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The Reason Why Are Some Clothes Extremely Cheap

The Reason Why Are Some Clothes Extremely Cheap

Did you ever ask yourself how are some clothing brands like Shein or New Yorker making a profit out of cheap clothing? Here are some reasons why you should avoid these fast fashion brands and rather shop in thrift stores or research the brand before you purchase.

Sweatshops and Exploitative Labor

Some clothing companies exploit cheap labor in countries with lax labor laws and poor working conditions. Workers in these environments face low wages, long hours, unsafe workplaces, and a lack of labor rights.

Child Labor

In certain regions, children are forced to work in clothing production due to economic pressure. Child labor deprives children of education, exposes them to hazardous conditions, and perpetuates the cycle of poverty.

Wage Theft and Unfair Compensation

Unethical companies underpay their workers or withhold wages, denying them fair compensation for their labor and violating basic human rights.

Unsafe Working Conditions

Some clothing factories lack proper safety measures, exposing workers to hazardous chemicals, unsafe machinery, and inadequate protective gear.

Excessive Overtime

Employees are required to work long hours of overtime without proper compensation or breaks, leading to burnout and compromising their well-being.

Environmental Pollution

Clothing companies use harmful chemicals and dyes in production processes, leading to water pollution and soil contamination. Irresponsible waste disposal can further contribute to environmental degradation.

Fast Fashion and Overconsumption

The fast fashion model promotes rapid turnover of clothing styles, leading to overconsumption, excessive waste, and a lack of durability in products.

Cultural Appropriation

Some companies exploit cultural symbols, practices, or designs for profit without giving credit or proper compensation to the originating communities. Other than that lot of companies steal designs from small businesses and due to their low costs can sell them much cheaper and take away the customers from the original designer.

Lack of Transparency

Unethical companies do not disclose their supply chain practices or may provide misleading information about their production methods, making it difficult for consumers to make informed choices.

How to combat these unethical practices as a customer

Support clothing companies that prioritize ethical and sustainable production methods. Look for brands that are transparent about their supply chains, adhere to fair labor practices, prioritize environmental responsibility, and engage in social and community initiatives. By making conscious purchasing decisions and advocating for change, consumers can contribute to a more ethical and sustainable fashion industry.

Fashion transparency index 2023 by Fashion revolution