Conscious Thrifting: Fast Fashion and the Environment
Fast fashion is defined as inexpensive clothing produced rapidly by mass-market retailers in response to the latest trends. Many retailers that cater to fast fashion put out 12 to 15 collections a year, to keep up with current trends and consumer habits. Many times, to keep up with the demands of fashion, these industries are outsourced to other countries that rely on cheap labor and use cheap material. This keeps the cost of the clothing low for the consumer so that they can buy more and more, perpetuating the fast fashion industry.
Believe it or not, the fashion industry is the second most polluting industry in the world contributing to 10% of humankind’s carbon emissions. In addition to carbon emissions, 85% of textiles end up in landfills as waste. The fashion industry has a huge environmental and social impact. Since the production of clothing is outsourced to other countries, children and women’s labor are exploited. Meaning these groups are getting paid low wages and work in unsafe conditions. I encourage you to do research on brand names you love to hold them accountable for equitable production of their clothes.
Thrifting Locally
Shopping sustainably by shopping at local thrift stores is a viable option to reducing, reusing, and recycling clothing. Through thrift shopping you are…
REDUCING WASTE: There is a direct reduction in the amount of clothing that would otherwise end up in the landfill.
REUSING: If you have old clothes that are not in the best shape for donation, use them for rags or drop cloths.
RECYCLING: Bring clothing that you no longer wear to the thrift store as a donation.
Thrift stores can have some great finds at affordable prices. With the prices being so low it may be tempting to stock up large amounts of clothing, however, it is important to love and wear these pieces. It is also important to recognize the privilege that comes along with being able to choose to shop at a thrift store. Some individuals may not have a choice when it comes to shopping second hand. Remember to stay focused while thrifting as to not over buy and be respectful of others sharing the same shopping experience as you.
Some tips to follow while thrifting:
-Keep a running list of your wants and needs based on your wardrobe.
-Only buy what you absolutely love and will wear.
-Be patient, it takes a while to shift through the clothing at thrift stores, eventually you may find something!
-It is okay to walk away with nothing.
I personally love thrift shopping because it fits my lifestyle and budget. With these tricks and tips, you may find yourself loving it, too!
Sources:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5r8V4QWwxf0
https://www.greenamerica.org/blog/factory-exploitation-and-fast-fashion-machine