The As of Nū wardrobe methodology invites people to reflect on their clothing—not only as individual consumers, but also as participants in a collective culture. It is an embodied, process-based practice that strengthens autonomous decision-making and provides a greater sense of agency within a fashion system entrenched in the ideology that “new” is always superior. 

 

Step 1: Identifying “Newness”
The process begins with a resource of newness (such as industry trend reports, new collection drops on webshops, or fashion magazines). Participants analyze this material and mark garments they believe they already own, using small stickers with their initials.

 

Step 2: Wardrobe Documentation
After identifying similarities, participants locate these garments in their own wardrobes, wear them, and document them through photography. Each item is archived with trend labels that capture details such as where and when it was bought, and to which trend it corresponds.

 

Step 3: Reflection
The final step is reflection. This often takes time, as trend reports are lengthy and participants typically own many garments with striking similarities. Testimonials gathered here are pivotal, they provide moments of awareness about the absurdity of perpetual “newness” and the behaviors it generates.

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Why is this research important?
By combining research, embodiment, and critical reflection, the As of Nū methodology highlights how deeply ingrained the cycle of newness is, while opening space for participants to reclaim agency and revalue what they already own. 

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To participate in the research, download the kit here. Your results can be submitted to As of Nū and will become part of our continuously expanding database.