LIFE: fashion, consumption, and the spirit of giving- 2010 NO SHOPPING CHALLENGE!

closet (tops, dresses, skirts, jackets)

Inspired by the countdown to the year's most commercialized holiday (Christmas), and after a massive editing and weeding of the closet, I've come up with a CHALLENGE for 2010.

As much as I love looking through magazines, fashion blogs, and many other sources of fashion images, I was a bit sickened this year by all of the "buy me!" screaming from every direction. After a massive edit, I made $112 (which unfortunately will go to pay for my recent speeding ticket!) at the Crossroads Trading in SF. With an overwhelming urge to purge it all and start fresh, I ended up selling a lot of the pieces I had been holding onto for various reasons. (a lot of great pieces I had been saving- for no reason).

dresser (jeans/bottoms, workout gear, bummy tees n sweats)

Even after the massive purge (I sold them about $350 of merchandise for their sales floor), I looked around and still felt that I had too much clothes. Granted, though I still have a lot more clothes than the average joe, I definitely have a lot less than most stylists. Left with a full (small sized) closet, dresser, and a few storage bins, I definitely have more than enough for everything I need (everyday, parties/events, working out, lounging) and then some.

I am in the middle of reading Thomas J. Stanley's Stop Acting Rich..and Start Acting Like A Real Millionaire. It's basic message is repeated over and over and practically hits you on the head, page by page...telling you to live beneath your means to come out a millionaire. I know, the title sounds like a self-help book...but is actually written by the foremost researcher and expert on the affluent- with an emphasis on marketing, sales, and lifestyle data. He lists specific brand names that millionaires prefer. I was told that this wasn't his best book- but I found it very interesting, having worked in high-end retail and contemporary manufacturing. I think his previous books may have been more insightful, but he did pound his message into me.

extra storage (some styling kit stuff, misc dressier things)

After cleaning out my closet and still being left with gobs of clothes- and feeling like I had already pared it down, I realized that this wasn't healthy for my new (personal) economic reform. I vow not to make any clothing purchases for the entire year. Accessories (including tights) and the odd shoe will not be counted as purchases...we'll see how I fare this year!!!