Student Insights on the Future of Fashion
What does the average college student know about the Fashion Industry?
During an interview with Alexis Stinnett, a senior at the University of Oregon, we dive deep into her knowledge about the sustainability practices, labor exploitation, and severe waste production caused the by fashion industry, as well as how this understanding is becoming common among most college students.
The typical college wardrobe consists of hoodies, sweatpants, and popular finds from fast fashion websites. Most college students indulge in fast fashion since it’s affordable and trendy. But at what point do college students begin to understand the severity of fast fashion and the fashion industry?
By Yi Lin | Medium
Stinnett describes herself as a student who does not put a lot of effort into her style. As her closet maintains a substantial amount of hand-me-downs, ranging from Lululemon to Cotton On, she’s not one to indulge in shopping endeavors to get the next best trend. Stinnett focuses on practicality, quality, and what makes her feel great.
“As I’ve gotten older, I’ve started to look for higher-quality, more sustainable products that not only created more sustainably but also are sustainable for me,” said Stinnett.
I believe the same is true for most college students today. While students pursue purchasing from fast fashion websites, many may gradually understand the environmental and societal consequences tied to these brands. The impact of the fashion industry is visible in our climate, production practices, and the success of fast fashion companies if students choose to think progressively about the industry.
“I’m not super educated about how it goes with the environment but I’m not stupid, obviously [fast fashion] is going to harm the environment,” said Stinnett.
With a vast understanding of the fashion industry, its’ harmful effects, and legislative policies, Stinnett provides an outsider's perspective on her interpretations of the industry. As someone not involved in studying fashion or prioritizing her time to be trendy, she reflects on her thoughts to incentivize better procedures to improve the quality of the industry.
“I think companies need to prioritize paying people fairing and treating them fairly. It's also finding that middle price point for companies. Obviously, Shein is very cheap, but you’re getting what you pay for. Then you go to Abercrombie and pay upwards of $100 for a pair of pants and that’s not sustainable for the majority of people.”
Stinnett, an educated individual unemotionally attached to this cause, provides great incentives and a general understanding of what has to be done to improve this ongoing issue. However, she lacks an understanding of the statistics or severe harm caused by this industry, as the facts are often overlooked and rarely discussed. The fashion industry causes a great decline in our environmental and societal well-being. If only industry practices were discussed more in the classroom, students might gain a deeper understanding of their harmful impact and what we, as a society, can do to improve the quality of life for everyone.
Image from Dazed
“If we want people to purchase things sustainably, we have to make it so that they can,” said Stinnett.
Featured Image by Behance
