3-Way Transformable Knit Garment

Student Name : Beatriz Lopes

Mentor Name : MARIA ANA CAMOSSA

Company : ÁRVORE/LBT

Green Producer Diary

My Motivation

I was inspired to create a garment that adapts to the body and can be worn in different ways. I wanted to explore texture, elasticity, and versatility through knit fabrics. Sustainability is important to me because I chose natural and recycled materials, such as cotton and recycled knit, which make the garment biodegradable and reduce waste. I also wanted to create a unique piece that can adapt to different body types and last longer through its versatility.

My Vetrine Journey 

I began by researching and comparing different fabrics such as cotton, linen, recycled knit, and woven net. This helped me understand how materials and production methods influence texture, comfort, durability, and sustainability. I decided to work mainly with knit fabrics because they adapt better to the body and provide elasticity and versatility. During the construction process, I realized the garment could not function without fastenings, so I added them and made small adjustments. Another challenge was the weight of the garment, which turned out heavier than expected. I also added drawstrings so the piece could adapt better to different body areas and be worn in different ways. One of the most important outcomes was creating a garment that can be worn in three different ways, increasing its versatility and lifespan. Throughout the process, I focused on using natural materials, manual production, and designing a unique piece adaptable to different body types.

Sustainability Aspect

Your Actions / Explanation

Environmental

I used natural and recycled materials such as 100% cotton knit and recycled knit. These materials are biodegradable and reduce the need for new resources. The garment was also produced manually on a small scale, minimizing waste and environmental impact.

Social

The garment was developed with the support of my mentor and produced through a manual process. The design focuses on adaptability to different body types, making it more inclusive and accessible.

Financial

The garment is a unique piece that can be worn in three different ways, which increases its versatility and lifespan. This reduces the need to buy multiple garments and supports more conscious consumption.



A Message to Consumers

This garment was created to explore versatility, comfort, and sustainability. It is a unique piece made from natural and recycled materials and can be worn in three different ways. The design adapts to different body types, extending the life of the garment. Through this project, I wanted to show that creativity and sustainability can work together to create meaningful fashion.

A Message to Future Learners

Always consider the materials and the construction of your garment from the beginning of the design process. It is important to think about sustainability, durability, and how the piece can adapt to different body types. Be prepared to make changes during the process, because design rarely works exactly as planned. Each adjustment is part of learning and improving the final result.

Product Details

Product Name

3-Way Transformable Skirt

Reference / SKU

Color

Red (recycled knit), with neutral natural tones from cotton and linen fabrics

 

Size

Adaptable to different body types due to the elasticity of the knit fabric and adjustable drawstrings

Weight

Relatively heavy due to the amount of knit fabric used in the garment – 2kg/ 2.5kg

Quantity (if multi-pack)

1 prototype / unique handmade piece

Materials Information

Composition

Main fabric: 100% cotton knit (biodegradable)

 

Secondary fabric: Red recycled knit (repurposed material)

Complementary fabric: Beige linen (natural fiber)

Trims: Fastenings and drawstrings (for adjustability and multifunction use)

100% cotton knit fabric, cotton fabric, linen fabric, recycled knit fabric

Raw material – cotton fibre: used for 100% cotton knit fabric (logistics unit: fabric roll)

Fabric – recycled knit: red recycled knit fabric used for the garment (logistics unit: fabric roll)

Fabric – linen: beige linen fabric used as complementary material (logistics unit: fabric roll)

Trims – fastenings and drawstrings: added to adjust and make the garment wearable (logistics unit: small accessories batch)

Manufacturing & Supply Chain

1

Location

Portugal :: North region :: Porto

2

Date

Raw material sourcing: Jan 2026

Fabric preparation & knitting: Feb 2026

Prototype construction: Mar 2026

Adjustments & final piece: Mar 2026

3

Type of processes

Fabric cutting and pattern making

Manual sewing and stitching

Fabric manipulation for elasticity and fit

Adding fastenings and drawstrings

Quality control and final adjustments

supply chain map

  • Tier 4Raw material

  • Tier 3Material processing

  • Tier 2Component manufacturing

  • Tier 1Final assembly

Environmental & Social Impact

Recyclability: Yes, fabrics are natural fibers and biodegradable.

Microplastic impact: No synthetic fibers, so no microplastics released.

Certifications considered: None formally applied, but 100% cotton knit and linen are biodegradable and sustainable by origin.

 

100% cotton knit fabric, cotton fabric, linen fabric, recycled knit fabric

Care, Repair & Lifetime Extension

1

Care Instructions

Washing: Hand wash or gentle machine cycle with cold water to preserve fabric quality.

 

Drying: Air dry flat; avoid tumble drying to maintain shape and elasticity.

Maintenance: Iron on low heat if needed; store folded or hung to prevent creasing.

Additional tips: Avoid harsh detergents or bleach to protect natural fibers and colors.

2

Repair Information

Repairs: Small tears or loose seams can be hand-stitched using similar threads; replace fastenings if needed.

Component replacement: Modular elements (like drawstrings or removable panels) can be swapped to extend garment life.

Eco-friendly disposal: When the garment reaches end-of-life, separate natural fibers for composting or recycling; avoid sending to landfill.

Upcycling: Fabric scraps can be repurposed into smaller accessories or patchwork items.