By MIA SHU and JANICE KWON
Some Jericho students are opposing the fast fashion trend by showing off their unique sense of style in the alternative fashion scene. Alternative fashion refers to dressing in styles deviating from mainstream societal norms, typically in ways that are more extravagant and noticeably unique, often referred to as “dressing out loud.” While fast fashion generally targets highly marketable and trendy clothing items made quickly and cheaply, alternative styles favor distinctiveness over popularity.
Jericho High School sophomore Joanne K. values a style she created inspired by designer Rick Owens, Japanese fashion influencers and archival runway looks.
“If you put me in a room with a bunch of other people, you’re going to be able to tell the distinction between me and them—this kind of fashion represents your individuality,” she said.
The majority of Jericho’s student population utilizes fast fashion from brands such as Shein, H&M, Forever 21, Zara, Cider and others. These companies allow students to buy clothing cheaply and quickly. However, thrifting has gained popularity for alternative fashion buyers opposed to the negative consequences of fast fashion.
Some Jericho students believe that fast fashion is harmful, unethical and hinders one’s development of a personal style sense.
Jericho freshman Alex Z. said, “I do not like fast fashion. I think it’s really wasteful and it’s harmful to people who are trying to find their own style. If they’re constantly trying to keep up with the pace clothes are produced at, they don’t ever settle on one thing that they actually like.”
In addition to thrifting, many in the alternative fashion community prefer to purchase secondhand or borrow pieces from others as it is more environmentally sustainable. It also gives them access to clothing that may no longer be available in stores. These unconventional methods of obtaining clothes exemplify these students’ distinct personalities.
Jericho sophomore Jinglan C. often wears clothing they inherit from others. They wear trenchoats, Burberry jackets and other items from their mother and even their mother’s friends.
They said, “I mainly get my clothes from other people since I don’t get many opportunities to go out shopping. My father, for example, I usually wear some of his sweaters and jackets since he doesn’t use them anymore.”
While they understand that some may think this is strange, Jinglan said, “I find it to be more sustainable.”
Alternative fashion movements have often been rooted in political views, personal beliefs, and cultural backgrounds.
Sophomore Joanne K. said, “Alternative fashion has a lot of political views connected to it, so what you believe in is expressed in what you wear. I feel like being alternative has a lot to do with your political mindset and the way you perceive things, the way you interpret the world. It’s not just about the looks.”
Alternative fashion students have advice for others who are interested in developing their own unique sense of style. “Don’t stress about it. It’s really fun as long as you just don’t worry about what other people think,” said Alex.
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