Abstract

PURPURA, Ketilley Luciane de Jesus  and  MENDES, Francisca Dantas. Reconfigurable Clothing: Unveiling the Possibilities of Adaptable and Multifunctional Garments. Vista [online]. 2025, n.16, e025012.  Epub Dec 31, 2025. ISSN 2184-1284.  https://doi.org/10.21814/vista.6273.

This study examines a collection of garments designed to be modified and adapted by the user, referred to as “reconfigurable”. Through bibliographic research, it identifies and analyses the characteristics of different types of reconfigurable garments - namely reversible, modular, transformable, and technological - establishing comparisons with the concepts of “modularity” described by Pine (1992/1994) and with examples of designers and brands that have adopted this approach, either as a permanent strategy or through individual pieces. Hussein Chalayan, Arket, Osklen, Adidas, Cukovy, and Cointel are among the examples considered. Besides enabling the creation of versatile and personalised pieces, the results indicate that reconfiguration contributes to building a more durable and therefore more sustainable wardrobe. In other words, this approach enhances the value of clothing to the user. User interaction with the pieces is fundamental to their transformation, fostering a closer relationship between the wearer and their garments and thereby strengthening this bond. Analysis of the term “reconfiguration” highlights its significance in designating a process of change and adaptation. The objective of this study is to conceptualise and classify types of reconfigurable clothing to justify the proposed terminology. Furthermore, it reveals the relevance of this concept for circular and adaptable fashion. The prefix “re-” conveys the idea of renewal and circularity, intrinsically linked to the four essential practices of sustainable fashion: rethink, reduce, reuse, and recycle.

Keywords : reconfigurable clothing; sustainable fashion; modularity; customisation; transformable clothing.

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