The fashion industry influences clothing choices through designers and brands setting trends, which are disseminated via advertisements, social media, and celebrity endorsements. Retailers also play a role by making trendy clothing affordable and accessible, driving consumer demand and shaping how people dress.
Formal clothing is characterized by structured, elegant designs and high-quality fabrics like wool or silk, typically worn for special occasions. Casual clothing prioritizes comfort and is made from relaxed materials such as cotton or denim, suitable for everyday activities.
In the speaker's country, casual clothing is more popular due to the relaxed lifestyle and climate. People often wear jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers for daily activities, while formal clothing is reserved for special events.
The fashion industry negatively impacts the environment through excessive water, chemical, and energy use during production. A significant portion of produced garments is never purchased, leading to tons of clothing ending up in landfills annually.
The industry can reduce its environmental impact by investing in sustainable materials like organic cotton or recycled fabrics, improving manufacturing processes to reduce water and energy consumption, and minimizing chemical usage.
Full lesson and transcript: https://ieltsielts.com/2025/01/13/lesson-190-fashion-and-the-environment%f0%9f%a5%bb/)