Wie das Fast Fashion Problem deinen Kleiderschrank belastet - by Aylin Koenig

How the fast fashion problem is affecting your wardrobe

October 13, 2025

Recognize the fast fashion problem

If you've ever wondered what fast fashion is, then you've come to the right place. This term pops up constantly in magazines and on social media, but what's really behind it? In this article, we'll take a look behind the scenes of this fast-paced fashion industry. You'll learn about the impact of fast fashion on people and the environment, and how you can consume more sustainably yourself.

Fast fashion is an industry phenomenon characterized by the fact that fashion items go from the catwalk to your store shelves in an extremely short time. Collections are often produced in rapid succession to constantly keep up with the latest trends. For you, this means: inexpensive items, constantly changing styles, and the feeling of always being up-to-date. But this advantage also comes with disadvantages – such as exploitation in supply chains, large amounts of textile waste, and often inferior quality. Sound worrying? Let's take a closer look at the background together.

Understand the term Fast Fashion

Brief overview

Fast fashion describes fashion based on the principle of offering new collections as quickly as possible to cater to the latest trends in the shortest possible time. On the one hand, you can discover fresh outfits in stores every week. On the other hand, companies want to give consumers the feeling that they constantly have to "keep up with the latest trends."

What drives fast fashion?

In short: demand. The fashion industry reacts lightning-fast to what's trending on runways, social media, and with influencers. While two to four collections a year used to be the norm, some brands are now releasing new pieces every few weeks. This constant supply tempts many to make impulse purchases – and just as quickly, those items end up in the trash.

A look behind the scenes

Production chains and working conditions

To ensure that new clothing is available on store shelves almost daily, enormous factories in developing and emerging countries are needed. People work there for low wages, often under difficult conditions and with long shifts. This system allows for extremely low sales prices – at the expense of social standards.

The price for the climate

Fast fashion also has an environmental side that is often overlooked: chemicals pollute groundwater, CO₂ emissions increase during production, and enormous amounts of textile waste are generated. Fashion thus becomes a disposable product that is only used briefly.

Pay attention to the disadvantages

Why this should be important to you

As a consumer, you send a message with every purchase. Those who support fast fashion indirectly contribute to exploitation, environmental pollution, and inferior quality.

Potential health risks

Many garments contain chemicals that cannot be completely removed. Residues can be absorbed through the skin or trigger allergies. Therefore, it's important to wash new items before wearing them for the first time and to check for odors.

Discover sustainable alternatives

Fair fashion and eco-fashion

Fair fashion comes from labels that have transparent supply chains, use environmentally friendly materials, and pay fair wages. Certifications like GOTS or Fairtrade can help you find your way around. While the prices are higher, you're investing in durable clothing.

Secondhand and upcycling

Secondhand fashion gives clothes a second life. Whether swapping, selling, or buying – this is how you actively reduce textile waste. Upcycling involves creatively repurposing old items, such as a bag made from jeans or a repurposed shirt.

Adjust your consumption

Sustainable clothing consumption in everyday life

Sustainability doesn't mean throwing away everything old. It's more about conscious shopping. The 30-day rule helps: only buy something you would wear at least 30 times. Shopping lists and budgets prevent impulse purchases.

Quick tips for sustainable consumption:

Wear clothes longer and only replace them when they are worn out.
Wash gently at a low temperature
Sharing or borrowing outfits from friends

Tips for your wardrobe

A capsule wardrobe helps you stay flexible with just a few basics. Sort your clothes by color or occasion and create a checklist of missing basics to avoid impulse buys.

Live your influence

Why every action counts

Your decisions inspire others and change the bigger picture. Even small steps make a big difference.

Be part of the change

You can sign petitions, support local designers, or attend repair courses. Sustainability isn't just a concept; it's something you can live by in everyday life.

Summarize the key points

Fast fashion stands for rapid production, low prices – and high social and environmental costs. Alternatives like fair fashion or secondhand clothing give you the opportunity to shop more consciously. With simple rules like the 30-day rule or a capsule wardrobe, you can escape the cycle of consumerism.

Every decision you make counts: Wearing clothes longer, repairing them, buying secondhand, or shopping consciously are all changing the fashion industry, little by little. Start small – perhaps with a wardrobe check – and gradually discover your own sustainable path.

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