Polyester backlash grows over fast fashion and microplastic pollution
Polyester has become a Gen Z insult for things perceived as cheap, artificial or disappointing, reflecting growing unease with its association with fast fashion. The backlash matters because polyester is the world’s most-produced synthetic fibre, and critics link it to uncomfortable clothing, potential chemical exposure and environmental harm.
The material is fossil-fuel-derived, does not biodegrade and releases microplastics during washing, while research into chemicals in synthetic clothing remains developing. Recent complaints about Gap Studio’s polyester-and-elastane “fake knit” garments illustrate consumer frustration; Shein remains strongly associated with polyester, with nine of the first 10 dresses viewed by the author made from it.
- Polyester is becoming shorthand for cheap, fake-looking fashion.
- Concerns include microplastics, comfort and possible chemical exposure.
- Fast-fashion brands face growing scrutiny over synthetic fabrics.
Americas Business Culture Fashion World
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Originally published by The Guardian as “‘It gives Shein’: how did polyester become the world’s most-hated material?”.