Six months ago, poised to enter a new year with a new outlook, I decided to challenge myself to abstain from buying mass-produced clothing for an entire year. As easy as it sounded at the time, I admit I had my doubts that I could shake off my shopaholic tendencies and rely almost entirely on what I already owned, thrifting, independently-made garments, and vintage purchases. Admittedly, I did give myself a couple loopholes to allow for necessary purchases that would be hard to find elsewhere–or too expensive. But even with that, I’ve been surprised at my steadfastness!

The biggest change I’ve noted in the past six months is how little I need to shop! Coupled with the rising gas prices making me more conscious about outings, I find that I’m more and more content with making do or refashion/rediscovering my own wardrobe. I’ve made myself look more closely at the boxes of vintage clothes I’ve amassed over the years: can I reuse any of this? That has become what I’ve asked myself again and again. Refashion has become my mantra; even if it means something as simple as rehemming a skirt to a more flattering length, because that is all I had time to do. At least it is in keeping with recycle/reuse/refashion!

I’ve also ventured more onto Ebay to find bits and pieces that I need, as I need them. My biggest, ongoing problem has been tshirts. It’s a simple enough garment, but I tend to be really picky about fit and the material’s weight. I could buy from American Apparel or Alternative Apparel and still keep within my guidelines; but I’ve found that I can’t justify or afford those tops right now (especially since I am the Queen Klutz and tend to spill things on my brand new tshirts in no time! lol). So it’s been back to the drawing board. Right now I’m starting to try and find tshirts I like in the thrift shops, that are a bit larger than I need. I’m cooking up ideas to cut them apart and remake them into new, fitted tshirts. So far, I haven’t found anything I like enough to buy and remake (did I mention I’m really–probably unrealistically–picky?!). But I’m hoping to get to a “mega” thrift store next week and eek something out of the long racks…

Tallying up my retail purchases for the year, the allowed ones that it, yields only one category as being the most frequently purchased: shoes. Although I have been lucky to find a find a few pairs in the thrift shops that have fleshed out my stash (which, of course, was whittled down considerably right before I decided to go on this little year-long experiment!), retail has been the only way to go. Otherwise, just about everything else “new” I’ve brought home has been thrifted or vintage! It’s actually proved to be a lot easier than I anticipated! Not to mention how fulfilling–if I dare use it in this context–this challenge has been. Managing to stick to a decision like this, roping my fiance into helping me avoid Retail Temptation (yes, there have been times he’s gently told me to put something back because I’m not allowed to buy that! lol!), and not contributing as much to the mainstream fashion industry… it’s all been so worthwhile and forced me to really evaluate what I need, versus want.

Yesterday I snuck to one of my favorite shops while I was running some errands; amazingly I hadn’t been in a good two weeks! Thrifting has been a little sparse lately, but I did spy these lovely finds; including a pair of vintage Town and Country pumps. They need a little tlc, but I think I can rescue them! Hey, for $2.50, a girl can’t argue! I also picked up a little handbag, which I’m not sure if I’m going to keep or sell yet (I know, I know…), and this cute little booklet on making party decorations from crepe paper. Fun!

I think my next phase of this challenge will be to become more picky about my thrift-purchases. I tend to be a bit… shall we say uninhibited when it comes to thrift shopping, which has resulted in my bringing home more than a few duds. Not to mention I’ve collected a lot of stuff that I don’t really need. Now that I’m facing getting married and having to transport my stuff and move it into a small apartment, I’m beginning to realize that fighting this clutter begins with my shopping habits. Wish me luck… we already know I have no restraint if a.) it’s vintage/old, b.) cute, or c.)red with polka dots. *sigh*

So, have you been doing any exciting garment refashioning, thrifting, or making of your own lately? Tell me about it–I’m always searching for new ideas and inspiration!

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Posted on 06.25.08 to casey's musings. Tags: 2008 wardrobe, fashion, life.

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