Fast-fashion is a contemporary term referring to how quickly trends move from the catwalk to affordable fashion in high street shops such as Zara, H&M and Forever 21. For cash-strapped students, fast-fashion is wonderful; looking trendy without forking out the earth is a student’s dream. However, the ethical and environmental consequences of fast-fashion are far-reaching and often devastating. These effects include horrific garment factory disasters, very low wages for workers in developing countries, and increased pollution. Perhaps we should start thinking twice before we pick up another piece of affordable clothing made in a developing country, and instead educate ourselves on what our money is funding. Here is a list of some of the best documentaries on fast-fashion and its effects.
1. The True Cost
Available on Netflix UK: http://truecostmovie.com/
This documentary by Andrew Morgan is a must-see, detailing the horrifying consequences of fast-fashion from the release of toxic waste to the factory collapse in Bangladesh in 2013 that killed more than 1,000 people.
2. The Machinists
Available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AOc9dhmScRY
This documentary looks at the personal stories of three female Bangladeshi garment workers, examining the human cost of fast-fashion.
3. Alex James: Slowing Down Fast Fashion
Available on Amazon Prime: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Alex-James-Slowing-Down-Fashion/dp/B01IDP9UYA
Again looking at the negative impact of fast-fashion on the environment and the workers, this documentary is presented by Alex James, former bassist for the band Blur who now runs a cheese farm in the Cotswolds.
Edited by: Tia Ralhan