Because of this I'm already thinking about next year (a bit early I know;)). I don't want to mindlessly consume again next year after this year. I don't want to clutter up my wardrobe again. I'm thinking about some options other than 'only necessary shopping' because necessary is relative and I tried this before and failed horribly. I thought about only buying second hand, but I buy a lot second hand anyway and the thing is that for some pieces it isn't better to buy secondhand, e.g. my winter coat that is still good but doesn't really satisfy so I'm going to grow tired of it sooner. For something like that I should've invested in a piece that is multi functional and suits my needs (easy to bike in, still decent enough to wear to work or with a dress, water resistant, long enough sleeves etc).
I came across this 'challenge' that might be a contender: one month, one piece or #onepieceamonth:
https://www.chapterfifty.com/2016/01/one-piece-a-month-challenge/
http://theslowpace.com/2017/05/15/capsule-wardrobe-one-month-one-piece/
And maybe some extra rules:
- Buy durable / good quality - will I wear it a minimum of 30 times - will it become a staple piece
- Buy second-hand if possible and good enough (same standards should apply)
- Buy fairtrade and eco friendly if possible
- Buy less than 12 pieces = even better
Any thoughts? I know everyone here is doing this for different reasons, any thoughts on how you are going to handle the next year and why?
I enjoyed looking at those threads you shared
@Sanne and I could feel myself itch with the desire for something new, but that feeling passed :)
Definitely have been noticing how little I need, even with my small wardrobe I only use a portion of it over and over. The things that feel ease-full, lovely and to which I have a connection.
Of course, comfy clothes & pjs are on heavy rotation as well (Currently, I admit, I do not have a beautiful wardrobe--a lot of casual, saggy cotton things and not much pizzazz, things are a bitty ratty)
Having said that, I studied textiles, so always check quality of construction, fabrics & fibers--I lean heavily to buying naturals and hand-made or ethically consigned (ie..my wallet bag, embroidered by artisans in India who were fairly compensated for their gorgeous work).
I see this challenge (and my no-shopping year in general) as a re-boot even though I was moving in this direction for the last decade. Even when I wasn't making much money, I would try to seek out quality in thrift stores (silk shirts for $2-$5, especially in remote towns) or spent outrageously on one special thing and wear it with my mother's old clothing :)
Fast fashion does not appeal to me.
For next year: liking the idea of one thing a month (if even!) and agree with your 'extra rules' too
- Buy durable / good quality - will I wear it a minimum of 30 times - will it become a staple piece
- Buy second-hand if possible and good enough (same standards should apply)
- Buy fairtrade and eco friendly if possible
- Buy less than 12 pieces = even better
**also if you are on IG, there is an interesting project called #10x10 which challenges participants to choose 10 items (including shoes, but not other accessories) and wear only these for 10 days, in differing combos..I like this type of creative encouragement--even though it's not difficult if you only have a teeny wardrobe anyhow :)