I was recently watching a documentary about the environmental impact of fast-fashion clothing. I rarely shop for clothes, maybe once or twice a year as needed. Most of my clothes last for a very long time, as I am also peculiar about which brands I buy them from.
In the competitive nature of online selling, the fashion industry has evolved to cater to our desire for the latest trends at the lowest prices. This has given rise to fast fashion, characterized by rapid production and consumption cycles.
However, as awareness about the environmental and ethical implications of our choices grows, I believe it’s time for Filipinos to rethink what they wear and consider the benefits of slow fashion. Filipinos who truly care about the environment must make more conscious choices.
Fast Fashion 101
Fast fashion refers to the business model of rapidly producing large quantities of clothing to keep up with the latest trends. These clothes are often sold at very low prices, making them accessible to a broad consumer base. Usually from popular brands and priced cheaply.
While fast fashion offers affordability and instant gratification, it comes with significant drawbacks. I noticed after buying cheap shirts, blouses, dresses, jeans and slacks — wearing and washing them a few times — you will not find them desirable anymore as the quality degrades or easily damaged.
The environmental impact of fast fashion is substantial. It relies heavily on non-renewable resources, including synthetic fibers like polyester, which are derived from fossil fuels. The short lifespan of fast fashion items leads to massive textile waste. Clothes are often discarded after a few wears, contributing to overflowing landfills.
Additionally, the production process involves the use of harmful chemicals and dyes, which often end up polluting water resources.
Ethical concerns are also prevalent in the fast-fashion industry. Fast-fashion brands frequently outsource production to countries with lax labor laws, resulting in poor working conditions, long hours, low wages, and exploitation. Workers in fast-fashion factories are exposed to hazardous chemicals and unsafe working environments, posing severe health risks.
In terms of quality and durability, fast-fashion garments are often made from low-quality materials that degrade quickly. These clothes tend to fall apart or lose their shape after a few washes, leading to a cycle of constant replacement.
Embracing slow fashion
Slow fashion is a movement that advocates for mindful consumption, quality over quantity, and sustainable production practices. Slow-fashion brands prioritize durability, ethical labor practices, and environmental stewardship. Here’s why Filipinos should consider making the switch.
Slow fashion offers significant environmental benefits. Slow-fashion brands use eco-friendly materials such as organic cotton, linen and recycled fibers, which are less harmful to the environment. By creating timeless, high-quality pieces that last longer, slow fashion significantly reduces textile waste. Slow-fashion production processes are less resource-intensive and often involve lower carbon emissions.
Ethical production is a cornerstone of slow fashion. Slow-fashion brands are committed to providing fair wages and safe working conditions for their workers. Supporting these brands helps combat labor exploitation. Many slow-fashion brands offer transparency about their supply chains, allowing consumers to make informed choices.
In terms of quality and longevity, slow fashion emphasizes craftsmanship and attention to detail, resulting in garments that are well-made and durable. Slow fashion promotes timeless, versatile pieces that remain stylish beyond seasonal trends, encouraging a more sustainable wardrobe.
Making conscious choices
Filipinos can take several steps to make more conscious fashion choices, both online and in physical stores. Educate yourself about the brands you buy from and their production practices. Look for certifications and information about their commitment to sustainability and ethics.
Invest in quality by choosing high-quality, durable pieces over cheap, trendy items. Consider the cost per wear and the longevity of the garment. Support local and ethical brands committed to slow-fashion principles.
Buying second-hand is a sustainable way to update your wardrobe. Shopping at thrift stores or “ukay-ukay” reduces waste and gives clothes a second life.
Properly caring for your garments can extend their lifespan. Follow washing instructions, repair minor damages, and store clothes correctly.
Before making a purchase, ask yourself if you truly need the item and if it will add value to your wardrobe. Avoid impulse buys driven by fleeting trends.
What e-commerce platforms can do
E-commerce platforms can highlight and feature brands that adhere to sustainable and ethical practices. This could involve creating dedicated sections or categories for eco-friendly and slow-fashion brands, making it easier for consumers to find and support them.
They can allow consumers to filter products based on sustainability criteria such as organic materials, fair trade, recycled content, and low carbon footprint. This can make it easier for consumers to find products that align with their values.
If these platforms also support sustainability initiatives, they can create and enforce policies that ensure all brands on the platform adhere to basic ethical and environmental standards. This can include fair labor practices, safe working conditions, and environmentally friendly production processes.
The fashion choices we make have far-reaching impacts on our planet and the people who produce our clothes. By embracing slow fashion, Filipinos can contribute to a more sustainable and ethical fashion industry. It’s time to rethink what we wear, prioritize quality and sustainability, and make conscious choices that reflect our values.
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