The Price We Pay for Style: Thoughts on Fast Fashion.
photo by Alejandro Duran
Anna Wintour, fashion industry leaders, Kardashians, and other reality enigmas create the notion that fashion has an expiration date, the requirement to change our wardrobes every quarter, to be seen in something different with each outing, and staying up with the trends we see on celebrities within magazines. But not everyone has this belief.
Because of this frenzied habit, the rise of fast fashion has become a formidable force shaping our closets and culture. Fueling an insatiable appetite for new styles at affordable prices, fast fashion has transformed how we approach clothing, making runway looks accessible to the masses within weeks. Yet, beneath the allure of instant gratification lies a complex tapestry of environmental, ethical, and social consequences.
To better understand the habits, understanding, and viewpoints on clothing, and shopping choices, we reached out to our community through a series of questions. As you read through the Q&A, stop and consider your own decision-making regarding fashion.
How aware are you of the impact that fast fashion has on the climate change crisis?
Well aware!
Very aware and think it of prime importance.
Yes, I first became consciously aware of fast fashion and its impact on climate change about 10 years.
Have you personally made any changes in your lifestyle or fashion choices to be more environmentally conscious? If so, what challenges have you faced?
I try to buy second hand clothing but as a plus size tall woman this is very difficult. When buying second hand, options are already limited which becomes most apparent with the lack of sizes. This problem continues with smaller more sustainable brands, as they often don’t carry tall clothes or clothing with a wide size range.
My changes in fashion and lifestyle in all fairness have been much governed by my recent near retirement and my sometimes challenging requirements (see first question). Of no particular importance is the fact that I spent some years shopping for "bodies" created by high-end designers which we knocked off for the lower end market. I recall that the primary consideration, I think, was about what would sell in the demographic we served and not a bit about whether it was environmentally responsible. Worth knowing.....it was early 80s.
In the past few years I have been way more conscious about my clothing choices. I don’t shop as frequently as I used to and when I do I try to shop at thrift stores or goodwill first! If they don’t have what I need I usually try to find environmentally friendly stores or pieces that are made from organic cottons. Recently, it has been challenging finding companies that sell durable clothing. Some people may claim that companies are selling pieces that are not made to last but I feel as though this is only a lack of knowledge on how to care for eco-friendly clothing. This becomes a struggle when buying second hand because most clothes are damaged from the deficit of care. It has been in my best interest to stick to the basics when shopping, I have found that I can wear these clothes for years without damage and make versatile outfits for any occasion.
Despite facing occasional challenges, I have been purposefully mindful in my shopping habits by steering clear of mainstream fashion brands and retail outlets that engage in planned obsolescence. I have done so by actively searching for eco conscious and fair trade companies. Shopping at second hand stores and buying handmade products. A primary difficulty I encounter revolves around the lack of transparency from well-known brands concerning the authentic quality of their clothing and the intricate details involved in the production process, including materials used and labor practices.
In your opinion, how does fast fashion contribute to environmental problems? Do you think young adults play a role in addressing these issues?
There are several factors that I feel contribute to the undeniable environmental effects. The production of synthetic materials produces immense amounts CO2. The production from large companies as well as just simply washing these synthetic products pollutes our waters with great amounts of chemicals, dyes, and other serious toxin's. Most clothes end up at the dump and can affect everything from air to the soil below.
Fast fashion creates a lot of unnecessary waste. Fast fashion is a product of consumerism which is a product of capitalism. Young adults around the globe are beginning to understand these connections and advocate for a larger systematic change rather than pushing individual responsibility.
The high turnover rate in the fashion industry, driven by the quest for affordable clothing, leads to material waste and the adoption of unsafe factory labor practices. The overproduction of materials for clothing exacerbates environmental concerns. The environmental footprint, including water and carbon footprints, left during the entire production process exemplifies the significant impact of the fashion industry on our environment. I firmly believe that young adults play a crucial role in addressing these issues and bear a responsibility to hold brands and fashion houses accountable and innovative. In an era dominated by social media and technology, information is readily accessible, and a broader audience can be reached. This presents an opportunity for the younger generation to advocate for sustainable practices, ethical production, and increased transparency within the fashion industry.
How do you think social media influences the attitudes and behaviors of young adults regarding fast fashion and climate change?
There are some rising influencers that specifically recommend or warn against certain brands based on the price and quality of their clothing. It is becoming increasingly more difficult to find clothing that is long lasting. These influencers are helping the public by providing helpful alternatives to the low quality clothing many repeatedly purchase.
I see social media as single handedly responsible for every horrific habit embraced by young people. I would hope that it could be just as influential in educating them responsibly as well.
Social media is clouded with influencers promoting fast fashion companies in exchange for a check. There are only a handful of people who advocate people to go to their local thrift stores. Nearly no one is aware of the true effects these promoted brands have on the climates ever-deteriorating conditions.
Seeing peers adopt sustainable fashion practices or express concern about climate change on social media can create a sense of social proof. This influences young adults to align their attitudes and behaviors with the perceived social norm within their online communities.
Do you think the government should have more regulations to promote sustainability in the fashion industry? Why or why not?
I absolutely believe the government, either local or federal, should place more regulation on the sustainability of the fashion industry because the environmental regulations put in place now only scratch the surface of larger issues. I feel we must focus on every contributing factor and make these acts that are put into place more enforced such as the CAA and CWA.
The government needs to have more regulations around fashion. Brands that produce difficult to recycle products should be penalized. A company needs to be responsible for the waste it creates and without such regulation the current situation cannot get better.
Are there any brands who you think are doing a good job in being environmentally responsible?
Everlane, Levi’s, Parks Project, Patagonia, and handcrafted pieces from Etsy! These places appear very conscious about environmental impacts by using authentic materials.
Yes there are brands and designers who are doing a good job in begin transparent and advocating for environmentally conscious practices with in the industry. Such as Patagonia, CHNGE, Kevin Germanier, London-based RÆBURN, Tyler McGillivary, Damson Madder, Katie Jones and Stella McCartney.
Is there anything else you want to say about fast fashion and its impact on the environment?
Thank you to everyone who collaborated on this post.
Tamara White
Founder