"Am I a spend thrift?" - That's the question which has been on my mind this past weekend. I never would have used that adjective for myself, as personally I believe I don't shop as much - but that observation is in comparison to people around me. I shop seasonally. So four times a year. However, if compared to someone who has, say 50 pieces of clothing in total and doesn't intend to add more to the closet too frequently, then yes I am spendthrift. That's the conclusion I have reached on that question, so far.
But in today's post I plan to share - Where I Don't Shop And Why - which is a continuation from the post - Where Do I Shop. In the last 5-7 years not only have I reduced the amount of clothing I purchase (or even accept as a blogger) but I have also changed the way I shop (How To Create A Closet). I have made a conscious effort to not indulge in fast fashion as much as possible. I have not shopped at Forever 21 since 2011 and ASOS since 2014. The only thing I have bought from Zara in last seven years is this scarf. I own nothing from H&M / Topshop / Primark / or any other popular high street brand. Here's why: 1. Pollution & Child labor - Fashion is the most polluting industries in the world. I could talk more about it, but I would suggest you watch this instead. And if you are from a developing nation or keep up with the current affairs, then you already know this but if you don't, then trust me that every facet of clothes manufacturing in the third world countries employ children in some form or the other. Especially for tasks like sewing, beading, miscellaneous errands, delivery and such. 2. Poor Quality - The store which comes out with gazillion collections in a year, surely do not pay much attention to the quality. The sooner your clothes fall apart the faster you will go and shop for more. Unless of course if you are a shopaholic. And as I wrote here, personally for me less is truly more! Having fewer, better things is not only good for your wallet, it is good for the environment and it is also more stylish. It is a win-win throughout. 3. Discontentment - I do not like the idea of constantly trying to keep up with the collections. e.g. Zara comes out with a new collection every other week and the price points starts at $79.00 (for anything that I like). How is that sane? Keeping up with the trends is a headache and a royal waste of money. It is a good thing that I am not into trends. I am not into anything "IT". I am not into designer collaborations with high street brands. I do not get the concept of conscious collection either. Shouldn't all clothing be consciously manufactured? It is nothing but a PR strategy to hike up the prices.I shop local as much as my means allow me. I support independent designers every chance I get. I frequently purchase clothing from resale clothing stores. I shop with a list and ONLY for pieces which are versatile. While I have not yet figured it all out but I sure am making an effort to educate myself. What are you doing?
Crop Top - Target // Cuter Skirt - Uniqlo // Similar
Shoes - Shelly's London // Similar
Cardigan - Free People // Another
Bag - Dior // Same
