What is fast fashion – and why it is problematic for people and the environment
What does fast fashion actually mean?
Fast fashion refers to a production and distribution system in the fashion industry that relies on fast cycles, low prices, and short-lived trends. Collections change weekly, clothing is produced cheaply, and often only worn a few times. In contrast to sustainable fashion, the focus here is on quantity rather than quality. Fashion is no longer seasonal but continuously adapted to new microtrends, creating a constant incentive to buy. This fast pace of change leads to clothing often being viewed as a disposable product.
Perhaps you know this feeling: You spontaneously spot a cheap shirt and think, "Why not?" But this purchasing behavior fuels a system that prioritizes quantity over quality – and isn't good for your wardrobe or the environment in the long run. If you consciously engage with the term fast fashion, you'll quickly realize how drastically these practices have changed our relationship with fashion. That's why it's important to us at Glücksstern to raise your awareness – for conscious consumer behavior and long-lasting clothing with character.
Why is fast fashion problematic?
Behind the low prices of fast fashion lie massive ecological and social problems. The environment suffers from the use of chemicals, resources are wasted, and workers in low-wage countries are often exposed to poor conditions. The clothing itself is usually of low quality, which encourages a throwaway mentality. At the same time, every new garment places an additional burden on the climate, water resources, and human rights.
That's why at Glücksstern, we ask ourselves before every collection: Does this piece really need to be produced? Does it align with our values? If you, as a customer, ask similar questions, you're well on your way to making conscious decisions. Because choosing long-lasting fashion not only saves money in the long run—you also actively protect our environment.
Fast fashion & working conditions
Inhumane conditions prevail in many factories in the fast-fashion industry. Low wages, excessive working hours, and a lack of occupational safety are unfortunately commonplace. Women and children are particularly affected, as they produce clothes under precarious conditions that are later sold for a few euros.
At Glücksstern, we consistently rely on fair production partners in Europe. We know the conditions under which our jeans are produced – and we stand for transparent supply chains. When you shop with us, you can be sure that your clothing was manufactured under conditions that guarantee respect, safety, and dignity.
Environmental impacts in detail
The fashion industry is one of the most resource-intensive industries of all:
- Water consumption : Up to 2,700 liters of water are used for a single T-shirt – for a pair of jeans it is even more
- Chemicals : Many manufacturing processes use substances that endanger soil, rivers and people.
- CO₂ emissions : Long transport routes and energy-intensive processes fuel climate change.
- Mountains of garbage : Millions of items of clothing end up in landfills every year – often after only a few uses.
At Glücksstern, we are aware of our responsibility as a fashion brand. That's why we work exclusively with sustainable materials and use resource-saving processes – such as innovative washing techniques and non-toxic dyeing. This creates fashion that doesn't come at the expense of nature. Anyone who buys our Anyone who wears sustainable women's jeans is consciously choosing to combat environmental pollution and opt for longevity.
Facts about fast fashion
- Over 100 billion items of clothing are produced worldwide every year – a large proportion of which end up in the trash after a short time.
- Consumers today buy around 60% more clothing than they did 15 years ago – and at the same time, they wear it for only half as long.
- Up to 35% of microplastics in the world's oceans come from synthetic clothing.
These figures show: It's time to rethink. With every piece you choose consciously, rather than buy spontaneously, you're making a statement. At Glücksstern, we want to offer you precisely that choice – with durable, high-quality jeans that not only look good but also leave you feeling good.
What can be done about fast fashion?
There are many ways you can make a difference in your everyday life – and we want to support you:
- Conscious consumption : Shop less, but more selectively. Ask yourself: Do I really need this item of clothing?
- Choose sustainable labels : With us you can find out exactly how and where our clothes are made.
- Repair instead of throwing away : Many of our jeans can be easily repaired and will accompany you for years.
- Second-hand & circular thinking : This is also part of our philosophy: valuing clothes – and not replacing them at the first sign of a flaw.
With every conscious decision, you invest in a fair, sustainable future. We're at your side – with products that focus on durability, quality, and responsibility.
Alternatives: discover sustainable fashion
For us, sustainability is not a trend, but a mindset. At Glücksstern you will find Sustainable jeans for women made from certified organic cotton, TENCEL™, or recycled fibers. Produced under fair conditions in Europe, with short transport routes and meticulous attention to detail.
Our mission is clear: We want to demonstrate that sustainable fashion can be comfortable, stylish, and long-lasting. That's why we develop our own patterns, focus on high-quality workmanship, and consider your needs from the very beginning. When you shop with us, you're not just choosing a piece of clothing, but choosing an attitude—yours and ours.
Fashion with attitude starts with you
Fast fashion may seem attractive at first glance, but it comes at a high price. Not for your wallet, but for people and the environment. At Glücksstern, we believe in a different kind of fashion: responsible, high-quality, and honest.
With every conscious decision, you contribute to this change. We invite you to join us on this journey. For a fair future – and for jeans you can feel good about wearing.
Discover our sustainable jeans for women and join us in setting an example for fair fashion!
