News about how bad fast fashion is to our environment has been brought to more and more of people's attention, and yet people are still hesitant to make a change in their shopping habits. When I see Instagram posts calling out stores like Forever 21 and H&M for their unethical ways of producing clothes, many comments in the comment section say very similar things – “But those clothes are affordable!” Of course it is, just like how fast food is cheaper than healthy food! However, the fast fashion industry can be cut down with affordable techniques in shopping.
Stores like Reformation pride themselves in their sustainable methods, which is great for them. However, most people can’t afford to spend $100+ per garment, and therefore people are more inclined to spend just around $10 for a cheaper made – yet similar looking – piece of clothing at a fast fashion retailer. So, if you’re able to spend a pretty penny on ethically made clothes at higher end retailers, then go for it. If you can’t, there are other options.
For one, stores like Goodwill and other thrift shops sell clothes from a variety of brands for a much lower cost. While it can be exhausting to sort through the racks upon racks of clothes in these stores, it can also be fun to find all of the interesting and original pieces. When thrifting, people should wash all of their purchased clothes before wearing, especially during these times. However, if you need a specific piece of clothing and you don’t want to sort through the thousands of garments, then there still is another option.
Websites/apps like Depop and Poshmark are basically online thrift stores made convenient. On either app, you can search a specific piece you need (i.e. white sweater) or a specific brand and then you'll be shown an array of sellers selling what you want. These sellers make up their own price, but you can make offers to get the best deal. I recently tried both apps for the first time to test their validity, and they are definitely trustworthy. The sellers will let you know if there are any damages/stains to their clothes, so you’ll know exactly what you’re getting.
All in all, there are sustainable and affordable ways in shopping, both in designer clothes and cheaper ones. Thrifting and shopping at local businesses will not only give you unique and original pieces for your closet, but they will also make you feel good about yourself when you realize how much water and energy you’re saving by not contributing to fast fashion.
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