She Strengthens

Embracing Mindful Consumption: My Journey to a Curated Closet

For years, I’ve dreamed of owning a wardrobe filled with timeless, locally designed pieces that reflect my personal style. But, I found myself stuck in a cycle of buying cheap, ill-fitting clothes that would quickly fall apart. The turning point came during a recent trip to Turkey, where I was uninspired by the familiar fast-fashion stores. I decided then and there to take control of my consumption habits.

Inspired by the Slow Fashion Movement

The slow fashion movement, which emphasizes quality over quantity, resonated deeply with me. I drew inspiration from Cait Flanders, a pioneer in conscious consumption, who embarked on a two-year shopping ban. I set a goal to refrain from shopping for six months, keeping a list of desired items to guide my future purchases.

A More Mindful Approach to Shopping

Four months into my self-imposed shopping ban, I’ve made a few necessary purchases. These include a new wallet, gym leggings, a painting by a local artist, an earring for my tragus piercing, and three shirts from local designers. While these purchases may seem like a departure from my initial goal, they align with my values and priorities.

Understanding My Spending Habits

Reflecting on these purchases, I realize that I’m willing to invest in items that bring me joy, support local talent, and promote mindful consumption. I could have allocated this money towards saving or traveling, but I choose to prioritize my values. This exercise has helped me become more aware of my spending habits and resist the temptation of impulse buys.

A Shift in Perspective

My so-called shopping ban may not have been a complete success, but it has been a transformative experience. I no longer feel drawn to mindless consumption, and I’ve developed a greater appreciation for the value of my money. As I continue on this journey, I’m excited to cultivate a more intentional approach to shopping and living.

About the Author

Michelle is a seasoned writer and content team leader based in Cape Town, South Africa. She’s passionate about personal finance and traveling, and is committed to living a more conscious, sustainable lifestyle.