Historic

A History of 4-H Clothing Clubs in New York State: A Preamble to Sustainable Fashion Education? 

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Abstract

Considering climate change's growing impact and the increasing interest in ecologically-minded fashion design approaches, this paper explores how historical pedagogical methods might inform future sustainable fashion solutions. The research connects mid-to-late-20th-century 4-H clothing club curricula in New York State and the Cooperative Extension Service bulletins with contemporary 21st-century sustainable fashion practices to explore how these educational materials may have unknowingly taught and promoted sustainable practices. We analyzed primary source materials from Cornell University's Division of Rare and Manuscripts Collection (1930-1990) and 22 newly-conducted oral history interviews with 4-H clothing club participants, educators, and leaders (1944-present). Through a critical analysis of pedagogical approaches employed in 4-H clothing clubs, this research uncovers insights that could inform and enhance contemporary and future sustainable fashion education practices through youth development programs. These findings may help to identify and develop interventions addressing the detrimental impacts of fast fashion. 

Keywords: 4-H, Sustainable Fashion, History, Youth Development, Archival Research, Fashion Design

How to Cite:

Alberts, S. J. & Green, D. N., (2025) “A History of 4-H Clothing Clubs in New York State: A Preamble to Sustainable Fashion Education? ”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 82(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.21573