Stranger Things’ Priah Ferguson is not only one talented actress but she is also a true fashionista. Recently, the young starlet has partnered with @threadup to help GenZ break the “fast fashion” cycle.
“I’ve got a lil fashion secret: I LOVE to thrift. So, I’ve partnered with my favorite online thrift store, @thredup to create a Fast Fashion Confessional Hotline that will help you quit fast fashion for good! I felt inspired to take a break from fast fashion and help you do the same,” Ferguson posted on Instagram regarding the partnership.
She continued, “Fast fashion is so addictive because it feels as if you’re getting more for less. After learning how harmful it was to the planet, I had to chill out. If doing my part fashionably, helps to make our planet stronger, that’s a win. Hit me up at 1-855-THREDUP or at thredUP.com/callme. I’ll give you a lil pep talk to help fall back from fast fashion too! <3 #1855THREDUP #GenZ.”
If you don’t know what “fast fashion” is, well, according to thegoodtrade.com, here is a succinct definition that pretty much explains it all.
Fast fashion is a design, manufacturing, and marketing method focused on rapidly producing high volumes of clothing. Fast fashion garment production leverages trend replication and low-quality materials (like synthetic fabrics) in order to bring inexpensive styles to the end consumer.
Recently, Ferguson sat down with Girls United to talk about the “‘temptation of falling down fast fashion rabbit holes”, how to break the cycle, and much more. Check out the entirety of what she had to say below.
Girls United: What has your personal relationship with fast fashion been like over the years?
Priah Ferguson: I’ve purchased fast fashion in the past, for sure. It’s tempting because it’s easily accessible and felt as if I had more trendy fashion options to wear for a cheaper price. Unfortunately, the quality wasn’t always worth it. After talking to thredUP and learning more about how bad fast fashion is for the planet, I’ve worked harder to resist the temptation. I’ve also found it so much more fun and rewarding to find cool pieces from thrift stores and sites like thredUP.
GU: How have you seen fast fashion change the course of the fashion industry?
Ferguson: I’ve always been a big fan of fashion, but it does seem like lately there’s just so much cheap stuff out there, and it’s become normal to buy an outfit to wear once and toss. As I’ve started to establish my own sense of style, I’ve become more aware of the choices I have. My generation sort of marches to the beat of our own drum, we’re not really afraid to explore or remix the old with the new. I think thrifting isn’t something we toot our noses at because we embrace individuality more, plus we can find dope pieces to fit our personality. It’s cool how thrifting allows people to maintain their unique style but helps to keep our planet healthier, which serves people too.
GU: Why is it important for Gen Z to break up with fast fashion for good?
Ferguson: Honestly, even if you’re not big or deeply invested in messages about saving the planet, I think it’s fair to say that we all want to enjoy our planet now and in the future. I love hanging out with my friends, going to festivals, eating fresh produce, swimming, [and] traveling. If we care about the planet, it’s important for us to practice doing our part to protect it. I want to show that it can be easy to make the switch to more sustainable habits, not to judge because some people just may not be informed. Breaking up with fast fashion might feel hard at first, but when you think about the long-term benefits, it makes it worth it. Plus, you can find fun and affordable pieces which makes it a plus on both sides.
GU: How can Gen Z quit fast fashion cold turkey and shop more sustainably?
Ferguson: First of all, I want everyone to know, I’ve totally been there! I get the temptation. From my personal experience, one of the best ways to quit fast fashion and start shopping more sustainably is to start thrifting. It’s fun to find unique pieces and put your own spin on something. I love trying to figure out new ways to build outfits with what I already have. I’m real big on mixing and matching, it’s how I keep my wardrobe fresh. If you want help falling back from fast fashion, you can call my hotline with thredUP at 1-855-THREDUP, and I’ll be there to help!
Are you ready to break the “fast fashion” cycle? Team up with Priah and threadUP and just do it!
Photo Credits: Priah Ferguson Instagram; @threadup Instagram; Girls United/threadUP
