The holidays are such an exciting time, but with all the shopping comes the harsh reminder of all the stuff we accumulate, we no longer need and we, of course, want.
I recently read a powerful NPR Fresh Air piece – or you can listen too – about reducing our consumption, which is clearly easier said that done, but is a great tool in self control with endless temptation everywhere we look.
Love this key takeaway from the article – “so if you want to reduce the environmental impact of your consumption, the best way to do that is to not manufacture more stuff. In that sense, the best thing you can do is not buy more stuff.”
Powerful? Yes!
Realistic? Not so much, as we will always need things but there are definite ways to make it better. One way is by purchasing secondhand items, so you’re utilizing what’s already out there.
Saying no to fast fashion has been a big focus for me over the past year – and yes, it’s still a work in progress – and as I’ve been editing down my closet to focus on those pieces I actually still like and wear, I’ve been striving to be as strategic as possible when it comes to filling in the missing gaps of my wardrobe.
One way I am doing this is by trying ThredUp, and if you aren’t familiar, it’s the “largest” online consignment and thrift store of women’s and children’s clothing and accessories. A few things I love so far about ThredUp is that you can search by brand/item/ fabric/you name it, they are great with sharing the item’s condition and offer frequent sales, as well as returns (which do require a restocking fee, which I feel is worth it). Plus, you can send them your own clothing to sell on site (so you earn site credit), donate or even recycle.
My first box will be arriving shortly, so I will definitely report back on which purchases I keep (if any, but fingers crossed), and would love to hear from you on ways that you are reducing your consumption in this tempting world we live in 🙂
Living Cleaner, Easier & Safer 