McDonald, A., & Nicioli, T. (2023, 24 November). What is fast fashion, and why is it so controversial? CNN. https://www.cnn.com/style/what-is-fast-fashion-sustainable-fashion/index.html

 

This article covers the pitfalls of the industry trend called “Fast Fashion.” The authors call out brands like H&M, Zara, Shein as being fast fashion brands. All of these stores (except Shein) have in person stores and are growing in size. The article shows that Shein actually argues that their methods of quick production times actually “reduces overproduction” because they quickly can adjust to consumer demand. In addition, the article states how clothing production has almost doubled since 2000 yet consumers only wear clothes for half as long. The article also mentions sustainable fashion as an alternative, and tells readers to check if clothing is made from natural fibers, not polyester, so that the clothing can degrade naturally after being used for at least three generations.

 

This article is great at covering the pitfalls of the modern fashion industry for casual readers. Great use of statistics and great alternatives provided. I hope most consumers can see through Shein’s argument that their methods are “more sustainable” because, they may avoid overproduction, but they don’t promote anti-consumerism at all, and pressure the buyer to buy things at “low prices” with fake sales and aggressive marketing. It’s a see through claim for anyone who is informed with the business of  Shein, that hopefully most people can see through.