Authors : Lucy Tage; Dr. Paramita Sarkar

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 4 - April

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/ypt7f3jm

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/5h4r6srr

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26apr504

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Abstract : This paper presents a practice‑based study that reimagines the traditional dress of the Apatani tribe from Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh, into a versatile, trans‑seasonal capsule wardrobe, for niche cultural tourism markets. Drawing inspiration from the community’s original zero-waste practices the study advocates a revival of zero-waste pattern making within contemporary context. The objectives of this paper are: (1) to revive and apply Zero-waste pattern making practices from Apatani cultural traditions in contemporary context and (2) to create a commercially viable collection that balances cultural symbolism and modern usability Traditional Apatani clothing practices are increasingly under threat as modernization, climate change, global fashion trends, and shifting lifestyles reshape daily life, creating an urgent need for adaptive heritage-based solutions. This study employed an ethnographic approach in Ziro Valley, home to the Apatani tribe. Data was collected through focus group discussions, interviews, surveys, photo-ethnography, and a market study to understand traditional attire and its relevance for the younger generation. The designs are centred on reimagining traditional garments through adaptations in silhouette, fit, pattern, and colour palette, paired with complementary regional handloom textiles. Developed as a compact, season-neutral capsule wardrobe using zero-waste pattern-making techniques, the collection aligns with sustainability principles. Both manual and AI was integrated into the design workflow. Prototypes were developed manually in muslin to visualise the silhouette and fit while AI-tools such as “the fabricants, sketch-to-image generation and virtual model photography” were used to visualise variations in colour schemes, and motif placements prior to physical sampling, thereby optimising time, resources, and creative experimentation. This research demonstrates how traditional-inspired fashion, sustainable design practices, and digital tools can work together to both preserve cultural heritage and appeal to modern consumers, while also supporting several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It offers a replicable model for other indigenous communities seeking to revitalise traditional dress within modern lifestyles and global fashion markets.

Keywords : Apatani Tribe, Traditional Costume, Youth Fashion, Zero-Pattern Making, AI Design, Cultural Sustainability

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