Three Months into ‘No New Clothes’
I’ve been quite well behaved for the last three months. The beginning of the year isn’t a particularly inspiring time to shop for clothes, but I’m proud of myself none-the-less. If you’re confused, check out my post My Fashion Commitment for 2021.
This challenge has been quite thrilling when I sit down and think about it. It’s pushed me to see shopping through a completely different lens. Despite the torturous aspect of it, I still scroll and browse through non-second-hand online shops, simply to see what’s new from my favourite brands, and to find inspiration for potential future purchases. For the most part, it’s a positive practice. This notion falls apart completely when Proenza Schouler decides to launch their annual warehouse sale, or when Serena from The Bachelor wears those oh-so trendy leather trousers from Aritzia that I just cannot seem to find second hand. These moments test me. But I’ve never wavered from my commitment - good job Emily; three months without buying new clothes, you’re an inspiration.
Has three months of no new clothes transformed me into a brand new woman? Certainly not. But I have found that this personal challenge has forced me to hunt for things I really want, and revel in the satisfaction when I eventually find the dream. A perfect example of this is the Celine red country boots you see me wearing here. The Celine red country boots were the dream, and a tricky dream to attain to say the least. I first spotted them on the teeny-tiny feet of a stylist name Flo, back in my London days. The boots never left my mind from that day onward. I waited, set alerts, checked every resale website buried on the internet. No boots. The desperation eventually led me to DM Flo on Instagram to ask whether she would ever consider selling her pair! Not only were they incredibly hard to find second hand, they were even harder to find in my size. When I did finally order them in a 36, they were too small. Note to self: Listen when other bloggers tell you that Celine shoe sizes run small. The size 36 pair are now sitting in the luxury consignment store I work in and what do I have on my feet in these photos? Why, it’s the Celine red country boots in the ever-so-sought-after size 37 (still a bit small on me but I’m married to them now). The process of finding these boots is exactly what I mean by hunting for the dream. It’s maddening sometimes, but when you finally have that piece in your wardrobe, you appreciate it oodles (yes, I just used the word “oodles”) more than anything else.
That brings me to my next point; appreciation for your clothes. When you can’t go out to satisfy your craving for something new, and the second-hand things you’re after are rare, discontinued Phoebe Philo Celine pieces, you start to see more and more opportunity in the clothes you already have. Funds instead go to having things tailored, premium stain removers, delicates wash, and cashmere specific detergents. My shopping is slower now, and more thoroughly thought-out. This helps me to truly appreciate the value of my clothes. Contrary to my Zara and H&M loving brain of the past, I understand now that clothes are not, or should not be, disposable. They are something much more animate and communicative and special, if you allow them to be.
I’m sure the remaining 9 months of No New Clothes will come with more temptations, challenging hunts, and ooey-gooey self reflection on everything style and consumption. Personally, I cannot wait. Come, join me for the ride here on emeroo and over on the ‘gram.
Thanks for reading.
Em
