Sunday Style 1.7.24
Some outfits I actually wore, and reflections on the first week of buying nothing new.
When I published my essay on the first day of the year about buying nothing new I wrote down some words to describe how I felt…here’s a few notes:
“Panic,” “Heart pounding,” “Anxious,” “Relieved,” “Excited.”
I’ve been so tired the last few years (and yes new motherhood takes a toll). But I realized after my decision to do a year of buying nothing new, I was also mentally exhausted from the weight of keeping up with a career that continued to feel farther from my personal values.
Aligning my values with my work gives me a sense of purpose and fulfillment. My career isn’t everything, nor is it the only way to be fulfilled. I know I have work to do on my identity outside of that, but being in alignment energizes me and expands my creativity. It’s taken me years to make hard decisions that ultimately feel good.
Much of what has held me back is fear. I finally listened to the inner voice that said “this could work, but you’ll only know if you try.”
Knowing that I have this moratorium on buying clothes (and stuff) has given me an entirely new perspective. I often felt I just needed this one more thing. I was chasing a feeling that never came (or didn’t last). No new thing can make you feel whole.
I’ve started to notice my patterns and behaviors around buying things. Not just clothes, but anything really. I replaced that quick hit of dopamine I used to get from Instagram comments and likes with buying something new.
On a trip to Home Depot last weekend for sheetrock and grout I could feel myself searching from something else to buy, just to scratch the itch. Happy to report we left with only the things we actually needed.
A year is a long time, but I think noticing the emotions, impulses, and feelings behind the why of my consumption habits is a huge first step. I’m curious if this has come up for any of you too?
On that note, here’s some outfits I actually enjoyed wearing!
Some Outfits I Actually Wore
**If something is not linked it’s not in stock/available. I’ve included brand names if you’re interested in searching for something secondhand.**
Comfy working from home outfit. Mostly at my desk this day so I wanted to be in something cozy.
Faherty Cardigan, Faherty Henley, Alex Mill cords, M.Gemi Clogs (run small)
Running errands, dog walk and trip to Home Depot our home away from home.
Faherty Sweater, L.L. Bean Jacket, Athleta Leggings, Sézane Boots (blown away by these they’re so warm and waterproof), White and Warren Hat.
This sweater was a Christmas present from Craig and I absolutely love it. I’ve wanted to try Overland for a while and I’m super impressed with the quality.
Overland Sweater (runs big), Aritzia Jeans, Crocs, Negative Turtleneck
We were at the mountain a lot this week! I went back to skiing for the first time in 25+ years (started snowboarding in middle school). I wanted to learn again so I can teach Marin and it went much better than anticipated. We all had a lot of fun at the mountain.
Sweaty Betty Base Layers, Halfdays Bibs and Jacket (I bought both of these when they were on sale, they’re expensive!).
Craig and I had our first date night in wayyyyy too long. Marin picked my outfit, purple sweater of course. I wore this with my Blundstones.
Sézane Sweater, Madewell Jeans.
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You are amazing, Jess. Way to look at something that isn't working for you / aligning with your values and make a change. I am really looking forward to seeing how this goes for you!!!
I've been thinking so hard about doing this - and I'm going to be saving some favorites for next year when I'm not as newly postpartum or breastfeeding. Thank you for being so raw and real about this. It's really inspiring me to shop my closet in the in-between of my body!