The High Cost of a Night Out
In my early twenties, my social calendar was filled with nights out on the town, and my wardrobe reflected that. I’d spend hours getting ready, carefully curating an outfit that would make me feel like a new person. The problem was, that new person was often clad in cheap, trendy clothes that would only be worn once or twice before being relegated to the back of my closet.
The Illusion of Transformation
I thought that buying new clothes would somehow transform me into a more exciting, daring person. I’d convince myself that the right top or dress would give me the confidence to take risks and have the time of my life. But the reality was, those clothes were often ill-fitting, poorly made, and only served to fuel my fast fashion habit.
The Aftermath
Years later, as I sorted through my closet, I came across remnants of those nights out. Flimsy dresses, too-sheer tops, and worn-out shoes stared back at me, a testament to the waste of money and resources. I couldn’t help but feel a pang of regret, knowing that I could have bought fewer, higher-quality pieces that would have served me better in the long run.
A Typical Outfit
I’ve assembled a typical going-out ensemble from back in the day, complete with the prices I paid for each item. The grand total? A staggering $185.68.
- Fitted skirt, H&M, $12.99
- Open knit tights, Forever 21, $6.90
- Cotton spandex Double V bodysuit, American Apparel, $38
- Studded wallet crossbody bag, Zara, $19.90
- Ankle boots, Call It Spring, $69.99
- Faux leather moto jacket, Forever 21, $37.90
Lessons Learned
Looking back, I realize that I should have bought smarter, not harder. Instead of chasing trends and buying cheap clothes that would only be worn once or twice, I could have invested in timeless pieces that would have served me well beyond those nights out.
As I say goodbye to those relics of my past, I’m making a promise to myself to be more mindful of my fashion choices. It’s time to curate a wardrobe that’s built on quality, not quantity.
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