Thanks for introducing the "underconsumption core" and the great article your cited! I also think that “overconsumption” is not always a personal choice—sometimes people have to buy more often because the quality of products is just not there. Really enjoyed the insightful discussion.
Thank you for this informative and intelligent piece on a deceivingly complex topic. I purchased a dress at H&M 15 years ago that is still in perfect condition, and I wear it weekly. I can’t imagine that being possible today.
I appreciate you laying out the different arguments for underconsumption. What does it say about me that I can see all sides to the argument? On the one hand, the first video highlighting consumption felt like a totally normal approach to life and on the other, I KNOW I carry privilege to buy higher quality items that will (hopefully) not require replacing!
The quotes you pulled from Vice remind me of the shrink-flation/quality-flation thought I had so it’s actually nice to know it’s a real life issue.
I see all sides, too! I think the middle ground answer is usually the most accurate. Is it really underconsumption to live within our means? Maybe not. Does that still make it radical in today's haul-based society to do so? I think so.
Loved the different sides of this and ultimately asking why we aren’t holding companies more accountable. During the pandemic I realize I didn’t want to support Amazon or their practices anymore and I’ve pushed myself to stop shopping there. I recognize not everyone has the same access to get something locally. So I’d like to think we’re all doing the best we can with what we have. The important part is that we’re actively thinking about what and how we’re consuming and if that aligns to our ideals.
Also recognizing that our priorities change! 10 years ago I wasn’t thinking about quality because I was more concerned about price. I think there is a hierarchy of (fashion) needs we all cycle through.
Thank you for the thoughtful response, Ofelia! It's push and pull between doing better where you can and not judging those who are stuck because of corporate greed. And so true on priorities!! A recent grad trying to furnish their first-apartment can't make the choices someone established in their career can. I think a judgement-free zone and doing your own personal best is key.
Thanks for introducing the "underconsumption core" and the great article your cited! I also think that “overconsumption” is not always a personal choice—sometimes people have to buy more often because the quality of products is just not there. Really enjoyed the insightful discussion.
Thank you for this informative and intelligent piece on a deceivingly complex topic. I purchased a dress at H&M 15 years ago that is still in perfect condition, and I wear it weekly. I can’t imagine that being possible today.
Thanks for the kind words! I love when people turn fast fashion into slow fashion!! 😉
I appreciate you laying out the different arguments for underconsumption. What does it say about me that I can see all sides to the argument? On the one hand, the first video highlighting consumption felt like a totally normal approach to life and on the other, I KNOW I carry privilege to buy higher quality items that will (hopefully) not require replacing!
The quotes you pulled from Vice remind me of the shrink-flation/quality-flation thought I had so it’s actually nice to know it’s a real life issue.
I see all sides, too! I think the middle ground answer is usually the most accurate. Is it really underconsumption to live within our means? Maybe not. Does that still make it radical in today's haul-based society to do so? I think so.
Totally!! I actually think your last sentence needs to be the motto for shopping in general “be mindful and be kind”
Loved the different sides of this and ultimately asking why we aren’t holding companies more accountable. During the pandemic I realize I didn’t want to support Amazon or their practices anymore and I’ve pushed myself to stop shopping there. I recognize not everyone has the same access to get something locally. So I’d like to think we’re all doing the best we can with what we have. The important part is that we’re actively thinking about what and how we’re consuming and if that aligns to our ideals.
Also recognizing that our priorities change! 10 years ago I wasn’t thinking about quality because I was more concerned about price. I think there is a hierarchy of (fashion) needs we all cycle through.
Thank you for the thoughtful response, Ofelia! It's push and pull between doing better where you can and not judging those who are stuck because of corporate greed. And so true on priorities!! A recent grad trying to furnish their first-apartment can't make the choices someone established in their career can. I think a judgement-free zone and doing your own personal best is key.
(Side note: I love your name)
Exactly!! and thank you :)