As Australia remains a top consumer of fast fashion, experts urge a shift towards mindful clothing selection and durability to combat environmental impacts.
For decades, Australia has remained a leading market in fast fashion consumption, with Australians being identified as the largest consumers of such products in the world. This extreme consumption behavior correlates with a significant decline in the quality of clothing, leading to rapid disposals. According to a 2017 study, extending the life of a garment by merely nine months can reduce its carbon, waste, and water footprints by up to 20%.
In light of these statistics, experts are advocating for a more mindful approach to clothing selection, emphasizing the importance of choosing durable garments that can be repaired and worn over a longer period. Various strategies have emerged to aid consumers in identifying high-quality clothing.
The initial consideration should be materials. Gareth Kershaw, a lecturer in fashion technology from RMIT University, points out that the most crucial factor impacting durability is the fabric itself. He advises consumers to assess the texture and comfort by rubbing the fabric between their fingers to gauge qualities such as softness, strength, and density. Sustainable design consultant Kristen Nuttall recommends checking the label to clarify fabric composition, noting that natural fibers often outlast synthetic alternatives.
Construction quality also plays a vital role in garment durability. A well-constructed piece will have reinforced openings and closures, allowing for a good fit while in motion. Nuttall cautions that elastane, while commonly used to provide stretch, may compromise a garment’s longevity by losing its elasticity over time.
Examining seams is another critical aspect of the durability assessment. Kershaw notes that higher-quality garments typically feature sturdy, neat seams like French seams, which provide greater stability than the basic overlocked seams. Larger stitches may signal rushed production and potential faults such as puckering.
Lining in a garment contributes to both comfort and cleanliness, and should ideally be made from breathable materials such as cupro, silk, or cotton, rather than cheaper polyesters. Additionally, well-placed pockets, constructed from strong materials, indicate thoughtful design by skilled manufacturers.
The quality of hardware—zippers, buttons, and hooks—can also signal the overall craftsmanship of a garment. Nuttall emphasizes that ease of use in these components reflects careful consideration during production.
Versatility and the ability to adapt to changes in body shape or style preferences are also important indicators of a well-made garment. Nuttall suggests looking for extra fabric in seams that allows for alterations, or design features that offer multiple styling options.
Lastly, emotional durability is highlighted as a significant consideration—selecting styles that resonate personally and are likely to be worn frequently may lead to more sustainable consumption patterns. It can be beneficial to view each clothing purchase as an investment, encouraging individuals to focus on quality over quantity.
As discussions around fast fashion continue to evolve, the focus on durable clothing aligns with broader environmental concerns, marking a shift towards more responsible consumption habits in the fashion industry.
Source: Noah Wire Services
