the reality of not buying fast fashion
Вставка
- Опубліковано 16 лип 2024
- this video isn't mean to discourage anyone on this journey, but I thought I would talk about some of the biggest changes and struggles I've noticed in my first year of not buying fast fashion. of course these are bound to change as I continue on, and the most important thing is to stick with it!
even if you can't stop buying fast fashion cold turkey, I encourage each of you to at least shop it a little less, thrift a little more, and think twice before you buy something ensuring you really love it before giving it a new home :)
for more info watch this video | • Stop buying fast fashion.
try the method I personally use for online counseling | www.tryonlinetherapy.com/sara...
------------------------------------------------------------------
e m a i l | sarahhawkinson@gmail.com
i n s t a g r a m | / sarahhawkinson
t w i t t e r | #!/sarahmhawkinson
d e p o p | www.depop.com/en-us/sarahhawk...
p a t r e o n | / sarahhawkinson
h o r r o r . c h a n n e l | bit.ly/1h7ZKUF
v l o g . c h a n n e l | / @sarahhawkinsonvlogs7150
------------------------------------------------------------------
c a m e r a | canon rebel t5i
e d i t o r | adobe premiere pro cs5.5
FTC | not a sponsored video
#fastfashion #fashion
Don't fuss about wearing fast fashion items you already own. Being less wastefull is a huge part of not supporting fast fashion. A lot of what we buy at thift stores originally was fast fashion too so if someone asks just say you thrifted it or that it's not for sale anymore. For me the hardest transition is shoes because I like really out there ones. Clothing was easy since I've thrifted all my life and Amsterdam is a thrift heaven. I never get questions from people. They don't even realize my stuff is second hand. Only when they ask me where I got my fav jacket and they get a bit jelly when I say I got if for 3 bucks at a thrift shop.
Also, I wish more fashion influencers would focus on styling items instead of gathering more and more of them.
omg that last comment! I dont want to know what ppl buy and "styled" from this season. I want to know how I can make last season's stuff look more trendy lmao
YES
Hey fellow Amsterdammer! What are your favourite shops?! Most places just have regular pricing, so whoah 3 bucks for a jacket?!
Yess! Please share your favorite thrift stores in the Netherlands. My experience is that it's still expensive :(
@@euhm8679 Jaaa wil ik ook weten!
I live in the Netherlands and I'm always a bit jealous of the thrift stores you guys have in America, they're so big and cheap! They don't exist here, just small vintage stores where items are twice as expensive as fast fashion items, and small local secondhand stores with one, maybe two racks of clothing thats mostly kids clothing or things that are really out of style. It's extremely hard here to stop buying fast fashion when you don't have a lot of money :(
where do all the used clothes in the neatherlands go
Same in Belgium. "Episode" is so hyped that they ask 25 euro for an old used basic sweater.. ps hallo :)
Thrown out or passed down to the "new generation" in the family. Its same problem here in Denmark.
@@darkchurchhill there are clothing containers here you can put your old clothes in, the clothes usually get recycled or they go to a different country, usually a third world country where the need for clothes is higher
@@LOVEAapjes ja we hebben hier ook de episode, hele leuke winkel maar zo veel geld voor tweedehands kleding :( en hallo terug!
Another thing people forget to talk about is that sometimes when you are plus size or have a body type outside of what a lot of companies produce for, fast fashion can end up being your only choice. People also need to push for an expansive size range from companies that are ethically manufacturing clothing if they want to make going sans fast fashion more realistic for all types of people.
I find that fast fashion company's in the UK have very limited sizes, not going above XL which isn't even very big. To buy bigger sizes you'd likely have to go to other more expensive shops (though they are probably produced in the same sweatshop factory)
But then ethical companies may not have the abundant of resources fast fashion companies have to carry that many sizes.
Most ethical brands can't afford to have bigger sizes.
What most people forget, thanks to fast fashion, is that in bigger sizes goes more fabric. And good fabric, especially ethical, is expansive. So in order to not lose money, ethical brands have to price sizes with more fabric, more money. While fast fashion can easily ballance the prices (because their fabric and labor is cheap and mass produced, they can spread the "extra" material cost over the all sizes, because it's not even 5 cent).
On top of that people who have plus sizes are in the minority (although that is also not true in some countries, but that's an different conversation).
So in short: plus size is a small group which is also more expensive to produce. And therefor not a lot of non-fast fashion can afford to produce for them.
But I'm sure that if you find a small group of plus size people and reach out to brand with "hey, we know we wouldn't pay the same price as a 36 (EU) for the same item, but we're willing to pay even more extra for some good clothes. Is their something you could do for us?" atleast one brand will be able to help you :)
p.s. I hope my explanation is a little bit clear. English is not my native language, which makes explaining certain thing diffi.
Was going to comment this! Apart from basics like tshirts leggings or jean jackets, 90% of vintage or good 2nd hand is always smaller sizes
Elisa Hill I live in America and the company here normally have decent range tho
One thing that helped me transition was whenever I went window shopping (I still like looking at clothes in store) every time I didn't buy something that I really liked, or the old me would have bought, I put that money in a jar. After about six months I took it out and counted it and seeing how much money I saved was really amazing. But also that main thing that was surprising was when I looked back, I couldn't even remember what the things I wanted to buy were. And it made me realise how bad I was at impulse purchasing and these things that I wanted so bad in that moment in the store, I probably wouldn't even look twice at in my wardrobe now.
i really like this, might try it myself! :)
When I window shop I try to remember what things I really liked and try to diy them from thrifted things
I’m absolutely going to do this. What a wonderful idea, thank you!!
I love this
A great way to change your thinking is instead of saying I can't buy this and that is saying I could buy this but I don't want too
TheNecrohazard same. But it's really hard not to add. I don't want to eat meat because it's disgusting ...
@TheNecrohazard EXACTLY 😊
Another good one: "Do I need this?". I asked myself this question for a year or two every single time I was thinking of buying something. It eliminated 99.9% of my purchases! 🙏
JoanieTiVi Amen! Similar to all movements. I can eat meat but I don’t want to. I can buy things in plastic but I don’t want to.
JoanieTiVi Yes makes sense.. more empowering
I know that this is not realistic and all, but I think that if everyone treated fast fashion clothes just like expensive clothes, there wouldn't even be a problem.And what I mean is if everyone bought just the clothes they needed and really liked, and not just buying stuff recklessly just because they're cheap then fast fashion wouldn't cause the issues that it does now.
I agree, the fashion companies are the ones that constructed this idea that you need a new wardrobe every season to make more money. hence “fast” fashion churning out as much clothing as possible to be bought. this causes everyone to see cheap clothing as disposable and the demand increases even more!
This is so true. I'm always dazzled by the amount of clothes in Zara etc. I heard that they make new collections weekly! It's a two-way thing. Also, why should something nice always be expensive?
this is actually what I do, I don't have a lot of money so I buy fast fashion but only if I really need something or I really like it. I also pay attention to quality: if the fabric looks really cheap or the seams are bad I don't buy it. In this way my clothing last longer, even if they are fast fashion.
I think the whole process of not buying fast fashion was really easy for me because I just wasn't ever a big shopper to begin with. I need very little clothes, I work from home, I don't socialize a lot, I wear pajamas all day (my clients don't need to know) unless I really have to go out for an errand or a meeting, so I realized one day that I just wasn't buying fast fashion already.
I probably should look around for a good, ethical, loungewear company though.
'I wear pajamas all day, my clients dont need to know' so cute!!
My favourite label is “Theo the Label” the girl who runs it - Esther explains exactly where her clothes are made, uses mostly deadstock and does heaps of comfortable clothes!
What kind of job do you have, if you don't mind answering? I'd like to get into a career that I can do from home (even if I need to go out and get few years education/training for it).
😍😍😍
I would love to know what you do for a living
I LOVE that you don't put your friends down for their shopping habits. I've always disliked "holier than thou" attitudes. So many people go about this in such an aggressive way without recognizing that this lifestyle isn't always feasible for everyone.
I am going to be really sincere here: I said that I would stop buying from fast fashion this year, but I got clothes from a fast fashion brand 2 times this year. I got underwear and new shorts. There's some clothing items that I can't get from the my local thrift stores. So, what I am doing - and, do this 95% of the time - it's to 1) buy fast fashion when I can't thrift 2) make sure to put the clothes to good use for a long time. I have fast fashion jeans that have lasted me for 2/3 years almost, bras that have lasted me for 2/3 years, hoodies that have lasted me for 2/3 years. It would be ideal to stop buying fast fashion, but at least I make good use of my purchases.
Maria Beatriz Martins that's an amazing accomplishment in itself! 👏🏽
"make sure to put the clothes to good use for a long time" I honestly think this is the most important (and often overlooked) part of being "ethical" around fashion. I've definitely got some fast fashion work horses that I'm still getting wear out of after 3-4 years.
Yeah same! I have a super hard time thrifting where I live and I simple don't have the money to buy off of most ethical brands. I usually buy stuff at h&m but I wear them for as long as they last which is usually quite a few years. Besides, I maybe buy an item or two like thrice a year lol
that’s totally okay! 2 times in a year is hardly a failure, you’re doing an incredible thing by not buying fast fashion all the time. It’s not about being perfect it’s about making conscious decisions 😁
Maria Beatriz Martins also i wouldn’t feel too bad about buying underwear & socks from fast fashion! most of us can’t really afford to buy them from expensive ethical shops and i doubt anyone would want to get them from the thrift shop :)
love love love this ! been staying away from fast fashion since January and I can totally relate to all these struggles!
Two fave thrift ladies right here!
Basically, I don't follow trends. That's how you stop buying so much every week.
yeah and i think it's funner to try to start new trends!
@@poooopoo great point!
Same. I have always preferred classic things that goes with most of my wardrobe and will last me a while. I may only buy one trendy item a year or two just for fun but that’s it. Usually shopping actually gives me a headache so I prefer just doing it a few times every so often with clothes I hardly need to replace. People still compliment me regularly and say I look elegant. I think I prefer that than trendy anyway.
before purchasing clothing: does it pass the 30 wear test? How does this fit in my wardrobe? Do I have anything else that looks like this item? Would I need to buy something else to make this item work? Would I need to get this item tailored in anyway? Do I truly love this item?
Frank& Beans What’s 30 wear test?
Jelka Fabianova Can you wear an item 30 times or more?
@@jelkafabianova2801 A better way to conceptualize this is to think: will I wear this more than 10 times this year? 5 times each year for the next two? once a month? etc.
One of the best youtube comments i've ever read. Fantastic philosophy
If you buy good quality clothes, you don't need to buy something new every year. I don't understand people who buying trousers or jumpers every year. Also, stick to classic cuts and prints so they will NEVER be out of fashion. Like Audrey Hepburn; what she wore in the 60's 70's can still be worn today.
Yes!
Totally agree, this is my strategy, buying classic and solid colors
I absolutely agree with this. I went the whole of last two years without shopping for any clothes (aside from undergarments). I still got compliments because my wardrobe is essentially very classic and quality, ethical pieces. I saved the time and headache of having to go shopping again to replace my clothes. I even saved enough money to invest in my first designer blazer this year (ethically made as well) which I know will last me for a while and goes with everything I own. I saved money in many other areas as well because I don’t think people account for the overall cost of fast fashion clothing which don’t last long and need constant replacement. Less is more when trying to be sustainable.
people buy new every month lol
@@SummeRain783 where do I buy clothes that aren’t fast fashion that aren’t crazy expensive? I’m trying to redo my whole closet and I’m really struggling to find clotned
I had Wish ad in the middle of this video 😅
Honestly, I bought a pair of ankle boots from Forever 21 in 2013 and they are still going strong!! Buying less often is key, whether its an expensive designer item or a cheap-o item
My main struggle with moving away from fast fashion is the financial aspect. I shop second hand as much as I can, and I've totally stopped buying random clothes from fast fashion brands, but for things like starting a new full time job in an office when I don't have any office wear, or a dressy even like a Christmas party where I don't have anything to wear - I find it SO hard to find suitable things thrifting and I end up buying very cheap fast fashion for that specific occasion. In 2019 I want to cut down more, and once I'm out of debt and am somewhat financially stable I think I'll definitely be able to totally stop and I can't wait for that!!!
You only need a couple of staples for your work closet. A couple of blouses, a few skirts or dress pants and two turtle necks for the winter. As for dresses, there are shops that sell trendy thrifted dresses or you can rent a dress for the night. Also, there is no shame in wearing the same dress more than once.
Don't forget that sites like eBay and depop exist also! You can buy whatever clothing you need, only second hand. Just like thrifting but more specific :)
Also, if you already are trying your best to shop responsibly, I don't think it is that bad if you buy 1 or 2 fast fashion items a year (for Christmas as you mentioned for example). Of course it's always good when we as individuals decide to pursue sustainability, but it is expensive and thrifting can be quite time consuming, so when we cannot afford another option, we are not even half as guilty as some rich CEO choosing profit over the workers' safety. The blame for exploiting workers and the environment must be put on the big companies, and they need to be held accountable.
(but yeah, i can recommend depop too. And asking your grandma to teach you how to fix clothes)
for office clothes it's best to Buy a few staple items that are well Made. they last longer so their impact is lower (and you get your Money's worth) and you look more professional. in terms of Shopping for occasions, i have just stopped doing that. i always find something that I like and can wear for an event
Get your point partially but don't agree with thrifting for parties, especially Christmas. There are tons of gorgeous party/holiday items at thrift, classic pieces, maybe you are too focused on trends. Lovely silk, brocade, knit things in classic cuts, long-lasting fabrics...these are investment pieces. The opposite of fast fashion.
I would love a gift guide and Instagram inspired look books. I loved this video, I agree with everything you said. It can be a struggle, I only started a few months ago and I like that you are talking about your experience.
Would love to see thrifted recreations of instagram outfits :D
Marie Halflants yah im excited for any thrifting videos lol
Yessss would love that instead of all these fashion hauls all *new* clothes and they seen to buy so much of it
Do you know Kristen Leo ? She is a greek UA-camr, her videos in english though.. She often talks about veganism and critizies fast fashion industry. I think she did a series, where she would recreate outfits from instagram with thrift shop items 😊
@@tonipou9062 Cool, I'll check her out ! :)
If anyone's interested but also feelin' lazy : ua-cam.com/play/PL24zxFHJX5pk380_o7xtJM4C4glI0GCWK.html
Have you ever considered ethics behind how technology is made? Like common things most people have like phones, laptops, tvs etc? I haven't heard as much on it but I know there is some sketchy stuff that happens with that too. It might be an even bigger challenge than being ethical buying clothes.
It is. The materials are mined, the components are made in sweat shops in countries with loose environmental laws, they might be put together in your native country just so they can stick a "made in the USA" sticker on it but all they've done is assemble parts shipped across the world, they're built to fail after a couple of years and often built so that you can't upgrade them yourself or replace broken components, there is intense pressure to replace them within their working life (eg my phone contract monthly payment will double after the 2 year contract trying to force me into replacing a functional handset). Do sell or recycle your old tech, do buy second hand when you can, do get it fixed or upgraded if you can and get a sim only contract if your handset is still good after your contract ends. Most importantly get a protective case for your device to prevent accidental damage.
I agree, I think it's much more difficult since we don't have alternatives, at least I don't know any other than buying second hand electronics
Yuuup. Wealthy countries will destabilize poor nations governments (and prop up fascist leaders) in order to mine their natural resources like lithium for electronics- in the process keeping the native population in destitute poverty to take advantage of the cheap labour pool
I feel like so many women, myself included, have had a really emotional relationship with shopping-using it as a quick dopamine hit and pick me up. As a way to avoid negative feelings, and as a way to relieve boredom. For me, quitting fast fashion was a big part of becoming more aware of my own internal unconscious motivations for shopping for the sake of it for things I don’t need. It’s a journey for sure.
The quality of this video is so good that i dont have to wear my glasses to see clearly , SHE SNAPPED
omg I'm so glad because my camera trying to focus was a real issue lol
What i've struggled with most is that everyone calls me out on if i once eat a burger or buy something new. For me it's more about doing the best you can, which for me is about 80% vegan/ethical/sustainable. But other people really like to point out what i don't do instead of what i actually do. Completely different point of view. Really great topic!
Off topic but your hair gives me life. Major hair goals.
I feel like no one’s really addressed how to approach cutting out fast fashion when you’re plus sized. Thrifting (and shopping for clothes/shoes in general) is much, much easier when you can fit into straight sizes. There are just certain things you have to account for as a plus sized person that people who can fit happily into an xs-xl don’t have to think about as often (or at all).
In my experience, thrifting with my straight sized friends has always been uncomfortable and awkward for me, because while they could reasonably leave the shop with an armful of clothes, my best options are usually a shirt that’s slightly ill fitting or something from the men’s section if I’m lucky (not knocking the men’s section, I am totally happy to shop in the men’s section, it just makes figuring out your sizing that much harder with curves!).
I know this isn’t really your struggle, so I don’t expect you to have any solutions to this problem, but I just wanted to bring it up here in case someone else had any tips!
I've had the same troubles in the past that have really put me off thrifting. I always see comments about how there are plus size sections in thrift stores but in my area that just doesn't exist. It's pretty frustrating.
Have you thought of looking for used clothing online? eBay, poshmark, threadup - whatever there is where you live? 🤔
I have the opposite problem of you. I have an xxs-xs (82 - 60 - 86), and i live in a place were most people are in the s-l range. Very skinny people like me are rare, so it's very difficult for me to find well-fitting things secondhand unless it's something that's stretchy but just doesn't stretch out as much as possible on me...Sure, I can alter things. But I go to school fulltime and simply don't have the time for it.
Hi Tia, that's a good point. I think thrift stores can do some things to make findings clothes easier for people who are plus size. Organising clothes based on size helps (you don't have to waste time to go over racks of clothing), asking specially for donations of plus size clothing, letting customers known on social media when they get more variety of sizes...
Unfortunately for those chances to happen in your local stores you probably need to ask and advocate for them.
But yeah in the end they have at thrift & second-hand stores better selection of sizes that are common for the modern age. (At least people who are more petite can sometimes alter the clothes if they have time & know how to do it or can pay seamstress.)
Like in vintage stores it can be hard to find something even if you are size M or very tall, very muscular....because back then in general people were smaller.
Best luck! But yeah probably ecological brands are easier option than thrifting. This list may be a good place to start: www.thegoodtrade.com/features/plus-size-ethical-fashion
This is a great point. As a size twelve I don't usually have a problem finding clothes, but my hubby is a XXXL, and it's almost impossible to find clothes for him in a thrift store. Ditto on ethical brands. As a compromise, when possible, we try to find clothes made here, but it's not easy.
your hair! you look STUNNING
your videos have inflenced me to start thinking about it.
Totally feel the struggle, it's been a year where I actively avoid fast fashion and I do also feel sad each season when I work on my capsule wardrobe. Shopping sustainable can be expensive and also when I'm trying to fit items to a very specific wardrobe look. Anyways LOVED how you are talking about the struggles too.
True but I also learned to be happy with less. I just buy one or two quality items each year to build my capsule.
I find second hand is a great way to keep the cost of ethical shopping down.
This is interesting for me because I don't live in America and my thrifting choices are mostly finantial. I live in Poland and my income is about 8k $ and fashion/electrinics/industrial goods are the same price in the whole Europe so we don't really buy as many items as a typical 'westerner'. I lived in UK for 2 years and the difference in buying choices was very visible to me. I feel like fashion shopping for fun is a very 'first world' thing. When I feel the compulsion to buy new clothes, I would go windowshopping or browse depop for a while. I've tried to shop in Primark or H&M but I was dissapointed in quality. Then I've bought about 10 items from the old All Saints collections on ebay so I have alot witchy items and everything matches. It's a win-win situation for me and environment. Here in Warsaw I've found a second hand shop with scandinavian clothes in it and it's filled with new H&M basics - It's good for me but it also shows how many unnecesery clothes people would buy when the clothing prices are affordable for them. My biggest struggle are winter jackets and shoes because right now I can't really afford even a fast fashion puffa jackets and everything I like is made by alternative and expensive companies (and I don't really know if they're fair-trade or not)
exactly, as a latinamerican, that's how it is for me. SOMETIMES, i can afford to buy SOME clothes. Clothes in Argentina are CRAZY expensive, so If I travel i usually buy fast fashion. because it is what i can afford
Try depop! I'm sure you Will find something warm and new at a good price
I am currently transitioning into not buying fast fashion. It’s definitely difficult but I feel like I’m getting there and I appreciate the things that I buy much more because I almost had to hunt for it! I still buy fast fashion things here and there but it’s getting less and less. Being a plus size girl makes it a bit harder, especially with jeans and skirts, but I’m working on finding ethical brands and thrifted pieces! I love your videos so much and your recommendation of the documentary “The True Cost” is what encouraged me to start the transition!
Sustainable and Ethical Gift Guide!!! Yes!! ♥️♥️♥️
I know American Apparel gets mixed reactions because of their advertising campaigns a few years back, but they do sell basic bras/panties/active wear that's all ethically produced
Totally! A bulk of their production is still in the states. Some of it is overseas now. They make that super clear on their site though!
I agree with not going after individuals, that is generally a pretty imposing and ineffective form of activism. I don't believe it's the fault of the consumer that unethical treatment of workers is a common practice in the first place, I don't want to move away ANY of the blame from the actual perpetrators(ie companies, legislators). Putting less money in the pockets of the bad guys, and more of it in the pockets of the good guys, is a pretty good thing to be doing though. I'm no excessive shopper, the only items of clothing I've bought in the last six months were a pair of mittens. But honestly if I saw an amazing cat print on something in a fast fashion store, I'd probably buy it. I'm really weak to cats...
I went to the trouble of getting plain white bags made out of ethically sourced materials(hard to know it's 100% ethical, but at the very least less bad, right?) so I could paint my cat on them and get my kitty fix, and have some shopping bags that aren't made out flimsy plastic that barely make it onto the bus back home before they start just dissolving.
I wrote this right before your cat appeared in the video. COINCIDENCE?
Yeah, probably. lol
i love this video! definitely not enough people talk about the hardships of making big life decisions like this
i would love a video on your favorite ethical clothing brands!! thrifting is great, but it's not something i have access to 100% of the time so i would love to discover some brands i can potentially buy online that i can feel better about supporting :)
(also LOVE the idea of recreating instagram outfits with thrifted items!!)
omg i had not even though about things like undergarments!! definitely a huge struggle!!! and yes you absolutely don't have to be perfect when you're still learning.
i think it's fine to tell people you got something at a fast fashion brand, but mention you got it years ago and no longer support the company. that way, you're spreading your message & giving the person the answer they desire, while also not being too "preachy"
I have been trying so hard for months to completely stop with fast fashion, and it's easy with regular clothes, but I really struggle with shoes, underwear and pajamas. Plus, I live in a town where the nearest thrift store is 2 hours away. Mainly what I've been doing is ordering clothes online from certified sustainable and ethical brands, however those are incredibly expensive and it's hard to justify spending $200 on a dress. I'm satisfied with having a small wardrobe though, as a college student all I really wear are leggings and hoodies. Thank you for spreading this message!
I definitely agree that veganism or plant based diets are more popular than ethical consumerism, even for the food itself within a vegan diet. It's not talked about enough in the vegan community that the workers picking or fruits and vegetables are exploited. Veganism has been promoted as a cruelty free lifestyle but there really is no such thing, you can try your best to buy ethically sourced food but it would make something already very restrictive more difficult. When people bring this up I've seen a lot of vegans over the years get defensive but that makes the situation worse, we have to talk about these things in order to get them to change and the way they change is we do our best to find alternatives when we can!
Valeria Vagapova i agree on the part where vegans think they are better. (not every vegan though). im working to be 100% vegan, and i do it mostly for the animals but also for my health. i really recommend the channel James Aspey if you want to know more about the motives of veganism and plant based diets.
Valeria Vagapova and of course i am not hating or saying your opinion is wrong.
Valeria Vagapova yes i totally agree. have a nice thanksgiving ( if you celebrate) and a wonderful day.
Valeria Vagapova yes of course ❤️
It depends on where the friut/veggies are picked but the majority of food for livestock (soy) is from exploited countires and there are 3 plant calories needed to produce 1 animal calory (I hate that expression).. That way, a vegan usually (unless he consumes thrice the amount of fruit) contributes less to these specific working situations that an omnivore.
I think you are overthinking it... i haven’t bought “fast fashion” in a year just because I didn’t feel like spending money on low quality cheap clothes and I never told anyone, I didn’t even know myself I was doing “anti-fast fashion”, didn’t know it was a thing, so I feel like if you don’t make a big deal out of it, nobody would even notice that you didn’t buy anything at Forever21 along with your friends... However, when you do identify yourself so clearly with certain things to the public, people will have an opinion and will feel a certain way, I feel like some people may feel judged by you so 🤷♀️
Lana SK agreed. Don't make a big deal and no one will give a toss
Lana SK I think you’re getting the wrong point. The point is to raise awareness the reason fast fashion is so bad is because of how they treat the workers and the toll on our environment. You are clearly fortunate to live in a place where you have not seen the effects of it. When we fight fast fashion and tell others to do the same then we force these companies to change their policies and we can start seeing a change in the workers and the environment.
I agree. I feel the same
@@peachynaty sadly fast fashion and ethical practices just can’t seem to go hand in hand and we are seeing that today. Some of them tried to sell us on their new stuff like “green washing” etc which in reality turned out to be a scam. In fact now a lot of the fast fashion industry is going out of business (thankfully). Charging such low prices really makes it difficult to ensure ethically sourced garments.
The real struggle of not buying fast fashion: THRIFTING IS HARD. I mean, am i alone in this? I decided to never buy fast fashion again a couple of months ago, and Ive bought two clothes thrifting. Maybe its cause Im new to it and it will get better with time. At least i hope that thats the case😜
I think thrifting can be hard for a number of reasons. One is, as you said, you're a noob at it. But it also has to do with location, sizes, and personal taste. Where you live will affect the kinds of clothes you find at a thrift store. If it's not your taste then obviously thrifting will be hard. For me, I've found that over time my style has changed and adapted to my thrifting habits. Now, when I go to a thrift store, I have things in mind that I'm looking for. Most of these are staple peices rather than statement pieces. Sometimes they won't have your size or they won't have exactly what you want and that's okay. You'll get used to it and adapt with time. For now, try looking for those staple pieces. Natural fibers are usually a little more resilient when it comes to quality. Don't be discouraged at not finding anything every time you go thrifting. Sometimes it's better to not buy anything and come back later.
Alice B Yeah style is something i didnt think about. It was hard enough for me to find clothes that i liked at fast fashion stores, its so much harder now at thrift stores. And you're right about the kind of clothing to look for. It was so much easier for me when i was looking for staple pieces rather than statemnet. My only problem though is, i dont wanna have to change my style just because i changed where i go shopping.. Thank you for your helpful reply:)
@@eleni4863 😊 of course!
I’ve always bought most things from charity shops (thrift shops) but I’ve recently opened my eyes to ethical consumerism and you are so right in your points! Also, I would LOVE an ethical gift guide. I’m thinking of DIY-ing a lot of presents. 💕
honestly i feel like you're doing more than enough so if you wanna keep wearing the clothes you previously bought from those shops you might as well. if you're not buying any more then continuing to wear what you already own from those shops isn't adding to the problem as long as you don't say "it's from zaful". i have a few things that are fast fashion and when people ask where i got it i say i don't remember and most of those clothes don't have tags on them anyway which either leads them to finding it themselves either from fast fashion or from a better shop making it their choice where they get it from which isn't anything for me to feel guilty about. if the clothes still fit, you still like them and you're not gonna promote the shop or buy anything else from them then there's no problem wearing them until you no longer want to. i think what you're experiencing is left over guilt from previously being okay with buying fast fashion and because you still own those items you feel guilty wanting to continue wearing them. but again, you're doing more than enough and you shouldn't be so hard on yourself about not throwing those clothes away. also, yes and yes do both those videos and your hair color looks amazing!
The very good bra.com (Rachel aust mentions in her latest video) x
Never throw functional clothing away. Use it, sell it or give it away but don't send it to landfill. 😢
honest feedback on your video, I was interested in the topic you were talking about however it was quite difficult to watch. There was little structure to the video and everything was said in a very round about way rather than straight to the point. In other words, even when watching it at 1.5x speed you still seem to take a long time to explain a little thing. This made it very confusing to understand what you are trying to say and difficult to watch in general. Best of luck, hope this is helpful.
Great feedback, I find this is a disappointing case for a lot of UA-camrs. Lots of superlatives and repetition. Taking 3 minutes to over explain things that are a "given". This unfortunately turns me off of subscribing to a channel.
Unfortunately that's pretty much her style. At least in all of her vids that I've seen. Verbose for the sake of verbosity.
gotta get them 10 minutes for ads
@@arabella-gracebrown5309 I was thinking about making the phrase "fast fashion" into a drinking game and hoping the comments would give me the bullet points here, but then in two minutes I was afraid I'd have alcohol poisoning. She could just... slow down to a normal, not-manic pace, enunciate, and structure things a little so she can expound without just... jabbering "filler".
AGREED!!! So many UA-camrs are guilty of this, taking forever to state the obvious. For anyone that's interested, Justine Leconte is amazing at discussing fast fashion and the importance of purchasing quality items. Her videos are super succinct and simple but so full of substance: ua-cam.com/video/0ur13KvWoWE/v-deo.html
*When you're watching other videos but then Sarah pops up* priorities
P.s. looking extra pretty xD
aw thank you!
Off topic but tbh ur soooo gorgeous O.O
your videos gave me the courage to talk to my mom about fast fashion this week. it was just a small, five minute talk, but hearing you speak out about things you care about inspired me to talk about the things i care about. so thank you.
It''s hard for me to find my size (XS) when I buy secondhand, but I get almost everything tailored! Yes that's pretty expensive sometimes, but I only buy what I will keep wearing for years so it's worth the money in my opinion!
Wowwww you are a boss for doing that.. I am also an XS but I havent yet tailored my clothing.. Do you know if its possible to expand the size of jeans by the way? From xs to s?
I didn’t do this consciously, more like I wanted to wear more natural fibers, but I started saving my money and buying Eileen Fisher clothing. It’s designed to be worn whenever, wherever, matched together, and last for a long time and recycled. Her website has a bunch of info on where the company gets the fibers used, and where the clothing was constructed. Some of her pieces are constructed in the US, and some of them are even recycled. She sells recycled polyester skirts for example.
Good tip!
They do an amazing job. I just wish I liked the style more. 😰
Thanks so much for making this Sarah!
I love everything about being cruelty free and I love trying my best not to buy fast fashion. But (and I know, this is such a first world problem) I did not expect to see things in the store and to still want stuff. Lol once I remind myself that so and so company isn't all that great, I can get over my mini daydream of having that Nars concealer, or that stupid cute shirt with a nice graphic on the front. Or even more annoying... when I need something more specific like when I need a non comodogenic cheap cruelty free face moisturizer. Not too many options unfortunately. Lol I feel like I sound so lame, that's why I am thankful you made this beedio. I don't feel as lame haha since I know I'm not the only one with these types of vents.
Also, when I first told my friends and family I was trying to become cruelty free, I got so much "it's not gonna make a difference, ya know that right?"
It was annoying but it was good for the planet and it made me feel nice, so whatever. Lol
Alright, rant/vent ovah!
Sorry for the wall of text haha love you so much Sarah!
I can really relate to the whole thing about wearing your old fast fashion clothes bought before starting to buy sustainably. I always feel guilty wearing clothing that I bought at Forever 21, etc., from a few years ago. And yet, getting rid of these pieces now that I have stopped supporting those brands is wasteful. Glad to hear someone relating to this! Still trying to figure this whole ethical/sustainable thing out so thanks for the video!
Im so proud of you! Not being fast Fashion is for the best! But doing what is best is not always the easiest decision to make . I commend you for doing this as this choice benefits us all :) thank you for sharing your experience with us!
I don't think there's any issue with the "not being able to tag old fast fashion items", because they don't make that specific piece any more anyway! That's what I know from fast fashion brands anyway, they constantly bring out new items and once they're gone they're gone, so I wouldn't fret about that if I were you! :)
I loveee you I also use cruelty free makeup, am a vegetarian and 90% of the time stay away from fast fashion! You’re so pretty and I love love what you’re all about
You’re such an amazing person and I absolutely love you. About to make it a Sarah Hawkinson marathon night 🙌🏻❤️
Love this! Positivity in progress, rather than negativity about that progress being slow/ongoing. Thank you for making this video ☺️
To all the people, who can't find buisness wear or fancy dress in a thrift shop either because there are none around or for whatever reason. Go local! Go to the small shops in your city owned by one or two people. Yes, maybe some of their clothing may come from sweatshops but at least you are supporting locals who select their clothes individually and decorate their shop windows themselves, fill the small streets in your city with life and (in comparison to giant companies) care about the city you life in!
You have to go for fairtrade labels if you want fairtraded cloths. I.e. GOTS.
Agreed! Shopping local, and supporting small a business is also a worthy thing to aim for.
@@zacharymli Why would smaller shops be more likely to buy fair trade than the bigger ones? They may have a more original collection of pieces or a nice atmosphere but that does not tell you anything about where the cloths come from. I would rather look for online shops that sell fashion with the right labels: GOTS, Fairtrade, FWF, ... It is the only way to know for sure.
Some good underwear companies are Pact, Tomboyx, and meundies! They're more expensive than fast fashion, tbh, but I know at least Pact has sales on the regular.
(Only Tomboy carries plus sizes, if anyone is looking for that. Most ethical/sustainable brands need to expand their size ranges, which is hella annoying. Thankfully I can sew lmao)
I freakin' love meundies! I've been wearing their underwear for a little over a year now and can confirm that the quality is top! I've worn all my pairs weekly (I don't have a lot of underwear) and they are holding up super well! 👌
idk if it's just me but pact undies felt really thin and uncomfortable???
@@lilianat8413 that sucks! :( I haven't tried their undies because they don't make my size lmao but I've have a pair of their "over the knee" socks and love them (only con is that they only go up to my knee, not over)
Last January I decided to quit fast fashion with the exception of shoes, socks and underwear. It's been a struggle! I appreciate how candid you are in your video. I've listed all the new items I've purchased since January to reassess my purchases at the end of the year and so far 60% the fast fashion purchases are major regrets. I've either not worn them or I have and they've fallen apart. It's giving me food for thought and I look forward to growing more into this lifestyle change for next year. Thank you for all the great content that you share on this topic!!
I love that you’re making such a change in your life against buying fast fashion. I’ve already been inspired by you to shop second hand/ethical more often and have found quality pieces that will last years in my closet. Thank you!
I really relate to this video! I have felt the same things since I have given up fast fashion! Pact is a really ethical, sustainable brand that makes great affordable basics! Since I have given up fast fashion, that’s where I gotten my underwear, leggings, socks etc! Also Girlfriend Collective is where I have gotten my activewear. Super ethical and sustainable brand, they aren’t cheap but the quality is really great.
I also haven’t figured out bras yet, there are plenty of ethical/sustainable companies that make bralettes and sports bras but I have yet to find a company that makes underwire bras
Also I recommend checking out the app Good on You. It’s my favorite guide to shopping sustainably and ethically. You can check the policies of lots of brands and also browse categories of clothing items by brands that are sustainable!
I totally agree. Lots of ppl will talk about the idea of not buying fast fashion and make it seem like it’s super easy but few ppl specifically speak on what that entails in their daily life. Like for me I’m currently balling on a budget as a college student😂 and I want to stop shopping fast fashion but sometimes it’s hard bc F21 has trendy styles for low prices which is just more convenient for me at the moment. What I try to do is just lower the amount of fast fashion shopping I do and try to go thrift shopping instead when I can. Btw thanks for this video!!
I really appreciate this video ! I stopped buying fast fashion last year but my mental health was not at a place where i could research stuff and get what i needed/ wanted, so i just wasn't buying anything and wasn't looking after myself. now because of that i'm a bit more lenient i buy from fast fashion SOMETIMES but my wardrobe is very mixed with second hand pieces / hand me downs / reclaimed stuff and some fast fashion and thats whats working for me in terms of the struggles you mentioned !
Hey Sarah :) I really like your video. It's great to see videos that talks about the less mainstreamed and 'glamoured' side of alternative clothing/lifestyles. Videos like yours are so important among other extreme fast fashion shunning videos.
recreate Instagram outfits with thrifted finds!
I found this really interesting because I've found buying only second hand or ethically made clothes to be super liberating. I'm a couple years into not buying fast fashion and, like being vegetarian, it has come super naturally to me. I still buy undergarments and warmth layers (ie leggings/footless tights) new, because I have a very limited budget and they are things I don't replace often. The one thing that has been a little bit of a challenge is getting my mom to stop buying me new clothes. I have explained my buying choices to her, she does her best, and that's all I can ask for. It helps that she also likes getting second hand clothes and loves when I thrift things for her. FOMO still happens a little bit, but I've found that having to wait to find things second hand has made for a better wardrobe and wallet.
I think that one of the reasons I don't struggle so much with the social aspect is that I live in rural Vermont and malls are few and far between. Thrifting and getting things second hand was always cool with my friends and I. Additionally, now that I'm an adult, I do a lot of other things with friends.
Another thing that has made it easier for me is following other thrifters and ethical fashion people on Instagram. I suggest checking out #idthriftthat and #ethicalmyway
Yes to the ig w thrifted outfits, I love getting inspiration for thrifted looks, it helps me get a better visual of what I can pair specific items with of my own or even helping to incorporate items I’ve never thought to try
Loving this hair/eyebrow color you’ve been rocking. Looking amazing
Every little bit makes a difference. I totally believe in that. I don’t know if it’s even possible to live completely ethical in today’s world and society. For example I don’t eat meat but the vegan food that is available for me at my supermarkets is still from the same company that produces meat.
We all can only try our best, find better options and consume our goods consciously.
Stunning kitty at 10:17: "Give me a hug". Stunning kitty at 10:27: "Thanks, I'm done".
Such an important topic! Thank you for sharing.
I know your struggles Ive been through most of them.. I love finding more and more youtubers that talks about quitting fast fashion. Keep up the good work
Your hair color is amazing. You look stunning.
PACT for underwear, bralettes and socks? They are more sustainable and ethical. But bras with an actual underwire...I still am not sure of where to find a more affordably ethical brand.
You bring up some great points. Changing buying habits based on ethical, sustainable reasons, is a process, and you bring up topics that perhaps we should be talking about with our friends and family.
your hair, eyebrows and lipstick omg i love the colors you look amazing
Looking absolutely gorgeous !!!!!
What lipstick are you wearing? You re soooooo gorgeous❤️❤️
Thank you so much for this video! I definitely need to do more research into what is fast fashion and what isn’t. And I’d really like to start this year with doing more second hand shopping and less fast fashion.
I really loved that you made this! I have the same issue when people ask about fast fashion pieces I’ve kept. I usually tag/ recommend similar items from ethical brands to defer them from shopping at a fast fashion brand. I totally feel for the social aspects you mention too!
I stopped shopping at places like Forever21, Primark, etc., solely because I realized I was wasting a ton of money there. I would buy a huge bulk of clothes, only to wear them one or twice per item before they fell apart, or I just got sick of them. I don't shop entirely ethically, but I thrift most of my clothes and shop at places like Urban Outfitters and AA more now. I figure if I'm willing to shell out the extra money for an item I really really like from those shops, I'm less likely to get tired of it and will wear it for a few years at least. Not sure if this makes sense or if anyone else is having a similar experience lol!!
We're the same here!
I feel like if you haven't bought fast fashion in a while odds are the items you still own are no longer sold by them anymore so that lessens the guilt a bit i think. You could also suggest people look for it secondhand on apps like depop bc they can still get that item without supporting the company directly.
It's been only 2 months for me and I don't have much money at the moment so it is pretty simple, I am just wearing what I have and not buying anything. When I'll need to buy something it will not be that hard for me since I am used to buy in vintages stores and thrift stores. Well, I'll see what happens as maybe it will end up being much harder than I think right now.
I relate so much to you since I also am a vegetarian and started buying all cruelty-free makeup since about 3 years ago.
Lots of love!!! xx
'It's okay to feel not okay by doing right'. Such a big message for us these days. Thanks for sharing your experiences, your video motivated me to make healthier choices in my life. Thanks. 🥰🌱
Any tips for not buying fast fashion if there's no good second hand stores around where you live?
I think there are great pieces online if you're willing to hunt for them like on depop and poshmark (even ebay sometimes), most people rake up the prices but you can find some at good prices! also I don't know if garage/yard sales are popular where you live, but hit those up, you can find some gems. also ask your friends to try a clothing swap where you each bring clothes you no longer want and see if there's anything in their pile you might want!
Sarah Hawkinson thanks 🙏
Make it known to friends and family that you wear second hand and if you're lucky, free clothes will come your way 😁
Everyone who knows me knows I'm all for second hand clothing, so I get a lot of hand-me-downs from neighbors, family, coworkers etc... Like just yesterday i got 4 jeans from my aunt who got them from someone else
also thredup online! i just placed my first order i got an 80% wool coat for like $15 and i don’t buy wool or other animal products new so it was an awesome find
ThredUP, depop, and eBay
Hehe, I haven't been buying any fashion, easy when you don't have any money to spare :D I always preferred second hand stuff and mending my clothes anyway thankfully! Not buying fast fashion makes a person more creative I think! I feel you on the underwear part though, I would never buy those used! And as I don't have money, if I need underwear I pretty much have to buy from H&M or somewhere like that.
It was funny that I fell over this video as I was planning to make a video about this topic. I also never seen people talk about it, so got happy to see you bring it up. I can relate to everything you are saying. I think the gift part was what I struggled with the most. I started thrifting 6 years ago and quit fast fashion bit over 3 years ago so my friends kind of got used to it. :)
Fast fashion is super addicting! I feel like more i buy i need to buy more. I am so happy for your choice Sarah. This video was so interesting and inspirational. I want to make some changes as well now!
My only struggle with thrifting the vast majority of my clothes is the infamous question: "Oh that's cute, where did you buy it?".
Despite apps like Depop going mainsream, in my country there's still a lot of prejudice about thrifting in actual thrift shops, and sometimes people will judge you, HARD.
Where do you live? 😯
That's such an unfortunate prejudice, but maybe through seeing what great finds you are wearing and by your explanations of your reasoning, you can contribute a little to changing those perceptions
Fuck those people!! Anyone who judges you for that are assholes
@llaria: That's when you tell them you got it from your 'fairy Godmother' or your 'rich auntie in the states', or whatever you're comfortable with. (It's basically an 'F#^k you!" to them).
even in my country having second hand items is looked down upon. but hopefully we will change that by wearing second hand items like a pro
In Russia its not really possible to look nice and don't buy fast fashion. I'm trying to support local cloth producers, but still go to fast fashion stores because I can't find all I need in small stores . And I just can't go thrifting, I don't like to wear something that someone else wore (maybe in America second hand stores are ok, but in Russia they contain really old cloth). But I've decided to cut my cloth budget a lot, and buy only something I really need and really like. Maybe sustainable brands in my country will develop so I can switch to them. But it's not in a nearest future... In Russia people still judge me for being vegetarian and think I'm crazy (thank you my boyfriend is ok with me not eating or not cooking meat)... Only this year we're finally got some places serving great vegetarian meals!
Yes we're pretty judgemental when someone goes against the mainstream :)) It's okay though. In 10-20 years it will change quickly especially with social media.
Thrift store is a great alternative, if you live in big city!
This sounds crazy but you could try to swap clothes with some friends or see if they don't want some of their clothes anymore.
Also try to develop your own style because I feel like once you do that, you will only need to wear a few pieces and you won't have to buy new clothes cuz you're not sticking to trends that change all the time, you're making your own judgements for yourself.
xx
Ok, I’m Russian too and I disagree soooo hard. It IS easy to buy things without turning to fast fashion nowadays: Saint Petersburg and Moscow have lots of great second-hand stores, these places often ship their goods across Russia, and besides, there’s always Etsy and VK groups like барахолка (where people often sell unused clothing) for you. I’m a relatively poor girl myself but still have an extensive wardrobe, a few brand pieces and tons of places I can buy from. These excuses have no place in 2019.
@@nataliashoo9104Well it may be easy if you live in Saint Petersburg or Moscow. But here in Vladivostok we don't have any good second-hand stores. It's such a struggle to get decent clothing here
an ethical gift guide would be amazing! I personally am usually a huge fan of making gifts but as I am at college and working and pressed for time this year, I'd love to see some ideas of things I can still feel really good about giving to friends and family!
The choices you're making are so good and important, that they make any possible problems insignificant. Congratulations! And your cat is gorgeous.
Start watching sewing videos! There is a Huge community of people who now have taught themselves to make their own garments. Best way to create things similar to those "Fast Fashion" items you see online. Plus you get much more details and finished couture designs. Learn to mend💞
Yes, people used to sew more in the past. And that's how all clothes are made so. xd
Take a shot every time she says fast fashion
rosa hernandez and speed up the video
Haha... I just made this same comment before seeing yours. There's got to be some synonyms for ff. 😂
I just needed to say your brows are amazing and the combo of your fair skin and red hair and lips is so pleasing to the eye.
Love that video, it was very interesting for someone who is reducing fast fashion items. Also, your hair colour suits you incredibly well!
the FOMO part of this is just the reality of everyone who has grown up & continues to be poor.
You can still shop and purchase things from the mall, department stores carry high end and/or ethical clothing. It is far from cheap tho..
very true it's just about doing research on each individual brand! but yes I say I "can't" buy things from the mall simply because the ethical brands available there I just cannot afford.
Awesome video! I live abroad and thrifting isn’t a thing here but fast fashion is huge. So it’s been a struggle buying clothes, which is fine, it’s made me more conscious about actually using and being creative with my current wardrobe. I’ve recreated some stuff from insta but there’s always something missing. Also, I totally get the FOMO aspect of it. Also, your two video suggestions are great! I’d love to see them in the future. 👏🏽
I just learned about the fast fashion industry, and I am appalled. I am almost done with rebuilding my winter wardrobe. I am only buying new well-made pieces created with quality fabrics.
I love your hair color and your makeup is perfect!
Thanks for sharing!
would you be transitioning into fully buying/wearing only ethical clothes? since thrifted clothes come most likely from the fast fashion industry. I don't often comment but I want to tell you that you inspired me to go full cruelty free on make up :-D
The point of thrifting is to re-use not to advertise fast-fashion, so I don't think it's a bad or damaging thing to thrift.
Thrifting IS the most ethical way. No additional resources are used. The piece is already out there. Regardless of what you buy used (provided that you need it) - it can't get any more ethical than that. 🔥
@@theminimalistninja yup however ethical new clothes are, you're still producing something brand new and using up resources
I really enjoyed this video! I try my best not to buy fast fashion but it is much more expensive! Still would rather spend more money/have workers earn fair wages.
Have you tried thrift stores, consignment stores or online stores selling used clothing?
The Minimalist Ninja I use thredUP sometimes and I do go to the thrift stores as well!
I like what you said about gradually transitioning or just incorporating more ethical practices when you can, I personally try to avoid buying fast fashion but it can be hard, so I only buy pieces that I know I will get a lot of wear out of and not chuck out by the end of the next season. Hopefully, I will be able to completely transition one day! Xx
You have helped me so much with transitioning to only shopping second hand clothing and not buying fast fashion 💕