Fast Fashion

Is a term we often hear online, but what is really it? How is it being done, and what are the effects that comes with it? Well today, it shall be tackled on this blog. The output will be broken down in 3 sections. Please note that this has been backed up by my own study as well as much information I could gather from the web:)

- Introduction (Common definition)

- Body (pros and cons, effects being seen/felt)

- Conclusion (actions we can do to reduce it's impact, alternatives)

     Everyday since the last few decades fast-fashion is already on display for many, upon the corona pandemic it's popularity became more seen as a variety of online stores application rose, with many finding it rather efficient than walk-in shopping. At least during the lockdowns and quarantines caused by the pandemic. As it emerged, a lot of infamous brands in the said app has been producing a mass amount of on 'trend' accessories, clothing, etc. At fair price. Hence the people preferred it more than branded ones that cost "luxury". Fast-Fashion in its literal meaning is: a term describing the rapid production of inexpensive, low-quality clothing that often mimics popular styles of fashion labels, big-name brands, and independent designers. (Kelleher, 2026)

    Although it is a question "If it's efficient, why is it bad?" 2 answers, yes and no. No, because again, it saves time and money of people; yes because it affects nature. See, with the fashion industry, they are responsible for about 10% of carbon emission of the whole world, uses large quantities of water, and employs dyes and chemicals that pollute the environment.

    It also uses textile-waste with it's inexpensive low-quality materials that are mostly 90% polyester, encourages consumers to discard these items after worn once or twice only. These would then end up in landfills worldwide, one known in particular is the "clothing graveyard" in Atacama Dessert.  (Kelleher, 2026)

(insert a picture of the said landfill)

     It is as bad as plastic pollution, with almost of the raw materials the clothing came from is plastic itself. Meaning? It is not biodegradable, as it needs 20-200 years before it can fully decompose/break down, polluting marine bodies and harming the environment in the process. (Mariano, 2021) 

     Countless of reports have also mentioned that one of the biggest retailers, Shein and most fast-fashion stores in general exploits in child labor with many being underpaid and minors, as there has been numerous cases filed against. Though, actions are being made, what they did cannot simply be undone. (Silva, 2024)

     But on the bright-side, one can certainly help reduce the pollution by simply avoiding buying from fast-fashion retailers, and go thirfting instead, "trendy" clothing does not last long, be your own style and explore more into REAL fashion of your own; it's important to know that. Another is recycling clothes or making them from SCRATCH, with a little bit of sewing, some creativeness and cutting of fabrics, an environmental friendly and awesome outfits can totally be created. It's crucial we seek potential of shaping our world for the better starting from our mindset and how we tackle everyday lives, slowly making ways for the bigger movement. Actions matter, for us, for the whole planet, for a sustainable future.

Here's a list of some stores/brands that specializes in fast fashion:

1. Shein - Criticized for extremely fast turnover, environmental impact, and labor concerns.
2. Temu - . The platform is known for excessive, low-quality, and potentially hazardous items that often fail safety tests.
3. H&M -  fast-production model, contributing to high waste and supply chain concerns.
4. Victoria's Secret - Cited for labor issues in its supply chain
5. Hot Topic - . Critics argue the retailer exploits trends for profit, leading to low-quality products, a decline in authentic alternative fashion, and potential data security risks
6. Zara -  fast-production model, contributing to high waste and supply chain concerns.
7. Uniqlo - Linked to poor working conditions and allegations of using forced labor.
8. Jaded London / Killstar -  Identified as trendy "alternative" fast fashion brands.
9. Forever 21 - Known for ultra-cheap, disposable clothing.
10. Edikted - Focuses on current internet-driven aesthetics and fast-paced trends.
11. Hollister - . The company heavily uses petroleum-based materials like virgin polyester and lacks comprehensive labor certifications to ensure fair wages