You’re Paying to Wear PLASTIC | Fast Fashion & Synthetic Fabrics

Everything today is plastic. And never has health and wellness been such a pressing concern in the fashion industry as it is now. According to Textile Exchange, synthetic fibers account for approximately 69% of all global fiber production. Meaning, the majority of what we wear is, quite literally, plastic. This issue isn't simply about mere aesthetics or declining quality. It's a matter of health, well-being, and environmental integrity. Synthetic fabrics pollute waterways and land - but the consequences extend beyond that. These textiles shed microplastics, and are treated with chemicals that are absorbed by the skin when worn. Microplastics have now been detected in human bloodstreams and have been linked to a range of health issues including inflammation, hormone disruption, infertility, and even cancer. The great quality crisis in modern fashion is a reflection of something much deeper: the values and priorities of the modern world, and the consequences of them. Today, craftsmanship has been traded for convenience, natural fibers for cheaper synthetics, and long-term well-being for profit. Not just by fast fashion companies—by luxury brands as well. However, despite the shocking reality of the state of the fashion industry today, awareness is growing. Consumers are asking questions and demanding better. There is a growing desire for change-not just for the sake of fashion, but for the sake of the planet, and for our health. #fashionhistory #fashionhistorian