As I write this, I'm letting out a big sigh. I just walked into my closet for the first time since cleaning it out. I've spent a lot of years not buying anything "too trendy." Despite that, I've still accumulated enough trends that left a whole section of my closet untouched. Last night, I did away with my "BN/NW (brand new, never worn)" items.
The majority of these were dresses or "fancy" clothes that I've worn once or have never worn at all. I was saving them for a special occasion that, let's face it, never came and probably won't ever come. I don't know why I do this. To be honest, I stick with the LBD (little black dress) for almost everything.
I think I've boiled down my personal thinking process before and after I've invested in a garment. It's something I'm working on as I get closer and closer to being minimal.
The Cycle Of Purchasing & Forgetting A Piece Of Clothing
- "How cute! I need this. (*adds to wish list, waits for sale, or don't wait at all and buy now)
- *Gets said item in the mail or buys it at the store*
- *Takes item home and squeals* "It's so perf!"
- One month later, "I can wear this now!"
- On that same day, "Maybe I should wear it some other time."
- One year later, "I have this?"
- Two years later, "I can't wear this anymore, but I'll keep it handy!"
- Today, "I STILL HAVE THIS?"
*Puts it in a box*
*Donates to good will*
*Try to sell at consignment*
*Consignment won't buy it so give it to little sister*
After realizing how much time and money I wasted on buying items I'll never have a use for, I understand now that I should really think twice about what I choose to have in my closet. From now on I'll ask why, when and how. Why do I need this? When will I wear it? How will I wear it in the future?
