections. We hope to generate greater awareness about the impacts of the contemporary garment industry on the environment to inspire change.
How does this exhibit show nature’s impact on fashion?
MM: The exhibition takes visitors through a series of vignettes that vividly explore the relationship between fashion and the environment. We were interested in grounding the exhibition experience in the materiality of clothing and reconnecting visitors to agricultural processes.
How does the exhibit touch on sustainability?
MM: At the heart of the challenge to sustainability are the alarming rates of production and consumption generated by fast fashion and ultra-fast fashion. At the center of the exhibition is the “Change” section, where visitors can participate in hands-on workshops, and we provide information on how we each can make a difference.
What is your favorite piece in the exhibit?
CS: My favorite may be the denim ensemble from the Nigerian designer NKWO, which is crafted from discarded textile waste—specifically denim—from Western fashion companies. The ensemble is a very stylish commentary on the practice of dumping fashion waste in countries like Chile and Nigeria.
What do you hope viewers will take from the exhibit?
CS: Hope! This is conveyed through the objects on display, such as the mycelium leather and bioplastics, but also through the practical suggestions in the labels, such as repairing and re-wearing items in your wardrobe instead of buying new ones. We want visitors to leave the exhibition with a plan to make a difference that works for them.
Photography by: RAMON TORRES/ANS