Undergarments...and Thoughts on a Month of Buying Nothing New
A strong stance against thongs
I am a little over a month into buying nothing new, and I have feelings. First, for clarification, I have bought things, like groceries (obviously), birthday gifts (for my toddler and best friend), and a care package for a friend who just had a baby, but I’ve purchased virtually nothing for myself, including but not limited to clothing, skincare/beauty products, and home decor.
I can not remember a time in recent or distant history when I went a month without buying things (I did not inherently need) OR receiving gifting from a brand, which is its own form of shopping, without spending money.
According to scientific evidence it can take anywhere from 18 to 254 days (on average 66) to change your behavior. At day 42 I am surprised by how much my habits have changed, and simultaneously that I continue to have the urge to buy stuff.
My lack of presence on social media has drastically influenced my desire to purchase things. When you’re not constantly fed messaging about consumption you don’t feel the need to mindlessly consume. That’s not to say the internet isn’t full of advertising (both blatant and discreet) but taking away the conspicuous consumption on Instagram is impactful.
What’s harder than not buying things? Not accepting things for free. Shopping without spending money is a really nice benefit. But nothing is truly free. Gifting from brands comes with its own costs; expectations (to share and post), time and attention (spent “shopping”, corresponding with the brand), environmental waste (packaging, shipping, returns if something doesn’t fit), and the lack of control over my own personal taste (does that make sense?).
It’s possibly one of the biggest revelations I’ve had since the start of this experiment. Reclaiming my time, attention, and the freedom to explore my personal style is priceless. Without the influence of social media or “cool” brands clamoring for my attention and approval I can re-discover what I actually like.
We are going on a family trip to a warm destination soon. There’s a strong urge to buy for it, but I am also dare I say, relieved not to. I can pack for this trip, and not waste time shopping for things I don’t need, dealing with returns, and bringing items only because they’re new and I feel like I should wear them. Look at me, I’m growing.
Let’s talk about undergarments
Maybe it’s because I set out to buy nothing that I notice what I’m wearing even more. This includes my undergarments. I recently ruthlessly went through my underwear drawer. If it’s not comfortable I’m not wearing it.
There was a time when I tried to make thongs happen for me. Victoria’s Secret was in its heyday and thongs were cool and sexy (apparently visible thongs made a comeback recently). I might be in the minority (?), but thongs are SO uncomfortable. It’s basically just having a wedgie all day and being ok with it?
Needless to say, you’re not going to see a thong in my underwear drawer. What you fill find is full coverage cotton undies and bras with no underwire. And so, without further ado, here are the undergarments I stand by, for comfort, quality, and absolutely no wedgies.
Underwear
The Details: These are an organic cotton, mid-rise, full coverage underwear. I’ve put these to the test with (at this point) hundreds of wears and washes. They last, and they’re comfortable. The elastic is just right without digging in anywhere but still keeping them in place. Also, the price is right. The six pack is the best deal.
The Details: These boy shorts were a Christmas present from Craig, he knows I love the brand and these did not disappoint. They are incredibly soft, and a full coverage bottom so absolutely no wedgie. The quality is exceptional (to be expected from Negative). How do these compare to the Pact undies? They’re softer and a bit lighter, a breezier feel for warm/hot weather. The only con for me is the price, which is a lot for underwear.
Bras
Neiwai Barely Zero Spaghetti Strap Bra
The Details: My sister-in-law gave me this bra as a gift and I became an immediate convert. I’ve never worn anything that is as comfortable or soft. The kind of bra you basically forget you’re wearing, it’s that good.
The Details: I bought this bra last year because I wanted to try another style from the brand. I got it to wear with some lower tops and tanks, but if anything it seems like more coverage than the spaghetti strap bra. It’s a phenomenal t-shirt bra and it’s very comfortable, but I would not call it a plunge bra. If you like thicker straps this is a great option.
The Details: My only regret is that I did not discover these camisoles sooner. They remind me of the Gap camis I loved in middle/high school? They have just enough support with a built-in wireless bra and adjustable straps. I lived in these last summer. Great for hot days and layering under button downs, dresses, cardigans.