Shopping Mindfully

My last post talked about how I would love to permanently quit fast fashion but it is just too expensive for my budget at the moment. I gave a tip on how to wear and make cheap clothing last, which you can read here.

I wanted to follow up and write more about fast fashion and how to shop mindfully when purchasing items.

So, you find yourself in a Forever 21 after you gave up on a quest to find something sustainable, stylish and in your budget. The biggest problem with your fast fashion stores is that they have almost every trend you could think of. This sounds pretty awesome until you have a ton of items hanging in your closet that you’ve never worn and never plan to wear.

Your style is Boho Chic but you find yourself buying all these Soft Grunge pieces because they looked so great on the mannequin or they’re only $9.50. This is why it is imperative to find your personal style before stepping foot into any store. Assuming that you want to shop mindfully, you should already have a personal style in mind. Tip #1 shouldn’t be too difficult for some

Tip #1: Shop within your style parameters.

 You’re invited to a party or event and really want to make statement. You purchase a sequined skirt and a halter-top. Now they’re sitting in your closet never to be worn ever again. Instead of purchasing a piece that is super specific, try for a piece that is a little simpler. Accessories were invented for a reason…accessorize please!

Tip #2: Don’t purchase items that are too specific and accessorize.

 A lot of the times we buy something from a store (especially a fast fashion store) and bring it home only to find out that it doesn’t fit. I know, I know, I hate trying on clothes too. The lines can be long and changing out of clothes multiple times is somewhat tedious. If you decide to forgo the changing room and find that the item doesn’t fit, DO NOT hang on to it! Return it or exchange it and don’t try to convince yourself you’ll fit into it later.

Tip #3: Utilize the changing rooms/return ill-fitting items.

It’s ridiculously easy to get caught up in trends. Fringe is back in…or did it ever go away? My goodness do I love a nice fringe heel, jacket, shirt, skirt…etc. Now this tip isn’t supposed to deter anyone away from being trendy; in fact I say embrace the trends but in your own refined way. This tip goes along with tip #2. I’ve mentioned a versatile wardrobe on here before and I still wholeheartedly believe in having versatility in a closet. When you’re shopping and you find something you like, think of the different items in your closet that you can wear with the new piece. If you can get two different outfits out of an item then you found yourself a winner.

Tip #4: Shop for versatile pieces that can be worn in more than one way.

 I hope you all enjoyed reading this post because this is one of my favorite topics to talk about: mindfulness. As consumers, we can be easily convinced to buy and buy and buy without really thinking about it. Shopping mindfully helps to think before you purchase (also saves you money) even when you find yourself standing in the middle of a fast fashion store.

ChelsiKay