Is there a color for sustainability in fashion products? A case study with Brazilian slow fashion footwear

Authors

  • Ítalo José de Medeiros Dantas Feevale University https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0710-6142
  • Marcelo Curth Feevale University
  • Débora Pires Teixeira Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro
  • Glauber Soares Júnior State University of Minas Gerais
  • Fabiano Eloy Atílio Batista State University of Minas Gerais

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.23738/CCSJ.170104

Keywords:

Slow fashion, sustainability, Brazilian footwear, Color semiotic, Sustainable design, Ethical fashion, Color meaning

Abstract

This study investigates the intersection of slow fashion and the semiotics of color in the context of Brazilian footwear. Slow fashion, as a counterpoint to fast fashion, emphasizes sustainability, quality, and ethical practices, advocating for timeless designs and conscious consumption. Within this framework, the research explores how Brazilian slow fashion brands, Vegalli and Urban Flowers, utilize color to communicate sustainability and engage eco-conscious consumers. Using visual analysis and semiotic theory, 33 footwear items were examined to classify colors by hue, saturation, and color lightness. The results highlight a predominance of achromatic and earthy tones, reflecting principles of durability, functionality, and a connection to nature. Selective use of vibrant hues, such as green and orange, introduces environmental and emotional resonance, while neutral tones enhance versatility and longevity. These findings underscore the aesthetic and symbolic role of color in reinforcing sustainability narratives, contributing to brand identity and consumer engagement. This research enriches the discourse on sustainable design and cultural dimensions in fashion, offering perspectivas and contributions for designers, brands, and scholars.

Author Biographies

  • Ítalo José de Medeiros Dantas, Feevale University

    - PhD student in Cultural Processes and Expression at Feevale University (Brazil); master’s in design from the Federal University of Campina Grande. Multidisciplinary researcher with academic and professional interests in different areas, with an emphasis on Design, Fashion and Statistics.

  • Marcelo Curth, Feevale University

    PhD in Administration from the University of Vale do Rio dos Sinos, master’s degree in administration and business from the Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul, and degree in Sports Sciences from the Lutheran University of Brazil (ULBRA). He is a professor in the Graduate Program on Cultural Processes and Expression at Feevale University, working as a researcher on the topic of Marketing: Identity and Culture.

  • Débora Pires Teixeira, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro

    Associate Professor at UFRRJ (Brazil), specializing in History of Fashion, Garment Production, Textile Crafts, and Aging. She holds a Master's and Doctorate in Home Economics from UFV (Brazil) and coordinates research on Gender, Work, and Consumption. Organizer of the Fashion, Management, and Design Seminar and member of NUPEVEM (Clothing and Fashion Research Center, interinstitutional).

  • Glauber Soares Júnior, State University of Minas Gerais

    Professor in the Bachelor of Design program at UEMG, with a Ph.D. in Cultural Processes and Expressions (Feevale) and a Master’s in Home Economics (UFV). Graduated in Fashion Design (IF Sudeste MG). His research interests include Fashion Design, Textiles, Textile Crafts, Material Culture, and Gender, with a focus on regional and local cultures. Specializes in cultural and material studies.

  • Fabiano Eloy Atílio Batista, State University of Minas Gerais

    Professor in the Bachelor of Design at UEMG (Ubá). Holds a Ph.D. and Master’s in Work, Social Issues, and Social Policy (PPGED/UFV). Currently a Ph.D. candidate in Art, Fashion: History and Culture (PPGACL/UFJF). Focuses on Social Policy, History, and Culture in Fashion and Design, combining academic expertise and interdisciplinary research in arts and social issues.

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Published

2025-04-09

Issue

Vol. 17 No. 01 (2025)

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Papers

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Copyright (c) 2025 Ítalo José de Medeiros Dantas, Marcelo Curth, Débora Pires Teixeira, Glauber Soares Júnior, Fabiano Eloy Atílio Batista

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How to Cite

“Is there a color for sustainability in fashion products? A case study with Brazilian slow fashion footwear” (2025) Cultura e Scienza del Colore - Color Culture and Science, 17(01), pp. 45–56. doi:10.23738/CCSJ.170104.