Taste of (Extinction) Rebellion: How the Climate Change Movement is Changing Fashion

Movements are being led by teenagers, for teenagers worldwide.

The UK has had an ongoing lust for fast fashion for years – a study conducted by VICE UK found that the fast-fashion chain Boohoo uploaded on average 772 new items a week, and that 25% of 18-24 year olds will wear a piece of clothing from a chain and then throw it away, no matter its condition. The waste produced and the lives affected was never addressed or exposed in mainstream media until the movement of Extinction Rebellion made us insufferably aware of how drastic this problem actually is.

Although we have become more morally sensitive to this system, money continues to be a main factor of keeping it thriving. The demographic of fast-fashion (i.e millennials) are the most affected by the economy, and therefore cannot afford a huge amount on top of necessities. Fast-fashion sites produce trendy clothes for low prices – perfect for young people on a tight budget. However, apps like Depop and charity shops have increased in popularity (especially in London) because they’re a way to ethically support cheap fashion and recycling.

They’ve also changed the way people dress at the protests themselves. Instead of the typical standardised uniform for the cause, the outfits represent ordinary people with something to say.

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