Apparel

Abstract

It’s simple anatomy and mathematics: there will always be more clothing items than people on beaches especially since beach visits mean taking most of it off. Wind, digestive accidents, surf, offshore industries – there are many reasons why apparel is left or lands on our shores. Whether it be clothing, footwear, hats, or gloves, each item can tell a story to attentive beachcombers, and this chapter provides the crucial tips and interpretations. And don’t forget, most apparel these days is plastic, or let’s be friendly and say made of synthetic fibers, to fulfill the functional demands of discerning, modern consumers. This makes it durable marine debris and, ultimately, microplastic.