Overconsumption has Us in a Death Grip—Here’s How we Can Change the Narrative.

The pressure to purchase is an omnipresent force in our late-stage capitalistic existence. And during the holidays…oof.

Before we go any further, let’s get one thing straight: I am not against shopping—I am against overconsumption.

I am not going to tell anyone not to shop. Telling someone not to do something and lauding ethical values over them is not going to end in a productive conversation. In fact, that conversation is probably over before it even begins. However, as a sustainable fashion journalist, activist, and abolitionist, I am going to encourage alternatives to fast fashion brands and retailers that exploit people and Mother Earth.

So, let’s start there—with a shift in perspective.

Try as they may, it is no longer a secret that most companies make more garments than customers actually purchase. And this isn’t by mistake. Waste is a structure of many business models, particularly in fast fashion. In many cases it is a tactic called planned obsolescence.

Instead of looking to brands to essentially gaslight us, let’s start where we are and use what we have. We still have a choice and we can shop our values.

Read the full article on Elephant Journal.