Michigan State University

Saetbyul Park

Biography

Saetbyul Park is an Assistant Professor in Apparel and Textile Design. She holds a B.S. and M.S. in Clothing and Textiles from Seoul National University in Korea and earned her Ph.D. in Apparel Studies, with a minor in Anthropology, from the University of Minnesota. She also completed the Professional Designation Program in Merchandise Product Development at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FIDM).

Dr. Park brings a strong foundation in apparel design and product development, shaped by her professional experience as a designer and merchandiser in both Korea and the United States. Her academic and industry expertise informs her teaching and research in the field. She is an active member of the International Textile and Apparel Association (ITAA) and the Costume Society of America (CSA).

Works

My current research focuses on the socio-cultural influences shaping the aesthetic perspectives of immigrants in the United States. I am particularly interested in exploring how diverse migratory experiences across ethnic groups impact apparel-related practices and perceptions. A central contribution of my work is demonstrating how the interplay between immigrants’ cultures of origin and the host culture informs their social identities. I examine how individuals adapt their attitudes and behaviors around appearance to navigate the fundamental tensions between inclusion and exclusion, depending on their cultural contexts.

In addition, my research engages with pressing issues of sustainability and ethical consumption in the apparel industry. I investigate how consumers can adopt more responsible behaviors throughout the lifecycle of apparel, from acquisition to disposal, contributing to more sustainable and ethically conscious fashion practices.

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