The fashion industry produces up to 100 billion garments are produced each year. And each year, approximately 92 million tons of clothing ends up in landfills.
The mass consumption encouraged by fast fashion brands, media trend cycles, and advertising are huge contributors to the amount of clothes that end up in our trash. It’s something most of us are vaguely aware of, but with stats showing the fashion industry is responsible for roughly 10 percent of annual global carbon emissions—more than aviation and shipping combined—the scope of the issue is way bigger than we generally think.
Lately, it’s something I’ve been considering when scrolling through socials. Since I write about fashion frequently my page is inundated by influencers and brands peddling big pants, chunky loafers, and new takes on denim. Being constantly bombarded with stylish images, clothing reviews, and fashion advice can make it feel necessary to have a fresh look for every occasion. But when I’m gawking over a work coat or a vintage suit, I’ve had to ask myself whether I really needed another item in my closet. Zooming out a bit, it’s made me consider the role of fashion influencers in the time of climate change.
I’m not alone in thinking about this. A lot of big major fashion influencers reckon with the constant need for content, lucrative brand sponsorships, and the waste that can come through the binge and purge of our closets when we’re constantly purchasing new goods.
TikTok star Edgy Albert happily showcases new gifted merch, while simultaneously encouraging followers to seek out high quality second hand goods. Derek Guy—widely considered the top menswear expert in the world—has been championing fair wages for garment workers. Gaia Rattazzi has built an entire personal brand on championing ethical clothing choices.
As my friend and creator Gabriel Mor makes clear, growing a fashion account while thinking about the broader societal implications can be a lot to wrap your head around. Aside from posting hilarious videos and big fits, there is now the responsibility that comes with an audience paying attention to your work.
“I turned down a lot of Black Friday brand deals for multiple reasons, one of which being sustainability and consumption,” said Mor. “I’m sure some people feel pressured to show their audience news clothes for fit pics or to turn them on to new brands to get more brand deals. But we don’t need as many pieces of clothes that most of us tend to have.”
Constantly buying more doesn’t always make for the best wardrobe, either.