Our Mission - Fashioning a Better Future
Keeping Youth Engaged in S.T.E.A.M.
Fashioning Their Future is an initiative of The Stitch Institute. The program builds on youth's interest in fashion to:
- Increase their interest in and knowledge of technology
- Further their positive personal development
- Increase their exposure to career opportunities
- Build their leadership skills
- Help develop their positive self-image and esteem
- Strengthen their academic skills
- Help them understand smart consumerism
Established in 2009, Fashioning Their Future offers a curriculum that can be adapted to summer camps, Saturday workshops and after school programs. Ten percent (10%) of the sale of all items in the Essential Elements Collection go toward offsetting the costs for organizations to offer the program to youth in their communities.
Partnering with Other Fashion Professionals
At the turn of the 20th century most clothing worn by men and women in the U.S. was made by individuals who worked as independent seamstresses and tailors. Opportunities decreased as manufacturing overseas drove prices cheaper, mass media increased the desire for labels over labor, and consumer demand created the drive for faster and cheaper production.
However, increased consumer awareness around fair labor practices. This coupled with a growing desire for products made in U.S. has spurred a greater demand and appreciation for artisan and bespoke apparel.
Collaborating with other fashion professionals provides opportunities for our customers to receive a better fit and brings added revenue streams and increased exposure to professionals who earn their living creating and constructing clothing.