By the 1990s, trend cycles sped up, pioneered by brands like Forever21 and Zara, which began producing clothing at upwards of 52 “micro-seasons” per year. Now, as social media amplifies trends at faster rates, newer, online-only brands like Shein and Temu are producing at an even faster rate using sophisticated algorithms to get new styles to market in a matter of days, sometimes this is referred to as ultra-fast fashion.
As access and demands for trends increased throughout the 21st century, this system of quickly made clothing using what was then new technology like sewing machines allowed for larger volumes of clothing to be created and sold.
As demand for trendy clothes increases, busineses will need to hire more and more people at cheaper prices to continue making profit.