Examining the Cost of Fast Fashion

Fast fashion – the production, distribution, and consumption of trendy, inexpensive clothing meant to be worn briefly and soon discarded, only to be replaced by the next fashion fad – is a lucrative, growing global phenomenon. While profitable to manufacturers, fast fashion has severe human and environmental costs. Most students are unaware of the practice or its harmful impacts. Through a transdisciplinary teaching approach, educators can raise awareness and help students understand they have agency to employ personal mediation strategies such as ethical consumerism. The lesson plan included allows students to engage in research, collaboration, and creation through an inquiry-based approach.