It’s that time of year again, the day after Thanksgiving that most avid shopaholics look forward to: Black Friday. Online fast fashion brands such as Shein and H&M held their long-anticipated special deals for this time, furthering some shopper’s needs to contribute to their brand. Despite the discounts, an increase in sales supports the fast fashion industry- 1 with an unpleasant reality.

According to CNBC, Black Friday sales were on track to total between 8.9-9.6 billion dollars, with an increase of 20% to 29%, respectively.

“Sometimes I just need some cheap clothes. It’s convenient. I know everyone says to just go thrifting, but most of the time I can’t even find what I’m looking for,” said an anonymous sophomore.

Despite the love many have for cheap clothing, especially when so severely discounted as on Black Friday, the negative impacts of fast fashion often go unnoticed.

Business Insider stated that 85 percent of textiles are thrown out yearly. With that, fast fashion makes up an alarming 10 percent of all of our carbon emissions.

Not only does fast fashion negatively impact the environment, but it also impacts our children. The International Labour Organization estimated that around 168 million children are child laborers. “[Fast fashion] serves modern-day slavery through child labor and unhealthy working conditions,” wrote sophomore Diego Davila-Gil.

If you’re financially able to, there are more sustainable options besides fast fashion. You can upcycle clothes you already own, thrift/buy second-hand clothing from places like your local Goodwill, or shop on online thrift stores such as Depop and Poshmark.

Many sustainable companies offer Black Friday deals, as well, satisfying even the most addicted shopaholics.

Sophomore Lola Mullins said, “I really enjoy thrifting because it gives me a lot of options on how I match my clothes… It is a really great way to rescue someone else’s clothes, it’s better for the environment, and it is a great way to connect with the community around you!”