The detriments of fast fashion have been brought to our attention by recent scandals, such as SHEIN selling Muslim prayer matts as ‘Greek carpets’ and Boohoo’s Leicester warehouse being exposed as entirely unethical. Alternative options to fast fashion are vital so people can boycott these companies.
Unfortunately, many people believe that unless they cut everything unsustainable out of their lifestyle it will make no difference - resulting in people who are capable of making minor, accumulative changes not doing so. Whilst it is the big companies that need to change their ways for us to see a real difference, we should waste no time. We have to be the change we want to see. Hopefully our efforts will amount to fashion brands adapting to the current climate and having no alternative but to be more ethical.
Due to differing incomes, living in remote areas and limited sizing, among other factors, it can be difficult for everyone to cut out mainstream, unsustainable brands. You do not have to change your entire lifestyle to be more sustainable, especially when it comes to fashion. The easiest and cheapest way to have a reduced impact on the globe is to simply buy less!
Wearing what you already own may seem like an obvious solution, but we are constantly told that we need to follow new trends and are made to feel like we are not good enough if we fail to do so - a crafty tactic of capitalism to get us to spend more money. Being content with what you already own is difficult, but this change is mindset is essential.
The sheer volume of clothes produced, coupled with the large amounts that are thrown away, are the core issues of fast fashion and its severe impact on the environment. Even if the items you already own are from ‘blacklisted’ stores, continue to look after and wear them for years to come.
However, it is completely normal to treat yourself to something new once in a while. Here are a few ways to satisfy your clothing cravings sustainably:
Use apps like Vinted or Depop to sell unwanted clothes and buy new ones without funding unethical companies.
Clothes swap with your friends. Both you and your friend get something funky and new for free, what’s not to love?
Order from small businesses like Maibee or Betty Berry, two sister-run businesses which emerged from Depop and now have their own websites. Support small businesses owned by women!
Buy from vintage shops in person to reduce packaging. There are plenty in Sheffield, such as Vulgar, Cow and R.A.G Vintage to name just a few - why not see how many you can visit in a day?
Do not order from online stores that use excessive plastic packaging and unethical manufacturing processes. If you have to, limit the amount of orders you place.
The key things to remember are to buy fewer clothes and purchase with the intention of wearing for the foreseeable future. If you want to go the extra mile, try to cut out as many fast fashion brands as you can and buy second hand where possible. Do not be discouraged by the fact we still have a long way to go - small changes are better than none.
Edited by Katie Wheatley