The tailor’s apprentice in Gottfried Keller’s short story is mistaken for a count because he is so well dressed. After many adventures and entanglements, he ends up with a wife, a workshop and wealth. Today, clothing mainly comes from Asia. It is no longer bought in specialist boutiques, but in discount stores, according to individual desires and means.
Each year, around €44 billion is spent on clothing in Germany. Of this, just under €40.2 billion is accounted for by....