Finding stories in our closets | Ishanvi Tupili | TEDxOakridgeGachibowli

Fast Fashion's Impact - The fast fashion industry has led to overflowing closets and rapidly changing trends, diminishing the value of individual items [7] - Every second, the equivalent of a garbage truck full of textiles is burned or sent to landfills globally [7] - Producing a single cotton t-shirt requires over 2,500 liters of water, enough for one person to drink for 2.5 years [8] - Fast fashion often involves underpaid labor, with women working long hours for less than minimum wage [8] - The industry fosters emotional detachment from clothing, leading to a cycle of constant purchasing and dissatisfaction [8][9] Sustainable Alternatives - Upcycling pre-loved items can bridge the gap between traditional craftsmanship and modern fashion [5] - Funds raised from upcycled garments can support skill development workshops for girls [6][12] - Consumers can rewear and upcycle existing clothes, such as turning a sari into a cushion or a shirt into a tote bag [12][13] - Repairing clothes instead of replacing them can significantly reduce waste [13] - Shifting consumer perspectives towards valuing meaning over quantity can drive change in the fashion industry [14]