Utilitarianism, which seeks to maximize overall happiness and minimize harm, suggests that the environmental and social harms caused by fast fashion far outweigh its short-term economic benefits. The exploitation of natural resources and workers to produce cheap, disposable clothing benefits businesses and consumers in the short term, but the long-term damage to the environment and workers’ welfare is substantial. From a utilitarian perspective, fast fashion’s net harm makes it an unsustainable and unethical practice (Niinimäki et al., 2020).

Kantian ethics, which emphasizes treating individuals as ends in themselves and not merely as means to an end, is also highly relevant. Many fast fashion companies exploit workers, particularly in developing countries where labor is cheap and working conditions are poor. The lack of transparency in supply chains and the exploitation of vulnerable workers violate Kant’s principle of respect for human dignity. Companies that prioritize profit over the well-being of workers are acting unethically by failing to honor the intrinsic value of these individuals (Niinimäki et al., 2020).

Virtue ethics, which focuses on the development of good moral character and virtues such as responsibility, honesty, and care for others, would encourage businesses to adopt more sustainable and ethical practices. A virtuous company would strive to minimize its environmental footprint, treat workers fairly, and promote responsible consumption. In contrast, fast fashion promotes impulsive buying and wastefulness, which run counter to virtues like moderation and stewardship (Niinimäki et al., 2020).

Ultimately, the future of fashion must balance economic success with ethical responsibility. By adopting sustainable business models, respecting workers' rights, and reducing the industry's environmental footprint, businesses can help create a better world for future generations (Niinimäki et al., 2020).