The True Cost of Fashion

“If you knew that an outfit was made by workers in a factory with no rights or poor working conditions, would you still buy it?” From raw materials to finished products, this thought-provoking book takes a good, hard look at the global fashion industry. Through examples and statistics, readers will learn about controversial industry practices—such as child labor and sweatshops—and their far-reaching effects on working conditions and the environment. Each chapter presents a case study; for instance, one titled “Deadly Denim,” explains the health risks workers face when sandblasting jeans for a distressed look. However, as the author asserts, “there is a lot that consumers can do to have an impact on the problems associated with the fashion industry.” A variety of text boxes pepper the pages, asking questions about the consumer’s role, examining the relationship between supply and demand, and offering easy ways to shop conscientiously. The book’s design is vibrant and attention grabbing, while a “fashion world map” and color photographs help ground readers in the reality of the issues at hand. Back matter includes a glossary, book and Web suggestions for further reading, and an index.