How to Shop Mindfully — Rouge Magazine

Bloomers, bows, and blueberry muffin nails: this month’s newest fads. Chunky necklaces, peplum tees, and chevron leggings: the trends of fall 2014. Fashion is cyclical — what goes around, comes around. This begs the question, “How can we keep up when the trends are changing every month?” The answer: we don’t. In a few years, those gingham bloomers will probably be stuffed away at bottom of a drawer or in a landfill, so rather, let’s focus on conscious consumerism.

For example, if you love the leg-lengthening look of microshorts, perhaps opt for a mini skort, as it provides security whilst also providing the elongating look we like. How many times will you really wear those red gingham shorts? That yellow Brazil jersey sitting in your cart can be opted out for a Georgia Bulldogs jersey instead that you will wear and cherish for years! The twenty bows you have sitting in your cart, can be narrowed down to your three most worn colors.

With that being said, if these are items that you like and know you’re going to wear for at least a year, then absolutely go for it. A good rule of thumb is to ask yourself: Would I wear this in two years? Compare it to pieces in your closet that have stood the test of time. If it fits within that standard and makes you feel good, it’s likely a worthy staple piece.

For one-time occasions, consider renting instead of buying. It’s crucial to be mindful of the way that you are consuming and the longevity of the clothes you buy, because the implications are bigger than just not wearing it anymore. When you inevitably dispose of something that you got while trying to fit into an aesthetic, it will most likely end up in a landfill as 85% of textiles end up in a landfill, even when donated (Earth.Org). This vicious cycle is fueled by capitalism and a lack of personal style when shopping.

The good news? You can break the cycle by learning what we really love wearing and creating a wardrobe of pieces that we truly resonate with. You can also offset this by buying secondhand pieces, thrifting, and upcycling your current pieces by sewing; and if you’re skillful enough, you can even create your own clothes!

The beauty behind finding your style instead of adopting the current aesthetics is timeless. Trends may come and go, but personal style will not. How cool is it to think that you could wear something at twenty and forty?! At the end of the day, the most important thing is wearing what makes you feel like the best and happiest version of yourself. But it’s equally important to keep longevity and the Earth in mind when purchasing. Clothes are not meant to be worn once and disposed of, but rather a representation of our personalities and what makes us feel beautiful.

References:

Igini, Martina. “10 Concerning Fast Fashion Waste Statistics.” Earth.Org, Earth.Org, 30 May 2024, earth.org/statistics-about-fast-fashion-waste/.

Written by Niya Barnes

Copyedited by Emily Arreola

Graphic by Keri Kent