In this crazy fashion world, it’s easy to get swept up in the whirlwind of trends and impulse buys but what if you could break free from the cycle of fast fashion and have a wardrobe that truly reflects you, your values and your style?
The consequences of mindless shopping are staggering, from cluttered closets and wasted cash to the environmental and social impacts of the fashion industry. Let’s rethink how we shop and approach our wardrobes, get to know ourselves and our values better, invest in pieces that bring us joy, serve a purpose and fit our lifestyle!
In this post we’ll go through the principles of mindful shopping and provide practical tips and tricks to build a wardrobe that feels authentic, intentional and yours.
Part 1: Your Style
Chapter 1: Who Are You?
Before you can build a wardrobe that’s true to your style, you need to get to know yourself. That means taking some time to think about your lifestyle, likes and values.
Your Lifestyle and Needs
- What do you do?
- What are your hobbies?
- What’s your daily routine?
- What are your priorities when it comes to clothes (e.g. comfort, practicality, self expression)?
Take a few minutes to write down your answers to these questions. This will help you get a clearer picture of what you need from your wardrobe.
Your Personal Taste and Preferences
- What colours do you like to wear?
- What fabrics do you prefer?
- What styles or silhouettes make you feel good?
- Are there any designers or brands you love?
Think about the clothes you already own and love. What is it about them that makes you feel good? Is it the colour, the fit, the style? Try to identify the common threads (no pun intended!) that run through your favourite pieces.
Vision Board or Pinterest Board
A vision board or Pinterest board is a great way to see your personal style and get wardrobe inspiration. Cut out images from magazines or pin online that reflect your style and aesthetic. You can also include quotes, lyrics or other words that speak to you.
- What does your perfect wardrobe look like?
- What clothes do you want to wear?
- Who do you want to be?
Remember, this is just for fun! Don’t worry too much about what others might think. This is about getting to know yourself and your style.
Chapter 2: Your Current Wardrobe
Now you have a better idea of your style and preferences, it’s time to take inventory of your current wardrobe.
Taking Stock of Your Clothes and Accessories
- Go through your closet and sort items into three piles: keep, donate/sell, discard.
- Be honest with yourself about each item. When was the last time you wore it? Does it fit well? Does it make you feel good?
- Consider the 80/20 rule: 80% of the time you likely wear 20% of your clothes. Identify your favourite, most worn items and why you love them.
What Works and What Doesn’t
- Look at the items you’ve decided to keep. What do they have in common? Are there any patterns or themes that emerge?
- Think about the items you’ve decided to donate or discard. What didn’t work about them? Was it the fit, the style, the colour?
- What have you learned about your personal style and preferences? Are there any gaps in your wardrobe you’d like to fill?
Gaps and Opportunities
- What are your wardrobe goals? Do you want to build a work wardrobe? A weekend wardrobe?
- What are your budget constraints? Are there any areas where you want to invest in higher quality or more sustainable pieces?
- What are your priorities? Do you want to focus on building a solid base of basics or investing in a few statement pieces?
By taking the time to assess your current wardrobe and identify where to improve, you’ll be better equipped to make intentional, mindful purchasing decisions that align with your values and style.
Part 2: Mindful Shopping Strategies
Chapter 3: Setting Intentions and Making a List
Now that you have a sense of your personal style and wardrobe needs, it’s time to set intentions and make a list.
Needs and Wants List
- What are your wardrobe needs? What gaps do you have in your wardrobe that need to be filled?
- What are your wants? What specific items or brands have you been lusting after?
- Prioritize your needs over your wants. Build your basics before investing in trendier or statement pieces.
How to Avoid Impulse Buys
- Stick to your list! Don’t browse or wander without a clear idea of what you’re looking for.
- Take time to think before you buy. Ask yourself if it aligns with your values, budget and wardrobe needs.
- Consider a 30 day waiting period for non-essential items. This will help you determine if you really need it or if it’s just an impulsive want.
Chapter 4: Buying from Brands That Share Your Values
When it comes to mindful shopping it’s not just about what you buy but who you buy from.
Researching Brands That Value Quality, Sustainability and Social Responsibility
- Look for brands that value quality, sustainability and social responsibility. Research their manufacturing process, labor practices and environmental policies.
- Check out websites like Good on You, a platform that rates brands on their sustainability, ethics and labor practices.
- Consider shopping from smaller, independent brands or local designers who may have more transparent and sustainable practices.
Brands That Embodies These Values
- Patagonia: Environmental activism and sustainable manufacturing.
- Everlane: Transparency and sustainability in their manufacturing and supply chain.
- Reformation: Sustainable and eco-friendly practices, using renewable energy and reducing waste.
How to Evaluate Brand Claims and Authenticity
- Look for third party certifications like Fair Trade or Organic Cotton.
- Research the brand’s supply chain and manufacturing process.
- Check out reviews and ratings from other customers to get a sense of the brand’s quality and values.
Chapter 5: Cost Per Wear and Investing in Quality
When it comes to mindful shopping it’s not just about the initial cost of the item but also its long term value.
What is Cost Per Wear
- Cost per wear is the total cost of the item divided by the number of times you wear it.
- Consider the initial cost of the item and any maintenance or repair costs.
- Think about the item’s durability and lifespan. Will it last for years to come or will it need to be replaced soon?
Investing in Timeless, Quality Pieces
- Invest in timeless, quality pieces that will last for years to come.
- 30 wear rule: if you don’t think you’ll wear an item at least 30 times, don’t buy it.
- Quality over quantity. Smaller wardrobe of great pieces rather than a big wardrobe of crap.
Part 3: Putting it All Together
Chapter 6: Putting it all together
Now that you have a better understanding of your personal style, wardrobe needs and mindful shopping strategies it’s time to put it all together.
How to mix and match
- Start with a neutral palette and add pops of colour with accessories or statement pieces.
- Invest in a few high quality timeless pieces that can be mixed and matched with other items.
- 80/20 rule: 80% of the time you wear 20% of your clothes. What are your favourite, most worn items? Build your wardrobe around them.
Colour palette and texture story
- Choose a few core colours that reflect your personal style and aesthetic.
- 60-30-10 rule: 60% of your outfit should be a neutral colour, 30% a secondary colour and 10% an accent colour.
- Mix and match different textures: smooth, rough, soft to add depth to your outfits.
How to accessorise and add personality to your outfits
- Accessories can make or break an outfit. Choose a few statement pieces that reflect your personal style and aesthetic.
- A good handbag or shoes can make an outfit. These can instantly elevate and add personality.
- Don’t be afraid to try new things. Accessorising is all about having fun and expressing yourself.
Chapter 7: Continuing the Mindful Shopping Practice
Mindful shopping is a journey not a destination. It takes time, effort and practice to build new habits and strategies.
Regular wardrobe audits
- Schedule regular wardrobe checks to see what’s working and what’s not.
- Be brutal – if you haven’t worn something in a year it’s probably time to get rid of it.
- Consider a “one in, one out” policy to keep your wardrobe in balance.
Staying true to your values and intentions
- Remember why you started this journey in the first place. What are your values and intentions?
- Stay on track with your goals and priorities. Don’t let distractions or temptations get in the way.
- Celebrate your wins and don’t be too hard on yourself when you mess up. Mindful shopping is a journey not a destination.
End
Mindful shopping is about more than just buying clothes – it’s about getting to know yourself better. By being more intentional and thoughtful in your shopping you can have a wardrobe that truly reflects your personal style and aesthetic. Remember it’s okay to take it one step at a time and mess up along the way. The most important thing is to stay true to your values and intentions.
Happy shopping!
