My Coach (Re)Loved Team!
During my internship at Coach in New York City, I had the privilege of contributing to the development of Coach's new sustainable sub-brand, Coach (Re)Loved. My role involved actively participating in the product and operation development process, with a focus on sustainability. This hands-on experience provided me with a unique opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of high-level operations and the intricate landscape of sustainability within the fashion industry. Throughout my time there, I was exposed to learnings which allowed me to grasp industry requirements, standards, and advancements in sustainability more comprehensively.
My involvement in authoring Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for product handoff, hardware systems, and waste reduction was a crucial aspect of my role. This task required me to not only learn the intricate operational processes but also ensure that they aligned with sustainability goals and standards. It exposed me to the meticulous details of how high-level operations are conducted within a renowned fashion brand while emphasizing sustainability as a core aspect of these operations.
Moreover, my in-depth research and the creation of a comprehensive report on opportunities for waste elimination and further green initiatives allowed me to delve into industry requirements and standards. To provide sustainable solutions, I had to understand the benchmarks and best practices that are expected within the fashion industry. This experience enabled me to identify areas where Coach could align itself with industry requirements while pioneering advancements in sustainability.
Aspects of the product development process I observed and learned about.
During my time creating an SOP for the hardware system.
Attending industry events like TexWorld NYC and the Functional Fabrics Fair played a pivotal role in expanding my knowledge. These events provided me with the opportunity to network with experts, learn about the latest sustainable materials, and gain insights into industry advancements. I was able to witness firsthand the trends, innovations, and evolving standards in sustainable fashion. This exposure not only enriched my understanding of sustainability but also allowed me to bring cutting-edge ideas and materials back to Coach.
Images from TexWorld NYC and Functional Fabrics Fair
Lastly, my creative involvement in designing Coach (Re)Loved Upcrafted bags and contributing to the WLP/Design Deck demonstrated my ability to apply sustainable principles to product development. This hands-on experience showcased my awareness of the market demand for eco-conscious fashion, aligning Coach with consumer expectations and industry advancements in sustainable product design.
In summary, my internship at Coach not only exposed me to high-level operations but also allowed me to immerse myself in industry requirements, standards, and sustainability advancements. This experience positioned me as a well-rounded professional with a deep understanding of how a fashion brand can successfully navigate the evolving landscape of sustainability while meeting industry demands and standards
