Fast fashion is an extremely popular trend in which in reaction to the newest trends, mass-market merchants quickly make cheap apparel to provide for people who follow with these trends. Fast fashion workers are subjected to hazardous working conditions, including exposure to poisonous chemicals, horrendous air quality, and crowding, which can result in deadly industrial accidents and all employees receive low pay and work illegal hours. Many brands use fast fashion and make use of their economies of sale/bulk-buying however this leads them to be unethical and damaging the environment with every order they receive.

 

In Leeds, there are a large amount of fast fashion shops such as H&M and Primark which are widely known brands and receive regular customers everyday. However, many people don’t understand the carbon footprint behind each product that they purchase. 

 

One way, fast fashion can be reduced is with second hand clothing reselling apps such as Vinted, Depop and eBay which allow people of any age to purchase a large range of second hand clothing for more affordable prices and give their clothing a second life. In addition, charity shops and carboot sales area great way to reduce people buying from fast fashion companies.

 

Leeds is playing their role in preventing fast fashion. There are a wide range of charities in Leeds such as Revive, Kirkstall which has recently opened and created a gap in the market in the area as they provide clothing and daily goods for affordable prices under £5 which attracts a large amount of young people and university students to spend their money on second hand goods rather than online large fast fashion companies. In addition, Cancer Research Kirkstall sells a large range of products from £1-10+ and is a highly accessible location. These are just a few locations of many charities however Leeds is playing their part by introducing more charities with a greater proximity to transport links, free parking and customers. Leeds is also known for their pop up supermarkets in Kirkgate Market and second hand vintage pop up stores which attract many teens who are often influenced into buying new clothes.

 

In addition, Leeds has a large range of car boot sales that boast a large amount of regular and new sellers and buyers every Saturday or Sunday. An example is Otley Car Boot Sale where many Leeds citizens come from across Leeds to sell their used goods with a friendly atmosphere and allows people to buy a large range of products for a cheap price. 

 

Consequently, it’s very crucial that you consider your opportunities to prevent fast fashion brands from growing and taking over Leeds. This may be by using online second hand companies such as Vinted or just by visiting a charity shop on your way home from work as you never know what goodies you will find!