“an approach to the design, creation, and marketing of clothing fashions that emphasizes making fashion trends quickly and cheaply available to customers.”  -“Fast Fashion.” Merriam-Webster. 2020.

In a world with trends constantly evolving, we as a society constantly search for a quick and easy way to keep up without breaking the bank. It sounds ideal to have a system where you hear the words “cheap” and “quick,” but the actual reality is that there are repercussions to this process. For example, have you ever bought a top, washed it, and it either shrunk or was damaged in the wash? If so, you have probably fallen victim to fast fashion.

Big companies like Forever 21, Zara, and H&M are all familiar to us and hold the keys to keeping up with the latest styles without lightening our wallets. But what we sometimes fail to see is the downside to the Fast Fashion industry.

Fast Fashion is a term that describes exactly what it sounds like. Trends are seeing a rapid uptick in production with lower quality materials and replication at almost a daily rate. The faster the production and cheaper the material, the lower the costs and quality. 

In order to minimize the effects of fast fashion and live a more planet-friendly lifestyle,  it may be time to toss out and donate part of your wardrobe and consider new alternatives.

How can I make the switch?

It’s easy. Consider buying resale or even purchasing outfits from brands that are known for their efforts to remain ethical and sustainable.

On the other hand, slow fashion is the exact opposite. With a primary focus on sustainability and limiting our carbon footprint, brands are starting to shift to a more ethical and less wasteful industry. Although this may mean you have to dish out more money, you are getting more bang for your buck. We’re talking about higher quality materials, durable fashion, and the ability to use your clothing more than just a handful of times. 

Brands like Stella McCartney, Rag & Bone, and Eileen Fisher are just a few of those companies whose goal is to implement different ethical practices into their process. These processes include, but are not limited to, cruelty-free, no fur, recycled fabrics, natural dyes, and more. There are even brands that are Fair Trade certified.

A simple google search can help you find more brands like the ones mentioned before. Consider saving your money to buy those higher-priced items that will last longer instead of those that are only good for a few wears, or even buy pre-owned. 

Buying resale doesn’t mean you are buying dirty used items, you can find gems within the racks and with older trends making comebacks, you are sure to get just what you need at just the right price. Pre-loved items can be like new or have a history and no matter what you find, you can make it your own. So visit your local consignment shop or even shop online to find your next favorite wardrobe staple. You never know what treasures you may find.