By Andrés Muñoz
Global warming. Zero waste. Late capitalism. Goods and services. Consumerism. Haul videos. Mass production. Carbon footprint. Sustainability. Reduce, reuse, recycle. These words and phrases have seeped into our vernacular in an ominous and foreboding way. We’re witnessing a climate catastrophe and the results of when we overproduce and exhaust every single resource our planet offers.
Meanwhile, we’ve got cottagecore, cybercore, vacationcore, gorpcore, and all the other trends in this article, and the list goes on.
Where on Earth am I going with these buzzwords? Step aside, fashionistas. The latest “-core” trend in recent months combines actionable recommendations. These reflect a concern for our planet. They also offer a way to combat hyperconsumerism.
Enter underconsumption core
This trend prioritises sustainability and ethical purchases. It encourages us to reduce consumption. We should opt for quality over quantity. It helps us embrace a more minimalist lifestyle.
The trend has been all the rage on TikTok for the past few months. Lifestyle and fashion influencers are showing non-showy homes. They also highlight makeup kits and wardrobes. After going down a Reddit rabbit hole, I found this excerpt of a comment in the anticonsumption subreddit particularly striking:
My only worry is that people might sound preachy and superficial. They might say, “oo look at me, I only have three blushes.” This approach might alienate people who feel personally attacked by the trend. It also just plays into the idea that a trend is all it is when it’s a lifestyle choice. I think there should be more focus on why mindful consumption is important and [the] individual benefits it has (e.g., fewer money troubles, less clutter, less FOMO/feelings of inadequacy, more feelings of autonomy, peace and contentment). And that it’s essentially, if not completely, FREE, and relatively accessible.
Let’s go over some of the key elements of the underconsumption core trend:
Less is More! The Minimalist Approach
Minimalism has always been a sexy element in fashion, design, and many other trends. Regarding consumption, a minimalist approach involves owning fewer possessions and focusing on items that bring true value and joy. While the Japanese queen of decluttering, Marie Kondo, has pivoted her stance on messiness after having three kids (who would have thought!), the fact is that by decluttering and simplifying your wardrobe, you reduce your environmental footprint and promote sustainable practices.
Fast Fashion
Say what you want about Zara, H&M, and others, but those cheap outfits are expensive for humanity and the environment. The fast fashion industry has directly contributed to an endemic adoption of a culture of disposable clothing. Clothes and other items are produced cheaply and designed to be worn only a few times before being discarded.
This is an unsustainable model that has negative environmental and social consequences like pollution, worker exploitation (just because it happens in another country doesn’t validate it one bit!), and excessive waste. Investing in high-quality and durable items significantly reduces waste and extends the lifespan of your possessions.
Ethical Consumption and Secondhand Shopping: Give The Planet A Hand
When purchasing new items, it’s essential to consider the ethical implications of production. Look for brands prioritising fair labour practices, sustainable materials, and minimal environmental impact.
Thrift stores and online marketplaces provide affordable and sustainable fashion options that reduce demand for new production, save resources, and support local economies.
The Triple R Mantra
I’ve been hearing “Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle” ever since I was a boy, and the motto remains true after all these years. Rather than discarding items when they become damaged or outdated, explore options for repair or repurposing. By extending the life of your belongings, you reduce waste and save money.
Be mindful of your consumption habits and make intentional choices. Consider whether you truly need a new item before making a purchase. Opt for products you know are made from sustainable materials, have minimal packaging, or are multipurpose.
Clothing Thoughts
On a personal note, I am torn between individual and collective actions when it comes to the climate crisis. Yes, this trend offers a tangible way for people to contribute to a more sustainable future, and all of the strategies mentioned above are a way for us to contribute. However, I can’t help but feel a strong level of discomfort at the idea that the burden of climate action rests solely on individuals.
While personal choices are important, they are not enough. We won’t change the world by using paper straws and re-wearing our clothes.
We need systemic change, and for that, corporations must take decisive action. It’s sad to see companies prioritising profits over the planet and contributing to the very crisis we’re trying to address (Go over this Guardian article, for starters).
I believe that the underconsumption core trend should be complemented by a strong push for corporate accountability. This shift will push us toward a more sustainable economic model. Only then can we truly make a meaningful impact on the climate crisis.