For the year of 2010 I will be setting myself the challenge of NOT buying any NEW items of clothing. The reasons being that personally I actually do not need any more clothes, but I also want to train myself to not see my clothes as disposable and not really wearable only after a few wears. I read somewhere once that if we really save for something, then we put more value on it. I am guilty of buying on impulse, buying things just to make ONE outfit which will probably never been worn again and then chucked out.
Knowing me however, 365 days of no shopping will probably drive me crazy so I am limiting any RARE purchases to Charity shops and Vintage stores. Not only does this have financial benefits to me personally but after looking it up other benefits are:
Supporting Charities, reducing additons to landfil sites, environmental pros as it doesn’t help contribute to cheap production of materials which uses a high concentration of pesticide, as well as reduction of business to clothing factories with unethical management practices. It will also aid in creativity due to more customizing and more chances of finding something beautiful and unique!
I would love if you would send me some places where you have been able to find some really great re-used clothes, whether general thrift or vintage (in London).
My FAVOURITE PLACE for thrift in the world is Beacons CLoset, in Brooklyn NY. I always hit it up when I’m in NY and my last visit I was able to buy my current winter wardrobe for cheap.
I am looking forward to discovering some great places...so start sending them my way!