Fast Fashion Shenanigans

Photo courtesy of xiaolong Wong (unsplash.com)

A couple of years back, I was disappointed in myself after I learned a little more about what fast fashion was about. And how I contributed to it myself.

I have to admit, I have heard about it before. But not to the extent of what was really happening behind the scenes. I was naïve. I thought of myself as a decent shopper because I really thought I was getting a good deal. But then the hard truth hit me in the face when I learned the harsh effects of what fast fashion was doing to our world.

What is fast fashion?

For those who don’t know: Fast fashion is known for its speedy process of producing trends at a much lower cost, mass production of clothing trends.

It quickly became an instant hit because it accommodated the many needs of consumers acquiring the latest trends and at a more affordable price. It evolved the whole concept of how consumers shop today. But this is the basis of what fast fashion is about and why it has progressed. Retailers have prospered because of this method. The wide range of attraction from the consumers grew because of how quickly it was made available and ready for the shelves in high quantity. It definitely made a mark in the fashion world.

What are the advantages of fast fashion?

If we take a look at a different point of view, as college students, we can see how this can benefit us.

PROS:

• More affordable clothing; an advantage for low-income consumers such as students/youth

• A greater variety of styles

• More convenient and accessible (instant gratification)

And more profitable for the big retailers out there.

But here come the shenanigans to these fast fashion “too good to be true” price tag. The cost of purchasing these kinds of clothing is much more substantial and harmful to our environment. It also contributes to the negative impacts of human beings in this world.

CONS:

• Creates large amounts of waste (unused clothing filling landfills)

• Contributes to climate change (the fashion industry is responsible for 10% of annual global carbon emissions and expected to rise in the coming years)

• The chemical manufacturing process (such as bleaching, dyeing, treatments, etc.) is destroying the environment and human health.

• It creates unfair and unsafe working conditions for the garment workers in third world countries (which have poor labour laws and human rights protection). They also make unlivable wages working in this production.

• And because of the low cost of production, the product suffers. The quality of it is not up to par as many would like it to be, and frankly, it may not last as long either.

I held my breath when I came across the effects implicated by fast fashion. I actually bought clothing from retailers who manufactured at this kind of level. If I knew back then what I do now, I would have made better choices. I would have paid a little more attention. I should have been a much more conscious shopper.

I am trying to this day to be one. As I presently purchase my clothing with sustainability on my mind. I am determined that everything I buy would be useful, necessary, something I absolutely would love and always wear. And I stand here today in front of my closet, amongst my favourite clothing pieces. Proud of the fact that I put so much thought and effort into purchasing something that can benefit our environment and the human lives around the world.

Colleen Moore

Colleen is a second-year student in the professional writing program at Algonquin College. She enjoys reading, old school zombie movies, family game nights and currently found a new passion for poetry. She is either busy doing assignments or playing Mario party with her daughter on the weekends.