Fast Fashion: Insights From A Personal Stylist
Fast Fashion… It’s one of the big fashion buzz terms from late 2024 and going into 2025. Today, we are going to talk about what fast fashion is, where to shop it, and things to think about when shopping fast fashion. Keep reading for fast fashion: insights from a personal stylist!
What Is Fast Fashion?
Fast fashion refers to the business model in which clothing is mass-produced and distributed quickly to stores. The primary goals of the fast fashion business is to capitalize on current trends and to encourage consumers to buy more clothing through the implementation of frequent production cycles. Because of the nature of the operations of a fast fashion brand, they do tend to sit at lower price points.
In the late 1800’s, clothing collections were produced in only two seasons, which were Fall/Winter and Spring/Summer. By the 1990’s, trend cycles were much faster, pioneered by brands like Forever21 and Zara, who began producing clothing at the pace of 52 “micro-seasons” per year (or more). And now, social media only amplifies these tendencies, serving to only increase the production cycle rates. In fact, newer, online-only brands like Shein and Temu are producing at an even faster rate than ever before by utilizing date driven algorithms to get new styles to market in a matter of only days! This phenomenon is sometimes referred to as ultra-fast fashion.
What Are Some Of The Fast Fashion Brands?
Some of the most well known fast fashion brands are:
- Zara
- H&M
- Shein
- Forever21
- ASOS
- Uniqlo
- Mango
- Abercrombie & Fitch
- American Eagle
- Urban Outfitters
Shopping Fast Fashion: Things To Think About
There are considerations when shopping fast fashion. Here are a few of the things we always try to think about when shopping in fast fashion stores:
- Make sure you check the return policies before you order! Each retailer varies, but you will sometimes see a small return window or store credit only. And you likely will need to act fast if you see something you love – merchandise at fast fashion retail companies seems to go quickly.
- Be open to trying multiple sizes! Fast fashion sizing can be all over the place, so don’t get too stuck on the number on the tag. Sometimes, what seems like a bad fit in your usual size might actually look great if you size up or down. A little flexibility can make all the difference in finding pieces that work for you!
- When shopping for knits, it is important to check fabric content. Try to select items that are natural, breathable yarns and avoid buying acrylics and polyesters that don’t breath and aren’t good quality.
- Many fast fashion companies use low quality, often plastic buttons that are mass produced and not sewn on correctly. A cheap looking button is an instant way to tell that your article of clothing is of lesser quality. Keep the quality of the button in mind when you’re making your choices.
When Do We As Stylists Shop Fashion Fashion?
As stylists, we do shop fast fashion, both for ourselves and for our clients! There are certain situations where we lean into fast fashion more than others, and we always keep the above mentioned tips and tricks in mind when we do. A few of the situations in which we turn to fast fashion are listed below… We will delve deeper into those categories, as well as share some of our current favorite pieces in fast fashion stores right now, in this post!
- Trends you want to try, but don’t want to spend a fortune on.
- Statement pieces you don’t wear very often.
- Special occasion pieces… YES! We shop fast fashion for special occasions, where appropriate.
- Everyday basics.
Fast Fashion Insights From A Personal Stylist | Trendy Pieces
Katey: I’m all about the pink, the embellished collar, and the puffed sleeve… But also understand it’s not for everyone. If you have a teenage girl, then you know Lulu’s – it’s the go-to fast fashion site for Homecoming dresses. But, occasionally they have some cute pieces for the moms too (one for you, one for me…)!
Pearl Collar Short Sleeve Sweater
Dana : Designer denim does not have to be a must have in your closet especially when it comes to a trend you are wanting to try, like a wide leg jean. Denim should be chosen according to fit and not necessarily “fashionability.” Uniqlo is a great option for trying denim trends. The Japanese are masters with denim. They add just enough stretch to their jeans without them becoming the dreaded “jegging.”
Katie: Leopard print has been a huge trend this fall and winter, and while I love having a piece or two in my wardrobe, it’s not something I reach for all the time. That’s why I prefer to save rather than splurge when it comes to this trend. Fast fashion is a great way to try out a bold print like leopard without the commitment—perfect for adding a fun statement piece without breaking the bank!
Animal Print Top | Matching Animal Print Pants {Extended Sizing}
Fast Fashion Insights From A Personal Stylist | Statement Pieces You Don’t Wear Everyday
Dana : These oversized aviators are a great way to make a statement. While they are not necessarily going to work with your every day look, they are a fun way to play with trends without having to fully commit to a pricier option.
Rounded Oversized Aviator Sunglasses
Katey: A statement blazer has it’s place in your closet for sure… But it’s something you wear to be remembered at an occasion – such as when you are a presenter, speaker, or a dinner guest – and thus only worn a few times. I am loving this floral jacquard blazer. It can be paired over a dress like this model is wearing, but also with a silk cami and a dressy jean for date night.
Katie: A statement coat is one of my favorite ways to elevate a look, but let’s be real—it’s not something I’m reaching for every day. That’s why I love finding a fun piece, like this black faux fur coat, at a budget-friendly price. It adds instant drama and polish to an outfit while still looking high-end, without the investment of a piece I’ll only wear occasionally.
Fast Fashion Insights From A Personal Stylist | Special Occasion Pieces
Katie: When it comes to special occasions, I love finding a dress that feels perfect for the moment—without the hefty price tag. If I know I’ll only wear it once or twice, like for a winter wedding or a fun night out, I always check H&M and Zara to see what they have. If I find something fun, it’s the perfect way to try a bold, stylish look without worrying about cost per wear!
Dana: A sequin midi skirt adds sparkle and shine to any look. It can be dressed up for a night out or worn more casually for a fun daytime look when you are wanting to stand out from the crowd. A skirt like this is a fun option when you need a statement that won’t break the bank.
Katey: A dress for a formal occasion is something you’ll likely wear once….maybe twice if you know you’ll be with a different group of people. There’s no reason to spend a fortune unless you’re directly related – mother of the bride, guest of honor, etc. – so this is a great excuse to shop fast fashion. ASOS has some really good cocktail dress options!
Off The Shoulder Ruched Long Dress
Fast Fashion Insights From A Personal Stylist | Everyday Basics
Dana: H&M tanks are my all time favorite. They have just the right amount of stretch and are the perfect length for either tucking or leaving out. They are great for layering under your favorite sweaters or tops or just wearing on their own. Trust me when I say you’ll want them in every color… And at this price point, you can!
Ribbed Tank Top {Extended Sizing}
Katie: When it comes to basics, Zara bodysuits are one of my go-to picks. I’ve always had great luck with their fit and quality, and they make the perfect stand-alone piece or layering essential under jackets and blazers. Plus, they give you that sleek, put-together look without breaking the bank—an easy wardrobe win!
Katey: ASOS is a favorite site for our pregnant clients, especially those in need of basics. Tee, camis, leggings, jeans, and basic dresses are favorite go-tos that we recommend for our mamas to be!
Maternity Soft Jersey Maxi Dress
Zara Blazers
Zara is probably one of our most favorite fast fashion retailers. Two of our favorite things to shop for at Zara are blazers and shoes! Let’s take a look at blazers first.
Katie: Zara blazers are a staple in my wardrobe, and this grey double-breasted style is such a good find. While I don’t have this exact one, I have several Zara blazers that I keep in regular rotation. One thing to keep in mind—always try them on! Sizing can be a little tricky, and I personally tend to size down for the best fit.
Double Breasted Blazer With Shoulder Pads
Katey: I’ve been dipping my toe in the lady jacket trend, and a retailer like Zara is the perfect place to try it out without breaking the bank!
Dana: Zara is a great option when you’re looking to add an oversized blazer to your wardrobe. The quality and fit are always really nice, and the price point is even better.
Oversized Double Breasted Blazer
Zara Shoes
Katey: It’s hard for me to say no to a fabulous classic shoe, let alone a pump. There one was day where I wore a heel EVERY DAY up and down Michigan Avenue, but those days are now few and far between. So, I’ll invest in a pump that is classic and comfortable, but what about one that’s a statement shoe? That’s where I cut corners. When I know I’m going to wear it a few hours a month at most, I’ll say yes to the burgundy patent stiletto at a reasonable price!
Dana: Zara is always a great option when you’re looking to add something fun to your shoe wardrobe. The quality is great, and the fit is usually very comfortable
Katie: When I find a fun shoe at Zara, I grab it! I typically save my Zara shoe purchases for styles I won’t wear every day—like this gorgeous brownish-olive suede bootie. Since I’m more of an everyday sneaker girl, investing in a trendy bootie doesn’t make sense for me… But, at the Zara price point, it’s the perfect way to add something fun to my wardrobe without the commitment!
