It is completely understandable and expected in today’s time that mass amounts of teenagers take part in the same exact month-long trend. Whether it’s a pair of platform Uggs, the newest striped sweater, or the recently added Stanley cup; we are all guilty of this at some point. But what is the increasing harm in this? 

While it is tempting to stay up to date and express yourself, the dangers of fast fashion have impacted this generation more than ever before. By definition, Fast Fashion is inexpensive clothing produced rapidly by mass-market retailers in response to the latest trends. This mass production of cheap clothing contributes to major issues in global environmental and labor aspects. 

Raw materials such as nylon and spandex affect the environment significantly when produced too rapidly. Waste is impacting our environment more than ever before with global consumption of fashion increasing by 400% over the last 20 years. This is harmful to our wildlife, land, and greatly polluting to our water and soil.

The dangers of Fast Fashion are not only a danger to our environment. Companies are prioritizing their profit and sales over the comfort and safety of their workers. Garment workers in these shops experience very low pay as a result of excessive working hours, and very few safety protocols considering the amount of time they spend in said shops. Most factories even employ child labor. Why are we living in a world where basic human rights are at stake for one, so that another can participate in the latest trend? Something has to be done.

What can you do?

There are various things you can do to help this crisis. 

First of all, look a little deeper into online stores that sell rapid amounts of clothing for “ideal” pricing. These are the signs to watch out for when determining if a brand is “Fast Fashion.” 

Companies to look out for:

1. 1. SHEIN
   2. ROMWE
   3. Forever 21
   4. Fashion Nova
   5. ZARA

Can’t get away from the temptation of these sites? Here’s a list of things to think about:

1. 1. Do I like this item, or does social media shove it at me?
   2. What are three things I own that would go with this item?
   3. Do I have something like this item already?
   4. Would it be a fun challenge to try and thrift this item?

The concept of fashion in our world is truly beautiful. Finding your own true sense of fashion is something everyone deserves to experience and build on in their life. While we are at it however, let us work together to keep all aspects of fashion safe.