Case study — Mulheres do Sul Global:

reflections on labor and Gender Relations in Fashion Design

Abstract

It is predominant in the fashion industry an oppressive production model that prioritizes profit, reflecting the capitalist system. Many issues, such as poor working conditions and environmental damage, arise as consequences of this production pattern. In the search for a way to create clothing with greater social engagement detached from the prevailing model the authors encountered groups in Rio de Janeiro engaged in sewing and craft activities. These groups reveal potential for building a possible path toward socially engaged clothing production. The article presents the case study of the social impact business Mulheres do Sul Global (Women of the Global South): a sewing studio that welcomes, promotes work opportunities, and generates income for refugee women in Rio de Janeiro. The case analysis revealed an important aspect for reflection: the relationship between labor and gender in fashion, which is discussed in the article. The originality of the project drew attention there were no other initiatives combining craftsmanship and sewing aimed at this specific group: immigrant women in socially vulnerable conditions in Rio de Janeiro. The studio was conceived by Emanuela Pinheiro following her encounter with Congolese refugee women. From the perspective presented in the article, the act of making clothes goes beyond garment production, assuming a role of social transformation. The methodology was developed through bibliographic research and fieldwork involving interviews and systematic observations.