The Money Mustache Community
General Discussion => Throw Down the Gauntlet => Topic started by: Linea_Norway on January 02, 2019, 02:17:23 AM
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After a successful thread in 2018, we need a new clothes-thread in 2019. Don't buy clothes that you don't need!
I only intend to buy clothes to replace some garment that is worn through. I will not fall for the temptation to buy extra unnecessary clothes when I spot them in a shop. Also, I only intend to buy replacement clothes on sale.
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I'm in. It will be interesting to see whether a second year of tracking will be different from the first. Boots/shoes may be an issue this year.
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I failed badly in 2018, so I'm jumping back in for 2019. I will only buy the following and only if I really need them:
-new running shoes if my current shoes need to be replaced (have 1 pair each currently, road and trail)
-sports bras, if I get below 3 that are functional for running (currently have 4)
-regular bras if I get below 3 that are wearable (shouldn't happen unless I lose substantial weight, I have 5 currently)
-direct replacement of a worn out/sized out staple (I keep min. 2 pair jeans for instance, both are new-ish so unlikely again unless I lose weight)
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I also failed miserably last year! Just looked at my clothes/shoes spending for 2018 and I did not like the numbers, so I'm in. I'm hoping to limit spending to:
-replacements of undergarments (including camisoles and tights) as needed
-two pairs of summer shorts if needed
-two summer tops/t-shirts as needed
I donated all of my shorts and most of my summer tops in October because they were fitting poorly and looking worn. I'm going to try to get by with sun dresses as long as possible this year, but summer is a beast in Texas. That's truly all I could possibly need, but I know I'll probably want more. I'm also limiting my shopping to April and August. If I need something, it'll go on a list until one of those months and I'll do something else until. This should keep me out of stores and websites to avoid temptation. Off to unsubscribe from all the emails.
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Ugh, I am reluctantly doing this. I likely have things I've outgrown and need to do a closet re-boot so I reserve the right to replace things that wear out, fall apart, or that I've completely outgrown but need. I dread trying on all my pants... I had hip surgery in 2018 and I'm just not able to be as active as I was pre-surgery.
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I'm in! I enjoyed the 2018 challenge and significantly reduced my clothes spending.
Known purchases for 2019:
2-3 bras (I only have 2 right now and they're on their last legs)
2 pairs of hiking pants (what I wear for work all summer, and my current 2 pairs are several years old and getting worn)
good walking shoes for my trip to Europe
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Last year I spent only 780 Norwegian Crowns on clothes, roughly 80 dollars. I bought the following:
- a pair of hiking shoes to repair a pair with a hole in it. The shop gave me back the money for the old defective pair.
- a pair of cross-country skiing gloves, to replace my old pair with holes in the fingertips.
- 3 undies
I also bought 2 x 3 pairs of socks in a grocery store, but the price of those is registered as "food". lso those were to replace socks with holes in them.
My DH likes to sew clothes and made me several garments in 2018. I don't count that on my clothes budget, because it is done as a hobby thing by him. He chooses what he makes.
Yesterday I sent an order on Zalando. I ordered a pair of slippers to replace the pair with holes at our cabin. They are on sale of course.
I also ordered a pair of trousers, which is scary to buy online. But you can send it back for free. One of my favorite pairs is having a hole between the thighs. Before the summer I patched it on the inside and wore the trousers some months longer. But now I can see through it, just beside the patch. The cloth is just getting very thin. Therefore, a new pair. The Zalando trousers are cheap. I hope that they fit, as I have a very difficult body figure for trousers (wide hips, but narrow middle).
I also need to replace one of my long-sleeved woolen undershirts, as one of them has many holes in the arms. It is my favorite that I always wear when cross-country skiing. I can wait until there is mega sale on woolen under garments.
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I'm in! I enjoyed the 2018 challenge and significantly reduced my clothes spending.
Known purchases for 2019:
2-3 bras (I only have 2 right now and they're on their last legs)
2 pairs of hiking pants (what I wear for work all summer, and my current 2 pairs are several years old and getting worn)
good walking shoes for my trip to Europe
Oh, this is a good idea! I know the winter boots that I wear every day from October through sometimes April (Minnesota) are probably on their last winter, so in the fall, will likely need to replace. I got them via eBay for like $80 vs. buying new for $160, though. Would likely do that again. And I recently discovered three dress shirts that I've been wearing since 2009 are getting threadbare. I've taken to wearing a "uniform" for work of jeans, button-down dress shirt, and cardigan, so those will probably need to get replaced at some point, too. But I did recently discover that I stockpiled two of my favorite bra, which the company stopped making! So, that's a win. Unfortunately, I also discovered my favorite long underwear shirt has some major holes in the sleeve. Am going to attempt a repair. I need to get better about repairing/patching things instead of replacing with fast fashion.
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I am a bit tired of my winter coat, as it is now in it's 7th winter, I think. But it still in a good condition and very functional, so I can't put myself into replacing it. Of course, I bought it on sale in the first place, at the end of the season.
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I'm in for this one! I don't buy a lot of clothing regularly, but I feel like last year I really "stocked up" during some good sales and I am mostly set for a long time.
Known purchases for 2019:
- new winter boots. Mine are no longer warm or waterproof, which I found out 2 days ago when we got 10 inches of snow!
- a pair of nice jeans. I don't own any jeans, I've always hated them. But I really want a pair. So I am on the hunt for a nice, perfectly fitting pair.
I think that's it so far!
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I'm in too!
I am currently 29 weeks pregnant with my second, due March 20th. I'm going to be all sorts of sizes throughout the year, and I don't want to buy new clothes to fit any interim shape I'm at.
I already have plenty of maternity clothes, and my SIL has recently passed on a ton of shorts and shirts she doesn't want anymore, so I need to downsize, honestly. I am definitely aiming to buy any clothes I DO need second hand, even nursing bras if they're available on fb or something.
I'm open to buying :
New nursing bras
Maybe a new nursing top
Replacing any garments that break /wear out that I don't already have a replacement for or duplicate of
A new bathing suit if my boobs don't fit in my current one anymore :)
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I'm in!
I felt like I didn't buy very many clothes last year, but I still managed to spend $65/month according to YNAB. And the closet that I cleared out a year ago is starting to get too full again. Some of the purchases really were necessary because old staples wore out or didn't fit right anymore, but I still have more sweaters than any one human who lives south of Canada needs. I really have plenty of everything. So I'd rather focus on wearing the clothes I have than searching for new ones.
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I'm in for this one! I don't buy a lot of clothing regularly, but I feel like last year I really "stocked up" during some good sales and I am mostly set for a long time.
Known purchases for 2019:
- new winter boots. Mine are no longer warm or waterproof, which I found out 2 days ago when we got 10 inches of snow!
- a pair of nice jeans. I don't own any jeans, I've always hated them. But I really want a pair. So I am on the hunt for a nice, perfectly fitting pair.
I think that's it so far!
Are you female? I love the jeans from American Eagle. I know that sounds like a store that's only for teenagers, but I'm a 37 year old and I love their skinny jeans. They have a perfect amount of stretch. They have regular skinny jeans, high-waisted, and what they call "skinny kick" which have a slight boot: https://www.ae.com/women-skinny-jeans/web/s-cat/1990002?icid=ae:women:bottoms:jeans:jean_guide:skinny:shop_now I love the Next Level Skinny ones, and I have 3 pairs that I cycle through: https://www.ae.com/women-ae-ne-x-t-level-skinny-jean-dark-cerulean/web/s-prod/0432_1544_982?cm=sUS-cUSD&catId=cat8620054
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I'm in with a few known caveats:
I know I need running shoes and socks (I'm an endurance athlete).
I have a really big race coming up in May. I will probably buy a t shirt and a finisher's jacket and whatever else I feel like.
I also may need a new pair of khakis.
I think that is about it!
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I just bought my replacement trousers, with 50% discount. I did not look around in the rest of the shop, or rest of the shopping center.
I threw away my old trousers with hole.
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I'm in! Thanks for the thread @Linda_Norway!
Me: 51y.o. professional, FIREing this year. As soon as I pull the plug (hopefully at the end of this month) I'm going to give away my office-work clothes, which will leave me with my minimalist every day wardrobe. I only buy clothes when something wears out to the point I can't mend it. I spent $0 on clothes last year.
Known needs in 2019: one pair of casual, every day shoes, and maybe 6 pair of underwear. Possibly a pair of gardening/farm work pants. My current farm-work jeans are getting pretty ragged. I think I can get all three of these things for under $150, budgeting for new shoes, new underwear, and a used pair of pants.
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I'm in! Thanks for the thread @Linda_Norway!
Me: 51y.o. professional, FIREing this year. As soon as I pull the plug (hopefully at the end of this month) I'm going to give away my office-work clothes, which will leave me with my minimalist every day wardrobe. I only buy clothes when something wears out to the point I can't mend it. I spent $0 on clothes last year.
Known needs in 2019: one pair of casual, every day shoes, and maybe 6 pair of underwear. Possibly a pair of gardening/farm work pants. My current farm-work jeans are getting pretty ragged. I think I can get all three of these things for under $150, budgeting for new shoes, new underwear, and a used pair of pants.
Welcome.
It might be a good symbolic thing to do to give away your working clothes. But I have noticed that sometimes, you still need decent clothes, even if not working. Think of a funeral or even visiting your GP. I feel a bit uncomfortable if I would only have my outdoor/freetime clothes available.
But maybe you could get another outfit forvthose occasions that is not a professional power-woman outfit. You are a woman, I hope?
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I'm in! Thanks for the thread @Linda_Norway!
Me: 51y.o. professional, FIREing this year. As soon as I pull the plug (hopefully at the end of this month) I'm going to give away my office-work clothes, which will leave me with my minimalist every day wardrobe. I only buy clothes when something wears out to the point I can't mend it. I spent $0 on clothes last year.
Known needs in 2019: one pair of casual, every day shoes, and maybe 6 pair of underwear. Possibly a pair of gardening/farm work pants. My current farm-work jeans are getting pretty ragged. I think I can get all three of these things for under $150, budgeting for new shoes, new underwear, and a used pair of pants.
Welcome.
It might be a good symbolic thing to do to give away your working clothes. But I have noticed that sometimes, you still need decent clothes, even if not working. Think of a funeral or even visiting your GP. I feel a bit uncomfortable if I would only have my outdoor/freetime clothes available.
But maybe you could get another outfit forvthose occasions that is not a professional power-woman outfit. You are a woman, I hope?
Yep, woman. :) And absolutely, I agree -- I'll give away the power stuff that I definitely won't use, and keep a few things for dressing up a bit nicer.
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Thanks for posting this Linda! I was successful in '18 at spending $0 on clothes. This year however, I have to replace some things that are wearing out. I will follow your lead and look for things on sale.
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I’m in.
I’ve been weeding out unworn and unloved clothes lately, but there’s still enough left I’m definitely okay for leisure and should be mostly okay for work.
I have two knit work jackets that are picked that I will be trying to rescue. If not successful I will have to replace one.
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Yesterday I sent an order on Zalando. I ordered a pair of slippers to replace the pair with holes at our cabin. They are on sale of course.
I also ordered a pair of trousers, which is scary to buy online. But you can send it back for free. One of my favorite pairs is having a hole between the thighs. Before the summer I patched it on the inside and wore the trousers some months longer. But now I can see through it, just beside the patch. The cloth is just getting very thin. Therefore, a new pair. The Zalando trousers are cheap. I hope that they fit, as I have a very difficult body figure for trousers (wide hips, but narrow middle).
I also need to replace one of my long-sleeved woolen undershirts, as one of them has many holes in the arms. It is my favorite that I always wear when cross-country skiing. I can wait until there is mega sale on woolen under garments.
Status: I ordered that pair of trousers on Zalando, but ended up sending it back. Every wrinkle in it was very well visible, because the cloth had vertical stripes. Even though the size fitted perfectly, I sent back. Then I ordered another pair, similar wide legs, same size, but different producer and very cheap. I received it yesterday. This time the same size was way too big and I should have ordered a size smaller. We also thought it was not worth it trying to fix it. So this is also sent back. And I learned 2 lessons:
- Don't buy trousers online
- I didn't really needed that second pair either.
So I won't try again and do with the trousers I already have.
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I have bought nothing yet this year! Last year I bought nothing until mid-March when I totally went off the rails and bought all kinds of running clothes. It just got worse from then on the rest of the year. On the upside, I did enough of a wardrobe refresh last year that I should be entirely set for this year and beyond, aside from replacing worn items like running shoes/sports bras on a limited as-needed basis. There is no need yet. We are skiing next month but rather than buy new ski pants (my "fat" ones need to be repaired and aren't very waterproof, and my "skinny" ones don't fit) I'll borrow from my co-worker again.
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I'm also in! I was in the no clothes shopping last year but failed in the last month (..) when I bought a coat and it spiraled from there. I bought some other things as well and think I will be good for this year apart from the necessary replacements I need to make.
Things I will definitely need:
- Sandals - are falling apart
- Good (ankle) boots - not easy to find good vegan durable nice boots, suitable for work but also good for walking a whole day. So if I find some I will go for it. My pair I have are 5+ years old and I could use some even if these will last longer than I think
- Flowy pair of 'summer' pants/trousers - black - suitable for work but also loungy enough to wear anywhere else - I had/have some but those have a tear on the butt area that can not be fixed good enough to still be sfw
Things I will definitely NOT need:
- Other shoes - including running shoes - already bought two pairs on extreme sale, so I'm good
- Jeans/other pants than mentioned
- Jackets/coats
- Work-out clothes
- Basic shirts
As I love secondhand shopping and was not able to do this last year I will cut myself some slack if I buy something secondhand from a thriftshop BUT I have to actually love it, need to be able/want to wear it 30+ times and it should be cheapo. I will not be on the lookout for stuff to add though, but on the occasion I bump into something or my mum directs me to something she noticed or something like that. So also no second hand clothes shopping online!
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I'm in too. I did pretty well last year compared to my usual.
For me - I need some new undershirts that I'll buy in the sales that are on right now. In the summer I need a new neutral colored pencil skirt for work and new neutral t-shirts.
For older kid - she needs some warm slippers as she grew out of her last ones and maybe more socks and leggings. She also probably needs some more sandals this summer as her feet are growing really fast.
Younger kid - has a billion hand me downs so doesn't need any clothes ever.
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Yesterday I was in a grocery store with sales and got 4 pairs of normal socks for low price.
This morning I wanted to put on my woolen undershirt that has some small holes in it. I put it on really carefully, but I tore a big whole in it. Now it is in the garage to become a cleaning cloth.
This type of shirt is still too expensive to replace. I need to wait for sale at the end of the winter.
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I think that I am going to try this challenge.
I have been building up a work wardrobe and adjusting to a changing body shape. I am accepting this middle aged shape that I am. Recently my feet have increased a full size so that I can't wear any footwear that is more than six years old. All my good dress up shoes are more than six years old so if I need to go to a wedding or a funeral, I have nothing to put on my feet. Or wear a skirt to a presentation. Fortunately my daughter fits these beautiful shoes so she is getting some wear out of them.
2018 was a high clothing spending year because I bought a number of dressier items for work on really hot days to be comfortable and replaced a number of shoes and boots that had worn out beyond repair. I was going to buy a new wool coat this fall but didn't find one that fit my shoulders well. I am almost to the point that I don't need more clothes that fit - I just need to replace things that I wear out and can't repair. It was very challenging during the spring to have three meetings with the same group and have three different outfits to wear on back to back days. My clothes also need to be a sort of costume to help me overcome the imposter syndrome that I sometimes have. As a small stature woman, the only person of my discipline, standing up in a meeting of two dozen or so grey haired men to say something they don't really want to hear, I need the confidence booster that I look well put together when all those eyes turn my way when I say 'wait a minute'. I would like to be over that but I am not and may never be. So a well cut jacket and some new shoes are always going to be my armour for these situations.
Last week I replaced some indoor work shoes and added four pairs of wool socks. They have been keeping my feet warm in cold offices. The shoes make my feet look very thin - even though they fit beautifully and I wore them all day Wednesday for hard meetings and giving a presentation.
Besides a new wool coat, I would like to get a dress for winter, some dress winter shoes and replace my aging knit cotton turtlenecks.
Up until now I have never really planned clothing purchases - they have been quite random and sometimes very spendy.
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It really pays off to wait for a sales. So if you think you will need some funeral shoes later in the year, then grab your chance if you notice anything suitable on cheap sales. Better than having to buy them the day before the funeral at full price.
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I'm definitely in on this. I am all about thrifty when it comes to clothes as I am pretty much a jean and flannel shirt guy or T-shirts in the summer and shorts. So my stuff really lasts along time. Plus Christmas is usually when we pickup most things as people/family ask for what we need. So i too have plenty of time waiting for sales. I also check out thrift stores first. I did buy 2 things this year but really dont see needing anything else in the future any time soon other than workout shoes every 4-6 months. I bout one pair of black Jeans for under 20$ and a pack of white socks for under 10$ i dont think I had a pair that didnt have a hole in them. So about 30$ on for the year. But again , I dont see needing anything for a loooonnnngggg time!
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Unfortunately, I need to look 'put together' at work too and am also in the situation of being one of very few women in my field. Luckily for me I'm really tall so I'm often as tall or taller than the gray haired men but it's still hard sometimes. My solution is to wear lots of jackets and kind of a "uniform". In the summer, shift dresses every day with a necklace. In the winter, either a pencil skirt or dress pants with a jacket plus a plain t-shirt underneath. Sometimes a wool cardigan. Always a necklace. I've built up my wardrobe over many years and I find that these kinds of clothes don't "date". I have around 7-8 necklaces that I wear all the time and several of them are from the 90s.
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I’m in. I spent way too much money on clothes last year and would definitely like to reign that in, and I think that this accountability will help.
Some thing I know I’ll need:
-a new pair of hiking boots
-a pair of dress shoes for my sister’s wedding
-a couple new bras
Some things I definitely don’t need:
- swimwear - this is a weakness of mine and I have way too many for how often I use them
-boots - same as above
-work clothes - i stocked up last year so shouldn’t need to replace this year
-work out clothes
Hoping I can stick to it!
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Thanks for starting the thread Linda!!!! I don't plan to buy any clothes this year but I want to stick around here with you guys. So far I have thrown out the jeans with the hole (it got worse because my toe got stuck while putting them on) and one sweater that had an intractable stain on the sleeve.
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Today I got a new goretex jacket. I didn't need it yet, but DH wanted to sew me one. So now I have it, homesewn. Not on my clothes budget. Cost 60-70 euros.
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Yeah, I think I need this.
We went over our spending for last year, and my spending on clothes was . . . too much. It really is because I just like clothes. I like interesting colors and patterns and shapes. And being plus size, I remember a time when I had very, very few options in clothes, which is much less true now.
Still, I have all the clothes I need. I may literally have all the dresses I need for the rest of my life. I recently bought some higher quality jeans and casual pants to replace a pants-mageddon wherein all my jeans died at once. I also invested in some good quality socks, snow boots, snow pants, and waterproof gloves. Those were all needs, and I bought quality in hopes I will not need to replace them for a long time (ever?).
But, that really should be it. The only other things are even marginally acceptable would be 2 to 3 bras and black tights next fall. And maybe one pair of sandals and one pair of sneakers in the summer.
And, I'm this close to getting carried away with the exceptions. Call it OMT (One More Thing) instead of OMY.
Hooboy, the gauntlet is thrown.
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Got through the weekend without buying any clothes.
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I like this one!
So far, I need:
-Black dress shoes (my favorites finally wore out last year after more than a decade)
-A uniform concert dress for my choir (must purchase in time for next month's concert)
I'm expecting to need (at some point in 2019):
-Sneakers
-A couple of bras
-Underwear
-Maybe a couple of T-shirts (I have a couple with little wear holes that need to be retired to home use only)
I like clothes, but everything else is a want.
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My new trousers (bought on sale a few weeks ago) have an effect. Two people at work have commented on them and telling me I look good in them. The trousers are stretchy, blue jeans. I think I have been walking around in the same old trousers for so long that people really notice it when I wear something new. ;-)
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I'm in. Of course, half my clothes are more than 15 years old, so there's that. I hate buying new clothes. But... with the new job, I have to get some nicer stuff, so I'll commit to only getting the minimum and going the least expensive route to get what I need to look appropriately professional.
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I'm in as well. I did a lot of shopping last year because I outgrew a lot of clothes that had previously fit well, and I started a new customer facing job with a higher standard of dress. However, I know have a fully outfitted wardrobe and need new items like a hole in the head.
Thus far this year I have spent $12 on a 6 pack of underwear, to replace ones that had worn out. I need to buy new running shoes--mine have started rubbing uncomfortably. And I am looking for a a pair of running shorts--my existing yoga pants work but are getting run down. I travel for work a lot, so pack-ability is a plus.
I'm in. Of course, half my clothes are more than 15 years old, so there's that. I hate buying new clothes. But... with the new job, I have to get some nicer stuff, so I'll commit to only getting the minimum and going the least expensive route to get what I need to look appropriately professional.
I went to Uniqlo for my work basics--good dress shirts that are cheap and air dry mostly wrinkle free. That helps them last longer. They are fast fashion, of course, but it's difficult to argue with the price point for quality. I also spent a lot on a good blazer from Ralph Lauren--but that got me an all cotton one in a professional cut that I can wash myself instead of at a dry cleaners.
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Epic fail. I ordered a bunch of Smartwool socks today.
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I'm also in! I was in the no clothes shopping last year but failed in the last month (..) when I bought a coat and it spiraled from there. I bought some other things as well and think I will be good for this year apart from the necessary replacements I need to make.
Things I will definitely need:
- Sandals - are falling apart
- Good (ankle) boots - not easy to find good vegan durable nice boots, suitable for work but also good for walking a whole day. So if I find some I will go for it. My pair I have are 5+ years old and I could use some even if these will last longer than I think
- Flowy pair of 'summer' pants/trousers - black - suitable for work but also loungy enough to wear anywhere else - I had/have some but those have a tear on the butt area that can not be fixed good enough to still be sfw
Things I will definitely NOT need:
- Other shoes - including running shoes - already bought two pairs on extreme sale, so I'm good
- Jeans/other pants than mentioned
- Jackets/coats
- Work-out clothes
- Basic shirts
As I love secondhand shopping and was not able to do this last year I will cut myself some slack if I buy something secondhand from a thriftshop BUT I have to actually love it, need to be able/want to wear it 30+ times and it should be cheapo. I will not be on the lookout for stuff to add though, but on the occasion I bump into something or my mum directs me to something she noticed or something like that. So also no second hand clothes shopping online!
Epic fail for me too.
I said I could buy some secondhand things but wouldn't be looking out for them but because I started second hand shopping online after my not buying clothes for 11 months it became a habit again... I bought a blouse, sweater, sweater dress, sports leggings from Patagonia (good value for money, will last me a long time BUT not a need cause I already have one so big fail..) Time to get rid of the habit!!!
I thought I got rid of the habit by not buying clothes for 11 months but it crept back in. I don't want to add more and spent more money although it wasn't extremely expensive. I DON'T NEED IT.
So no looking for things anymore this year just to look because I will buy if I find something I don't need. Only replacing items.
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I'm in. I'd like to stick to my planned budget of $250. I'd also like to keep the kids clothing spending to needs only. It's so hard to predict with their sizes changing all of the time. So, if I focus on needs for them, that will be another win.
Things I know I need:
-Running shoes
-Sports bras. Mine are all 10+ years old, & despite repeated efforts to replace them, nothing is as comfortable. The ones I have are incredibly stretched out & basically doing me no good.
-Underwear. I've had the same underwear for 10 or so years. So far, so good, but open to replacing them as needed. I'm picky about cut, so those might be a little pricey.
I really don't need much else. I might pick up a summer dress, if I find something at the right price point, that's good for work and/or other casual events. I wash my clothes a lot (line dry) vs dry cleaning, and we got a lot of nice weather here. That means that the dresses get washed a tremendous amount, and don't last as long as they did when we lived in Seattle. ;-)
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small fail - four pairs of wool socks. I had some of the same brand but only four pairs. It is so cold I was doing laundry to have a clean pair. So I just decided to buy another pack so I can get through the week with warm toes.
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Doing well here. Nothing bought so far out of my projected 2019 budget of $150. Haven't bought anything for the family yet this year either. Though DD desperately needs a new swimming suit, so I'll have to do that soon.
I'm FIREing today (woohoo!) and tomorrow I'm packing up most of my office work clothes to donate them. My closet will be pretty much empty after that, and I'll be left with my minimalist at-home wardrobe and just a couple nicer things for the rare occasions when I dress up. I am really looking forward to getting rid of those clothes -- such a treat.
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@Trifele congratulations. Enjoy.
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I'm FIREing today (woohoo!) and tomorrow I'm packing up most of my office work clothes to donate them. My closet will be pretty much empty after that, and I'll be left with my minimalist at-home wardrobe and just a couple nicer things for the rare occasions when I dress up. I am really looking forward to getting rid of those clothes -- such a treat.
Nice! Sounds great. Congrats!
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Congratulations Trifele!
I kind of failed but I'm pretty happy with what I bought. I Marie Kondoed my closet and realized that all my undershirts are ragged and I have very few 'work appropriate' sweaters in the rotation (it's freezing in my office). So I went shopping in the post-Christmas sales - bought two undershirts for Euro 10 and 2 nice sweaters for around Euro 40 each.
I also bought some new navy blue leggings for my older daughter as she only has one pair left, a black fleece in a larger size (she lives in her black fleece but is growing out of it) and a long sleeved t-shirt. She really needed all these things as she's growing like a weed and is rough on her clothes. Her younger sister will wear all her handmedowns eventually so I buy decent quality stuff in the sales each year.
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I wasn't planning on needing anything for a while, but I have a big interview on Monday, and need an interview appropriate outfit. I work in a super casual industry right now, and honestly don't have a single item of clothing I'd wear to a professional interview. Hopefully I find something good and inexpensive at the consignment store!
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Congrats @Trifele !
I bought the needed black dress shoes ($90; I purchase long-term/heavy-use shoes new). The choir uniform concert dress is on order ($110, will not need to be replaced for many years).
I serve on the local board of a volunteer service organization, and I’m planning to attend the state convention this spring. I’m set for shoes and pants but should probably take advantage of the Konmari phenomenon and pick up a couple of business-dress tops from a local thrift store. I work at home in jeans and T-shirts and don’t attend worship services, so my wardrobe skews heavily casual.
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Bought NO clothes in January. It was actually easy! I'm hoping to go all year without buying any clothes. There's a good chance that I'll need to replace my work shoes though (I wear black pants and the same pair of flats everyday. They're starting to get really worn...). I received a GC for Kohls over the holidays so plan to use that for the shoes when needed.
The only non-food purchase so far this year was a $4 boot tray for my entry. It was needed for the snow I was tracking in. I'm really trying to spend nothing this year - as I'm planning on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Ireland in the fall. I'm not much of a traveler but have always wanted to go and my (adult) daughter and I decided to jump on the chance.
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Bought my first clothes/shoes item of the year - a pair of new exercise shoes. Actually, that doesn't even hit my clothes budget because that goes under "exercise supplies" but it seemed appropriate to report here. I'll wear them only to my Jazzercise classes and then hopefully switch them to general use once I retire them from Jazzercise.
I'm excited to hopefully not have my feet hurt as much when I do some of the higher-impact moves!
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Bought two dress shirt replacements from J. Crew. I got 25% off and free shipping, at least. Also, my mom picked up a couple base layer shirts for me (winter is cold in Minnesota), and I paid her back for them. My husband and I made a deal where I have a clothing budget each month, but if I don't spend it on clothing, I can put it into a fun money fund for myself. I have a few larger items I'd like for myself and can use it toward that. That's been motivating. Also, we decided our credit card points with Old Navy don't count, since they are essentially free clothing.
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I bought nothing in January! On to February!
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I bought nothing in January! On to February!
Well done!
In January, I only bought a new pair of jeans to replace a pair with holes in embarrassing places. And some socks, but those are staple goods.
Otherwise I'm not interested in buying clothes. But when it is sale at the end of the winter, I will look for buying a new woolen long sleeve shirt. I miss the one that I had to ditch because of many holes.
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OMG -- my first post on this thread was 1/20. That means it's only been 16 days. And I have definitely thought about buying clothes. Haven't done it, but definitely thought about it.
For some reason, I fixated on the idea that I needed a black one piece swimsuit. I was torn between a trendier, sexier one and a more conservative, classic one. Of course, the answer is that I don't need either because I already have plenty of swimsuits. And they will be making black one pieces until the end of time, so when one of the ones that I currently own gives out, I will need a new swimsuit then. But not now.
I miss the creative outlet of finding new clothes, and the feeling that buying clothes was really just for me. Like all of us, I have a lot of obligations to work and family and I spend most of my time getting things done for other people. Finding and buying exciting, beautiful clothes was just for me. I was kind of grouchy and resentful this weekend because my husband spent a good chunk of time working on a non-mandatory home project (which is a hobby of his) and I "couldn't" buy clothes. Keep in mind, he's not pushing me to drop the clothes habit. I've been trying to lead by example on cutting expenses. But I felt resentful all the same.
I think the answer is to treat not buying clothes as a new creative challenge, like finding new ways to wear the clothes I already have or up-cycling old clothes or jewelry into something I will get more wear from. I've got half an idea to take an old pair of jeans that are on their way out and drawing a graphic pattern on them with a sharpie. I've also got a bunch of cheap elastic bracelets and necklaces that are dying. Those beads could be sewn onto a plain t-shirt or sweater.
In other news, I went for the ultimate badass mustachian style hack . . . and buzzed off my hair! I've been wearing a longer asymmetrical pixie cut for years, but I needed to get it cut every 5-6 weeks and it was $90 a pop. Add in product and I spent almost $900 last year on that haircut. I justified it all kinds of ways -- I need a professional look for my job, I've been seeing my stylist for years and genuinely like her, she runs her own business and I want to support her. But at the end of the day, it was an unnecessary expense. So after mulling it over for weeks and toying with the idea of maintaining the look on my own (lol, no), I went with radical simplicity. I took my husband's clippers, put on the 3/4 inch guard, and just shaved it all off in the bathroom. And it looks . . . awesome! It's very rock and roll, but having just a bit of length keeps me from looking like a skinhead. And, so far, no one at work cares.
Here's to a no new clothes February!
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When I was in Ottawa for the weekend, I found out the hard way, my winter boots are no longer water proof and in fact - the left one has a big hole or holes. I had frozen feet - particularly my left foot in no time at all. The next day I was in MEC and they had waterproof boots marked down from 159.99CAN to 89.99CAN. I went for it. They are nice and wide in the toes so my big chunky wool socks will fit. They aren't very high so they won't work well in Ottawa- but we don't get nearly the amount of snow they do. Perfect. I am going to see if the shoe repair can fix my other boots - because the upper still look ok and they are very comfortable for walking, if everything is either dry or frozen. I used to own a pair of Sorels but they completely wore out and would either leak or if I wasn't using really thick socks scrape the skin off the back of my foot. Finally after forgetting to double up the socks once again I threw them in the garbage. I have not owned slush proof boots for a year now and with our climate, they are necessary. Sitting on the train for 90 minutes with wet socks and then walking home for 20 is just plain torture.
I don't know how to find cheaper boots that would are warm and dry in the slush, so given that they are were on sale and fit nicely, this is a win for me.
I further thinking - only one pair of the four pack woolen socks were unnecessary - I have worn those socks every day of the week since I got them.
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OMG -- my first post on this thread was 1/20. That means it's only been 16 days. And I have definitely thought about buying clothes. Haven't done it, but definitely thought about it.
For some reason, I fixated on the idea that I needed a black one piece swimsuit. I was torn between a trendier, sexier one and a more conservative, classic one. Of course, the answer is that I don't need either because I already have plenty of swimsuits. And they will be making black one pieces until the end of time, so when one of the ones that I currently own gives out, I will need a new swimsuit then. But not now.
I miss the creative outlet of finding new clothes, and the feeling that buying clothes was really just for me. Like all of us, I have a lot of obligations to work and family and I spend most of my time getting things done for other people. Finding and buying exciting, beautiful clothes was just for me. I was kind of grouchy and resentful this weekend because my husband spent a good chunk of time working on a non-mandatory home project (which is a hobby of his) and I "couldn't" buy clothes. Keep in mind, he's not pushing me to drop the clothes habit. I've been trying to lead by example on cutting expenses. But I felt resentful all the same.
I think the answer is to treat not buying clothes as a new creative challenge, like finding new ways to wear the clothes I already have or up-cycling old clothes or jewelry into something I will get more wear from. I've got half an idea to take an old pair of jeans that are on their way out and drawing a graphic pattern on them with a sharpie. I've also got a bunch of cheap elastic bracelets and necklaces that are dying. Those beads could be sewn onto a plain t-shirt or sweater.
In other news, I went for the ultimate badass mustachian style hack . . . and buzzed off my hair! I've been wearing a longer asymmetrical pixie cut for years, but I needed to get it cut every 5-6 weeks and it was $90 a pop. Add in product and I spent almost $900 last year on that haircut. I justified it all kinds of ways -- I need a professional look for my job, I've been seeing my stylist for years and genuinely like her, she runs her own business and I want to support her. But at the end of the day, it was an unnecessary expense. So after mulling it over for weeks and toying with the idea of maintaining the look on my own (lol, no), I went with radical simplicity. I took my husband's clippers, put on the 3/4 inch guard, and just shaved it all off in the bathroom. And it looks . . . awesome! It's very rock and roll, but having just a bit of length keeps me from looking like a skinhead. And, so far, no one at work cares.
Here's to a no new clothes February!
I presume you are a woman, having a husband and swimsuits? Then having this kind of hair cut is really badass!
When it comes to clothes, you might want to look into redesigning your old clothes into something else. Of course doing it yourself on the sewing machine.
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@Linda_Norway Yes, I am a cisgender woman with a husband :) But good on you for not making the assumption.
I've considered the idea of getting a sewing machine. It would be basically learning from zero, but would be a fun challenge. Maybe if I go the whole year with under $200 on clothes and shoes, I'll buy one.
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@Linda_Norway Yes, I am a cisgender woman with a husband :) But good on you for not making the assumption.
I made the wrong assumption once, when a woman with an male-like username wrote about "my wife". Learning all the time...
I've considered the idea of getting a sewing machine. It would be basically learning from zero, but would be a fun challenge. Maybe if I go the whole year with under $200 on clothes and shoes, I'll buy one.
My DH has learned to sew from scratch and thinks it is fun. He doesn't do much redesign, but he makes stuff from scratch, mostly outdoor clothes and equipment, often making his own patterns. You could buy an old second-hand sewing machine, the ones from the early 70-ies with orange flower print on them, last forever.
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I bought 2 things I said I needed earlier today - new pair of road running shoes and a pair of trail running shoes.
I also bought something I didn't "NEED" but wanted to replace. I got some decent arch support slippers to wear around the house. I have 2 pair at home but they are both crappy and worn out- kinda like cheapo Kohl's type slippers that I've been milking for years. They are barely sturdy at all and falling apart. So I can replace both with my new pair.
So I bit the bullet and bought a nice pair of support slippers that I hope will serve me well for the next 5 years or so.
I also bought two pairs of pants at the goodwill last month when I was bored and taking a walk during lunch. Boo. :( They were cheap and I really like them but I didn't need them.
I just found out I'm within walking distance at work to a FREE art museum. I think when I'm bored and need a stroll when it's pouring rain I can walk around inside there and then won't be tempted to buy anything.
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I mentioned earlier that a needed a new woolen undershirt, because my old one was so worn through that I tore holes in them when putting it on. It still has a way too high price. Yesterday I ordered a new shirt online, from another brand that is much cheaper, as well as on sale. It looks pretty similar.
Didn't buy anything else that I didn't need.
Currently wearing a free shirt from my previous employer, 5-6 years old and still in good condition.
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Score! My boss just gave me some Ferragamo rubber rain boots that are slightly too big for her. Why on earth someone would buy Ferragamo rain boots is beyond me but they're very nice. I already have rain boots but they are bright green so not very work appropriate. These will be a nice addition to my wardrobe.
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I don't know if this is a win or a fail, but I haven't bought the clothes that I need yet. I got some pants, so yay? But my shirts are uniformly too large right now. Hooray weight loss, but damn it's expensive to get 5 new shirts. Plus, who has time to go shopping?
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Things I will definitely need:
- Sandals - are falling apart
- Good (ankle) boots - not easy to find good vegan durable nice boots, suitable for work but also good for walking a whole day. So if I find some I will go for it. My pair I have are 5+ years old and I could use some even if these will last longer than I think
- Flowy pair of 'summer' pants/trousers - black - suitable for work but also loungy enough to wear anywhere else - I had/have some but those have a tear on the butt area that can not be fixed good enough to still be sfw
So.. I'm noticing just NOT buying clothes for me is sooo much easier than only clothing you need (last year not buying clothes for 11 months wasn't that hard tbh). If I can buy something I'm browsing and then I feel i NEED things I don't.
I don't want to be the clothes buying type. I want to be the having good/nice clothes but having enough type, feeling enough, being grateful, not thinking too much about it. I don't like excess.
That being said, I bought all the stuff from my list already.
Sandals: Bought 2 pairs online, exactly the same as the ones that are falling apart. Found the same ones from 6 years ago somewhere, was so glad I found them and decided to go for 2 pairs (one complete black, one with some silvery accents) and hoping they will last me a long long time.
Good boots:There was a sale at a shoe shop and they had some good non-leather boots that fit me like a glove with comfortable rubber soles and zippers as well as laces so easy to get on/off. For only 30€ (used to be 70€) so that was a very good find. I never thought I would find something so soon but I'm so happy with these. I've been wearing them all the time and they are amazing. Comfortable and just nice enough to be able to wear to work (it's a dressy casual workplace so that's great) but also very good for walking around in all day and also casual/kind edgy vibe.
Flowy pair of summer pants: Bought the same pair at the same store, just new ones and without the tear. Bought a second-hand one later online (slightly different with a black velvet like stripe on the sides). So I'm good to go. So happy with these as they go with everything, the best to wear if it's too hot for jeans/thicker pants and too cold for bare legs. So, almost every day in summer in the Netherlands.
I'm hoping that the fact that I bought the things on my list and the fact that I can stop browsing will mean being tempted by other stuff will stop. I will not browse, not check online shops and/or online secondhand market places. It's just a slippery slope for me. Lesson learned.
On another note, I need to buy some bras. I hate buying them, I have to find good ones that fit well and they are usually expensive. But I only have 3 normal pairs and 2 sport bras. Enough for sport (one in the wash, one to be able to wear) but I only really like the fit of 1 of the normal ones. I need some more I guess. I will force myself and try to find the same fit I already have and love.
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I haven't bought any clothing this year so far, but I am going to have to buy some black work pants soon. I just realized (while at work!!) that my one pair has a hole in the crotch. It's so threadbare I don't think I can patch it without it being pretty visible. If these were casual pants I'd do it, but since they're work pants, I need new ones. Goal is to spend less than $60. My legs are really long, so it's difficult to find pants secondhand, plus they should last longer new.
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On another note, I need to buy some bras. I hate buying them, I have to find good ones that fit well and they are usually expensive. But I only have 3 normal pairs and 2 sport bras. Enough for sport (one in the wash, one to be able to wear) but I only really like the fit of 1 of the normal ones. I need some more I guess. I will force myself and try to find the same fit I already have and love.
+1. I currently don't need them, but hate buying them as well, because the good ones are costly. And most don't fit well.
Last time I bought one online, on sale. I used a brand I was used to, but it is slightly too big, even though I have other models of the same brand that fit perfectly.
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Update: I went to a few stores last weekend, and nothing fit right. It seemed like it was going to be harder than I thought to replace the torn pants, so I figured I’d at least try fixing the ones I already have. I took it to a tailor and he patched it for $10. It’s not seamless, but he did a good job and my wife swears you can’t see the patch when the pants are on. I’ll take it! ~$50 saved, and I don’t have to recycle the pants yet.
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Nice job @zygote! ^That's a happy story.
Holding strong here -- no clothes bought for myself since December of 2017 (when I bought a coat). So I'm going on 15 months of buying nothing. I'm tempted to try to make it until the end of this year (two full years of no clothes), but then my feet would get wet. The pair of shoes I wear the most has unfixable holes. :( So between the shoes and the potential need for some farmwork pants and underwear, I'm setting an annual budget for myself this year of $150.
Since I FIREd at the end of January I've cleaned and sorted all my office work clothes. I found a local church that runs a Dress for Success-type clothing closet, and I'm donating almost all my office clothes there tomorrow. Keeping just one skirt, one dress, one tank top, and two fancy sweaters.
I also sorted all my other clothes, and found that everything I own (including shoes, socks, underwear, athletic gear, coats, and hats) is 72 items. It fits easily in three drawers and about twenty inches of hanging space in the closet. Seeing all that clean empty closet space makes me really happy.
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I am really in the mood for a new winter coat. Stupid, because it is not absolutely necessary to replace it. The current one is still working, but I have been wearing it for 8 winters or so. I will have a look when the winter sales starts, which is in 1,5 month or so. And I will only buy if I find a nice and functional one for a low price and that doesn't look similar. Otherwise I will wait.
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Just checking in as I haven't bought anything since my last post. Dont see anything in the near future
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On another note, I need to buy some bras. I hate buying them, I have to find good ones that fit well and they are usually expensive. But I only have 3 normal pairs and 2 sport bras. Enough for sport (one in the wash, one to be able to wear) but I only really like the fit of 1 of the normal ones. I need some more I guess. I will force myself and try to find the same fit I already have and love.
+1. I currently don't need them, but hate buying them as well, because the good ones are costly. And most don't fit well.
Last time I bought one online, on sale. I used a brand I was used to, but it is slightly too big, even though I have other models of the same brand that fit perfectly.
Good to know I'm not alone in the hate bra shopping ;) Good luck to you too..
The online store that had a sale didn't have the sale anymore so that was a bummer. BUT then another online store had a massive sale with the pieces from 80 to 35€ so I ordered 3 different ones, hope at least one of them fits like I want to. They're all pretty basic so that's good.
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On another note, I need to buy some bras. I hate buying them, I have to find good ones that fit well and they are usually expensive. But I only have 3 normal pairs and 2 sport bras. Enough for sport (one in the wash, one to be able to wear) but I only really like the fit of 1 of the normal ones. I need some more I guess. I will force myself and try to find the same fit I already have and love.
+1. I currently don't need them, but hate buying them as well, because the good ones are costly. And most don't fit well.
Last time I bought one online, on sale. I used a brand I was used to, but it is slightly too big, even though I have other models of the same brand that fit perfectly.
Good to know I'm not alone in the hate bra shopping ;) Good luck to you too..
The online store that had a sale didn't have the sale anymore so that was a bummer. BUT then another online store had a massive sale with the pieces from 80 to 35€ so I ordered 3 different ones, hope at least one of them fits like I want to. They're all pretty basic so that's good.
+3 on hate shopping for bras. The best thing I ever did was go in person to a real bra fitter. (It only took me 50 years to figure it out, but better late than never haha). Thanks to the fitter, I discovered the wonders of both a properly fitting bra, and also a high quality one. I wasted money years ago on cheap bras that weren't comfortable. Good bras last for years if you don't put them in the dryer.
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On another note, I need to buy some bras. I hate buying them, I have to find good ones that fit well and they are usually expensive. But I only have 3 normal pairs and 2 sport bras. Enough for sport (one in the wash, one to be able to wear) but I only really like the fit of 1 of the normal ones. I need some more I guess. I will force myself and try to find the same fit I already have and love.
+1. I currently don't need them, but hate buying them as well, because the good ones are costly. And most don't fit well.
Last time I bought one online, on sale. I used a brand I was used to, but it is slightly too big, even though I have other models of the same brand that fit perfectly.
Good to know I'm not alone in the hate bra shopping ;) Good luck to you too..
The online store that had a sale didn't have the sale anymore so that was a bummer. BUT then another online store had a massive sale with the pieces from 80 to 35€ so I ordered 3 different ones, hope at least one of them fits like I want to. They're all pretty basic so that's good.
+3 on hate shopping for bras. The best thing I ever did was go in person to a real bra fitter. (It only took me 50 years to figure it out, but better late than never haha). Thanks to the fitter, I discovered the wonders of both a properly fitting bra, and also a high quality one. I wasted money years ago on cheap bras that weren't comfortable. Good bras last for years if you don't put them in the dryer.
Good tip!
I went to a good shop 10 years or so ago after only having cheap bras and that lady also assisted me in a fitting of several brands/sizes and I had a completely different size than I thought I needed. That was an eye opener for sure. That first good bra was awesome. I bought some from the same brand/same models after this and replaced my old ones in the years after this. I could not go back to cheaper ones!
And I don't have a dryer so that's good! :)
I read somewhere once that 80% of woman wear the wrong size?!
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I hate bras. I literally only own sports bras, and a few spaghetti strap sporty Walmart things that I wear under my fancy clothes. In college I remember buying a few "regular" bras, and any time I would wear one it was so uncomfortable because the clasp in the back would dig into my spine if I would sit I a chair, and the cups were weird shaped. I'm literally almost 30 and I wear a sports bra every day haha. I should probably grow out of this at some point, but sports bras are so comfortable, and I am small chested and I honestly don't think anyone could tell the difference!
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I hate bras. I literally only own sports bras, and a few spaghetti strap sporty Walmart things that I wear under my fancy clothes. In college I remember buying a few "regular" bras, and any time I would wear one it was so uncomfortable because the clasp in the back would dig into my spine if I would sit I a chair, and the cups were weird shaped. I'm literally almost 30 and I wear a sports bra every day haha. I should probably grow out of this at some point, but sports bras are so comfortable, and I am small chested and I honestly don't think anyone could tell the difference!
If they are comfortable for you than there's no reason to buy others!
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Well, I didn't get any of the shirts i need. Even better, I've gotten slimmer, and I now fit into some of my nice clothes I bought many years ago. So problem solved, shopping avoided.
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I'm still on track and haven't bought any clothes this year. I may need to get together a little more of a professional wardrobe pending some developments at work, but I'm going to hold off as long as possible and keep it as minimal as possible. I need to take the approach @brute has taken and slim down...I have several nice work pants that could go back into rotation of I could get 20 pounds off...
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Welp, I spent all of my spontaneous money for February on nursing bras and nursing-compatible shirts from the ARC.
I went into the month thinking "I had plenty of nursing bras last time around, it will be fine, I just need like one sleep bra for nursing", but then I realized that I wore some EXTREMELY ratty bras with holes in them (that I have since gotten rid of) for like the last 6 or 8 months of nursing, and no, I don't have enough. I probably bought too many, but I ordered them online to take advantage of a 25% off + free shipping deal. I may take some back to the physical store once I try them on, we'll see.
I bought 4-5 shirts at the ARC, plus some super cute baby clothes, for $30 because apparently President's Day was a 4-tag sale day (lucky me)! While thinking about nursing bras, I realized again that I felt super frumpy for almost 2 years because I hate the shirts I bought specifically for nursing. They don't fit quite right anywhere - too small in the shoulders, too big in the waist, too small in the hips - and they're a single color, so any flaw in my body, real or imagined, was incredibly obvious to me all day, and I hated everything I was wearing. I'm ok spending $30 for some patterned shirts with interesting cuts to help ameliorate that feeling for the next two years.
Now I just need to stop buying cute baby girl clothes. They're just ridiculously adorable <3
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So I had three things on my list to buy this year, and the most important -- by far -- was a pair of shoes. My beloved ancient leather sneakers have ripped at the toes, and I thought they could not be repaired. Long story short -- I made one last attempt and took them to a new shoe repair shop, and the guy said he could do it!!! The repair won't look perfect, he said, but I don't care at all. I'm so happy!
So I don't have to buy any shoes! And the two other things on my list I can probably go without for the rest of the year.
Folks this is GAME ON. New goal is to buy no clothes at all this year. (If I can make it, that will make a two year streak for me with nothing bought.)
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So I had three things on my list to buy this year, and the most important -- by far -- was a pair of shoes. My beloved ancient leather sneakers have ripped at the toes, and I thought they could not be repaired. Long story short -- I made one last attempt and took them to a new shoe repair shop, and the guy said he could do it!!! The repair won't look perfect, he said, but I don't care at all. I'm so happy!
So I don't have to buy any shoes! And the two other things on my list I can probably go without for the rest of the year.
Folks this is GAME ON. New goal is to buy no clothes at all this year. (If I can make it, that will make a two year streak for me with nothing bought.)
YES! Score.
That is so satisfying right?! Good for you and success for the rest of the year!
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I *think* I've finally found sports bras, to replace my incredibly old/stretched out ones. I bought a two pack for $15 at Costco yesterday. Wore one for a run today, and it held up fine. Now I'll wash it, and if it works, I'll probably buy two more packs, so I can get rid of all of my old sports bras.
I also ordered myself a pair of glove liners for skiing. Mine are 15+ years old, and were ripped, which defeated the purpose when I was trying to get kids ready to ski and it was 10 degrees out. They were $10 or so on Amazon, so calling it a win.
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I want one really nice, perfectly fitting, beautiful pair of jeans. I don't own any jeans right now, because it is so hard to find the perfect pair. I hate the "stretchy, thin denim" trend, and I want a thick, dark wash, skinny pair of jeans that I can wear with anything. I'm setting a goal of finding a pair before the end of the year...it will take me that long because I'm obnoxiously picky about fit.
I also want to buy 2 new pairs of boots. 1 pair of new waterproof/winter boots, and 1 pair of Blundstones.
That's pretty much it for the year I think.
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I want one really nice, perfectly fitting, beautiful pair of jeans. I don't own any jeans right now, because it is so hard to find the perfect pair. I hate the "stretchy, thin denim" trend, and I want a thick, dark wash, skinny pair of jeans that I can wear with anything. I'm setting a goal of finding a pair before the end of the year...it will take me that long because I'm obnoxiously picky about fit.
I also want to buy 2 new pairs of boots. 1 pair of new waterproof/winter boots, and 1 pair of Blundstones.
That's pretty much it for the year I think.
Have you tried the Gap? They carry a variety of denim weight, some of which would meet your bar. For a more day to day option, I prefer Calvin Klein from Costco - typically $15. For the Gap, I try to buy online on Black Friday, and scored a great pair for $15-20 last year.
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The bras I ordered were not the right fit so the search continues..
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I bought myself in 2019 a new gorgeous swimsuit. (http://wearion.com/) My dream is to go to the Maldives this year and put on my big-sized bikini wearion. Go to the beach and show off in front of everyone!
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No clothes bought this year! I'm trying for the whole year - except I will need a pair of black flats for work (mine are getting very worn and I wear them every day). I have a Kohl's GC and plan to use that for the shoes. This has been easier than I thought! The trick is not browsing ThredUp while I watch TV at night. :)
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The bras I ordered were not the right fit so the search continues..
Score. I got 2 good ones for only 30€ together.
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The bras I ordered were not the right fit so the search continues..
Score. I got 2 good ones for only 30€ together.
Nice! ;)
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So far, I am doing terribly with this challenge, but pretty much everything I've gotten has been to replace worn out items. I found a pair of my beloved Ugg boots on eBay and bought them. So at the end of this winter, I'll retire my current pair which have completely ripped up linings and the waterproofing will probably be dead by spring. Also two pairs of jeans developed holes in terrible locations, so I bought more on sale. I've spent $321.63 on clothing so far in January & February.
I did get some winter (long sleeve) dresses at Old Navy for free with my credit card points. We do a surprising amount of "fancy" type events (orchestra concerts, opera, etc.) and I also perform at a few recitals, so having a few good dress options is handy. We have a wedding to attend tomorrow and I'm glad I have something I *know* fits me and looks good and will be warm.
I also realized I probably need to replace a swimsuit. I basically live in a swimsuit when I'm not at work in the summer since my parents have a pool. Oh, the humanity!
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Checking in. No clothes this month. Hurray for small victories.
I've been thinking hard about whether I need anything in the shoe department. My hope is to get something on the higher quality end so I can enjoy it for many years, although I've been burned by "high quality" shoes before. Here are potentials:
-good quality leather sandals. My sister let me try on her Birkenstocks and I liked them pretty well.
-a brown / cognac leather flat or loafer
-canvas sneakers, probably Chucks, in gray
honestly, for summer, between the sandals and the flats, I probably don't need a sneaker. I really just want something comfortable I can slip on and go, and the sandal and flat should satisfy that. I have other sneakers. The sandals I have are falling apart and I do not currently have a neutral flat.
I think I'm going to buy my sister a pair of nice winter boots for her birthday, but I don't suppose that really counts because they're not for me.
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Also checking in to hold myself accountable. I did buy some new things again, aside from the bras and sandals and other shoes I actually needed. It's nice that I have some new (secondhand but new for me) blouses, dress and 2 skirts but I really don't need more clothes.
I'm not doing the strict no shopping for a year thing again like last year (that only lasted 11 months) but from now on I can only buy things I actually NEED like the thread says.
It adds up and I don't want too much stuff.
It reminds me of this article: https://www.raptitude.com/2011/01/i-dont-want-stuff-any-more-only-things/
NO shopping/looking for wants
NO secondhand browsing online or in secondhand stores
NO replacing items I don't need to replace
IF, but only IF something I really really need needs replacing I can.
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My DH bought himself a new CC skiing jacket and a shirt, both on sale. He said his old stuff was getting thin. Otherwise he is following my good example of not buying clothes we don't need.
He is also trying to sell a fancy rain trousers he hasn't used for years.
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This is a scootch off topic, but my curiosity is killing me -- @Linda_Norway: How is a CC skiing jacket different from a normal winter jacket?
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This is a scootch off topic, but my curiosity is killing me -- @Linda_Norway: How is a CC skiing jacket different from a normal winter jacket?
It is not like a normal winter jacket, but a thin sports jacket, like a running jacket, but a bit warmer.
CC skiing is typically done at cold temperatures. And it is a sport where you tend to sweat a lot. The special feature is that it has windproof material in the front and very open material in the back. When you go fast downhill, you want it to keep the wind out in the front, to prevent your sweaty body from freezing. But when you go uphill and get warm, you want it to breath well and do that through the backside material.
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Thanks! I learned something today!
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I ordered 2 pairs of jeans and one pair of cordouroy trousers today, all for $55 on Lucky brand jeans clearance sale. This is the first time I have bought clothes this year. Yesterday my DH bought me 2 sweaters at a thrift shop. So far I have thrown out two pairs of jeans with holes, one pair of stretched out yoga pants, one pair of shorts that I only wear for painting, and several bras and underwear that were itchy or did not fit well.
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Man, I'm doing better with no shopping at all for clothes than only necessary shopping. My brain constantly wants to convince me I need something when I don't.
Therefore I will do the no shopping at least for the next 3 months and will see from there. Will re-evaluate after these 3 months and hopefully extend.
I thought I curbed my 'addiction' but *newsflash* I didn't. I have enough for every occasion in my life. I like my clothes, they fit right, enough to choose from so do not need more. More will rob me from the time I get to spend with the things I already have and will be extremely wasteful.
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Made the mistake of going shopping during a bit of a crisis (waiting while dog worryingly ill at vets, now recovered). One bra I needed. One jumper I needed (old one with holes retired to painting duty). One very flattering top that I didn't need. So unless I consider that I really need flattering that was a fail, less than three months in. Sorry folks.
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Not clothes, but spike soles. I use spike soles to put under my shoes in the winter when I walk to work. This is to prevent slices out on the ice/icy snow. I have had a pair that I used for the last 20 years. I have changed the spikes in them a couple of times. But now I cannot buy these exact spikes anymore. The spike soles have also always been slightly too big for my shoes.
So I read some reviews and selected the ones with the unanimous best review. I went to a shop that had them and bought a pair. My shoe size was exactly between 2 pairs. I first bought the smallest one. Tried them on my shoe in the car and found out it didn't fit at all. Went back into the shop, tried it on a sport shoe, but it still didn't fit the slightest bit. So I changed them to a bigger size. When home, I first had to find out how to actually fit them. That was more different from what I had expected. When I finally had them right, the bigger was were a bit sloppy on my shoes. I really have to pull them up abnormally high so that they will fit. I think they might go loose while walking.
We needed something else from that same sports shop, so we did an online order, the smaller pair of spike soles and a new LED headlight. When I have both pairs in the house, I will see which one fits best. Then I'll bring the one that doesn't fit back to the shop, which has a 100 days open for return.
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Fell off the wagon on this challenge last week. We were in Montreal and saw a department store that we don't have in our part of Ontario. We had heard things about this department store and wanted to check it out. The clothes for daughter were needed because she is growing out of everything but we didn't need to buy new. Two work shirts for me were not really needed but I so wanted them. What is done is done now hopping back on the wagon.
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Fell off the wagon on this challenge last week. We were in Montreal and saw a department store that we don't have in our part of Ontario. We had heard things about this department store and wanted to check it out. The clothes for daughter were needed because she is growing out of everything but we didn't need to buy new. Two work shirts for me were not really needed but I so wanted them. What is done is done now hopping back on the wagon.
That's the spirit. Right back on the wagon!
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I ordered 2 pairs of jeans and one pair of cordouroy trousers today, all for $55 on Lucky brand jeans clearance sale. This is the first time I have bought clothes this year. Yesterday my DH bought me 2 sweaters at a thrift shop. So far I have thrown out two pairs of jeans with holes, one pair of stretched out yoga pants, one pair of shorts that I only wear for painting, and several bras and underwear that were itchy or did not fit well.
My jeans got here today, very pleased with them as I had to guess at the size. They are all same brand and same size: the jeans fit very comfortably but one pair is about an inch too long and the other is about five inches too long, so I will have to hem them. The trousers are a little snug but they are the right length. Go figure.
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I need to bring something back to a store. But I find it a waste to only drive there for that purpose. So I was thinking about what to do there more. I would like a new winter jacket when it is sale. Maybe something similar to what I have, which is a very good jacket. DH wondered why on earth I needed a new jacket if it was so similar to the old one. What was wrong with my old jacket. Well, nothing really. I have just been wearing it for 7 winters or so. I guess I want some variation.
Now I had a look at the shop's online store. Damn, these winter jackets are expensive, even the ones on sale. So I guess I will forget that I want it.
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I had three items on my "must replace/buy" list for 2019:
-Running shoes
-Sports bras (mine are 10+ years old, and are useless at this point)
-A one piece bathing suit that I can wear in front of the kids/SUP in, exercise in, etc, but doesn't make me look 20+ years of my age
I just ordered three new pair of running shoes. (I'll only keep one pair). I'm hopeful that I'll find something that works. I've been training for a half marathon & one of my two pair of shoes is 7 years old. Oops.
I also finally found the bras that I love at Target. I bought 4 on a gift card. I will purge all of the stretched out ones. Hurrah.
I also found two great bathing suits. We have a pool, so I think I will use both on vacations, etc. I'm planning to keep bot at this point. Both are flattering but don't reveal too much, I'd feel comfortable with teenage boys around, & I could kayak, etc in them.
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I just ordered three new pair of running shoes. (I'll only keep one pair). I'm hopeful that I'll find something that works. I've been training for a half marathon & one of my two pair of shoes is 7 years old. Oops.
I have been doing that occasionally, when ordering sandals: ordering 3 different pairs and sending 2 back. I think the shops might dislike that, as they pay for the sending back. But for me it is the only option for buying clothes and shoes online. You have to try it out.
The other trick is to find a new pair that is the same as your old pair (of sports shoes). Then you know exactly which brand, model and size you need. I did that once when I replaced my winter shoes. Found exactly the same model, in a different colour.
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@Linea_Norway -I'd love to order the same running shoes, but they are so old that the shoe company has been through four updated models. The sizing changes a bit each time, so I need to try them on & even likely run on a treadmill with them to see if they have enough support.
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Still haven't bought any clothes this year, but I'm going to have to buy a specific kind of dress shirt for a hobby. Unfortunately I can't make do with any shirts I already have because I have to match the rest of the group. I found one that will work on sale for $25, so I ordered it and will see if it looks okay. I hope it does, because most of the other options I am finding are $50-$60 and I really don't want to spend that much. It won't be a totally single use item because I can also wear it to work, but I don't need any more work tops. I'm a little annoyed at the need to purchase this shirt, but I do like the hobby so what can you do.
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I have bought a couple of things this year so far, but it's been pretty minimal and definitely more "need" than "want". I got a dress for my niece's wedding which was this past Monday, because what I thought I was going to wear didn't fit...I also replaced a few worn out socks and underwear (definitely keeping a 2 out 1 in ratio there, or better), bought a couple more business attire items for work (super, super cheap; getting into a position where I can't just wear jeans every day), and replaced my worn out boots that I wear all the time.
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I did not buy a new sweater yesterday, even though I would like it and it was on sale. I don't actually need it.
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Shoe store went out of business last year so I really stocked up. I may never buy insulated winter boots again!
I'll get:
Running shoes, socks and underwear. Probably nothing else.
Most of our clothing costs go to my two college-age daughters. Fortunately, one daughter loves my wife's styles from 30 years ago, very expensive stuff when new. They both mostly buy second-hand for day-to-day wear so I have no complaints.
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Checking in. Nothing bought this year so far.
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I don’t think I bought any clothing so far this year. Other than running shoes I don’t think I need anything. This will be a good challenge for me because I have a hard time passing up thrift store clothes even though I don’t need any more. This weekend I went to three thrift stores and only bought what I was there for (a dining table)—a pretty big achievement for me since one of the stores had all of their clothes marked down to $1.
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Great thread! ...and wear your current clothes until they are irreparable. The trick is to buy quality, non- fashion clothes ( or you can use fashion to your advantage. For example: black tights. As a cyclist, l have been wearing them for 40 years...for riding, skiing, running and snorkling).
Stay with Neutral colors, simple classic design, etc.
Don't be a fashion sucka...
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Ack. I've had so many foot/knee problems. I've received my running shoes, so I'll try these out (on the treadmill) to see if they work. I also ordered inserts to wear in some of my shoes, but may just need a more supportive pair of work shoes. I LOVE my current shoes, and they weren't cheap when I bought them last year. But, I'm really motivated to feel better & get back to my workouts!
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I probably need to go to a funeral next week. I thought I didn't have any black clothes, but after researching my pile of trousers, I found an old, but decent looking pair of black trousers, made of a soft cloth material. I also have a pair of nicer looking dark blue trousers.
For tops, I have a nice looking black leather jacket (bought before I was a Mustachian) that I could wear, or a black and white woollen cardigan. The cardigan looks very nice from a distance, but looks a bit worn from up close. I also have a pair of fancy black shoes (bought before I was a Mustachian) that I guess I could wear. Or my normal black winter shoes, but they are not that nice and over there it is not winter anymore. I also have some decent dark green shoes.
So I hope I can manage looking decent without buying new clothes that I would only wear for the occasion. DH has brought along his dark grey wedding dress for the occasion. He had to adjust the trousers a bit to fit into them. But a quality suit is prepared that that. He just made the seam in the back a bit wider. As we say: as an adult man, you need a suit for weddings and funerals. But you can reuse that suit on all these occasions.
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So far the only clothes I have gotten were pjs.other things have been given to me so there’s a loop hole! Lovely mother inlaw I have.
Wonderful challenge to be a part of! Trying to get hubby to go through and get rid of the stuff we both have no use for. After tax season, he won’t be able to hide =)
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Another month with no clothes, but there is a bit of a hitch in the plan . . .
I'm pregnant with our third child! The little one is due around Halloween. We are very excited, of course, but there will probably need to be some new clothes. Fortunately, I don't think it will be that many. Because this is not our first rodeo, I'm very aware that it is NOT NECESSARY to buy a whole new wardrobe for pregnancy. I could use a few pairs of leggings and one or two pairs of maternity jeans to wear under dresses and long tops until the weather warms up. Then, it will probably be dresses and skirts I already have through the summer. Then back to the same leggings and jeans in the fall.
Some slip-on shoes would also be nice, but I mentioned that before. Just haven't picked a pair yet.
Good news is that, unlike in years past, I probably won't be spending on my portion of our family group Halloween costume. This year I will be going as the very pregnant lady who stays home and hands out candy!
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Another month with no clothes, but there is a bit of a hitch in the plan . . .
I'm pregnant with our third child! The little one is due around Halloween. We are very excited, of course, but there will probably need to be some new clothes. Fortunately, I don't think it will be that many. Because this is not our first rodeo, I'm very aware that it is NOT NECESSARY to buy a whole new wardrobe for pregnancy. I could use a few pairs of leggings and one or two pairs of maternity jeans to wear under dresses and long tops until the weather warms up. Then, it will probably be dresses and skirts I already have through the summer. Then back to the same leggings and jeans in the fall.
Some slip-on shoes would also be nice, but I mentioned that before. Just haven't picked a pair yet.
Good news is that, unlike in years past, I probably won't be spending on my portion of our family group Halloween costume. This year I will be going as the very pregnant lady who stays home and hands out candy!
Congrats on the pregnancy.
I hadn't thought of that, that the previous pregnancy clothes might not be suited, but of course they could be for different parts of the year. There should also be a good second hand market for such clothes. Maybe ask some friends after it has become visible?
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Congrats on the pregnancy.
I hadn't thought of that, that the previous pregnancy clothes might not be suited, but of course they could be for different parts of the year. There should also be a good second hand market for such clothes. Maybe ask some friends after it has become visible?
Thanks!
It's not so much that that the previous pregnancy clothes wouldn't be suited, it's more that, particularly in the case of jeans, I wore them OUT and had to dispose of them. For obvious reason, I don't buy super high quality maternity clothes, and for those nine months (and several months after), the clothes I do buy get a TON of wear. For the first pregnancy, I bought some clothes. A lot of the shirts and a couple dresses that pass for non-maternity I still have in the regular rotation. The maternity jeans from that pregnancy were so amazing and comfortable that I wore them all the way out. Second pregnancy, I bough a few more clothes, but realized that I could make do with some of my stretchier, roomier non-maternity clothes. I may have bought one dress I could wear for more formal work functions. I have a maternity trench coat I bought that I still wear because it passes for non-maternity. The jeans I bought for that pregnancy were different -- the quality of the fabric in the panel wasn't as good and they were always falling down. I don't know what I did with them, but I'm really hoping Old Navy went back to the kind of maternity jeans I had seven years ago with the first pregnancy.
In other words, if you only have one or two pairs of relatively low quality jeans to wear for nine months, they won't be much good to anyone after that. :)
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Congratulations Aelias!! I used the same pregnancy clothes for both pregnancies. I might be weird but I was so enormous so early especially during the second pregnancy that I really had to wear pregnancy clothes. I tried to keep it to a minimum and bought 1 nice black work summer dress for cheap at H&M, black dress pants for work at H&M, a neutral colored pregnancy skirt for work and a couple of nice-ish tops for work, one pregnancy sweater and some maternity jeans, t-shirts and shorts for the weekend. I also received a bunch of hand-me-downs from friends. I managed to wear a few non-pregnancy stretchy clothes during pregnancy but by 3rd trimester they were way too small.
Anyway, once the second pregnancy was over I knew that we were done having kids so I sold my whole bag of pregnancy clothes to a newly pregnant lady for 80 euro.
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Ugh, I bought some other stuff and that was not the plan. No needs there, only 'would be nice and not that expensive'.
Going to sell some other stuff the coming weeks that I don't wear enough to make sure I don't have too much. I don't like it.
Back on track. I have enough.
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Today I was at a sports shop to bring back a spike sole device that I use under my shoes in the winter. I had bought the wrong size.
When I was there, I went looking around for a new winter coat, as there is now sale. Sidn't find a coat, but I found some hiking trousers for sale for a good price. I tried on three pairs. One in size 40 that didn't fit at all. One in size 42. That fit, but looked strained where my legs start. One in 44 that was too wide in my middle, but better around my legs. A middle is easy to make narrower. But these trousers had zippers for airing holes on the thighs and they were sewn on the inside of the legs. That is a weird place. Presumably done so that they could make a proper map pockes on the side of the thigh. But the inside of the legs is the place that first wears through. I ended up being so in doubt that I didn't buy any of them. Problem solved.
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I bought some sweatpants and a hoodie that were on sale. About 40% off. But... I didn't really need them. The stuff i have works fine, but it was from a favorite outfitter of mine and I couldn't resist. Mental note. No shopping on my phone after a couple glasses of wine!
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I still havent bought anything this year but those shoes I need/want are going to have to come pretty damn soon. I am alternating two pair for walking and my feet are really hurting :-( .
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I still havent bought anything this year but those shoes I need/want are going to have to come pretty damn soon. I am alternating two pair for walking and my feet are really hurting :-( .
I think that falls under clothes you really need. No need to suffer. My husband is putting it off for the sake of depravity ( is he a Stioic? Maybe).
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I just noticed that my favorite rain coat is wearing through at the sleeves. The rest of it is still good. I guess there is no way to repair worn out fabric, especially as it's a rather unique print. I wear it to work. Bummer.
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I'm in!
So far I've spent:
£5.70 on two polo shirts in a charity shop. I wouldn't say I needed them, except that I didn't have anything light I could wear to work for the summer.
£30 on a pair of trainers. Probably did need these but I wear through trainers way too quickly. Any tips on shoe maintenance??
Also, those trainers aren't suitable for long walks and I like long walks. So I think my decision is to spend nothing on clothes for the rest of the year except for walking shoes if I see any in a charity shop.
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I was not going to join this challenge - AT ALL! :)
I enjoy wearing pretty clothes, fashion and design, not to mention color and a bit of sparkle:) on occasion.
However, the reason I decided to join this challenge is simply that it is time to clear out the closet. I am challenging myself not just to de-clutter, but get a bit radical in the process this year.
I may be left with a half-empty closet and a very short list of new things, incl. a pair of sandals, one pair of flip-flops (I'm a shoe murderer), three tops and one bottom, plus one dress and two PJ bottoms (I have none left-the last one just gave up the ghost:).
I may have a couple of tops altered to fit better instead of purchasing new since I only acquired them new last year. Hopefully, that will save me some money in the process and decrease my need from three new tops to just one.
I still have a couple of gift cards so that should help keep expenses down as well.
FWIW I've bought nothing in 2019 so far.
My goal is to keep spending to around $200 total, given that the flip flops alone are $45 - yeah, well, old ladies need good footwear:), but I'm hoping to find a nice pair of sandals at the discount store for around $25.
If I only need one new top - then hopefully that will cost me nothing (gc). The alteration of two tops should be no more than $30.
PJ bottoms I am hoping to find at the store where I have a store credit - so "FREE".
A pair of shorts or a skirt and a dress - that depends entirely upon what I find.
For fall-winter, all I need is a nice jacket and a new top, although strictly speaking a new fall top is really more of a want, but I do so enjoy buying something new for the new season. Always an uplifting experience for me:).
I'll keep an eye out at the thrift store for a jacket, but no need to buy yet unless I find a good deal.
Well, I hope this still fits within the boundaries of this challenge - if not feel free to throw me out.
I'll report back in once I am done de-cluttering and actually made some purchases.
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On Tuesday I had to look very decent. I managed to find appropriate clothes and shoes that I already owned.
By trying out different clothes, I found 2 items that could be thrown away. One is a very old dress that doesn't fit anymore. The other thing an oversized black see through blouse in eighties style.
This reminds me that I have another dress that I bought to attend my brother's wedding. It is very small and I don't have that body anymore. Therefore I can give that away as well.
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Last week, I bought a new winter coat, with 50% reduction. As mentioned, my old coat is still functional, but I have warn it for so many years, that I want something else.
I bought it at the sports shop, as those coats have good quality zippers. Coats from lady's clothing shops have zippers that uasually break within the season. My new coat is water resistant, has a nice high collar and a good hood. It is longer than my previous coat. Let's see how I'm going to like that.
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I went through a rag pile last week and, wait a minute!!, ... found 2 t-shirts that were still wearable. The big trick/challenge is to dress on an absolute minimum budget without looking fashion challenged or like a street person/ lunatic.
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Well i broke down and FINALLY ordered my shoes on Amazon yesterday. Not sure if its considered a real purchase though in that yes it cost me but it was free money from CC churning points. It felt like spending so I will count it as such. My first official "Clothes purchase" of 2019 in the books.
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Checking in. Nothing bought this year so far.
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I bought a ten pack of much needed socks to go with those new shoes I got for free kinda
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After a successful thread in 2018, we need a new clothes-thread in 2019. Don't buy clothes that you don't need!
I only intend to buy clothes to replace some garment that is worn through. I will not fall for the temptation to buy extra unnecessary clothes when I spot them in a shop. Also, I only intend to buy replacement clothes on sale.
I'm gradually approaching the point at which I'm exerting sufficient self-discipline to stop buying clothes I don't need.
I only wear about 2% of all the clothes I have.
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I'm in. It will be interesting to see whether a second year of tracking will be different from the first. Boots/shoes may be an issue this year.
I've got too many boots (>12 pairs).
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I'm in! Thanks for the thread @Linda_Norway!
Known needs in 2019: one pair of casual, every day shoes, and maybe 6 pair of underwear. Possibly a pair of gardening/farm work pants. My current farm-work jeans are getting pretty ragged.
For only ~$12.00 I bought 10 pairs of military surplus pants that were issued to Swiss officers.
They are very well made and in like-new condition.
They've been my go-to work pants.
They show little wear and tear (not that I care) after >1 year of hard duty.
I call my work pants "garbage pants."
I won't ever wear them in public.
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My daily purse is starting to fall apart. I have other purses that I like for certain occasions, but this one is neutral enough to go with every outfit and a good size for what I carry around regularly. The outer layer of fabric is starting to discolor and peel off due to extensive use. This is admittedly mostly a cosmetic issue, but I don't enjoy using it when it looks this beat up and also I take it to work. I don't think it's something that can be fixed, at least in a way that looks nice, or I'd go that route.
I've been keeping my eye out for a replacement, but haven't found one I love yet. Meanwhile, this one is still functional, so I can afford to be patient.
Today I saw that Kate Spade is doing a big surprise sale. There is one purse that catches my eye for 65% off, and I'd get 15% cash back on the price paid through ebates. I was sorely tempted until I actually looked at the details. There are a few things that make it not quite right for the way I would use it. Mainly, it's a little too small. It may be 65% off, but that's still a lot of money when it's a Kate Spade purse. So I'm going to pass. I'm sure I can find something that meets my needs more closely for less money.
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I'm in! Thanks for the thread @Linda_Norway!
Known needs in 2019: one pair of casual, every day shoes, and maybe 6 pair of underwear. Possibly a pair of gardening/farm work pants. My current farm-work jeans are getting pretty ragged.
For only ~$12.00 I bought 10 pairs of military surplus pants that were issued to Swiss officers.
They are very well made and in like-new condition.
They've been my go-to work pants.
They show little wear and tear (not that I care) after >1 year of hard duty.
I call my work pants "garbage pants."
I won't ever wear them in public.
Nice score on the work pants @John Galt incarnate! I think once the challenge is over I'll take your tip and check out military surplus for a pair of pants. We also have a "farm surplus" type store that carries pants. For this year decided to use up my current work pants (old jeans) and also a pair of old yoga-type workout pants. Not ideal, but they cover me up, and no one sees them anyway.
I changed my goals since my first post above. I am now trying to make it all year buying nothing. I made it through 2018 buying no clothes or shoes, so making it two years is an aggressive goal. Especially aggressive since I don't have a lot of clothes. I can make it on the pants. I can make it on the underwear. Shoes is another story. I only have one pair of casual shoes, 11 years old, and I just had them repaired. So far the new stitching is holding up, but we'll see if they can make it to the end of the year! If the repair rips out, I'll cave in and buy shoes. I hate wet feet.
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l have a bomber style, down filled winter jacket (Eddie Bauer, purchased in 1980) that l still wear indoors (65 F) and 2 very simply designed leather jackets, purchased in Bs. As. for $100 each (1998ish), that will last forever (what a braggy pants!).
More pants. The military option is a great idea. Also, due to population demographics, the thrift stores where l am have truckloads of pants...but it does take time / patience to sort through them all
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I really feel that MMM has gotten me out of the habit of buying clothes. Honestly, I have enough clothes to keep me going for quite a long time due to my previous clothes buying habit. If I had fewer clothes, I'd probably need to buy replacements more often. But currently I have tons of work clothes especially as the prospect of FIRE is motivating me to just wear out the ones I have.
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Ugh, I was just onling purchasing clothes from ThredUp, but I am going to a formal graduation ceremony and wanted suits / suit separates. I'm getting designer blazers for $25 - $50 and skirts for under $20.
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I changed my goals since my first post above. I am now trying to make it all year buying nothing. I made it through 2018 buying no clothes or shoes, so making it two years is an aggressive goal. Especially aggressive since I don't have a lot of clothes. I can make it on the pants. I can make it on the underwear. Shoes is another story. I only have one pair of casual shoes, 11 years old, and I just had them repaired. So far the new stitching is holding up, but we'll see if they can make it to the end of the year! If the repair rips out, I'll cave in and buy shoes. I hate wet feet.
I bet I could do this, or come close, for the remainder of the year. I love these kinds of challenges. I have been getting sloppy with clothes buying lately.
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I really feel that MMM has gotten me out of the habit of buying clothes. Honestly, I have enough clothes to keep me going for quite a long time due to my previous clothes buying habit. If I had fewer clothes, I'd probably need to buy replacements more often. But currently I have tons of work clothes especially as the prospect of FIRE is motivating me to just wear out the ones I have.
I have always disliked visiting shopping senters for clothes. But I do like internet shopping. Only there I need to return most clothes because the don't fit or live up to expectations.
I buy very few clothes now. But my DH has taken up sewing as a hobby and he occasionally wants to sew my clothes. I don't stop him, but try to let him make stuff that I will wear. Currently wearing a hiking trousers that he sewed.
This year I purchased only some replacement items and all on sale. One of my bras is getting sloppy. It was already discoloured. I get I'll need to replace that too some time soonish.
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Checking in. Nothing bought this year so far. Or last year.
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I failed at my planned clothes buying ban for 2019. I’ve been running more and decided it was time to buy some athletic tank tops instead of running in cotton t shirts. I found two at a thrift store, and also came home with some dresses I didn’t need. I think I just need to not go into thrift stores. It’s easy for me to pass on clothes in retail stores, but at thrift store prices the temptation is a lot stronger.
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As my DH sews for a hobby, he is now making me a shirt. He won the pattern (in an Instagram sewing photo competition) and got the cloth for a reduced price. So it's almost for free, and it was not my initiative.
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I am doing ok - and have really cut back on the clothes purchases. For my kids - they are growing like weeds at the moment and are destroying their clothes with heavy use. I like that they are getting dirty playing sports and doing stuff that is super hard on clothes. Hubs and I are building a rockery and are also destroying our work clothes. I am on my second set of gloves and they are starting to fall apart too.
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My absolutely-no-clothes-buying streak has come to an end. I made it 18 months total. I got a good deal on some shoes to replace my beloved 11 year old pair. Hope the new ones last as long!
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My absolutely-no-clothes-buying streak has come to an end. I made it 18 months total. I got a good deal on some shoes to replace my beloved 11 year old pair. Hope the new ones last as long!
18 months was really well done.
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My absolutely-no-clothes-buying streak has come to an end. I made it 18 months total. I got a good deal on some shoes to replace my beloved 11 year old pair. Hope the new ones last as long!
18 months was really well done.
Thanks @Linea_Norway! But if I can do it, anyone can. I don't have that many clothes. I think we're all in possession of way more than we need. :)
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I was going to replace my running sneakers because the insole has a hole in the heel and they smell. But then I threw then in the washer.
I'm thinking of getting new insoles.
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I still didn't buy any clothes, but I got 2 garments as gifts. DH sewed me a top from a free pattern he had won and a free piece of cloth. I could choose both.
He also gave me a new pair of hiking trousers that fit me perfectly. Bought online when they were on sale. I wear hiking trousers all the time when I have time off.
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Now that I'm not pregnant, I bought myself a new pair of pants, a new shirt, and a new bikini top.
I'm very happy with the pants. Funny story - I asked a lady at the museum about the pants she was wearing, because they looked SO comfy and stylish. I looked into them, bought a pair, and when they got to my house, I was like "hmmm, these look familiar." Turns out I have another pair (in the next smallest size and in a different color) that I bought probably 8 years ago. I love them, but I haven't worn them recently because they didn't fit over my hips during pregnancy, so I didn't immediately realize they were the same pants.
(On another note, Prana is AMAZING - I had the pants shipped to me, and they came in a sturdy paper bag, wrapped in twine. Not a single piece of plastic in the entire package.)
The shirt I could have done without, but I've worn it enough now that I'd feel bad returning it, even to REI.
The bikini top was an absolute necessity. There's no way my nursing boobs fit into any of my other bathing suits.
I'm done buying clothes for the year, though. I definitely don't need any more, and I'm still just a little heavier/less muscular than I prefer, so I'm going to try to not buy clothes to fit this body unless I have to.
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Nothing new to report besides some more underwear for my four year old. I might need to replace a couple pairs of shoes before the year is out though. Kids are set on clothes unless the oldest has a major growth spur. Husband is losing weight but never got rid of his old smaller clothes, so he is fitting into them again.
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I'm in for this too.
This year I've bought a pack of underwear and a two-pack of yoga pants. I'll likely hit the mileage recommendations to replace my running shoes, so I'll have to retire the old ones and get some new ones. Other than that, I think I could do pretty well with this challenge.
A big plus is I got to raid my MIL going-to-goodwill bags this weekend. Got a couple of cute tops, three dresses, a skirt, and two long sleeve shirts to save for colder temps.
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I'm in for this too.
This year I've bought a pack of underwear and a two-pack of yoga pants. I'll likely hit the mileage recommendations to replace my running shoes, so I'll have to retire the old ones and get some new ones. Other than that, I think I could do pretty well with this challenge.
A big plus is I got to raid my MIL going-to-goodwill bags this weekend. Got a couple of cute tops, three dresses, a skirt, and two long sleeve shirts to save for colder temps.
Are you sure that mileage recommendation is not just put a bit early by the producer, to motivate you to change shoes earlier? I tend to feel it in my running shoes when they need to be replaced.
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Not quite sure as this is my first set of dedicated-only-to-running shoes.
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Been awhile since i have stopped by but I havent bought anything since that pair of shoes. I could use one extra nice shirt for going out but am in no hurry. Its pretty much been all T-shirts and shorts weather. One other thing I would like to get is a new cap from my DD University. The one I have now is so faded from the sun and is over 3 years old it doesnt even look like the schools colors and not doing the school any justice wearing it....lol
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I've spent $0 on clothing this year.
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Now that I'm not pregnant, I bought myself a new pair of pants, a new shirt, and a new bikini
The bikini top was an absolute necessity. There's no way my nursing boobs fit into any of my other bathing suits.
I'm done buying clothes for the year, though. I definitely don't need any more, and I'm still just a little heavier/less muscular than I prefer, so I'm going to try to not buy clothes to fit this body unless I have to.
I wasn’t prepared for post pregnancy body. I was wearing pregnancy tops for a good 6months after if I remember correctly. The things they don’t tell you until it’s too lat.. 😆
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I've spent $0 on clothing this year.
YAY - me too:) at least so far.
I'm about to de-clutter my closet and try once more to have only as many clothes as will comfortably fit into the closet - without wrinkling any of the other clothes...
I may cave and buy something once I de-cluttered, we'll see.
The zero clothing was rather unintentional - I had other things to deal with and enough clothes to wear.
I even missed the once a year shoe sale which I'm bummed out about.
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Well yesterday I had to buy my second piece of clothing or 1 depending on how you look at it. The first earlier in the year a new pair of shoes and yesterday a pair of Cargo shorts. I need them for my cash side gigs I do so bought a pair on sale at Wally world . So that is it in 7 months and I dont see me really needing anything else this year though maybe one shirt. We will see.
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Been awhile since i have stopped by but I havent bought anything since that pair of shoes. I could use one extra nice shirt for going out but am in no hurry. Its pretty much been all T-shirts and shorts weather. One other thing I would like to get is a new cap from my DD University. The one I have now is so faded from the sun and is over 3 years old it doesnt even look like the schools colors and not doing the school any justice wearing it....lol
I am also thinking about buying a new cap. I have one that came for free with a fishing magazine many years ago and it is also faded completely. And it is stored at our cabin amd sometimes I need one at home.
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It's been a while!
I did end up buying some maternity clothes from Old Navy -- 2 pairs of jeans, 2 jumpsuits (I know it sounds weird, but they're jersey, very roomy, and insanely comfortable), a swimsuit, a pair of leggings and a pair of shorts. Maybe $150 all in, I don't remember. All are getting worn frequently, and nothing that I regret buying. I also bought a pair of silver Birkenstocks for about $90 on sale. They took a little time to break in, but I am so hooked. They're awesome, and I wear them with everything.
That was maybe 2 months ago, and nothing since then. I'm especially proud of myself for what I haven't bought and for breaking the "recreational browsing" habit which, inevitably, led to purchases. I had my eye on a very pretty dress that I tried to rationalize as "for a wedding" that's coming up in March. Which is very silly -- I have loads of dresses I could wear. The weird thing is, after a few pangs of desire, it kind of faded away. After a couple weeks, I stopped thinking about it and moved on.
I feel like this is the power of these kinds of challenges. Over time, you come to realize that you can make a change and, yes, it may feel like deprivation at first, but that feeling fades as your habits change. It gives you encouragement to get through the next tough change that will ultimately improve your life.
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So far in 2019, I spent $60 on 3 items: a wool sweater for 160 pesos (less than $10) in San Cristobal de las Casas (Mexico), it was freezing at night, I only had a pair of shorts and some t-shirts, and my light winter jacket which I did not expect to need in Mexico had been packed in our camper back in Utah, and the camper was being repaired in a garage some 50 miles away. Last month in Yellowknife, I reluctantly had to look cleanish to attend an unplanned 3-day business meeting so I got myself a pair of smart-looking Superdry sneakers (the cheapest I could find in town, on special for $20) and a casual short-sleeved shirt (I take M but this XL was on special for $30, so XL I got, a bit baggy but it was fine...)...I live full-time in my truck camper and didn't want to look like I came straight out of the bush with my standard-issued uniform: a t-shirt, my one and only pair of jeans, and my old signature pair of dusty Blundstones...
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Up to now I bought a pair of jeans to replace the one that got ripped and, before the year ends, I may need a new pair of yoga pants because the one I have is a bit worn out.
These days I am adding a new piece to my wardrove, I am knitting a multi-color striped dress using leftover cotton yarn. Living in Vancouver I did not need more than one summer dress, but here in Italy the summer is way longer and I felt the need to add more variety to my summer wardrobe. I have already knitted a third of the dress and I really like the way it looks.
kudos to those of you who spent $0!!
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Logans - hi to a fellow Italy- dweller. It is really HOT here this summer. I basically only wear summer dresses all summer long. I was weak and just bought a new linen summer dress in the sales and a pair of jean shorts (old jean shorts are worn out).
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Logans - hi to a fellow Italy- dweller. It is really HOT here this summer.
Hi!!! Nice to meet you! I am happy to see that there are other fellow mustachians living in Italy! How long have you been in the country? This is my second summer here and yes it is really HOT!
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Soooo just checking in to say I completely failed these past few months.
For some reason, after I did not buy anything for 11 months, I came into the buying habit again. I didn't NEED it although I am happy about half of my purchases.. Other half not so much. I like secondhand but online is not always a good idea, some purchases are regrettable because they don't fit quite right or something.. And even though it is secondhand it does add up.
I recently listened to a podcast about fast and fair fashion/fashion industry/pollution etc and that got me thinking again.
So plan of action
- Selling the items online again that I don't want/don't fit right
- No clothing shopping for the next 3 months. AT ALL. Because just NOT shopping is better for me than rules/exceptions. With one exception: bikini is allowed because the one I have is 10 years old and not so nice anymore (and I doubt it I will because I hate bikini shopping).
- After the 3 months it's colder weather and I'm re-evaluating. Doubt I need anything for colder weather though.
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Been awhile since i have stopped by but I havent bought anything since that pair of shoes. I could use one extra nice shirt for going out but am in no hurry. Its pretty much been all T-shirts and shorts weather. One other thing I would like to get is a new cap from my DD University. The one I have now is so faded from the sun and is over 3 years old it doesnt even look like the schools colors and not doing the school any justice wearing it....lol
I am also thinking about buying a new cap. I have one that came for free with a fishing magazine many years ago and it is also faded completely. And it is stored at our cabin amd sometimes I need one at home.
Yea thats what makes it tough to buy one as I usually stumble along one free somewhere but I'd like one of her school. Going to visit her in a couple weeks and they usually have a large clearance selection so I'll probably go that route.
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I bought a $2 pair of flip flops that I technically didn’t need, but the alternative was showering barefoot in a campground shower.
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I replaced my Fitbit because it broke, not sure if that counts as clothes or not? Also got one for husband because his broke a while ago but he waited to get a new one until his phone also needed replacing, because the new models didn't work with his old phone. These were not strictly needed, but they do keep us motivated to move.
I also bought a pair of shorts and a pair of leggings for myself, and 3 outfits and a pair of swim trunks for older son.
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I ordered a new cap for 3 $. Then I can have one at home and one at our cabin. So next summer, I can have my eyes shades at home with my own cap and don't need to borrow one from DH.
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I ALMOST bought a clearance pair of Prana pants, because I love my other Prana pants so much and I don't have any jeans that fit that aren't wearing through, but I went to try them on in the store (vs buying them straight online), and I'm so glad I did, because they didn't fit at all. Crisis averted, purchase not made.
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Yesterday I placed on order on Zalando (free delivery and free return) for a new warm fleece vest and a new bra.
I ruined my previous old, warm fleece vest when I wanted to put new cuffs on the arms and on the underside. But I have 2 other fleece vests that are still good. So their is no real valid reason to buy it, other than that one of them has a difficult colour. Well, if it doesn't fit perfectly, I will just send it back.
The bra is a replacement for one of my current bras that is all faded in colour and has lost most of it's fasong. I think it is more than 5 years old. Unfortunately I didn't really found anything on sale. All the bras that were on sale were only available in very limited sizes that were not my size.
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I also bought a new pair of hiking shoes, as my old shoes have warm through the soles and holes have become visible. I will use the new ones as long as they last, but I don't think that is very long. The new ones were on sale for a good price, as also with GTX.
I use those shoes to walk to work, on average twice a week, 14 km or so per day of use. Even though I thought the soles could have lasted longer, they have lasted a good number of km. I think the soles were made out of a softish material. That is nice for walking through the forest as it gives good grip, but they might warn through a bit fast on asphalt. My route is partly through forest and partly over asphalt, so I had to buy some kind of compromise.
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Well i did take some cash from my side gig and but a 10$ T-shirt and 12$ hat from my DD's University. The other one now I can just wear for grungy work and I will just wear the new T-shirt and New hat to her games. So I believe I am around 200$ for the year so not to shabby.
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My only clothes purchases this year has been blue jeans which I got for $16 (was on sale). I wear them frequently. I did have other jeans, but they were a tad tight (mostly used for dating). So having one that is more comfy was definitely a worthwhile purchase.
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Caught a free T-shirt at my Daughters game last night and its a nice one so that is an added bonus and will for sure now get me through the end of the year!!
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So plan of action
- Selling the items online again that I don't want/don't fit right
- No clothing shopping for the next 3 months. AT ALL. Because just NOT shopping is better for me than rules/exceptions. With one exception: bikini is allowed because the one I have is 10 years old and not so nice anymore (and I doubt it I will because I hate bikini shopping).
- After the 3 months it's colder weather and I'm re-evaluating. Doubt I need anything for colder weather though.
So far so good. This month I did buy 2 bikinis. I tried a lot on in the last years and nothing was quite right (or usually.. terrible) so I just kept using my old pair that was now falling apart after fixing it 2 times. There was a sale on bikinis online from a brand I wanted to try but thought too expensive. I tried a lot of models and sizes and have 2 good bikinis now, hurray.
This was such a better buy than other clothes as this was something I was going to need anyways in the very near future but as I hate bikini shopping I just never went for it. For some reason the not buying other clothes thing cleared up the time and space (in my head).
No other clothes were bought. I even turned down a band shirt from a concert my boyfriend wanted to buy me. I hope this shift in mindset will last (longer.. this time).
I subscribed to a mail listing about the fashion industry from a journalist website to keep me in the mindset (about fast fashion and what it does to the world.. it's even worse than I already thought it was).
On selling items: I brought some stuff to a secondhand store that sells clothes and you get 50% and it gets donated after this if it doesn't sell to a place where people with low incomes can get it for free. I still have to sell some other items online. On my to do list for this month.
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I bought 3 new sets of uniforms for work. Was only going to buy 2 but they got me with the free shipping . Now I can stash one of my old pairs at work for emergencies.
I will need to buy shoes before the year is over too, but I will wait for a sale.
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I bought a sweatshirt on vacation last week. I definitely didn't need it, but it was one I've wanted for several years. It was out of stock last time I visited this particular place. I'm glad to have it now.
My clothing spending is still the lowest it's ever been in my life. This is only the 4th clothing/accessory item I've bought all year.
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My clothing spending is still the lowest it's ever been in my life. This is only the 4th clothing/accessory item I've bought all year.
Nice! Only 4 is very good!
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I'm doing quite well for the year too. It feels like I've spent a lot of money on clothes and shoes, but they've been almost entirely practical and much-needed. (Exercise shoes, walking shoes, sun-protection clothes for work, decent bras after not buying any for 3+ years.)
The one and only non-necessary clothing purchase I've made is a $20 t-shirt that was a fundraiser for my local theater. I'll just consider that a donation ;)
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Contemplating some boots that are $100 used and $400 new... would you pay $100 for almost new boots or is that still too much?
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Depends on the quality/condition of the boots. I got $400 Frye boots on clearance for $100 a few years ago, and I am really happy with them. I normally don't spend much on shoes because I'm so hard on them that they wear out after a year or two regardless of price. But these are such a step up in quality they're still going strong with basically no signs of wear. I think $100 is worth it if it's a similar brand that has a good reputation for longevity and they really are almost new.
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Funny Bc they ARE Fyre boots I was looking at.
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Contemplating some boots that are $100 used and $400 new... would you pay $100 for almost new boots or is that still too much?
Same as mentioned above basically..
1. Is it good quality? I've bought some more expensive shoes in the past and most of them are still going strong. Shoes are important in my opinion.
2. Do you really need it or is it a want? Are you missing something like this or does a similar item you already have and are using frequently need replacing (are you fixing a problem)
I was wondering.. does anyone use a budget for clothing purchases?
I'm asking because I really don't and think I should. I'm purchasing mostly second hand items, with some exceptions here and there but it still adds up. Not only because I was buying too much the last months but it just does. I kept track of it in my YNAB and it's not good..
I mean.. I don't think I should NEED a budget.. my mindset should change.. but I think for clothing items it might help me as I notice I get sucked in again..
I'm doing no clothes shopping from August-October (hope I will stretch it to the whole year) but after this I'm thinking of using a budget.
I was thinking 50€ a month (might still seem as a lot for some I guess and maybe it is, maybe I should use less).. That way I need to 'save up' if I want to buy something more expensive like good shoes, coat etc.. And I would have to think about "small" purchases (do I need it, do I love it, does it replace something else) instead of just thinking that it's not that expensive. And I would think about fixing the items I already have.
I could even make some money for my budget by selling items I no longer use.. That way I would be less lazy (maybe..) to actually sell the items online that I no longer use but are too nice to just bring to the secondhand store..
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I have paid approx 260$ for a pair of good quality hiking boots that will last for years. The boots should at least last for many years if they cost that much.
I even once paid a large sum for some fancy lady's shoes, also counting that I will use them occasionally for the next 10-15 years. That was probably an outrageous expanse, but at least I still like them, 7-8 years later.
I don't budget. As long as you think carefully about what you will spend on, and you spend within your means, you don't need a budget. I did however make a cost overview when we did something expensive, like renovating the main bathroom in our previous house. We did everything ourselves, but we still wanted to know how much it would cost. So we made come guesses for the prices of tiles, toilet, bath tube, faucets etc. And we did indeed end up on the expected amount, even though the money want spent differently within the categories.
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I don't budget. As long as you think carefully about what you will spend on, and you spend within your means, you don't need a budget. I did however make a cost overview when we did something expensive, like renovating the main bathroom in our previous house. We did everything ourselves, but we still wanted to know how much it would cost. So we made come guesses for the prices of tiles, toilet, bath tube, faucets etc. And we did indeed end up on the expected amount, even though the money want spent differently within the categories.
Thanks for the response!
I do totally agree that I shouldn't NEED a budget. And I don't for other expenses to be honest. We do use YNAB, but for us not really for budgeting, more to arrange the money we have and incoming money into categories as I like the overview. So it's not just a total sum of money but I know (roughly) what it's for. And I like going through the details/expenses/income and make listings and stuff like that.. ;)
For clothing it's different, I do spend within my means but I don't think that is enough. I want to spend less than I do now as I just don't need to spend a lot. I agree it is my mindset that should change but I hope this will help..
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My favorite baseball team made the playoffs! This is unusual. I've been wanting a cap with their logo for a few years, and I told myself I'd buy a commemorative one the next time they made the playoffs. So I did. I can't wait for it to arrive! I ended up getting the cheapest one, though that was more coincidence than anything...
On the money saving side, I fixed a work shirt that wasn't looking so good anymore. It has a faux leather collar, and the material was starting to peel off. I tore off all the flaking faux leather to reveal plain black cloth underneath. The leather was a cool detail when it was new, but you wouldn't miss anything looking at the new version. It's one of my favorites so I'm glad it was salvageable!
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I couldnt go any longer and had to buy two pairs of shoes. One pair of steel toes and one walking shoes as my others ones are walked out. For the year though i have done exceptionally well and in fact put a bag together yesterday of stuff I am getting rid of.
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Spent so far on clothes in 2019: 308 euro.
That sounds like a lot and the amount scared me a bit. Luckily I also sent some things back to Zalando that didn't fit well. The obvious big posts are: a new winter coat for the time in 7-8? years, a new pair of low hiking shoes for daily use, a new fleece sweater and new bra. And the new pair of jeans at the beginning of this year. I have used that jeans a lot.
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I made my first real clothing purchases for the year over the weekend. I am pursuing getting a new job in a different (read: more formal) industry, and needed some business casual/dressier clothing for job interviews. Last time I had an interview in the Spring I had to scramble to figure out what to wear, because I literally wear mostly running shorts/athletic apparel to my current job, so I don't keep much formal wear!
I committed this year (and honestly probably for the rest of my life) to only buying used apparel (with the exception of perhaps a new piece of specific outdoor gear like a ski shell, etc) and so far that has been easy to do! I decided to spend a day at various thrift stores, and ended up purchasing several outfits worth of gently used (and super cheap) more formal apparel. I spent less than $100 on about 15 pieces of J.Crew, Banana Republic and Ann Taylor business casual-ish clothing...way out of my comfort zone of clothing, but I actually like the idea of dressing up a bit, and am way less stressed about preparing for what to wear to upcoming interviews. I also ordered a few things very cheaply from Ebay, once I knew the styles/sizes I liked in different brands after trying things on.
I also had zero dressy shoes, as in...I own snow boots, running shoes, and chaco sandals. So I did purchase 2 new pairs of shoes, that are comfortable for my destroyed feet, but also job interview appropriate. So that was another $120. I would love to buy used shoes, but I wear a size 11, and need a specific type of shoe (narrow, with cushion because of joint pain) so it's literally impossible to find those used, except from time to time on Ebay.
Total for the year is about $250, mostly from this weekend.
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Had a pretty big fail this weekend.
I went to a clothing store this weekend that I've heard good things about - that their pieces are high quality, last a long time, and are produced sustainably (well, as sustainably as fashion can be mass produced). I went with black jeans in mind. I wear them to work all the time, and the ones I have are already patched and a little tight at the waist nowadays.
Sadly, the black jeans didn't fit me. But a beautiful cashmere sweater caught my eye. I've never seen anything quite like it. It's a simple solid color, but a dark mustard I've never really seen before. I tried it on "for fun" and it honestly looked like it was made for me. It fit just right and the color really suits me. Without thinking much about it, I bought it. $100. Ouch.
It is really high quality, so I plan to take care of it and wear it a long time. And it is still a work purchase. I'm wearing it there today (with the black jeans I was hoping to replace...). But definitely not a necessary purchase. This is why I should browse clothing stores! But I find it hard to shop online because I'm picky about fit and would end up needing to go through a bunch of returns before finding the one keeper.
I thought about returning it, but I honestly didn't want to. I haven't bought any other unnecessary clothing all year, and even with this purchase, I'm under $300 for 2019. But I am going to try to make this my only clothing indulgence for a while. Or at least keep the shopping to thrift stores for a while so it's not as costly when temptation strikes...
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I ordered a sweatpants to use for yoga for $30. I did yoga for a few months last summer, in short tights. Now in the winter I used long running tights, but they were not as comfortable as I hoped. They sag. My running tights are a hand down from DH for whom they didn't fit well.
The sweatpants had a lot of discount because of black friday, starting long before the actual date. I fell for also buying a woolen hat with 70% discount.
I hope both products fit, otherwise I will just send them back.
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I just spent a ton of money on new clothes for my rapidly growing 11 year old. She's as tall as many adult women but extremely skinny with no hips or boobs (because she's 11). She likes practical no-nonsense clothes and all of her last year winter clothes are too small and I stupidly dry cleaned her winter jacket from last year so it shrank. We don't get any hand me downs for her because, at this age, kids tend to wear through things. Also she's the tallest of all her friends and we've only found one brand that carries her size (extremely tall and extremely skinny).
We got 3 pairs of jeans, 4 shirts, one dress, a pair of short rain boots, underwear, a jacket, a metal thermos for school (her school has gone "no plastic") and a new rain/winter jacket - around Euro 200 total.
Luckily her younger sister is constantly swamped in hand me downs so all we had to buy her was new underwear.
I'm eyeing a new rain jacket from a certain high quality brand for myself. I've had the last one for about 8 years and wear it to death and, unfortunately, the sleeves are wearing through. I want to buy one exactly the same but a different pattern for Euro 125 but I might wait a bit to see if it goes in sale after Christmas.
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I'm eyeing a new rain jacket from a certain high quality brand for myself. I've had the last one for about 8 years and wear it to death and, unfortunately, the sleeves are wearing through. I want to buy one exactly the same but a different pattern for Euro 125 but I might wait a bit to see if it goes in sale after Christmas.
Black Friday, after Christmas/end of the winter season or at the beginning of the new season, last year's model.
Preferably you should also be flexible in brand and color, as long as the size fits. Just buy what is on sale.
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I'm eyeing a new rain jacket from a certain high quality brand for myself. I've had the last one for about 8 years and wear it to death and, unfortunately, the sleeves are wearing through. I want to buy one exactly the same but a different pattern for Euro 125 but I might wait a bit to see if it goes in sale after Christmas.
Black Friday, after Christmas/end of the winter season or at the beginning of the new season, last year's model.
Preferably you should also be flexible in brand and color, as long as the size fits. Just buy what is on sale.
That's my plan - either black Friday (so hilarious that this is a 'thing' here in Europe since they don't even celebrate Thanksgiving here so what's the point?) or post-Xmas.
I'm flexible on color but not brand as this raincoat was just the bees knees - really good quality. I find that if I buy unknown brands for cheap it often turns out to be fast fashion junk.
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That's my plan - either black Friday (so hilarious that this is a 'thing' here in Europe since they don't even celebrate Thanksgiving here so what's the point?) or post-Xmas.
Black Friday became a "thing" here in Canada 4 or 5 years ago, even though Canadian Thanksgiving is in October. It doesn't make sense here either!
Just found this thread. I stumbled on MMM's blog about six months ago, so I suppose my challenge started then. Haven't bought any clothes since July, other than a pair of running shoes to replace a worn-out pair (I run half marathons so I go through runners fast). I'll see how long I can hold out - avoiding the fancy mall under my office and the main shopping street in my city has been effective so far.
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Just found this thread. I stumbled on MMM's blog about six months ago, so I suppose my challenge started then. Haven't bought any clothes since July, other than a pair of running shoes to replace a worn-out pair (I run half marathons so I go through runners fast). I'll see how long I can hold out - avoiding the fancy mall under my office and the main shopping street in my city has been effective so far.
Just realizing that you don't need to be fashionable and change your wardrobe every season helps a lot. It can give you a feeling of strength just walking past those shops full of stuff that you don't need to spend money on. Until that day that you need something new.
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<...>
Just found this thread. I stumbled on MMM's blog about six months ago, so I suppose my challenge started then. Haven't bought any clothes since July, other than a pair of running shoes to replace a worn-out pair (I run half marathons so I go through runners fast). I'll see how long I can hold out - avoiding the fancy mall under my office and the main shopping street in my city has been effective so far.
Just realizing that you don't need to be fashionable and change your wardrobe every season helps a lot. It can give you a feeling of strength just walking past those shops full of stuff that you don't need to spend money on. Until that day that you need something new.
Yup, that's a good quote. Thanks for sharing.
This year I stranded and bought too much that I didn't NEED but wanted and I already have enough. For me, NOT buying anything is easier than only what I need because I will debate myself on needs versus wants. Strict rules are necessary to avoid having to make choices.
I don't need to be fashionable. I KNOW this and don't like trends anyway so this should be a no-brainer but I like adding new (new for me, usually 2nd hand) things because I like choices. I have enough to choose from and it won't all wear out in one year at all.
2020 will therefore be a year of NO clothes buying for me.
Only exception is underwear (including panty hose because I'm low on that and don't want to buy in advance), but only if really needed. This will not be a problem for me because I don't buy this for fun, only when needed anyway. No clothes, no shoes, no bags, no scarves.
Swapping is also allowed (I rarely do but if this happens, it's ok).
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I wasn't actually participating in this challenge, but I think that the only thing I bought to wear this year was a pair of shoes to replace my 16 year-old pair of Doc Martens. And I replaced them with the exact same pair (bought on Poshmark...old-school Made in England that arrived with the laces still tied on the inside like no one had ever worn them). I *might* have to go to get a heavier coat before my vacation, but that will be from the thrift store because I can't justify spending a ton of money when it really only gets really cold here for a few days a year.
The kiddo was a little more difficult. We only replaced things that were worn out, but drastically reduced the amount of clothes that he has to choose from in the mornings. For winter we just got him a set of thermal long sleeve shirts to wear under the t-shirts that he already had.
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2020 will therefore be a year of NO clothes buying for me. [/b]
Only exception is underwear (including panty hose because I'm low on that and don't want to buy in advance), but only if really needed. This will not be a problem for me because I don't buy this for fun, only when needed anyway. No clothes, no shoes, no bags, no scarves.
Swapping is also allowed (I rarely do but if this happens, it's ok).
Should we start a 2020 thread?
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2020 will therefore be a year of NO clothes buying for me. [/b]
Only exception is underwear (including panty hose because I'm low on that and don't want to buy in advance), but only if really needed. This will not be a problem for me because I don't buy this for fun, only when needed anyway. No clothes, no shoes, no bags, no scarves.
Swapping is also allowed (I rarely do but if this happens, it's ok).
Should we start a 2020 thread?
Yes, good idea. Was thinking this as well if others were interested.
Should we start 1 for all clothes related purchases (not buying anything / only buying clothes) or separate?
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2020 will therefore be a year of NO clothes buying for me. [/b]
Only exception is underwear (including panty hose because I'm low on that and don't want to buy in advance), but only if really needed. This will not be a problem for me because I don't buy this for fun, only when needed anyway. No clothes, no shoes, no bags, no scarves.
Swapping is also allowed (I rarely do but if this happens, it's ok).
Should we start a 2020 thread?
Yes, good idea. Was thinking this as well if others were interested.
Should we start 1 for all clothes related purchases (not buying anything / only buying clothes) or separate?
I’m not sure what you mean - is it 1 thread for buy no clothes at all, and 1 thread for only buying clothes you need? The first one is a much harder challenge, if you can’t even replace what wears out.
I would be in the “only buy clothes you need” thread, if it’s separate.
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2020 will therefore be a year of NO clothes buying for me. [/b]
Only exception is underwear (including panty hose because I'm low on that and don't want to buy in advance), but only if really needed. This will not be a problem for me because I don't buy this for fun, only when needed anyway. No clothes, no shoes, no bags, no scarves.
Swapping is also allowed (I rarely do but if this happens, it's ok).
Should we start a 2020 thread?
Yes, good idea. Was thinking this as well if others were interested.
Should we start 1 for all clothes related purchases (not buying anything / only buying clothes) or separate?
I’m not sure what you mean - is it 1 thread for buy no clothes at all, and 1 thread for only buying clothes you need? The first one is a much harder challenge, if you can’t even replace what wears out.
I would be in the “only buy clothes you need” thread, if it’s separate.
I think separate threads are best, because the challenges are very different.
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2020 will therefore be a year of NO clothes buying for me. [/b]
Only exception is underwear (including panty hose because I'm low on that and don't want to buy in advance), but only if really needed. This will not be a problem for me because I don't buy this for fun, only when needed anyway. No clothes, no shoes, no bags, no scarves.
Swapping is also allowed (I rarely do but if this happens, it's ok).
Should we start a 2020 thread?
Yes, good idea. Was thinking this as well if others were interested.
Should we start 1 for all clothes related purchases (not buying anything / only buying clothes) or separate?
I’m not sure what you mean - is it 1 thread for buy no clothes at all, and 1 thread for only buying clothes you need? The first one is a much harder challenge, if you can’t even replace what wears out.
I would be in the “only buy clothes you need” thread, if it’s separate.
I think separate threads are best, because the challenges are very different.
I agree. I'm in for the "buy no clothes at all in 2020" challenge if anyone else is!
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2020 will therefore be a year of NO clothes buying for me. [/b]
Only exception is underwear (including panty hose because I'm low on that and don't want to buy in advance), but only if really needed. This will not be a problem for me because I don't buy this for fun, only when needed anyway. No clothes, no shoes, no bags, no scarves.
Swapping is also allowed (I rarely do but if this happens, it's ok).
Should we start a 2020 thread?
Yes, good idea. Was thinking this as well if others were interested.
Should we start 1 for all clothes related purchases (not buying anything / only buying clothes) or separate?
I’m not sure what you mean - is it 1 thread for buy no clothes at all, and 1 thread for only buying clothes you need? The first one is a much harder challenge, if you can’t even replace what wears out.
I would be in the “only buy clothes you need” thread, if it’s separate.
I think separate threads are best, because the challenges are very different.
I agree. I'm in for the "buy no clothes at all in 2020" challenge if anyone else is!
Yes sorry! My post was a little confusing as I posted too soon and forgot some words. I meant separate threads indeed, one for no clothes at all, one for only what you need.
I get that the first challenge is not for everyone but for me it should be fine. I’ve done 11 months when I had less clothes than I have now and for me it’s necessary. I will make one of the threads, for no clothes shopping at all.
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Since I posted in the spring post-baby, I've bought a pair of socks, a wool base-layer from Smartwool, and a lined flannel, none of which I needed. I'm going to join the "Buy nothing 2020" thread and plan for the best!
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DH bought himself a new sweater and bought one for me as well, without my knowledge. It is similar to one that I have already, but in another color. My old one has a big white area that is dirty with blacks spots from the wood stove that don't disappear in the washing machine. I use that old sweater all the time and DH thinks I will now use that new sweater all the time instead.
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I am looking to close the year out not buying anything and cant remember the last time I posted buying something. I know I will get a couple things for xmas I put on my list like socks, couple long underwear shirts but yea, was a low budget spending clothes year for me and all that I do have is still in great shape. Well what can really go wrong with jeans, flannel shirts etc..
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For those of you who online shop for clothes (I sometimes do it), here's a reason not to: a recent CBC article says that lots of stores throw out returned items, because the cost of restocking them is too great. Because sizing in women's clothes is so inconsistent, it's common to order 2 or 3 sizes and return the ones that don't fit. Those returns often go into the landfill. They aren't donated because brands don't want to cheapen the value of their items by having them be available at a fraction of their new price. One more reason to shop locally, where you can actually try things on. (And another reason for Costco to have fitting rooms, one of my pet peaves.)
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For those of you who have done well on this challenge in 2019; please buy a pair of socks or something before the sun turns (December 22th), so you don't get eaten by the Yule Cat: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Icelandic_Christmas_folklore#Yule_Cat
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For those of you who online shop for clothes (I sometimes do it), here's a reason not to: a recent CBC article says that lots of stores throw out returned items, because the cost of restocking them is too great. Because sizing in women's clothes is so inconsistent, it's common to order 2 or 3 sizes and return the ones that don't fit. Those returns often go into the landfill. They aren't donated because brands don't want to cheapen the value of their items by having them be available at a fraction of their new price. One more reason to shop locally, where you can actually try things on. (And another reason for Costco to have fitting rooms, one of my pet peaves.)
Yes. I’ve read that somewhere as well or maybe from a podcast. That’s awful. Thanks for the reminder.
Fast fashion industry is so awful. I’ve also read that for really fast fashion brands they make a new collection every 2 weeks. Because this has to be in shops really quick they make it 3 times, 3 different factories. The first that has the lot ready gets paid. The other clothing is discarded. They also make twice as much as they think they will sell, because when it does get popular they don’t have the time to have a factory make it again..
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I have done so much better on clothes buying this year because of this thread. Not perfect, but way way better. Thank you for the accountability place.
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I have done so much better on clothes buying this year because of this thread. Not perfect, but way way better. Thank you for the accountability place.
Good to hear. I did much worse than last year, when I spent hardly anything, just some socks, a replacement bra and a pair of sports shoes. This year I have been too soft. But it defenitely helps to write it down here. I still spend only a small fraction of what normal people do, but it feels like a lot.
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I'm currently on vacation in a place that's supposed to be cold and snowy this time of the year. While packing last week, I discovered that I own no real winter clothing. I have summer clothes and I have hoodie to wear over winter clothing. So I bought a long wool coat. At a consignment shop. And it was on sale. And as a bonus, it had a pair of gloves in the pocket (too bad I've already lost one). However, it been quite mild this week and I could have gotten away with only my hoodies...
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I much prefer making clothes myself. Then I can be sure it will fit me perfectly. Also, I choose the style, not wander aimlessly in a mall trying to find something I'd kinda like. Besides, I'm sure it's more or less good quality. There are just two downsides to it: it takes quite a lot of time and it's a headache to find a proper store to buy fabrics from. So far, I like https://tissura.com/ (https://tissura.com/), the prices are decent and the range is wide enough for me.
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I bought three new undies, one for free. Very functional ones that I like to use. I got a technical sports shirt as a gift. Not of the type I asked for, but I can use it well. I didn’t buy any other clothes while visiting a city.
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Did not buy any clothing in the Christmas sales although I really could use some new undies.
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Reporting back at the end of the year, I think I did pretty well. One fleece top on sale that I didn't really need. Other than that clothing purchases this year were limited to underwear, socks, a pair of slippers, a pair of wellies, a jumper and a pair of leggings, all of which were needed and are in heavy rotation.
I also cleared a lot of things out of my wardrobe that I've never/hardly ever worn and passed them on to a charity shop for someone else to make use of while also donating to charity, in the hope that their going into reuse elsewhere offsets some of the environmental cost of what I have bought.
Carrying on with the challenge for next year.
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I'm in! The last two years I fell into the trap of, "It's okay if it's second-hand." And that's how I ended up with a bunch of things from ThredUp and Poshmark that don't fit well (or at all). Someone in my Buy Nothing group requested clothes in my size for a woman who was "getting back on her feet." I don't know her story, but I tore through my closet with no mercy and ended up giving her a winter coat (she didn't have one) plus a TON of clothes, and a used Coach purse (she is now the third owner).
In 2020, no clothes for me except to replace things. Known purchases:
-Bras (always)
-work pants (DH is buying them for my late Christmas present)
-Underwear (may or may not need more)
-socks (where do they all go???)
-work shoes
Anything else would be a want, not a need.
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I'm in! The last two years I fell into the trap of, "It's okay if it's second-hand." And that's how I ended up with a bunch of things from ThredUp and Poshmark that don't fit well (or at all). Someone in my Buy Nothing group requested clothes in my size for a woman who was "getting back on her feet." I don't know her story, but I tore through my closet with no mercy and ended up giving her a winter coat (she didn't have one) plus a TON of clothes, and a used Coach purse (she is now the third owner).
In 2020, no clothes for me except to replace things. Known purchases:
-Bras (always)
-work pants (DH is buying them for my late Christmas present)
-Underwear (may or may not need more)
-socks (where do they all go???)
-work shoes
Anything else would be a want, not a need.
Why not start a new thread for 2020?