CHAPTER 3:The 92 Million Ton Problem

92 Million tons of textile waste produced globally each year.

When we talk about the 92 million tons of textile waste produced globally each year, it’s a staggering number that is almost impossible to wrap our heads around.

How did we get here? The answer, in two words: Fast Fashion.

It’s an undeniable force, and I am in no way suggesting that buying new is never an option. That’s just not reasonable. But what I will say is that a massive amount of quality, unique clothing is already out there, just sitting on racks, waiting to be rescued.

The problem runs deeper than just space, though. When those mountains of cheap, quickly-made garments—often full of synthetic, plastic-based fibers like polyester and nylon—finally end up in landfills, they create a serious environmental disaster.

Here’s the deal with those throwaway clothes:

• Toxic Sludge: As textiles decompose, the chemical dyes and treatments used in their production leach out, creating a toxic liquid known as leachate. This poison seeps into the earth, contaminating our groundwater and soil.

• Greenhouse Gasses: Those synthetic fabrics don't just disappear; they break down without oxygen and release methane, a greenhouse gas that is far more potent than carbon dioxide. Basically, your old shirt is contributing to the climate crisis.

• Microplastics Everywhere: Every time you wash or throw away a synthetic piece of clothing, it sheds microplastics—tiny plastic fibers that are now polluting our oceans, waterways, and even the air we breathe.

The revolving door of style fuels this cycle where garments are designed to be thrown away, directly contributing to that 92 million ton pile.

I personally am not a fan of the copy-and-paste look. When everyone looks the same, there's no celebration of you. Style should be a direct, unique reflection of your personality. Plus, who can afford to splurge on a constantly changing wardrobe anyway? In this economy, sustainable fashion is not just an ethical choice—it’s an economical one.

The Two-Word Solution

There is an amazing solution that tackles both the environmental crisis and the cost of fashion: Thrift Stores.

The value is undeniable. Thrifting is an absolute powerhouse option to combat the cost and impact of both inflation and textile waste. Choosing secondhand clothing is the most effective way to start fighting fast fashion.

I hear this all the time:

• "I don't have the time to sift through all those racks."

• "I don't know what to pick or how to put things together."

• "I don’t know what to look for to ensure quality."

This is Where The 2nd Story Enters the Chat

As your Commander-in-Chic and lifelong thrifting ninja, my favorite part of this whole mission is the art of curation. I enjoy the hunt for those forgotten pieces, one-of-a-kind finds, and vintage treasures. I take the legwork out of sustainable style and put together complete, ready-to-wear outfits that are just waiting for their next chapter.

We are here to help you look absolutely fabulous, reduce waste, and write a new, unique chapter in your style story.

Read more about our story here and get straight to the good stuff! Sign up for our newsletter to unlock a discount on your first Commander-in-Chic-approved outfit.

Stay Chic,

Gabriella Dolce- Commander-In-Chic, The 2nd Story