Practice Tests
IELTS Reading (AC) Task 1 #131

A. Fast fashion is a business model in the clothing industry that focuses on the rapid production of inexpensive garments to replicate the latest high-fashion trends. This model, which gained prominence in the early 2000s, has revolutionised the way people buy and wear clothes, with retailers introducing new collections not just seasonally, but on a weekly or even daily basis. This creates a constant sense of novelty and encourages consumers to purchase clothing frequently and dispose of it quickly to keep up with ever-changing styles.

B. The economic success of fast fashion is built on a globalised supply chain designed for speed and low cost. Production is typically outsourced to low-wage countries where labour is cheap and regulations may be less stringent. Garments are often made from inexpensive synthetic materials like polyester, which is derived from fossil fuels. This allows retailers to offer trendy clothing at remarkably low prices, making it accessible to a wide consumer base.

C. However, the environmental and social costs of this model are substantial. The fashion industry is a major contributor to global carbon emissions, water pollution, and waste. The production of synthetic fibres releases microplastics into waterways, and the dyeing and finishing of textiles often involve toxic chemicals. At the end of their short lifespan, a vast majority of these garments end up in landfills, where they can take centuries to decompose. Socially, the pressure for low costs has been linked to poor working conditions and low wages for garment workers in many parts of the world.

D. In response to growing awareness of these issues, a movement towards "slow fashion" and more sustainable practices is gaining traction. This approach advocates for buying fewer, higher-quality items, choosing clothes made from sustainable materials, supporting ethical production, and repairing or recycling garments instead of discarding them. While the allure of cheap, trendy clothing is strong, there is an increasing demand from consumers for greater transparency and responsibility from the fashion industry, pushing for a shift towards a more sustainable and ethical model.