The topic of fast fashion’s effects on labor markets is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. Its frequency in past exams and relevance to global economic trends suggest a high probability of appearing in future tests. This subject intersects with broader issues like globalization, consumer behavior, and ethical business practices, making it a versatile topic for IELTS candidates to explore.

Based on past exam trends, here’s a relevant question that aligns closely with the theme:

Some people say that the fashion industry has a negative impact on people’s lives and on society. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Let’s analyze this question and provide sample essays for different band scores.

Question Analysis

This question requires candidates to express their opinion on the fashion industry’s impact on individuals and society. Key points to consider include:

1. The scope of the “fashion industry” – primarily focusing on fast fashion
2. Potential negative impacts on individuals and society
3. Possible positive aspects to balance the argument
4. Personal stance – agree, disagree, or partially agree

Candidates should address both individual and societal impacts, providing specific examples and explanations to support their viewpoint.

Sample Essay for Band 8-9

Here’s a high-scoring sample essay:

The fashion industry, particularly the fast fashion sector, has become a subject of intense debate regarding its impact on individuals and society. While some argue that it has a predominantly negative influence, I believe that the reality is more nuanced, with both positive and negative aspects to consider.

On the negative side, the fast fashion industry undeniably contributes to several societal and individual problems. Environmentally, it is one of the largest polluters, with its rapid production cycles and use of synthetic materials leading to significant waste and carbon emissions. This environmental degradation affects society at large, contributing to climate change and its associated risks. On an individual level, the constant pressure to keep up with rapidly changing trends can lead to financial strain and a sense of inadequacy, particularly among young people who may feel compelled to continuously update their wardrobe to fit in.

Moreover, the labor practices in many fast fashion supply chains are often questionable, with reports of poor working conditions, low wages, and even child labor in some cases. This not only affects the workers directly involved but also raises ethical concerns for consumers and contributes to global inequality. The impact of globalization on business is particularly evident in this aspect of the fashion industry, where the pursuit of lower production costs often leads to the exploitation of workers in developing countries.

However, it would be remiss to ignore the positive contributions of the fashion industry. It provides employment to millions worldwide, from designers and manufacturers to retail workers. The industry also plays a significant role in cultural expression and identity formation, allowing individuals to express themselves creatively through their clothing choices. Furthermore, the fashion industry has been at the forefront of technological innovations in textile production, some of which have applications beyond clothing, such as in medical textiles or sustainable materials research.

In recent years, there has been a growing movement within the industry towards sustainability and ethical practices. Many brands are now focusing on sustainable materials, fair labor practices, and circular economy models. This shift not only addresses some of the industry’s negative impacts but also raises consumer awareness about sustainable consumption practices.

In conclusion, while the fashion industry, especially fast fashion, has undoubtedly contributed to various societal and individual problems, it also offers significant benefits and is showing signs of positive change. The key lies in continuing to push for more ethical and sustainable practices within the industry, while also educating consumers about responsible consumption. By doing so, we can work towards a fashion industry that enhances rather than detracts from individual and societal well-being.

(Word count: 420)

Fast fashion's impact on global labor markets

Essay Analysis for Band 8-9

This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a high-scoring response:

1. Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear position with a nuanced view of both negative and positive impacts.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression. Each paragraph focuses on a specific aspect, and linking words are used effectively.

3. Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately, including topic-specific terms like “fast fashion,” “supply chains,” and “circular economy models.”

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a variety of complex structures accurately, with only minor errors that do not impede communication.

5. Critical Thinking: The response shows depth of analysis, considering multiple perspectives and providing specific examples to support arguments.

Sample Essay for Band 6-7

Here’s a sample essay that would typically score in the Band 6-7 range:

In today’s world, the fashion industry has become a big part of our lives. Some people think it has a bad effect on people and society. I partly agree with this statement because there are both good and bad things about the fashion industry.

One of the main problems with the fashion industry is how it affects the environment. Fast fashion companies make lots of cheap clothes quickly, which uses a lot of resources and creates pollution. This is bad for our planet and can cause problems like climate change. Also, many people feel pressure to buy new clothes all the time to keep up with trends. This can make them spend too much money and feel bad about themselves if they can’t afford the latest styles.

Another issue is how workers are treated in some fashion factories. Many times, workers in poor countries don’t get paid enough and have to work in bad conditions. This is unfair and can hurt people’s lives. It’s a problem that big fashion companies need to fix.

However, the fashion industry isn’t all bad. It gives jobs to many people around the world, from designers to shop workers. Fashion also lets people express themselves through their clothes, which can be good for creativity and self-confidence. Some fashion companies are also trying to be more environmentally friendly now, using better materials and production methods.

The industry is also becoming more diverse, with more different types of people represented in fashion shows and advertisements. This can help people feel more included and can change society’s ideas about beauty in a positive way.

In conclusion, while the fashion industry does have some negative effects on people and society, it also has some positive aspects. I think the key is to make the industry better by fixing the problems like pollution and worker treatment, while keeping the good parts like job creation and self-expression. If we do this, fashion can be a more positive part of our lives and society.

(Word count: 320)

Essay Analysis for Band 6-7

This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a mid-range response:

1. Task Achievement: The essay addresses the main parts of the task and presents a clear position, but the development of ideas is less thorough than in the higher-scoring essay.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated. Paragraphing is appropriate.

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is sufficient to discuss the topic, but there’s less precision and sophistication compared to the Band 8-9 essay.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence structures is used, with some errors that do not impede communication.

5. Critical Thinking: The essay shows some analysis and provides examples, but the depth of argument is not as developed as in the higher band essay.

Ethical fashion production process illustration

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Fast fashion (noun) – /fɑːst ˈfæʃən/ – Inexpensive clothing produced rapidly by mass-market retailers in response to the latest trends.

2. Supply chain (noun) – /səˈplaɪ tʃeɪn/ – The network between a company and its suppliers to produce and distribute a specific product.

3. Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – Causing little or no damage to the environment and therefore able to continue for a long time.

4. Ethical (adjective) – /ˈeθɪkl/ – Morally correct and acceptable.

5. Circular economy (noun) – /ˈsɜːkjələr ɪˈkɒnəmi/ – An economic system aimed at eliminating waste and the continual use of resources.

6. Exploitation (noun) – /ˌeksplɔɪˈteɪʃn/ – The action of treating someone unfairly in order to benefit from their work.

7. Consumerism (noun) – /kənˈsjuːmərɪzəm/ – The protection or promotion of the interests of consumers.

8. Biodegradable (adjective) – /ˌbaɪəʊdɪˈɡreɪdəbl/ – Capable of being decomposed by bacteria or other living organisms.

9. Upcycling (noun) – /ˈʌpˌsaɪklɪŋ/ – The process of transforming by-products, waste materials, or unwanted products into new materials or products of better quality or environmental value.

10. Transparency (noun) – /trænsˈpærənsi/ – The quality of being done in an open way without secrets.

Conclusion

The impact of fast fashion on labor markets is a complex and multifaceted topic that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the key issues and practicing with sample essays like those provided, you can develop the skills needed to tackle this and similar questions effectively.

For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:

1. The role of consumers in promoting ethical fashion practices
2. The impact of technology on the fashion industry and its workforce
3. The balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability in the fashion sector

Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and support your arguments with specific examples. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you refine your writing skills and prepare more effectively for the IELTS exam.