Savoring simple daily pleasures
Just a brief entry today as it's only been a couple of days since my last post. One thread that follows on from my previous blog post is the sentiment of the universe whispering to you- granted this whisper was most likely derived from an algo rhythm - however I was rather tickled to have pop up on my Instagram an "influencer' whom I'd never come across, also embarking on a no buy year! One thing she mentioned was Steph Swalls ( @steph_swalls ) whose style channel is about intentional shopping and minimalist fashion. I am by no means a minimalist, but I am intentional and enjoy curating looks, feels and a capsule wardrobe. Not only was it a real buzz to feel I had stumbled upon a fellow comrade, but she suggests putting together a minimal capsule wardrobe each month from the clothes you already own; that way you wont get tired of them before it's time to change them up. I think this is a Brilliant idea, it takes a little effort, but it runs true to the concept of shopping you own closet, eliminates clothing fatigue and keeps it vibrant and exciting- challenging even. Love it! Her outfits and style appear at first glance to be rather more casual than my everyday attire- But I can absolutely draw inspiration from her energy and design flare. Yay!
This week marked a momentous occasion of being allowed to purchase a new to me item- as part of the deal I struck with myself , I was able to purchase second hand a dress for a wedding we are attending in a few days time. I went to one of the HUGE second hand warehouse style shops, it was hot, icky and busy, and you have to be prepared to invest time, if not $ Dollars, to trawl through and try on. BUT, 90 minutes later and several almost designer dress purchases ( Trelise Coopers for under $50 and a Diane Von Furstenburg for $60!! Sadly none were very me or fit quite right- so I knew it would be a rash purchase as I knew their worth and quality, rather than filling the gap I was seeking to fill for the wedding) I did however, find a dress that is suitable for a summery wedding, on the casual side of formal but still tailored and a little unusual, from the Swedish brand COS. Its both a style and colour I wouldn't normally have even considered, but from the racks and racks of dresses it spoke to me, fitted surprisingly well, and importantly made me feel good when I put it on. Its definitely a nod to the 80's with its asymmetric off the shoulder design, and its - dare I say it PEACH colour.... lets go with Coral! However, at that price, and something I feel confident in, with a sprinkle of carefree fun- why the heck not!? I happily ferried it home, removed the tags- yes it had never been worn- laundered it immediately and hung it on the line to dry, I gently pressed it that afternoon as I was ironing school shorts anyway and Ta daaa! Wedding outfit!
Completed with nude wedges, a sun hat and a nude wicker clutch I purchased in Fiji, I will feel a million dollars for $39. It was very gratifying to be patient, then intentionally shop with a clear goal and limit, and also knowing that now, with the exception of replacing any clothing or footwear item that is beyond repair throughout the year, that's me done. Its liberating!
I am mindful of not allowing myself to look or browse either in shops or on line as it serves no purpose now, and I am falling in love again with items I already own, and new outfit combinations. I have re arrived at the point where plain classic colors and styles are the way forward- allowing me to mix and match and feel au courant.
Its a muggy wet Saturday here and my youngest - whose growing like a bean and now has several inches on me- is having a good old wardrobe sort out- I have happily accepted a few of her hand me downs, Shopping my daughters wardrobe- who knew!?
A knock on effect of all this is also a renewed energy and mindfulness to keep myself in shape, and healthy, so that the clothes I do own look their best on me and I feel confident and comfortable in them. Double bonus.
Until next time, x
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