In a new Just-Style mini series, students from FASH455 and the FASH department at the University of Delaware shared their valuable Gen Z perspectives on the impact of the recent tariff increases.
Students’ responses reveal that the impacts of the tariff increase on ordinary U.S. consumers are real, direct, and significant. Like other consumer groups, our Gen Z students express deep concern about the adverse effects of tariffs on the U.S. economy, market uncertainties, and the fashion industry’s growth prospects this year. While shopping for clothing, many students have noticed price increases and reduced product availability due to tariff hikes and related disruptions.
On the other hand, as Gen Z consumers, students send a strong message to fashion brands and retailers—sustainability still matters. In fact, in this environment, students have become ever more conscious of sustainability, asking critical questions such as: Do I really need to buy more clothing? Where was the clothing made? Was the clothing produced ethically? In other words, we may see a growing shift toward “slow fashion” among Gen Z consumers, who expect apparel brands and retailers to make even stronger commitments toward sustainability and social responsibility, instead of compromising these values for “cost mitigation.”
Likewise, students expect higher-quality products or items that can last longer to justify the higher price they pay. Regularly shopping for secondhand clothing, driven by its affordability, environmental benefits, and unique styles, could also become increasingly popular. This leaves an interesting question about the future of cheap but low-quality fast fashion and its attractiveness among Gen Z consumers.
The mini series is available through Just-style. Below are selected comments from students:
Gen Z consumers care about tariffs in the news
Rachel Zemel (Fashion Merchandising and Management major): As a Fashion Merchandising and Management major, I’ve definitely been paying closer attention to how tariffs impact what we see on the sales floor. Learning about global sourcing and trade agreements in class has made me more curious about where products are coming from and how political or economic shifts can directly affect the retail industry. I’ve caught myself checking clothing labels more often to see where things are made and understand why certain brands are shifting their production away from countries like China. I think what used to feel like a distant conversation now feels very connected to the way I shop and think about product availability.
Annabelle Gensler (Fashion Merchandising & Management and Fashion Design & Product Innovation double majors): The tariff discussion has been far more impactful on my shopping habits than I would have imagined…I’d like to consider myself a thoughtful consumer in that I rarely make impulse purchases, and I do what I can to avoid feeling any sense of buyer’s remorse. This has become exceptionally true in today’s evolving state of trade policy and manifests itself in a few ways…As a fashion student, I have a good understanding of what constitutes a fair price for fashion and apparel goods. I try to use these strengths of mine by paying close attention to fiber content, care instructions, origin of materials, and manufacturing location. Overall, I’d say the tariff discussion makes me think twice, three times, ten times before making a purchase.
Alexandra Untu (Fashion Merchandising and Management and Philosophy double majors): As a fashion student and fashion lover, I closely follow tariff updates and actively try to educate myself to gain a more objective and informed perspective on the changes introduced by the current administration. Although I started shopping more consciously a while ago, I’m now more intentional than ever with my purchases…I pay attention to where clothes are made and take the time to research their country of origin and production practices. I’ve also been focusing on buying pieces made from high-quality materials, with timeless styles that are versatile enough to be worn in different outfits and settings.
Lola Kulis (Fashion merchandising and management major and 4+1 graduate student): As a Fashion Merchandising student, I’ve been especially invested in the ongoing discussion around tariffs and their impact on retail pricing. From an industry perspective, it’s scary; as someone preparing to enter the field, I feel uncertain about what the future holds. And as a consumer, I feel frustrated. We’re facing the direct impact of global trade decisions influencing the pricing and accessibility of apparel. The worst part is the uncertainty. The constant policy changes and back and forth are only putting more stress on business owners, consumers, the working class, etc.. The media coverage surrounding these trade policies has made me realize how interconnected global sourcing and retail pricing really are. I’ve started paying closer attention to where garments are manufactured and how those origins might impact cost, availability, and even quality. I’ve shifted my perspective, not only as a student but also as a consumer.
Madison Toth (Fashion Merchandising and Management major): The tariff discussion in the media has definitely increased my interest in where exactly my clothing is being made. As I shop, I have started to check labels on where these apparel items are being manufactured. It is fascinating to me that the most popular and successful U.S retailers are globally sourcing apparel, yet the increase in tariffs is being thrown into policy. Admittedly, I struggle to keep up with the news, but I’m very intrigued by the current tariff discussion. I follow closely because it will affect my job in the future as I enter my career in the fashion industry, but also as a consumer.
Price hikes and reduced product availability due to tariffs concern Gen Z consumers
Rachel Zemel (Fashion Merchandising and Management major): Since April, I’ve definitely noticed price increases…I’ve also noticed a shift in product availability, especially when I shop online. Certain sizes and styles are gone faster than usual and don’t seem to get restocked. In stores, the selection feels limited too. It seems like brands are being more careful with how much they’re producing, maybe to avoid excess inventory or reduce risk. As someone who shops a lot and also studies this industry, it’s interesting to see how these challenges are playing out in real-time. It makes me think differently about what goes into every piece I buy.
Annabelle Gensler (Fashion Merchandising & Management and Fashion Design & Product Innovation double majors): The majority of the shopping I’ve done since April has occurred online, and the biggest difference I’ve noticed since the tariff discourse has started, is the stock of goods available. It’s rare that I stumble upon a product offering that has all sizes and colors in-stock. Now, when I filter my search for a graduation dress in the size and color I prefer, fewer and fewer items populate. In the past, retailers might have been able to bulk order goods to maintain stock domestically, or ship from international locations directly to the consumer; tariffs have halted these practices. Items I’m considering purchasing no longer feel safe in my cart because of how quickly stockouts are occurring. This, paired with an expectation of drastic increases in price, has created an internal sense of urgency when I have items in my cart. I know it’s unlikely that the item will be available at a certain price point, or at all, and so the conscious consumerism I try to practice is really being put to the test.
Alexandra Untu (Fashion Merchandising and Management and Philosophy double majors): Based on my own and my friends’ experience, the changes have been subtle so far, but noticeable. Prices have been going up gradually across all types of products, including clothing, but the availability of products hasn’t yet turned into a cause for concern. While the current situation is not dramatic as of now, there is undoubtedly a change that is happening, and we are expecting more striking changes in the near future that could affect our shopping behavior quite significantly.
Madeline Osbourn (Fashion Merchandising and Management major): The tariff increase has affected merchandise orders for my sorority. The tariffs have made the prices rise on orders that we planned on making. This creates an issue with prepaid and future orders, keeping in mind the members’ willingness to transition and conform to the higher-priced merchandise that is designed.
Lola Kulis (Fashion merchandising and management major and 4+1 graduate student): Because inflation has been on the rise for some time now, it’s hard to differentiate the cause of these price changes. Prices for basics, like denim, cotton tops, and even activewear, are outrageously high. Over the past year, I’ve observed a significant decline in promotional activity. Retailers are offering fewer discounts, and even Black Friday, once known for major deals, felt noticeably underwhelming. Considering the current global trade and policy changes, I only see this worsening. On the availability side, popular sizes and color options tend to sell out much more quickly, leading to a more competitive shopping experience.
Madison Toth (Fashion Merchandising and Management major): To be honest, I have been reluctant to shop with popular fashion retailers because of the current tariff discussions. I have strayed away from shopping online and in-store due to the uncertainty of the economic climate. While apparel prices are increasing, as well as other products, it is vital for me to take all of that into consideration. Tariffs affect more than apparel, and as a college student, some purchases take priority over clothing. Because of this, I am unable to comment on price and product availability since the tariff discussion began. I have simply decided that, for me personally, in the current economic climate, apparel shopping should be placed on the back burner.
Sustainability matters even more
Rachel Zemel (Fashion Merchandising and Management major): Sustainability matters even more to me now. When prices go up, it forces me to think about the long-term value of what I’m buying. I want to spend my money on items that are made with quality materials and with people and the planet in mind. It’s hard to justify spending more on something that was cheaply made or won’t last beyond a few wears. I think price increases actually help push the conversation toward more conscious consumption. Even with a student budget, I try to prioritize brands that are transparent about their production or at least make some effort toward ethical practices. It’s not always possible to buy 100% sustainably, but I try to balance things. thrifting, supporting small designers, and not overconsuming are just a couple of changes that can have a big impact. Sustainability isn’t just about buying the “right” thing, it’s about shifting the way we shop. That mindset doesn’t go away just because prices are rising.
Alexandra Untu (Fashion Merchandising and Management and Philosophy double majors): Sustainability has always been a core value for me, and that won’t change, even if prices rise. Sustainability isn’t just a trend; it goes far beyond money – it’s a life-or-death issue. It’s a moral responsibility we have to future generations, and we shouldn’t treat it lightly or abandon it. Shopping with sustainability in mind isn’t always the easiest or the cheapest route, but it’s the right one. Now, more than ever, we should be doing -or learning to do – the right thing. Every purchase sends a message about the change we want to see. Every purchase is a small step toward a better, more responsible future for us and for our children.
Lola Kulis (Fashion merchandising and management major and 4+1 graduate student): Sustainability matters even more to me in the face of rising prices. As clothing becomes more expensive, we become more hesitant in purchasing. I think more about what I’m investing in, starting with being intentional about supporting brands that are transparent, responsible, and committed to reducing their environmental impact. I’d rather buy less and choose more wisely than spend more on items that contribute to overproduction and waste. I’ve realized more than ever that sustainability is not a trend, it’s our future. As I prepare to enter the fashion industry, it’s important that I practice what I preach and support the long-term goals.
Madison Toth (Fashion Merchandising and Management major): Sustainability is something that I do genuinely care about. When shopping, I tend to lean more towards brands that practice ethical sourcing and are more transparent about where their items come from. From my time as a student, I have learned many of the horrible outcomes of the fashion industry related to sustainability. From seeing videos of workers begging for higher wages, seeing dyes dumped into bodies of water, and looking at the incredibly tall piles of textile waste, it sticks with me both as a student and a consumer…If a price increase meant that apparel manufacturers were getting paid fair wages, I would purchase those items. However, now, due to tariffs, I am more likely to dodge popular retailers. Sustainability is very important to my generation, and I value the efforts that brands have made to become more sustainable. But it raises the question, when is a price so high that sustainability no longer matters? To that, it’s hard to say. I think it depends on the economic status of each consumer. From sustainable companies with higher prices, there are purchases that I just cannot justify paying. I do care about sustainability, but there does come a point where it becomes financially unattainable.
Katie Yasik (Fashion Design and Product Innovation major): Yes, sustainability still matters to me, even with rising prices. It’s not always easy to prioritize, especially on a student budget, but I try to make more conscious choices like buying fewer, longer-lasting pieces or shopping secondhand. I think it’s important to consider the environmental and social impact of fast fashion, and if prices are going up anyway, I’d rather invest in something that aligns with my values.
Isabella DiGiulio (Fashion merchandising and management major and 4+1 graduate student): I think that the tariffs may bring a new wave of interest in sustainability, specifically for donation-based, second-hand clothing stores. These stores will likely be able to maintain their low pricing because they do not need to account for operational expenses in apparel production. Even if there is to be a price increase, their prices may still remain relatively lower and more affordable compared to first-hand clothing brands…Furthermore, sustainable shopping doesn’t solely refer to purchasing second-hand goods or buying from brands with biodegradable fabrics or ethical labor practices. Sustainable shopping can also refer to the abstinence from shopping. With influences such as social media and fast fashion, overconsumption has become an extremely normalized practice through which many people, especially Gen Z, feel compelled to consistently refresh their wardrobes to follow trends and keep up with the ever-changing standards of style and identity.
Explore more:
- Gen Z on tariffs part 1: Fashion price increases, fewer product options
- Gen Z on tariffs part 2: Rise in rental, secondhand on price increases
- Gen Z on tariffs part 3: Does fashion sustainability still matter?
- Gen Z on tariffs part 4: Will Shein, Temu’s popularity decline?
- Gen Z on tariffs part 5: Fashion sector uncertainty is main concern
FASH455 Global Apparel & Textile Trade and Sourcing 
It is an honor to be part of this Just-Style Gen Z mini series, together with my UD FASH colleagues. As I have mentioned earlier, the impact of tariffs on retail costs, sourcing, and affordability is true, especially for those of us who are attempting to get started in the industry.
While some think higher prices will lead Gen Z down the path of slow fashion, I have some doubts. Yes, we are concerned with sustainability, but higher prices and less availability of affordable ethical fashion mean responsible consumerism is more challenging than ever.
At a personal level, the most frustrating thing is the uncertainty. Policy change is causing volatility throughout the industry, and it is difficult to know what to believe as an investment to hold onto, both as a consumer and as a learner. If the fashion industry is to progress, the industry needs to lead the way with transparency, consistency, and affordability regarding sustainability.
Hi Lola! So amazing that you got to be featured in this mini series! I really like how you mentioned you have been becoming more intentional in the brands you are purchasing from. Transparency is so important, but also tricky because brands can simply lie about their sustainability efforts. It really is such a difficult time to be a conscious consumer, and I feel the pressure as an educated fashion student to make the right choices when shopping, but it’s hard to truly know if the brands you like are truly eco-friendly.
I personally enjoyed this article because it highlights my peers’ perspective on the tariffs happening in the fashion industry right now. I have recently noticed brands have limited stock in both size and color while increasing their prices. The market has gotten competitive to score the best “deal” as shoppers are having to make big purchase decisions quickly.
From a sustainability point of view, I think these recent tariffs can help stop shoppers from overconsumption and became conscious of the clothing and trends they are buying into. Cheap clothing and social media fashion trends have been detrimental to the environment because of brands like SHEIN and Temu. This could be a moment for shoppers to educate themselves on how clothing is made, learn about quality materials, and find out how supply chains work.
Hi Hannah! I completely agree with you. I have seen limited stock in tons of different styles and colors all over online stores. I also think the market has gotten competitive in getting the best deal. Your positive point about the recent tariffs helping shoppers cut back on overconsumption is important to highlight since everyone has been focusing on all of the negatives of these tariffs. I think this is one good thing that can come out of the tariffs because people will be less likely to shop fast fashion, as their prices will probably go up as well, making them less worth it over better quality garments.
I completely agree with you, Hannah, I’ve also noticed limited size and color options lately, and it definitely makes shopping feel more competitive and rushed. Your point about tariffs encouraging more conscious shopping really stood out to me. With how fast trends move on social media, it’s so easy to fall into the habit of overconsumption. Hopefully this shift pushes more people to care about quality, sustainability, and the real impact of fast fashion brands like SHEIN and Temu.
After reading the article, I definitely think that I consider the incoming tariffs when I make my purchasing decisions. As a student, I have to consider finances because funds are usually low for someone in my position. Looking at where my clothing is sourced from and where it is produced is something I for sure pay more attention to now as I study the apparel industry. Sustainability is always a factor to me in my shopping decisions as I believe that the climate crisis is the number one threat to my generation and future generations. Balancing all of these factors is difficult, but possible if you are strategic about it. I shop second hand as much as possible in order to keep prices low while also remaining sustainable.
This article resonates with me because I am able to relate to the discussion at hand. I appreciate the opportunity to see how my peers perceive the recent discussions around tariffs. I enjoyed reading the responses to this particular subtitle: “Price hikes and reduced product availability due to tariffs concern Gen Z consumers”. Annabelle Gensler brought up an important point which I have noticed as well while shopping online. She said “Items I’m considering purchasing no longer feel safe in my cart because of how quickly stockouts are occuring”. I completely agree with this and have a different take on the situation. I think that this could potentially lead to more impulse buying then slowdowns. I believe that a lot of Gen Z will end up quickly purchasing an item online in order to secure their purchase rather than leaving it in their cart for a while, due to stockouts. In my opinion this will cause an even more negative effect on the industry because people will be overbuying rather than cutting back.
I found this article really interesting because it sheds light on how Gen Z is directly affected by fashion tariffs and how aware we are of these economic shifts. As someone who shops both in-store and online, I’ve definitely noticed higher prices and slower restocks lately, especially with international brands I used to rely on for affordable basics.
I agree that this could be an opportunity for Gen Z to be more intentional with our shopping habits. Tariffs might push us to value quality over quantity and support more local or sustainable brands. If anything, it’s a reminder that our choices as consumers are tied to bigger global issues, and we have the power to influence what the future of fashion looks like.
After reading this article, I was excited to see my classmates and the overall generation Z perspective on tariffs. This is an extremely important discussion and our connection to it is greater than we realize. Global trade is affecting our everyday shopping experiences. Because of this, it is nice to see students putting an emphasis on the importance of sustainability and ethical production. Since we are all the future of the fashion industry, we have the responsibility of being well informed on what is going on in the world. Overall, I thought this was a great article that had wonderful students who are passionate about the future of the fashion industry.
It was very helpful and exciting to see some of my classmates included in this post. While the fashion industry has some positive aspects to it, it is clear there are some deep rooted issues as well. I have begun to recognize that for some people it is very easy to sweep issues such as ethics, inhumane working conditions, and environmental impacts of fashion under the rug. It was reassuring to me to know that my peers are concerned and wary of the impact they have on the industry. As we graduate from the University of Delaware and move on to other places within the fashion industry it is extremely important to be informed about the potential implications of the industry. This article was extremely well done and helped to communicate Gen Z’s perspective.
While reading this mini series, I was able to relate to the fact that tariffs are really driving our behaviors as students in the fashion industry and also as real-time consumers in such a tough economy. FASH455 has made me more mindful of where my apparel originates, which has, of course, influenced my purchasing choices and will continue to in the future. Prior to this class, I never really thought of how global trade policy affected such things as product assortment or pricing, but now I find myself reading labels more frequently and questioning how certain garments are made. While shopping myself, I have noticed a lot of promotions due to tariffs due to companies clothing down, especially online. For example, Comfrt Clothing is currently having a huge sale and they announced it was due to new tarrifs. The most interesting thing is that tariffs could potentially get rid slow fashion practices for some. The escalating prices make me think more about what I am actually bringing home. I’m asking myself more questions about quality and longevity and production. I used to shop for fun, but lately I catch myself slowing down due to the fashion industries effects on the world.
I really connected with what you said because this mini series showed me how much tariffs are actually affecting us as fashion students and regular consumers, especially in such a tough economy. FASH455 also made me way more aware of where my clothes come from, and now I pay more attention to labels and think about how global trade policy changes things like price and product availability. I am way pickier with what I I’m buy and look into the quality, and if it will actually last me a long time.
It’s really interesting to hear from a variety of my peers on their perspective of tariff impacts. I think this study was a great way to gauge opinions from a niche market (UD Fashion majors). I also think that this market is especially impacted by changes in the garment industry due to their interest in trending fashion paired with the general income level of a college student that results in them feeling the effect of changing prices more greatly, so they are most perceptive to subtle changes on the sales floor that others may not notice. It’s also interesting that sustainability is no longer viewed as an added bonus for companies but more so as a baseline requirement for Gen Z consumers to shop at brands.
It was a true honor to be involved in this article and share my thoughts and opinions. With that being said, I believe that my classmates made some amazing comments in this article. Some of them stated that on a student budget, it is difficult to prioritize sustainability which I also agree with. Among the other comments shared from my classmates, it seems as though prices are beginning to rise substantially due to tariffs. I find it really interesting that Gen Z cares about sustainability, but even has some apprehensions due to cost. Now with the current price increases, it is evident that consumers will steer further away from sustainability, simply due to the price of merchandise. With a combination of sustainable apparel already being priced at a higher level, prices will soar even higher with an increase in tariffs. I appreciate the commentary from other Gen Z consumers and fashion students, as tariffs affects us for both of these reasons.
Participating in this article was such a fun opportunity to work with my fashion peers and exchange opinions on the ongoing tariff war. I enjoyed reading the article when it came out, seeing how our responses compared. This issue is extremely relevant for us as young professionals entering the workforce and it made me reflect on how this ill effect me and my generation. Undoubtedly, the tariff war is an extremely pressing issue that makes me concerned about where the fashion industry will be in the upcoming years. As mentioned in the article, these price increases will effect everyone, however they will have the strongest impact on those with a limited budget. Many college students have gotten acclimated to low prices and easy accessibility to trendy pieces through fast fashion platforms. With the new tariffs, many college students will have to reconsider their consumption habits and find new alternatives for affordable fashion. On the brighter side, I believe this tariff war will lead to more sustainable shopping practices, whether it be via second hand clothing stores or even the reduction of overconsumption.
The Just-Style interview allowed fashion students from UD the opportunity to address their views on Trump’s tariffs. The article shows that Gen Z consumers do care about the tariffs as many students claimed that they are paying closer attention to prices when they shop and where their clothing is made. This is causing more conscious consideration when it comes to buying new clothes, showing a potential decline in consumer spending as many may move to purchase more intentionally. Many of the interviewees also highlighted their views on tariffs from a fashion student perspective, with many drawing attention to how the fashion industry relies on the global supply chain. Uncertainty seems to be the overlying theme when discussing tariffs from industry and consumer perspectives as there is no true way to determine the outcome of this situation.
The Just-Style Interview was particularly interesting as it highlighted how fashion students of all backgrounds are thoughfully aware of their shopping habits with part of the reason being the high tariffs and rising prices. Learning that a large majority check clothing labels to learn where the garment was made and what it is made out of highlighted how educated fashion students truly are. In a world of fast fashion, it was refreshing to learn that many students are turning to more sustainable routes and slow fashion. As a fashion merchandising major at UD, I can relate to checking clothing labels and mainly attempting to shop secondhand, especially as clothing prices continue to rise. However, it emphasize the question on how trade policies and the tariff war will continue to affect the fashion industry, businesses, and the econonmy as a whole.
After reading the Just-Style mini series, it is clear that tariffs are no longer just an abstract concept. As a student studying fashion classified as Gen Z, I have felt the ripple effects of the trade shifts in how I think about my future and shop. Like my peers, I have noticed less productivity availability and price increases, especially online. I second-guess purchases I would have easily made a year ago; it is more of an intentional decision-making process: checking where things are made, how long they will last, and what materials are used. I appreciate Gen Z’s commitment to sustainability even during economic uncertainty. The tension between our desire to support responsible brands and rising costs is real. Buying less, thrift shopping, and supporting responsible brands are all ways to commit to our values. Affordability is still a huge factor; there is a genuine concern about sustainability becoming financially unattainable. It is a challenge for the fashion industry, and they must work together with the younger generations for a better future.
After reading this article, I found it very interesting how it incorporated Gen Z’s thoughts about the current tariffs. I feel like a lot of companies as well as government officials are not really considering Gen Z’s point of view with regards to the new tariffs. It can be seen from the article that many other students in the generation are more conscious of the negative effects fast fashion has had on the environment as well as labor rights. With many concerned about where garments are manufactured from and how it is sourced. A lot of what is discussed in the article I can relate to and agree with, such as lower stock availability, wanting more sustainable options and not impulse buying anything until I have thought it over multiple times. I feel like most of our generation is less likely to impulse buy huge amounts of clothes (like the shein hauls that got popular a few years ago) and are more likely to consider other options before purchasing.
I really enjoyed reading these responses in the Gen Z answers and I think that it gave great insight into how Gen Z is responding to the recent tariff increases, especially as both consumers and future industry professionals. It’s clear that many students are noticing higher prices and limited product availability, and they’re becoming more aware of where and how their clothes are made. What stood out most is that, even with these challenges, Gen Z continues to value sustainability. Many are shifting toward secondhand shopping, buying less, and being more intentional with their purchases. The idea that tariffs might push consumers toward “slow fashion” shows how trade policy can have unexpected effects on consumer behavior and industry expectations.
This article really resonated with me as a member of Gen-Z and as someone who enjoys consuming clothing products. It definitely shows how the recent tariff increases have affected so many consumers who have had to adjust their shopping habits due to higher prices, limited styles, and increased shipping times. I definitely agree that it is often difficult to find a balance between sustainable, ethical consumption and cost-friendly consumption. With rising tariff rates, it can be difficult for consumers, particularly younger consumers, to shop sustainably without drastically changing their purchasing habits. Overall, I think this article is really interesting because it gives real life examples and comments about the rising tariff rates and how it can affect modern consumption behaviors.
This article captures exactly what I see happening around me as a Gen Z fashion student and active fashion consumer, especially with high tariffs, rising prices, and constant economic uncertainty. These factors make people my age rethink how and why we shop. What stood out most is that Gen Z isn’t just reacting to price increases, we’re actively reshaping the narrative of fashion through the choices we make. For a lot of us, sustainability isn’t a cute trend, it has become an expectation. And I think that’s why thrifting has become such a major part of our generation’s lifestyle. It shouldn’t be treated like a trend that comes and goes, because it’s a hobby that so many of us use to avoid fast fashion altogether. Our generation is online constantly, and we’re more aware than ever of the environmental damage, labor issues, and waste behind cheap clothing and that awareness drives our behavior in a way older generations didn’t experience at our age. I also relate to what the students said about checking labels more, caring about where clothes come from, and wanting better quality if prices are rising anyway. With tariffs making new clothing even more expensive, secondhand feels like the only space that still makes sense, especially when thrifting and seeing a label of Ralph Lauren over Shein. I genuinely think my generation is what will make that shift happen, we control so much of fashion’s online conversation, brands will have no choice but to catch up to appeal to their target audience.
After reading my fellow classmates perspectives on the impact of tariffs I can say that I totally agree with them. Tariffs have been causing too much uncertainty that needs to be more under control. With tariffs rising daily we see changes in pricing and availability. Everything is much more expensive and not readily available. Because of these impacts we are seeing a shift in consumers that are expecting more sustainability options. Consumers are looking for companies that are transparent with their sourcing and constructing. It’s difficult for a brand to completely flip their supply chains to fit what consumers are expecting, that’s why we’re seeing companies little by little making sustainability changes. In the mean time, thrifting has become a popular trend among Gen Z. Thrifting is the best way to shop to support the environment because what’s one persons trash is another’s treasure, if you don’t like your clothes someone else will!
Something that stood out to me is how conscious Gen Z consumers are in relation to fast fashion and sustainability, and how they are using it in their decision-making process. As others pointed out, as the prices rise, availability begins to shrink, and therefore, there is an increase in impulse buying of cheap fast fashion. On the other hand, though, Gen Z seems to be okay with paying the higher price as long as it aligns with their personal values regarding quality, longevity, and sustainability. Overall, Gen Z is expecting brands not to give in to the pressures of efficiency at the cost of sustainability and at the cost of compromising core values.
The tariff pressure on the industry is honestly so clear here. The big thing that sticks out is how fast-fashion and sportswear brands are getting hit way harder than luxury, just because their margins are already tighter. It also makes sense why everyone is scrambling to diversify sourcing, Vietnam, Cambodia, Mexico, anywhere that can move fast and keep costs down. The “China for China” approach was interesting too, because it shows that companies aren’t fully pulling out, just shifting what goes where. And even with all these cost increases, brands are still scared to raise prices too much because consumers are already so sensitive right now. It really shows how complicated this whole situation is for companies trying to stay competitive while the rules keep changing.
This blog was so fascinating to me. Specifically because it was being answered by my current peers, whose names I recognized. It is very interesting to see how, even though we are all learning the same information in this major, so many people have different views and opinions. I feel like this is such a keen example of why the industry is so diverse and creative. Due to the people in it.
I find it interesting to see how strong sustainability remains a priority for Gen-Z. Instead of gearing this generation towards cheaper clothing, the tariffs have made Gen-Z become much more intentional with their spending habits. This shows that even in hard economic times, sustainability still is important for these shoppers as they still think about the ethics involved with shopping.