Explore the future of American-made apparel with the Rhode Island Textile Innovation Network (RITIN) and the URI Department of Textiles, Fashion Merchandising and Design (TMD).
RITIN’s spring 2023 webinar takes a look at the making of garments, apparel and textiles in the United States and in the Ocean State.
In the 1960s, 95% of apparel purchased in the USA was made in the USA. Now, 97% of apparel purchased in America is made overseas, according to the American Apparel and Footwear Association. 52% of consumers say they prefer buying US-made apparel, but will they pay a premium for it?
A panel of industry practitioners will talk about the past and present of US made apparel with an eye to the future. Can domestic manufacturing of clothing be more than a cottage industry?
Industry insiders, students, and those interested in #MadeInRI textiles will hear insights from panelists:
- Claudia Middendorf, Founder of Mathilde, a Pawtucket-based quilt manufacturer
- Willy DeConto and Alex Goulet, authors of “Crafted with Pride,” a new book/resource that showcases the American makers producing high-quality apparel
- Karl Aspelund, University of Rhode Island Associate Professor, TMD Department Chair