For the first time this year I went clothes shopping. Last Saturday I really stress-tested my commitment to my no-buy year. My dear friend needed a few things for her wardrobe and wanted my help. Everyone has a super power and mine is an intimate knowledge of what stores are likely to stock what. I make a good shopping partner. Read more
I am committing to a less is more approach to my wardrobe. So far so good and my no- buy-2017 is going strong. When I do, eventually, introduce new things, they are going to exceptionally good quality clothing. I may have to spend a little more, but I think it’s important.The clothes in my wardrobe should last years and years. I have no interest in being part of the fast fashion cycle any more.
But how can you tell if a garment is going to improve through wears and washes or whether it’s going to lose all it’s shape and loveliness? Read more
This year I am committing to less. I don’t even have a word for the year. But it would be “less” if that didn’t feel so counter-intuitive. One of my commitments is less spending (on clothes in particular). It seems like my corner of the internet is going wild over the Minimalist documentary right now. Full disclosure: I haven’t seen it. We don’t have Netflix. How is that for minimalist? Even without seeing it, it’s clear that less consumption is on a lot of minds at the moment. My personal commitment came after a wardrobe cull and the realisation that I absolutely do not need any more clothes. Read more
I love browsing carefully curated boutiques with a small selection of beautiful clothes. There is a sense of calm and order. Each piece has been considered before earning its place on the rack. Shopping is a pleasure.
There is no such ambience when I walk into a large chain or department store. Instead, I often feel overwhelmed. That I am trying to find needles in haystacks. The sheer amount of clothes is confusing and it even makes me a little sad. It’s hard not to think of landfill when there is just so. much. stuff. There are times when I would prefer to run away than shop. And I like to shop.
Of course, I buy things in large chains like Uniqlo and H&M or department stores like Myer or Target. They are often the best places to buy basics. There are times when I need a broader range (and lower prices) than offered by a local boutique.
I’ll be heading into the fray and checking out the sales today. I never go on Boxing Day or near thereafter. Partly because I prefer to lazily recover from Christmas. Partly because more extensive mark downs happen later in any case.
I adore clothes shopping. Probably a little too much. And it doesn’t have to be shopping for me – I am just as happy to tag along on a friend’s shopping expedition. In fact, I sort of love that.
They say everyone has a secret super power – mine is an encyclopaedic knowledge of what stores stock what and where they are located in Carindale shopping centre. That and the ability to spot a bargain at fifty paces. Plus, I am pretty honest.
Do you want to come shopping with me?
