Work Appropriate cover image

Work Appropriate

Culture Study Presents: Why Do Clothes Suck Now?

Dec 6, 2023
Guest: Amanda Mull, staff writer at The Atlantic. They discuss the decline in clothing quality, reasons behind it, tips for buying quality sweaters, the decline of ironing and domestic care tasks, the evolution of flattering clothing, and upcoming changes to the podcast.
42:21

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Trade regulation changes in the early 2000s led to a decline in clothing quality, with fast fashion and synthetic fibers becoming more prevalent.
  • The idea of flattery in clothing is subjective and limits individual self-expression, so embracing diverse aesthetics is crucial.

Deep dives

The Impact of Trade Regulation on Clothing Quality

Trade regulation between the United States and other countries in the early 2000s changed the global garment industry and led to a decline in clothing quality. With the expiration of the multi-fiber arrangement, fast fashion became more prevalent, resulting in garments that were less well-made and made with lower quality materials such as synthetic fibers. The shift in manufacturing to poorer countries with lower labor costs and fewer environmental regulations further contributed to the decline in workmanship and the use of synthetic materials like viscose and rayon. The decrease in clothing quality is a consequence of these changes in the industry.

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts

Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
App store bannerPlay store banner