The best way to start any process of change is by analyzing your current situation. In the near future, I will be changing the way I buy clothing. (Look out for a post in the next few weeks explaining how.) With that in mind, I am breaking down my current fashion spending habits and routine. This is a review of what I bought in December and early January (since I’m currently working on a class project of buying no clothes), so this record reflects purchases over the course of a month or so. All prices are approximate.
Chambray shirt-$25. This is more than I usually spend for a shirt on my college student budget, but it was definitely worth the money. I have already worn it way too much a few times, and I think I will get a lot of wear out of it in the future.
Boots-$30. These were actually a Christmas gift from my mother, so they were FREE to me. I am including them because I picked them out and because I would have bought them if she didn’t.
Boot socks-$12 (4 pair). Of course, I needed socks that were long enough to wear with my boots. These were a bit unnecessary since no one will ever see them, but it was a modest splurge, and they’ve made me very happy as the weather has gotten colder.
Jeans-$30. I wear jeans every day. Literally. It’s kind of embarrassing. I have other pants, but I only wear jeans. So I buy new ones every couple months to keep up with the ones I’m wearing out. I will probably wear these over 100 times, so it’s money well spent.
Camisole-$10. White. Basic. Goes under my shirts so I’m dressed appropriately. Every girl needs one of these.
That brings my total to $107. That’s not terrible, but it’s way more than I budgeted for the month. I did buy a little more than I do in an average month, but last month I bought a coat, so November was even worse. Even so, this level of spending does not fit into my tiny budget.
It’s odd, but I feel like my shopping itch wasn’t scratched by these purchases. This could be because everything I bought was practical (except the socks, but they were only a slight luxury). I didn’t buy anything completely frivolous. I should be rejoicing at this, but I feel more frustrated than jubilant. Perhaps in my quest for practicality, I’ve lost the fun of clothing. My goal for this change in spending is to get the fun back without spending wastefully.
Sustainably Dressed 