Fast Fashion: Why we need to slow down

More often than not, I walk into Target with one goal in mind. I have my list, and I won’t migrate to the clothing department. Unfortunately for me, in the corner, I see an item that I simply cannot live without. I buy it.

Because of this, I contribute to the vast majority of people who engage in fast fashion practices. Sound familiar? Rest assured; you aren’t alone in this.

I conducted a poll on Instagram asking how many people were familiar with the phrase “fast fashion”. To my surprise, a whopping 32 percent of my followers had no idea. Since my goal is to encourage sustainable living practices, I knew what I needed to do next was address this issue. This post will be centered around fast fashion, its environmental impact and how to develop a more sustainable closet because believe it or not, Target isn’t the way to go.

What is fast fashion?

Fast fashion is a design, manufacturing and marketing method focused on rapidly producing high volumes of clothing. It is designed to replicate runway looks, with low-quality fabrics, to bring inexpensive styles to the public. Why is this a problem? It results in harmful impacts on the environment, garment workers, and my wallet.

Is fast fashion bad?

The short answer, yes. The fast fashion manufacturing process leaves a lot to be desired, and clothing pieces are often thrown out after no more than a few wears. 49 out of 124 respondents in my poll said they buy new clothes every time they see something they like. That’s a large percentage of people who are constantly contributing to unethical practice, without even realizing it.

I put together the infographic below to break down the environmental impact of fast fashion, as per the United Nations Environment Programme.

Aside from the environmental impact, fast fashion also impacts workers, especially young and underage women. These women work long hours with minimal pay in unsafe working conditions. That in itself should encourage all of us to avoid fast fashion. In the documentary, “The True Cost”, Lucy Siegle said it plainly: “Fast fashion isn’t free. Someone, somewhere is paying for it”

What does this mean for you and I? It's simple, the environmental revolution is in our hands.

How to build a sustainable closet?

Well for starters, stop shopping at Target, H&M, Forever 21, and any other stores of the like. Your next thought is probably "If I can't shop at those stores, I can't afford to build a sustainable closet", but you totally can! The trick is to use what is already created.

Shopping secondhand is a wonderful way to begin building your sustainable closet. From shopping at thrift stores to swapping with friends, you will slowly begin to add unique pieces to your closet. And who doesn't love a good fashion statement?

Most people in my poll also said they prioritize "quality and durability" over "visual appeal" when shopping. Do you agree? What do you prioritize when you shop? Let me know in the comments below!

Trust me, I understand adjusting our lifestyles to develop more environmentally conscious habits isn't the most entertaining pass time; however, you'll be so glad when you do!

So, do some research and invest in timeless pieces from brands like Levi's Secondhand. Soon enough, you'll be on the way to having a sustainable closet.