So why does it seem so difficult to stick to the pared down wardrobe? I truly enjoy having "just a few well-loved items", and a "closet of gems". Getting dressed is easy, the family budget is relieved. But I am still adding to my wardrobe, albeit at a far slower rate than in my 30's and 40's. Here are some of my theories:
- "Dithering" purchases: these are the quick stops into Ross, Marshalls and TJ Maxx on my way home from work, or tacked on to another errand. I see an attractive blouse or scarf, it's (always) less than $25 and suddenly it's mine. Did I need it? Certainly not. I wanted it, it looked good, I can afford it, and wardrobe philosophy be cursed.
- Thrifting. A blessing and a millstone. Like many fashion-lovers I enjoy the hunt, the hope of a score, the "OMG this is a real Marc Jacobs!" moment. And it's a social time too, when I chat with other women and we trade stories, advise each other. But sometimes I come home with STUFF that now needs: cleaning, pressing, arranging and justifying.
- The mythology of "this one will be perfect." For example, I have four pairs of great jeans. That's enough for my lifestyle, by far. I have dark and medium denim, two straights and two bootcuts. If I wore jeans every day, and at three wears each, that woud be twelve days before laundry was due. PLENTY. But I still long for what magazines call the "perfect pair of dark denims". Well, at age 55, I think I would have found them by now.
What about you? I think all approaches are good, if they give you joy. Do you like to have a little or a lot?
Well, I'm notoriously cheap, with little time to shop, so I love the idea of the minimalist wardrobe. Yet, of course, I always want more. There is always a running list in my head of things that I want. And there are always a few major gaps in my wardrobe -- fairly necessary basics that I lack. Sometimes I use smoke and mirrors (accessories) to hide that fact!
ReplyDeleteI THINK my wardrobe is small, especially compared to other bloggers. Yet, incomprehensibly, my closet is full. What's that about???
Anne, you state the contradictions so perfectly! The *idea* of the minimalist wardrobe is easier than the reality.
ReplyDeleteSmoke and mirrors -- great term. Thanks for reading!
I know all too well how to make the minimalist look work, but at my age I felt invisible when my blog began. I've been working on resisting that and learning new ways to do it. But, I do cull out my wardrobe once a month, take it to the thrift store, and then, discover new "must haves."
ReplyDeleteTerri, it is fun to do frequent culls, isn't it? You have put together a cool, consistent personal style, from what I've seen on your blog. You must be avoiding the "dithering" purchases!
ReplyDelete