Trendy, cheap and popular. 

With our addiction to fast fashion only growing bigger, there is no doubt it will take a global effort to change our shopping habits in order to  eradicate the frightening conditions those in poorer countries are forced to work in. Fast fashion has taken over the clothing industry, pushing aside more highly-priced, and in turn, better-quality companies, to pave the way for their trendy, cheap, and popular garments. The underlying factor that has handed these brands this degree of power on a silver platter? Society’s ever-growing greed for volume at a low price, regardless of the negative impact it may have environmentally, or in this case, directly on human lives. 

I admit it - before researching this topic, disreputable fast-fashion brands such as Shein and Boohoo were my personal online havens. In my mind, what was not to like? I could pile my virtual basket as high as my heart desired with any style I wished for. But now I see the darkness behind the labels that once provided me the ‘retail therapy’ I desired at the end of a gruelling week. It is outrageous to think that some teenagers, knowing what I know now, would continue satisfying their fast-fashion addiction. Our generation has been protected by a bubble, comforting them with their privileged lives and glossing over the effects their actions have on others. As a result, most of us see what we want, and nothing but, silently supporting these exploitative fashion companies and nonchalantly handing over credit cards. Of course, I understand that some do not have any other choice due to financial difficulties. That is a different story and they should not be admonished for their actions. But if you do have a choice, make the right one. 

So if price and style are the driving factors that have magnetised consumers, why haven’t other affordable and trendy alternatives been recognised? The typical closet of a fast-fashion victim? Overflowing, probably quite messy, with all clothes deemed ‘out of fashion’ tossed to the back, now only used as moth grub. My point? The archetypal fast-fashion customer yearns to save money whilst remaining stylish. My advice - ditch funding the mistreatment of workers and check out YouTube. No-cut, no-sew DIYs are for you. Not just fun and quick to make, but costless too, they are the ideal substitute for updating your wardrobe. If you’re not the creative type, get yourself to your local charity shops. Most now stock some pretty trendy clothes at good value, and, as a bonus, you are contributing to a good cause. 

The whole problem surrounding fast-fashion straightaway seemed reminiscent of climate change. Confused? Let me explain. In making a difference with global issues, there are two types of people. Let’s take recycling, for example. There are those with a fighting team spirit, who proudly throw the plastic cartons and cardboard packaging in the recycling bin each morning, feeling like they have made a genuine difference to their planet - that is my mum. My dad? Different group for him. He is highly dubious of his sole contribution having any significant effect so minimal recycling on his behalf. If only we could stress how every individual plays their part, together we could end people undertaking torturous work for our shopper satisfaction. After all, shopping with equality and compassion will always be trendier than any pair of glitter stilettos.