Week 3: Fast Fashion

Week 3: Fast Fashion that Goes Nowhere

ASA 141

Franchesca Flores 

Photo from Eco Right 

The fashion industry is an enterprise that is supported by compensation, while attempting to be environmentally aware and create sustainable designs and garments. In order for sustainability to be successful at a greater scale, it needs to be thought of as a greater issue than just our environment, because it is truly focused on our relationship with the community in which we include ourselves. Sustainable fashion faces an obstacle with the addition of “fast fashion.” Consumers often favor purchasing cheaper clothes that only last for ten washes and often don’t mind having to buy new clothes because the price is cost effective. This gives an opportunity to buy new clothes that have been updated to society’s current trends. Unfortunately, this results in the nonuse of a large majority of clothing, but many find alternatives such as donating items. Consumers may largely favor fast fashion for the low prices, but they are unaware of the cost that the environment must pay in return. Luxury fashion, another lifestyle regarding clothing, allows consumers to fulfill their fashion fantasies and dress in a way that allows them to indulge. After reading this essay, it puts into perspective the ethical practice of purchasing clothes. Although I want to support an ethical way of fashion, it is difficult when the high-end prices ask for more than one feels is necessary. In order for sustainable fashion to create a long last effect on society, it must meet the consumer’s price needs and match their style. 

Question: Where can we find the middle ground between ethical fashion and luxury design?