Once you’ve figured out what colors and styles look good and feel authentic for you, do not make the mistake of a major spending spree. Sure, get rid of things you know won’t work, but be deliberate with what you bring into your wardrobe. Nail the color, style, fit, fabrication, and utility, but make sure it has emotional durability. You wouldn’t knowingly waste your time and energy developing a friendship with someone unless there is an expectation of long-term positive vibes. You should expect nothing less from your wardrobe. Think of each item as a relationship; just because it’s a “wow” color on sale doesn’t mean it will feel good next week, next month, or next year. Try it on with different items you own. Would you save up to pay full price? Will you take care of it and perhaps even want to repair it 5 or 10 years from now? Does the company you’re supporting align with your values? Is there something about it that reminds you of a place or person or thing that you love?
My husband is a natural at this because he’s a minimalist when it comes to everything, including style. He’s got sort of a deep sea fisherman vibe in the winter and permanent vacation vibe in the summer. I have purchased most of his clothes for the last 20 years because he can’t be bothered to shop, even when he’s down to a single pair of pants that fit. He doesn’t have a strong emotional connection to what he wears, but is very particular about what works, and he wants each item to last as long as possible because that simply aligns with his values. When something gets a tear, I fix it or take it to a sewist for repair. He wears most of his items regularly for at least ten years before it’s no longer fixable.
I also have many items I’ve owned and loved and repaired for a decade or more, but I enjoy adding a few items each year to my wardrobe when I find something perfect. It is no secret that I love to shop, but I’m much more intentional now than I was in my teens and 20s. Shopping is actually much easier and more enjoyable now that I have a strong sense of whether or not it deserves my consideration just looking at the color, shape, and style–9 out of every 10 items is an automatic “no.” I am confident in my purchase only when I find a piece that elicits a strong emotional connection, fits all of my criteria, and works with several items I already own.
Whether you’re a minimalist or a maximalist, being deliberate about what you bring into your home isn’t just better for the planet; it makes life more streamlined for you. I encourage you to align your possessions with your identity and your values. When your closet is full of things you actually enjoy wearing that mix and match effortlessly, you show up for the things that matter in your life as the best version of you. And it feels easy. That ease translates to other people and to other aspects of your life. And who couldn’t use more ease these days?
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