Fast Fashion
(Noun) Inexpensive clothing rapidly produced by mass-market retailers in response to the latest trends.
This is the definition of Fast Fashion. Some fast fashion stores are Forever 21, H&M, and Fashion Nova, with Zara being my favorite. As consumers we have recently opened our eyes to how our purchases impact the environment. I started to limit my purchases at these stores to a few necessary pieces at a time. Once I no longer wear an article of clothing from one of these “fast fashion” stores, I sometimes will cut up something old and upcycle it into a new design. Last year Forever 21 filed bankruptcy and is closing 200 stores, while Zara and H&M are still doing well.
Over the holiday I watched, Hasan Minhaj: Patriot Act “The Ugly Truth of Fast Fashion”. Hasan is a comedian on Netflix, and in this episode he makes you laugh while teaching you facts. There were a few things in the episode that I already knew but he was able to enlighten me regarding some facts which made me cringe and feel a little guilty . If you have some time please watch just this episode. You will look at your next purchase a little differently and learn new facts about the purchases made in Fast Fashion Stores and their impact on the environment.
The bottom line is to purchase wisely. Ask yourself “Do you really need it?” Everyone should purchase quality garments that last so you can wear them longer. Purchase more from a resale shop. Mix and match pieces so that you won’t feel like you are wearing the same outfits. Purchase natural fibers that take less resources to manufacture. Just by taking a few moments to think next time you’re at a fast fashion store, you can choose to make a positive decision that will impact the future of the environment.
Also check out my article on “Earth Day and Sustainable Fashion”