The main objective of FASHION-UP was to promote the adoption of circular economy practices in the artisanal fashion sector by developing innovative vocational education and training pathways focused on textile upcycling. The project aimed to provide participants with practical, creative and entrepreneurial competences, enabling them to transform waste materials into high value products. A key objective was to support green self-employment, particularly for women and people with fewer opportunities, improving their employability. The project also aimed to design and test a modular and transferable training model at European level, strengthening cooperation among partners. Finally, it contributed to increasing awareness of sustainable fashion practices, fostering the connection between traditional craftsmanship and innovation within the context of the green transition.
The FASHION-UP project was developed to address the increasing need to align the artisanal tailoring sector with the principles of the circular economy and environmental sustainability. The fashion industry is among the most environmentally impactful sectors, while traditional tailoring skills risk being progressively marginalised. At the same time, there is a lack of structured training pathways capable of integrating craftsmanship and green competences. The project therefore addressed the need to promote textile reuse and upcycling as concrete opportunities for innovation and self-employment, with particular attention to women and people with fewer opportunities. It also responded to the need for updated VET methodologies capable of integrating practical skills, environmental awareness and entrepreneurial competences, bridging the gap between traditional craftsmanship and evolving labour market needs.