International Journal of Costume and Fashion

The Korean Society of Costume (한국복식학회)
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Is Anything Ever New? Fashion Design Students' Perceptions of Piracy

  • Marcketti, Sara B. (AESHM Department, Iowa State University) ;
  • Greder, Kate (University Museums, Iowa State University) ;
  • Sinclair, Heather (Burt's Bees)
  • Received : 2014.04.08
  • Accepted : 2014.05.21
  • Published : 2014.06.30
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Abstract

Design piracy is the unauthorized copying of another designer or manufacturer's work. While controversial, it is an institutionalized practice in the apparel industry. The purpose of this study was to better understand student perceptions of design piracy, particularly as it is one they will encounter in their future careers. The authors interviewed twenty-four apparel design students at a land-grant Midwestern University. Data was analyzed using theme analysis. Three themes developed including: 1) Expressions of cognitive dissonance in statements expressing enjoyment of the practice of design piracy as a consumer; yet disappointment when (and if) their own design work was copied. 2) Concerns regarding the definition of originality and the logistics of enforcing a plan against design piracy. 3) Differences of opinion regarding the prevalence of the practice, particularly if the students had industry experience or not. Advice for professors from students regarding piracy is included.

Keywords

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