With the rise of social media platforms like TikTok, it leads us to wonder, what is the impact of this on our consumption levels and buying habits?
According to Royal Waste Services, Inc, as much as 92 million tons of clothing materials finds their way into landfills every year. As well as this, only around 20% of textiles are reused or recycled globally
Shopping hauls from brands such as Shein and Temu - Creating cheap, low-quality clothing - have influenced us to believe that this level of overconsumption is normal, leading to a rapid change in trends.
This level of consumption has led to the creation of Micro Trends.
Often starting organically on sites such as TikTok, these trends rise to popularity rapidly and leave just as soon, with some lasting just a month compared to a usual length of just a few years.
Despite this, a recent trend on TikTok named 'underconsumption core' has sparked a discussion following recent movements on social media to normalise saving money, such as 'de-influencing'.
Some people have argued, however, that this trend should instead be called 'normal consumption-core' as this lifestyle is the reality for many people.
Despite this, many people argue that they buy into these trends and from fast fashion brands such as Shein due to an inability to afford other items.
Overall, fast fashion contributes to 8% of the global carbon footprint. If we do not slow down the rate at which we make and wear items of clothing, or the speed that trends come and go, there will be huge consequences.
