Avoiding Overconsumption

By: Lucy DiChristina

We have normalized fast-moving fashion cycles which makes it the expectation to adopt a new look every season. I am the first victim of this whenever it gets warm out an endless list of things I “need” fills up my notes app. Not only is this not sustainable for your wallet or the environment but it also inhibits you from developing your own sense of personal style which makes you develop self-confidence and feel proud of your appearance and the items you have. So how, in such a fast-moving fashion climate do you avoid falling into the trap of overconsumption?

Clean Out Your Closet Before Every Season

I know it is so annoying but a closet cleanout can truly alter what you think you need for a

season. Even though I dread it, a seasonal closet cleanout makes me rediscover so many

aspects of my wardrobe that I had been overlooking. So many things come in and out of style that it is easy to forget about pieces that you already own. Also, a closet cleanout points out the gaps in your wardrobe that actually need to be filled.

Focus on Classic Pieces

Classic pieces will always be in style. Focusing on these classic pieces will ensure that you are not wasting your money on a trend that will be out of style in a week. Classic pieces will always be easy to pair with any accessory, or outerwear, or mix and match with different clothing items.

Try to Disconnect from Social Media

Social media, as much as I love it, only exasperates feelings of a need to shop. I know that

whenever I am feeling overwhelmed by the amount of things I “need” it is mostly stemming from an overload of social media. Social media is also made with an algorithm to push micro trends and make people feel like they NEED to buy certain items to fit in and be on trend.

Think About What You Will Wear in 5 Years

Whenever I am deciding what to buy I think about what will still be in good condition and stylish in 5 years. With fast fashion brands taking over, it is getting too easy to buy pieces that will not last for more than 2 years. When it comes down to it, brands tend to push micro-trends where they know they can manipulate the consumer into buying things that will break just as they go out of style. Keeping this in mind can help you from falling into traps that can make you waste your money with no actual result from the clothing item.

Overconsumption is one of the hardest things a fashion lover has to try to avoid. However, i think that these 4 quick things to keep in the back of your mind can help you from overspending and over consuming which has become way too easy to fall victim to.