In today’s fast-paced world of fashion, the allure of trendy, inexpensive clothing has captured the attention of college students across the world. With online retailers, like Temu and Shein, offering endless options at the click of a button, it’s no surprise that fast fashion has become a staple in many students’ wardrobes. However, as the popularity of fast fashion continues to rise, so does the concern about its environmental and ethical impact.
70% of college students experience financial difficulty, according to a 2021 survey from Ohio State University. This stress often leads students to opt for cheap, poor-quality clothing, instead of investing in items with lasting value.
Moreover, A survey conducted in 2022 by ThreadUP, an online consignment and thrift store, revealed that 72% of college students admitted to shopping at fast-fashion retailers in the past year alone. Even more concerning, 40% of students find themselves scrolling through fast fashion sites more than once a day. 1 in 3 Gen Z students confessed to feeling addicted to shopping fast fashion.
ThreadUP also found that 51% of college students wish to cut back and stop buying fast fashion. Opting for secondhand clothing or supporting eco-conscious brands reduces increased waste pollution and advocates for ethical fashion practices.
Concerns regarding fast fashion’s labor practices and environmental impact are becoming increasingly prevalent as its demand spreads across campuses. “Buying from fast fashion companies, like Shein, has consequences,” shared Megan Nevels, a Junior at the University of Cincinnati. “It’s true that fast fashion practices are bad for the environment, but these companies also tend to partake in immoral activities. From using toxic dyes to violating labor laws.” Cheaply made clothing is produced quickly, which increases waste pollution, and garment factory workers frequently endure harsh working conditions.
President of the University of Cincinnati’s Thrift Club, Sophia Ferries-Rowe, understands the difficulty of not having the money to go out and buy your staple items.
I would like for our generation to get more sustainable clothing.
UC Thrift, as a club, helps diminish the influence of fast fashion on campus by proving
you can buy things that can fit you nicely, that can fit your style, that can be second-hand.
– Ferries-Rowe
For those looking to join the movement towards sustainable fashion, there are plenty of affordable alternatives. Brands like Pact, Tentree, and Boody offer stylish, eco-friendly options at affordable prices. Thrift stores and online consignment shops, like ThreadUP, MAW SUPPLY, and Persephone Vintage, provide a treasure trove of pre-loved apparel waiting to be rediscovered.
Recognizing the impact of fast fashion is crucial. While fast fashion offers instant gratification at a low cost, its lasting environmental and ethical impacts cannot be ignored. Making an informed decision and advocating for sustainable fashion practices empowers others to strive for a positive change in the fashion industry.