Fast fashion is defined as the clothing industry’s replication of catwalk trends, celebrity culture, and high fashion designs, mass-producing them at a low cost, and bringing them to retail stores quickly, while demand is at its highest. It is easier than ever to buy fast-fashion items with online shopping. Clothes have become cheaper with brands such as Shein, Zaful, and Pretty Little Thing and rapid trend cycles. With the announcement of a new collaboration between H&M and Mugler, it is important to understand how the use of catwalk trends will negatively impact us and the planet.
Fast fashion has created a significant amount of waste influencing many people to believe they need to buy a new piece of clothing whenever an event occurs. Based on the infographic provided by Hayley Strite, a freelance graphic designer, we can understand the consequences of shopping fast fashion.
The True Cost of Fast Fashion
According to Florida State University, it takes 7,000-29,000 liters to make a single cotton shirt. In the U.S., there are over 10 million tons worth of clothing sent to landfills each year. Even thrift stores like Goodwill go through a significant amount of waste. The Environmental Protection Agency estimates the average American throws away around 80 pounds of clothing each year with 84% of donated clothing ending up in landfills. The statistics on clothing waste are strategically used to persuade viewers to refrain from supporting fast fashion practices.
Sustainable Replacements
The infographic is used to persuade audiences to avoid fast fashion brands such as Forever 21, H&M, and Fashion Nova. Instead of filling your closet full of cheap threads and trends that will go out of style quicker than the wind, shop quantity over quality. In return, quality pieces will last longer and contribute less to global waste. If you are strapped for cash, consider shopping secondhand. You can still find quality pieces shopping at thrift stores such as Patagonia and The North Face that will last longer than a jacket from H&M around the same price.
According to CNN, Everlane, Girlfriend Collective, and Patagonia are rated as the best sustainable brands for 2023. Everlane manufactures its clothing using polyester and nylon made from recycled fibers and its shipping bags contain 100% recycled plastic. Girlfriend Collective follows with 100% recyclable packaging and its clothes are made with eco-friendly materials, like recycled fishing nets or water bottles. Patagonia is a go-to for its puffer jackets with most of its fabrics made from sustainably sourced materials. Whether it is shopping quality over quantity or supporting local thrift stores, there are always options to avoid fast fashion.
