In Episode 7, delving into the global clothing industry, Michael and Kimberly iron out the difference between fast fashion, ultra-fast fashion, and slow fashion—the sustainability reaction to these trends. A brief look at why we are tempted to fill our closets and drawers sets up consideration of the effects of the global clothing supply chain, what policy-makers are doing, and options for clothes-horses, the trendiest -core fans, and the average shopper.
Key Topics
Who we have to thank for the birth of ‘fast fashion’ and ‘ultra-fast fashion’
How mixed fabrics, waterproof gear, and stretchy clothes combine with a ‘race to the bottom’ for a clothing production and consumption sustainability nightmare
The complex web of the global supply chain that links clothing firms to subcontractors to our doorstep
When ‘thrifting’ became a verb and how it burdens the poor both at home and abroad
How and what governments and MNCs are doing and need to do better
Why the cost-per-wear calculation can fill your closet while saving you a pile of money
That not just reduce, but repair and repurpose are useful fashion tips
How a mall entrance was actually a portal to a different dimension for Michael and Kimberly
Recommended Resources
Good on You rates companies’ practices on the planet, people, and animals (turns out Madewell's not as good as I thought!)
What is your garment's cost-per-wear?
The latest UNEP report, a compilation of useful stats at Earth.org, a business review of fast fashion, and why the McKinsey report on The State of Fashion indicates a need for sustainable practices
For legal eagles, the NY bill, the CA bill, the US FABRIC Act, EU’s ESPR, and what Australia is considering
To prime you for a future episode, some wildly alternative fabrics and leather sources
