Fast Fashion Is Trending, But Is It Worth It?🎀
Week 7: Digital Citizenship Case Study- Social Media Influencers and the Slow Fashion Movement
Every day, social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram introduce new fashion trends through influencers, outfit hauls, and “must-have” clothing items. Fashion now moves faster than ever, encouraging people to constantly buy new clothes just to keep up with online trends. While this makes fashion exciting and accessible, it also creates serious environmental problems such as textile waste, pollution, and overconsumption. Because of this, many people are starting to support slow fashion, a movement that promotes sustainable and ethical fashion choices.
Slow fashion is closely connected to the idea of digital citizenship, where people use digital platforms responsibly and make thoughtful decisions online. Social media users today are not only consumers but also digital citizens who can spread awareness, educate others, and support positive social change. Through hashtags like #SlowFashion and #SustainableFashion, online communities encourage people to recycle clothes, shop ethically, and reduce unnecessary consumption. These hashtag communities create digital spaces where people connect through shared values and activism.
The topic also links to platformisation, where platforms shape what people see and influence online behaviour through algorithms and viral trends. Platforms often push fast fashion content because it generates high engagement, but they can also help promote sustainability campaigns and eco-friendly brands. This shows how digital platforms have the power to influence both consumer culture and social awareness at the same time.
In today’s digital world, fashion is no longer just about looking good—it is also about making responsible choices. Every post, purchase, and hashtag can influence others, showing that digital communities have the power to shape a more sustainable future.
References
Choi, M., & Cristol, D. (2021). Digital citizenship for all: Empowering young people through digital participation. Educational Technology Research and Development.
Poell, T., Nieborg, D. B., & van Dijck, J. (2019). Platformisation. Internet Policy Review, 8(4), 1–13.
Vehmas, K., Raudaskoski, A., Heikkilä, P., Harlin, A., & Mensonen, A. (2018). Consumer attitudes and communication in circular fashion. Journal of Fashion Marketing and Management, 22(3), 286–300.
