I see it, I like it, I want it, I got it.
Yep, that’s how it has been for me over the years when buying clothes. But I made it my mission at the end of 2020 that I would be a lot more sustainable in terms of how many items of clothing I buy each month. I aim to buy more classic, versatile pieces rather than clothes that I will only get 1/2 wears out of. Buying clothes that are just for keeping up with the trends is just not a viable, sustainable, or affordable way to purchase clothing. Fast fashion is something I am trying to steer away from.
As we know already, fast fashion is fast becoming an unpopular fashion trend and it’s something we should all avoid. Fast fashion contributes 10% to carbon emissions and I think we could all do our bit when it comes to buying clothes unnecessarily.
I know that sometimes finding those ideal clothes can be a nightmare for some, you may prefer to buy clothes from a particular brand because their sizing works for you, or the factor of money can come into play.
All I know is is that my main objective is to be more sustainable with buying clothes and here are the factors I will consider before buying new clothes –
1) IS IT VERSATILE?
Can I wear the item with multiple outfits? Or is it going to be a ‘one outfit only’ item? If it’s the latter, it will not be bought by me. One thing I have found so much fun is buying something versatile and creating and discovering new outfits every time I wear, for example, a new jumper, a new pair of trousers, or a new pair of shoes!
2) IS IT CLASSIC?
An LBD, a trench coat, black boots, white trainers, a camel coat, a white shirt…
Yes, these are all classics and should be in any person’s wardrobe as I class these as essential items. I’m aiming to buy more classic pieces as they’re great for helping to piece an outfit together and also these items in particular (amongst others) won’t ever go out of fashion and will last for years to come!
3) IS IT JUST TO KEEP UP WITH THE TREND?
Trends go in and out of fashion quicker than my legs go in and out doing the Hokey Cokey. If I see an item I like and it’s just part of a so-called seasonal trend, I won’t buy it. Saying that though I’ve bought things that have been a part of a trend and I still use them today. But yes, if I know I’ll only wear it once, then I won’t buy into a trend. Speaking of buying things only once…
4) HOW OFTEN WILL I WEAR IT?
I think one prime example I can give is when you go to a wedding – the wedding guest outfit. More often than not, you’re only going to wear that outfit once. Once one group of people sees you in that dress, you’re never going to want to show the second group of people. If that’s the case, why not rent a dress? But saying that though, in Covid times, it may make you feel uncomfortable wearing a dress that somebody else has worn before you. I know it gets washed before being rented out again, but still, there’s that factor to consider.
5) IS IT DURABLE ENOUGH?
Nothing worse than wearing a new top and you’ve found a hole in it or the stitching has come undone after 1-2 wears. I would be fuming. One thing I’ve started doing (which I never did before) is looking at the reviews for the brand and their items to see who raves about the quality and durability of the items they sell. It may be a little time-consuming, but it’s worth it before parting with your money.
6) CAN I AFFORD IT?
Don’t land yourself in debt for that luxury handbag or pair of shoes. It’s not worth it. If there’s something that you like, save up for it and buy it when you know you’re financially comfortable. This is why I’m not a fan of companies like Klarna, they’re just asking for people to spend spend spend and pay later, which can be a little dangerous. Only buy it if you’re bank account looks healthy.
