The carousel of overconsumption keeping everyone in search of the next best thing has been a spinning issue for some time and the fashion industry is no exception. 

With the rise of microtrends, influencers and TikTok shops, it’s hard to be on the internet without wanting to feed into the trend cycle. 

According to Earth.org, approximately 92 million tons of fashion waste is produced yearly. With online stores such as Shein and Temu, you could realistically buy a new wardrobe multiple times a year due to the low cost of items. 

However, it would be destined for landfills and Goodwill stores before the end of the year because the items are made with cheap, low-quality material. 

The cost of these garments is so low not only due to cheap materials but also unethical labor practices. The millions of laborers who work in these factories do not earn a livable wage.

In addition, these workers are often children because they can be exploited due to low skill. They work in many cases over 12 hours a day, seven days a week. Their working conditions also affect their health due to constantly breathing in synthetic cancer-causing chemicals in the materials.

Shein and Temu are not the only companies guilty of these unethical labor practices. Other more reputable fashion companies such as H&M, Zara, Gap, Old Navy, Urban Outfitters, Artizia and Free People have shown up on lists of fashion companies with the worst labor practices. 

These companies engage in “greenwashing,” a public relations tactic used to make consumers believe a product is more ethically produced and environmentally friendly because it has a tag that says so. 

Fast fashion and the trend cycle are also boring in general, as they cause you to constantly feel the need to reinvent yourself to stay interesting. Developing a personal style takes time to solidify and is much more unique. 

Because of the low-quality products provided by these fast fashion companies, it’s almost impossible to find staple pieces in which to grow your style. 

Ethical and sustainable alternatives to fast fashion are typically more expensive because they’re made with longevity in mind. However, they look better often even over long periods as they get worn in. 

The trend cycle causes people to search for aesthetics that fit into the cycle rather than quality pieces they love. Buying second-hand is another great alternative because it is cheaper than buying new clothes and often you’re saving clothes from landfills. There is often a thrill that comes from finding quality pieces for pennies on the dollar in thrift stores. 

Some options for buying second hand clothing in Jonesboro include Goodwill, Plato’s Closet and Abilities Unlimited. Facebook Marketplace is another great option for sustainable shopping. 

Websites where you can buy second hand, including Depop, Poshmark and Ebay, are great if you’re interested in keeping up with certain trends.

My best thrift find to date was a pair of Prada sandals from the 90s I found at Goodwill. My dog promptly ate them the second I turned my back but for one glorious winter day I owned a pair of $500 shoes I paid $10 for.

Thrifting, not fast fashion, is what lets you find these great bargains. With a little searching, you too can help the planet and look great doing it. 

Categories: Opinion