A Post about Mindful Shopping

I know that I have spoken about this topic in a few other blog posts, but I would like to bring it up again. The year is slowly coming to a close and that means my slow fashion journey is too. I will most likely do a separate post on how my challenge went.

Today I want to talk about spending a little bit more on your clothing and why. Some of you know I’m kind of big on spending more for better quality clothes. Before I get started, I just want to state that – more expensive does not automatically equal better quality/sustainable/ethical. It is extremely important to do your own research of a brand/store before making any kind of purchases.

So why spend more? Well, usually but not always, you’re going to get better quality. My Loft and Madewell sweaters are way thicker and better made than my Boohoo and H&M sweaters. My mustard Loft sweater will probably take a year or so before it starts to pill or shed or just completely lose its shape. The same cannot be said for the cheaper alternatives.

Another reason to spend more is that the fit of a garment (in my experience) is far more superb. Ladies, I know depending on the store, style, wash, fabric….etc…your size can greatly vary. However, when I tend to purchase something of better quality, it actually fits! In my Lucky Brand skinny jeans, I feel like I can actually conquer the world – okay dramatic. I do feel much sleeker and pulled together whenever I wear those babies though.

Construction of a garment is a huge deal for me. I’m all right at sewing and I know how some things should look and feel. Typically, an investment piece is going to be better constructed. No holes, no botched sewing, no loose or flimsy buttons and no unmatched seams is what I usually strive for when I’m shopping.

Last but certainly not least, you spend less in the long run. It doesn’t seem like it makes much sense, does it? As a teenager and throughout my first year of college, I shopped pretty much every weekend. I would make a beeline for Papaya, Forever 21, H&M and drop $60-$100 every single time. This usually did not include shoes or accessories either. You do that math. It is far more worthwhile to spend $60-$200 every month or few months on one or two…maybe even three garments. Now I rarely shop for clothing that often and when I do, it’s usually something I’ve been saving up for or have been wanting for a long time. My rule is: If I keep coming back to it or can’t stop thinking about it, then I should buy it at some point. 

By no means am I saying go out and spend your whole paycheck on something, but definitely be more mindful of your purchases and saving your money. I’m also not saying to NEVER buy from fast fashion stores or ONLY buy the more high priced items because I believe those stores and cheaper items do serve their purpose. I think there should be a healthy balance as there is with most things.

I know this was a much longer blog post, but this is a topic that I’m really passionate about and I really want to get this message out there. I would also like to write another post on when to buy fast fashion/cheaper items as well! Thanks for reading and leave a comment down below!

ChelsiKay