The demand for trendy and inexpensive fashion by consumers has led to the concept of “fast fashion.” Fast fashion involves the rapid production and quick turnover of cheap clothing frequently outsourced to factories in countries without legislation preventing the exploitation of workers or prohibiting child labor. The use of low-cost material raises questions over sustainability of the environment. Exploitation of adults and children to produce this clothing brings into question ethical practices in the fashion industry.
The term “fast fashion” is central to discussions about the fashion industry’s environmental and social impacts. Fast fashion’s emphasis on rapid production and low-cost materials raises concerns about environmental sustainability, worker conditions, and the disposal of clothing.
Origin of the term and application
From an environmental perspective, fast fashion brings up serious concerns about the material used, run off of toxic dyes which seep into the soil and waterways as well as disposal of clothing into garbage dumps.
Grow Ensemble argues that while the term “fast fashion” was coined in the final decade of the 20th century to describe global retail giant Zara’s goal to ensure that garments went from design to the store in two weeks, the history of fast fashion can be traced back to the 18th century. With industrialization and the advent of the sewing machine, clothing production became more rapid and increased in volume. Today globalized fashion chains and social media have contributed to the increase in demand for “throw-away” fashion.
Efforts to address issues of ethical and sustainable practices in the fashion industry are beginning to make some impact, but without regulation of the industry progress will be slow.
