Quick Pros and Cons of Fast-Fashion
It’s no secret that fast-fashion has made a killing by producing a succession of designer styles at a bargain price. Finding an on-trend item with a price tag that doesn’t break the bank can be extremely satisfying and psychologically rewarding – at least at first. Mindless shopping has many hidden psychological dangers. Basically, fast-fashion and our mental health do not mix.
It can be very difficult to keep an updated wardrobe and stay up to date with the constantly changing trends without emptying your wallet every weekend. Because of the upsurge of style bloggers and the ever-increasing power of social media, everyone develops this attitude where they want exactly what other people are wearing right now.
Fast- Fashion strives to keep up with the never-ending demand and for the most part they succeed but not without consequences.
Environmental & Mental Impacts of Fast-Fashion
We are all aware of the environmental impacts of fast-fashion. The fashion industry is thought to be the second biggest contributor to global warming and one of the most wasteful industries on the planet. For an environmentally conscious consumer, the guilt of mindless shopping can disrupt your peaceful mentality.
It can even cause depression, anxiety, and thoughts of worthlessness. It is becoming increasingly important to invest in sustainable brands or shop from secondhand retailers. Unfortunately this is not always an affordable option for many which is understandable.
I myself no longer feel comfortable purchasing from fast-fashion retailers so I make a point to keep my purchases low and invest in sustainable items that are well made and will last a long time.
Fast- fashion garments are not made to last and buying them cheaply leaves us with little feeling of regret when disposing of them and buying more. If I know I spent a significant amount on an item then I will be more inclined to keep it for years, especially if I know it is easily well preserved.
If it does tear then I’m more likely to take it to the tailors or even fix it myself instead of simply throwing it out.
What are the Benefits of Quitting Fast-Fashion?
I feel like my life has really changed since I started investing in and establishing an emotional attachment to my clothes. I’ve made smarter purchases in lower quantities and kept better to fully developing my own aesthetic.
I think we can all agree that in theory it is better to purchase high-quality items that will be more durable over time. This might end the shopping spree but it is much better in the long run, believe me.
If you are looking for any advice on how to change your shopping habits you can check this article on quitting the fast-fashion mentality.
When your closet is filled to the brim with garments of low value it can leave you feeling regretful and with a negative self-reflection as you associate your habit of purchasing quantity over quality with your own identity.
Buying fast-fashion is literally an addiction like eating junk food.
Think of it as subjective happiness vs objective happiness. Subjective happiness is instant gratification but it’s temporary. Objective happiness is happiness that comes from your soul and it comes with that peace of mind knowing you made a decision that benefited not only you but the very ground you walk on.
In a perfect world that is hopefully not too far away, sustainable/ethical fashion will be the norm. Eco-friendly brands will be more affordable and the general populous will be well educated on the negative effects of mindless shopping and will actively be searching for quality over quantity.
Until then we can keep pushing for better practices at all levels of production and employ sensibility when considering new purchases. Let the world know that this is what we want as consumers and we will not waver.
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