Background: The resource demanding textile industry has long been linked to the linear economy, an economy contributing to negative effects on the environment. However, there is an alternative to the linear economy, namely the circular economy. In a circular economy, a closed-loop design is promoted in order to eliminate the negative effects of the linear economy. However, in the context of the Swedish textile industry, there is a lack of case studies on the topic and especially regarding experienced barriers to a circular business model as well as drivers and enablers needed to overcome these barriers. Purpose: The purpose of this research is to support the development of the Sustainable Development Goal 12: sustainable production and consumption. This is done through exploring the experienced barriers to circular business models among companies in the Swedish textile industry at a macro and micro level, but also drivers and enablers in order to overcome these barriers. Method: This research follows an interpretivist view and an inductive approach based on a cross-case analysis of five companies. The research is qualitative and semi-structured interviews were conducted with open questions. The identified themes were analysed and interpreted with a careful awareness of the trustworthiness and ethical considerations. Conclusion: The result showed five barriers which appeared to be the most common across the companies. Namely, technological un-readiness, circularity costs, market unacceptance, financial shortage and knowledge gap. For these barriers, possible solutions in the form of drivers and enablers were identified. According to the findings, the identified drivers and enablers which have the greatest potential of positive impact on the barriers were as follows: knowledge sharing, collaboration, regulatory changes, more research and refocus of efforts

This study addresses the imperative challenge encountered by Scapa, a Swedish textile company transitioning into sustainable fashion, regarding the differentiation of sustainable fashion from fast fashion. By synthesizing data analysis, literature discussion, and theoretical underpinnings, the study develops a comprehensive strategy tailored to Scapa's needs while benefiting consumers and the sustainable fashion industry. The research questions investigate the factors contributing to differentiation and propose effective communication strategies to facilitate consumer understanding. Recommendations encompass enhancing digital presence, transparent communication, educational initiatives, and collaborative partnerships. Focused on Swedish consumers, particularly Generation Z, the study provides targeted insights into future consumption patterns and sustainability efforts. While constrained by its focus on a specific demographic and nationality, the study offers valuable contributions to promoting environmental sustainability in the textile ecosystem.

This bachelor’s thesis traces the life and career of textile designer Wanja Djanaieff, in particu- lar the collections she designed for the Swedish Olympic team for the games in Munich 1972 and Innsbruck 1976, in order to investigate the hypothesis that the social and political climate in Sweden shaped and constrained the stylistic choices available to textile designers at the time. Through the use of a biographical method, including an interview with Wanja, her works are placed within a broader cultural and political context, and the ways in which her art was influenced by historical developments, such as the decline of the Swedish textile industry from the 50’s onwards, are highlighted. Additionally, it is investigated which constraints were imposed on her designs by her clients, and how Wanja faced these constraints. It is argued that presence of irony and androgynous designs in Wanja’s work mirrors contemporary social developments, lending support to the notion that art reflects broader societal trends.