System Shift - Andrea Kennedy on Teaching the Future of Fashion

In this episode of The Ethical Stitch, host Michelle Alleyne steps into The Green Room with Andrea Kennedy—a powerhouse educator, curriculum builder, and longtime champion of sustainable fashion.

From reimagining fashion programs at Berkeley College to pounding the pavement for the New York Fashion Act, Andrea’s work sits at the intersection of advocacy, education, and industry reform. Together, Michelle and Andrea get into the deep threads of sustainability—what it really means beyond buzzwords, and how future fashion leaders can’t just learn trends; they need to understand systems.

They unpack why values like circularity, place-based design, and civic action aren’t just electives—they’re essentials. And yes, they talk policy. Because for change to happen, we need more than passion—we need legislation, informed consumers, and brands that are ready to be held accountable.

This isn’t just another chat about eco-fashion. It’s a masterclass in leadership, mindset, and movement-building. Tune in to hear how education is evolving, why systems thinking matters, and what it takes to raise a generation of creative disruptors ready to stitch a better industry together.

Takeaways

• Sustainability in fashion is crucial for the future.
• Future fashion leaders must embrace systems thinking.
• Understanding the long-term consequences of decisions is vital.
• Place-based strategies can reduce environmental impact.
• Empowering students leads to real change in the industry.
• Education for sustainability is an act of service.
• Students today are anxious about climate change and its impacts.
• Advocacy is essential for driving change in the fashion industry.
• Collaboration among all stakeholders is necessary for progress.
• Real-world exercises can enhance understanding of complex systems. Sustainable fashion is often perceived as expensive, but many brands are making strides in sustainability.
• The fashion industry is a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions.
• Students are increasingly aware of the toxic nature of the fashion industry.
• Legislation like the New York Fashion Act is crucial for driving change in the industry.
• Supply chain traceability is essential for accountability in fashion brands.
• Collaboration among brands, consumers, and legislators is key to achieving sustainability.
• Consumers can influence brands by choosing to buy sustainable products.
• Repair services play a vital role in extending the life of clothing and reducing waste.
• Every purchase is a vote for the kind of world we want to live in.
• Education and communication are critical for fostering a sustainable fashion future.

Titles

• The Cost of Sustainable Fashion: Myths and Realities
• Environmental Impact: The Fashion Industry's Footprint
• Legislative Change: The New York Fashion Act Explained
• Empowering Consumers: The Role of the Individual in Fashion
• Collaboration is Key: Building a Sustainable Fashion Future
• 
  

Sound Bites

• "This is where we pull back the curtain."
• "We need an extra push."
• "It's a world viewing exercise."
• "I love that scenario."
• "You can be part of a change."
• "Fashion is toxic and it's wasteful."
• "We need supply chain traceability."
• "Change is driven by legislation."
• "Collaboration is key."
• "Every dolla

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Hosted by Michelle Alleyne

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