Impact of Fast Fashion on the Textile Industry
Have you ever noticed catwalk trends and high-fashion designs online and thought to yourself “Wish I could also have these pieces in my wardrobe”? Honestly, the thought has crossed our minds more often than we would like to admit. Like a genie in disguise, fast fashion has made our dreams come true. Basically, you can now get trendy clothing items at affordable prices. The new designs keep on rolling one after the other and before you know it, there is a new collection in the stores.
But have you ever wondered about the impact of the same on the textile industry and environment around you? Well, looks like it is time to ponder about it too!
The Impact Of Fast Fashion On The Textile Industry
Let us take a look at some of the consequences of the rise in fast fashion:
1. Production Boom In The Textile Industry
There is a need for speed when it comes to fast fashion. New trends come in the market, garments are designed and sent to store racks. All of this happens within a matter of a few weeks. Once the trends are out, the garments are also out of sight. They are replaced with new and trending pieces. This demand for quick turnaround time means there needs to be fast production as well. This creates new jobs as factories are always buzzing with work.
But there is a downside to all of it as well. The textile workers are constantly under stress to meet tight delivery deadlines. As if this wasn’t enough, they even have to work their way around with tighter budgets. While companies make a profit in all this, the welfare of the workers takes a backseat.
2. Low-Cost Manufacturing
Given the nature of business where prices need to be minimal and trendiness in clothes needs to be maximum, most apparel companies look for low-cost manufacturing. Countries like India, Bangladesh, and Vietnam are at the top of the list here as they can provide cheap labor. This brings new economic opportunities for the textile sector in these countries.
But, here is the catch! Companies further try to cut their costs in order to make the maximum profit. But how is all this done? Workers wages are reduced, unsafe working conditions are seen, and there is no job security. Again, the sufferer is a common worker in the textile industry.
3. Loss Of Traditional Textiles
As the fast fashion industry focuses on more in less, we are losing the essence of the traditional textile industry. In countries like India which is known for its embroidery and weaving, there has been a steep decline in production and purchase of these textiles.
People are more inclined towards the mass-produced fast fashion items available at low cost. Not only have traditional textiles lost the battle against fast fashion industries, but people have also lost their traditional skills, culture, and heritage.
4. Environmentally Unsafe
If there is one thing that the fast fashion industry is infamous for, it definitely has to be the negative impact on the environment. The textile industry is one of the biggest polluters in the world and fast fashion only adds to the troubles.
Since 60% of these clothes are made of synthetic fibers, they can’t be recycled and are thrown away in landfills. In fact, the growth in demand for fashion products has increased the use of chemicals in the process. This means that the water near these industries is being polluted and becoming unsafe for consumption.
5. Increasing Culture Of Overconsumption
The idea that more is better is clearly botched up. It has changed the way we shop. There were times when we used to save for a special piece of a versatile garment. Now, we are buying stuff as soon as it hits the market. The cycle looks somewhat like this – buying clothes on a whim, wearing them a few times, tossing them aside, and repeating!
This cycle has led to us buying cheap and easily disposable garments. We are no longer attracted to sustainable clothing, something that lasts for long. The idea almost seems outdated and out of fashion quite literally!
So, What’s Next For The Textile Industry?
Well, fast fashion has clearly disrupted the textile industry on one hand. On the other hand, it has sparked a really interesting conversation on sustainability. So, what does the future hold for our textile industry? Clearly, fashion requires a more thoughtful and balanced approach where people know that ‘less is more’ and sustainability is the way to go!
Conclusion
Fast fashion has left its mark in both positive and negative ways on the textile industry. Although it has made fashion accessible to the general public and created economic opportunities, you cannot overlook the damage it has done to the environment and traditional craft. Now, it is up to you to think about the choices you make when it comes to clothing. Remember, fashion doesn’t always have to be fast, sometimes it can be slow and steady!