Why Rushing Things is Ruining Fashion... And The Environment

 

Time Magazine

A landfill that showcases how many clothes are thrown away.

The fashion industry is a forever changing which is why so many people are drawn towards it. 

The versatility, the complex components for each department -- nothing beats what we have today. Instead of waiting ages for your favorite shirt, why not buy it for cheap off of Shein? Why get into your car and drive to the nearest mall when you can shop from the comfort of your couch?

 As we have grown and matured, so has this industry. 

Online shopping is a massive part of this phenomenon we have now: fast fashion. While it is so easy to be blinded by the simplistic nature of technology there is always a con to these new creations. 

According to an article in the New York Times titled "This is the reality of Americas Fast Fashion addiction" written by Rachel Greenley it states, "People of all ages consume fast fashion more than ever resulting in 35 percent of micro plastics within the ocean which could be resolved going occasionally to a thrift store."

This gives society a perception as to how large this issue actually is. Those pants that you got a month ago that you don't want anymore? Will most likely end up in a landfill where they will have to burn them which, in turn, will harm the environment even more. 

However, let's back track for a moment and see the progression of fast fashion to where its headed now and what we, as a society, can do to better the environment as active consumers.

Fast fashion did not become a phenomena until the late 1990's where the big retail stores that we know and love today started to sell cheap, poor quality clothing items on a weekly basis. 

Plastic Collective 

Woman walking in a landfill full of fast fashion clothing pieces. 

"The intention was to match the breakneck pace of which fashion trends move. Style became cheap, convenient and consumable." Stated the New York Times article, written by Rachel Greenley. However, the pace did not pick up until the whole world became on lockdown starting on March 13th, 2020. Goods were bought from everywhere because it was too dangerous to go to the store, since the future of the Covid-19 virus was unknown.

In these past few years, Americans have never bought so many new things. U.S. retailers churn out a record $5 trillion in goods each year, according to the National Retail Federation. 

"At the same time, the surge in e-commerce is flooding the market with unsold inventory, returns and secondhand items. Whereas only about 8 percent of goods bought in a store are returned, more than 20 percent of items bought online are sent back.” Stated an article from Washington Post. 

More specifically, fast fashion brands such as Shein and Temu took advantage of the lockdown. This was predominately happening in America, where their sales skyrocketed.

It was seen all over TikTok, where influencers would be showcasing what they got for extremely low prices which made the average consumer want to test this store out for themselves. 

However, as time went on, there was a genuine concern for the safety and wellbeing of these workers. 

“The industry is made up of complex decentralized systems that have a plethora of human rights issues and environmental impacts particularly around chemical dyes and textile waste” Time Magazine said.

Fast fashion’s main idea is to make trendy clothes as quickly as possible. This means overworking low wage workers to create more than they should without even getting paid a decent amount of money. The environment that they are in as well is a horrific sight to be seen.

Photo taken by author.

The Vintage Bazaar in NYC showcasing a vendor who supports to the trend of slow fashion

Now, that we know why fast fashion is bad, how can we fix it? Well, thrifting is definitely a way to go. You can simply participate by donating your clothes to a homeless shelter, a nearby Goodwill or even a thrift store. 

Then, thrifting, is the actual action of buying second hand clothing. There are other options than going to a physical store though. There are apps such as Depop and Mercari which are great places to find clothing for cheap prices, alongside helping the environment. 

How much does this benefit the environment though?

"According to ThreadUps 2023 resale report, buying and using secondhand, rather than new, reduces carbon emissions by an average 25%. Below you'll find a number of environmental benefits that come about when we choose to buy second-hand items instead of buying fast fashion."

This is the perfect example of that a little goes a long way. Starting off by simply going through your closet to see what you do not wear that much anymore to then purchasing new clothing secondhand. 

Rather that be through an in store shopping experience or an online thrifting app -- you will be helping the pace of fast fashion slow down.

Review on Uptown Cheapskate

Yelp

Outside of the Greensboro, NC location of 
Uptown Cheapskate

The thrift community has been thriving over the past few years, especially after Covid-19 where fast fashion brands such as Shein, skyrocketed. 

Secondhand shopping has become a pivotal part of peoples lives, especially teenagers and college students. This is one of the reasons Uptown Cheapskate exists. This is a store chain all across the United States where one can bring in clothes and sell them for cash or in store credit. They mainly look for teen and college students clothing. I first discovered this store back at my hometown in Maryland. 

Later on, I discovered that there is a location in Greensboro, North Carolina which I was interested in checking out. When you walk inside, you are greeted with all of the big brands of 2025. Lululemon for example, is discounted 70% off alongside all other clothing items in their store: American Eagle, Aeropostale and even H&M. 

Uptown Cheapskate Website

Inside the Greensboro location

When shopping sustainability statistics matter. That is exactly what Uptown does,

“When you shop big box retailers and online companies only 10-40% of every dollar you spend stays in your community. Shopping local business keeps 90% of your money in your local community to benefit your friends and neighbors. It’s like an ecosystem that keeps your community humming and more and more people are jumping on board the Shop Local train.” Uptown Cheapskates website said. 

In order to sell clothes you must prepare them (wash them, fold and place into a reusable bag or bin no trash bags allowed.) Once you bring the clothes in you can shop while they review the clothes. 

After that time period passes and they want to take some items out of your hands, you can choose to receive immediate cash or get in store credit the next time you come into shop (its 25% off for store credit). 

The great thing about Uptown is that they have a wide variety of clothes that they can take like basic tops to dresses to mens wear (kudos if it is something seasonally in style or from a mainstream/popular brand — more likely to sell!) 

Now that I officially did my research and found a location nearby to High Point University, it was time for me to take on the challenge: how many clothes can I sell, how much money can I make, is there a difference in money for the in store credit versus cash and how does this location differ from the one at home? 

"At Uptown Cheapskate Greensboro, we offer a cash for clothes program that allows customers to sell their gently used, name-brand apparel while shopping for stylish thrift finds. Whether you’re looking for designer denim, stylish handbags, or everyday wear, our selection is always fresh and fashionable. 

With plenty of parking available, visiting our store is always stress-free. Stop by today and shop sustainably while saving big!” Uptown Cheapskates website for the Greensboro location, said.  

I went on a weekend, a Saturday to be specific, and I was not sure as to what the crowd was going to be like. It was fairly busy, had a nice parking lot outside of the building. As I entered I was greeted warmly by an employee working at a counter in the center of the store. 

There was a sell and a checkout section, so I walked towards the sell section. I was tasked to fill out a form on an iPad, I had to enter my email, my drivers license ID number, my first and last name and basically just a bunch of personal information. 

After that, I handed the employee the reusable bag of items I had. What I did not know is that if you do bring a trash bag, you have the option of placing the clothes in a bin that they supply. However, the way it was listed on the website and the Instagram you had to bring the clothes in a reusable bag. That was the first interesting note. The employee told me that it would take about 20 minutes to complete my buy. 

Taken by Brooke Mosher

Inside the Ellicott City location

During that time, you must stay in the store and shop around. They had quite a wide selection which was nice, however something that bothered me slightly was the smell of garbage throughout the establishment. 

I feel like I was not able to throughly enjoy my shopping experience because the smell became overwhelming dependent on where you were at the store. 

As I was shopping, my friends buy was ready and she only earned $8 worth of cash. However, mine was shortly done and I was able to successfully score $22. They did offer me $27 of store credit, so there was a price difference there. 

They did end up taking quite a few items that were just simply put, wasting away in my closet and I am happy that they are going to someone who will hopefully use it more than I ever did. 

However, the location could use some upgrades. I feel like the one back at my hometown is definitely very preferred, however with some upgrades on the overall interior of the store would be great. Overall, my experience was quick and efficient. My buy was actually done prior to the twenty minute period they gave me, which was really nice. 

Hannah Jackson: Blazing Herself Thru The World of Fashion

Hannah Jackson is still making her mark at Vogue Magazine. Over this past month alone, the writer has been tasked to report on celebrities outfits for the Grammys to TV shows and entertainment.

Her most recent article is on Sabrina Carpenter and I enjoy how she goes into detail on their outfits and incorporates how Sabrina nods towards Marilyn Monroe and Madonna's looks. Interestingly enough, in the article that Jackson wrote, she even goes as far to discuss that Marilyn Monroe was supposed to wear this 1991 dress.

“It was originally designed for Madonna to wear to perform at the Academy Awards,” Alexis Novak, owner of Tab Vintage—where the dress was sourced—tells Vogue. “It was inspired by Marilyn Monroe in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes and made headlines when she wore it.”

Vogue

Sabrina Carpenter stunning the sheer 
lace minidress heading to the VMA
after party

On another note though, who exactly is Hannah Jackson? She may write for Vogue now, however at one point she wrote for Elle, The Cut, Architectural Digest, Harper's Bazaar and even Rolling Stone.

On her website it explains, “As a freelancer, she explored the connections between zeitgeisty trends and the larger sociopolitical climate. She published stories about the cult of Erewhon, the harsh realities of selling eggs, and the exclusivity of ballet fashion.”

Her writing is unique within a sense because she always comes back with catchy headlines such as “Ariana Grande Is Back to Her Witchy Ways” and “Forget Oxblood! Jennifer Lawrence Declares Cobalt the New It-Color” 

Every time I personally have read a Hannah Jackson article I have always come back for more. She gets straight to the point, her articles are not lengthy and the ledes simple, yet sweet. I am never bored reading an article of hers. Even if you are not immersed in the fashion and entertainment world she makes sure you understand what is going on, before you even start to question anything.

Let's take a step back to the Miss Carpenter article. She uses phrases like, "blonde ambition" and Carpenter paid tribute to another famous blonde: Kate Moss. Heading to the VMA after party, she rocked a sheer white lace minidress over white underwear, which paired teetering white platforms and kiss-print purse."

As a massive fan of Sabrina, I was impressed with the way she spoke about her style and even went as far as to elaborate on the history on a bunch of clothing items which gives her more accreditation for her work, since she is truly in the know within the fashion industry.

Taylor Swift: The Mastermind of 2025

Inc. Magazine

Taylor Swift performing her "Midnights" Album
at "The Eras Tour"

From starting out as a country singer at Bluebird Cafe in Tennessee to going on a world tour that lasted almost two years, Taylor Swift is making the whole place shimmer even in 2025. 

From the start, Swift has always been a versatile artist. She fearlessly dove into the country music scene, until she wanted to try something new in 2014. In turn, we were given the beloved songs “Shake it Off” and “Blank Space” which just go to show that she did indeed find a place in this world.

However, things haven't always been an easy ride up in the music industry for Swift. During the years 2016-2017 Taylor was getting harassed online because she was being accused of lying about giving Kayne West the consent to be called a swear word in his song “Famous". There was a fake phone call going around, where Kayne was attempting to make it seem like Taylor consented to this happening. Due to a bunch of rumors going around, Swift was referred to as a snake. Her social media accounts eventually went dark shortly after this incident.

“Taylor Swift has unexpectedly deleted all of her Instagram posts, as of noon today, August 18. The singer also deleted her profile picture and apparently unfollowed everyone she was following.” Said Erica Gonzales from Bazaar Magazine in an article written right after the blackout was noticed by millions.

Many years later, Taylor Swift persevered and dropped many albums. In 2022, she released her 10th album, Midnights. Soon after that, she announced her infamous “Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour” which little did she know would be one of the most successful tours of hers. 

Entertainment Weekly

Taylor Swift performing her song "The Man" 
at "The Eras Tour"

“By the end of 2023—less than halfway through its scheduled 152-show run—the Eras Tour had earned over $1 billion to become the highest-grossing concert tour of all time. During that period, every city where Swift played got a substantial economic boost from the so-called "Taylor Swift effect," a term that refers to the singer's unprecedented ability to influence consumer behavior.” Said writer of Time Magazine, Megan McCluskey.

Throughout these statistics, Swift didn’t stop there. In October of 2023 a concert movie came out. This movie was basically the tour in cinematic form. It went through each album or “era” of her life.

“As of April 5, 2024, the concert movie “Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour” garnered around 262 million U.S. dollars worldwide and about 181 million dollars domestically during its release weekend. "The Eras Tour" is holding first place as the highest-grossing concert movie ever made, followed by "Justin Bieber: Never Say Never", released in 2011.” Said Statista.  

When you walk into the theatre it is nothing like seeing your typical movie. People are dressed up in their eras tour outfits, friendship bracelets for everyone including the AMC workers who were handing them out as viewers were coming in.

                                                                        AMC Website
Popcorn bucket and cup pricing for 
merch at the "Eras Tour Concert Film"

“And Swifties, start stacking your Eras-themed jewelry and get ready to trade - AMC says "friendship bracelets are strongly encouraged.”

The AMC movie theaters had a reusable popcorn bucket, a cup, a light up baton and tote bag all available for sale. I remember waiting in line wanting the whole thing. 

However, the only thing I was able to score on the first day the movie was premiering was the popcorn bucket and the cup. The light up baton and tote bag sold out within seconds of everyone entering. 

Some people were waiting outside for hours to be able to get the merch which further shows her impact. Due to me not being able to afford to go to this once in a lifetime tour, “Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour Concert Film” has a special place in my heart. 

I was fortunate enough to go three times and it was definitely a magical experience within itself. I was able to go with some of my best friends and have the best time ever. The movie is now available to watch on Disney+ with a few added surprise songs, which are songs that Swift added that were not in the original release of the movie in theaters.

Now, in 2025, Swift has not been on tour since December 2024 and is letting her 11th studio album, “The Tortured Poets Department”, still shine bright ten months after its release on April 19th, 2024. This album had a double album called “The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology” and is one of Swift's largest bodies of work. The album itself has 30 songs, which simply put, broke her fanbase into tears of joy. This album is unique, sonically. More so synth-pop and folk. This album was written during her two year tour, break up with her ex boyfriend, but also about perseverance and moving onto new and exciting things, even relationships.

Now, with Swifties awaiting for what comes next there is still a reason why she is still so prevalent in the music industry. I feel like “Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour” really put her on the map. At that point in time it was pivotal for her to perform live after not doing so for five years. I remember my personal experience going to the “Reputation Stadium Tour” and the tickets were reasonable, not necessarily cheap, but this tour also raised a bunch of questions as to why are concert tickets a luxury nowadays and not something affordable?

I know for a fact that myself and many others were not able to attend this tour due to the money factor. However, the movie was still a slice of the experience, but of course, nothing does compare to a concert. I feel like from the prices to the process of acquiring said tickets — are definitely no easy feat. Some people waited for hours in the queue initially only for all of them to be sold out or the website crashing down completely due to the amount of demand everyone had for these tickets.

                                              InStyle

Taylor Swift presenting the
"Best Country Album Award"
At The Grammys 2025

Despite recognizing these flaws, Swift still was able to go on tour and make it a dazzling experience for everyone who came to see her perform. Her other tours have definitely shined in their own way, however, this one stands out because of the uniqueness alongside with the duration of the tour. Taylor Swift continues to do great things now in 2025. On February 2nd, 2025, she presented the Best Country Album award to Beyoncé’s ”Cowboy Carter.”

This mastermind continues her legacy into the new year with her fanbase wondering what she is plotting next, nonetheless she keeps everyone on their toes at all times.

Brooke In 500 Words

Taken by Rita Mosher

The author during a piano performance 

Glitter on the floor, paired perfectly with disheveled looks. To the glares of people as you push through a crowd are ones that are never forgotten. 

“What happens at a show, stays at the show,” they all say. 

The desire to have my soul filled with good memories and experiences was all I wanted now. However, let’s go back to the beginning.

Before I was the one in the crowd, I was the one on the stage. It all begins with fragile fingers brushing against a piano key and realizing that it made a sound. From that point on, I would play piano for the next 8 years. 

When I was on that stage, everything was so loud, yet so colorful. I guess that is the way you see everything as a child.

The way my tiny hand grasped the sheet music to turn the page. Made the music notes dazzle in the artificial light, that was so overstimulating it could give me a headache for days.

Taken by Rita Mosher

Author practicing guitar and piano

I persevered, after all, I was doing this to please the ones who gave me a home, right? There was some joy within this practice, the praise I would get would make me hungry for more.

However, was it worth the water shedding from the ocean that they called my eyes? I was awoken from my deep concentration as the applause grew louder and louder.

Did I do it? The cheers were so loud that they were even heard outside the venue. At some points, I was gasping for air to continue, but I couldn't disappoint, now could I? 

I rose from the seat they promised to be comfortable, however looks were deceiving and I was too hopeful. 

I stumbled on my flats and took a bow, as I grabbed my sheet music that was most definitely crinkled and took a seat. The thrill I once felt performing on stage, came to a screeching halt.

I was not enjoying myself up there anymore. Although, the thought of being in the crowd, the one making the commotion, after a performance, seemed to be more like my cup of tea.

The switch up was meant to happen gradually, gently, like the transitions of seasons. Basically, to a point where it would be seamlessly painless.

However, it came sooner than I thought, where keyboard I called home is somewhere across the country, never to be seen again. Then, I had this one opportunity I could not pass up. 

I was able to see the artist I've been wanting to see for ages. Bolting towards the door that I knew he was behind.

Taken by Brooke Mosher

Ericdoa performing in Carroboro, NC 

The uproars of seeing him in the flesh for the first time, is something indescribable. The bass was so loud, I could hear my own heartbeat. 

It was exhilarating, I truly felt like I knew where I belonged. I knew I loved being a fan, so I went to a total of nine shows in 2024. 

These opportunities have made some of my most fond memories as well. I may not be the one performing anymore, but the feeling of walking in knowing you're going to get a once in a lifetime experience is something I will be going after 

Going like the wind.

A concert chaser.