We all know the stigma that is attached to the coming of a new year-- resolutions. So, this year, instead of dreaming about how you would like to shed a few pounds from the waistline, imagine ways to trim your wardrobe. And while you are at it, think of a good charity to where you can send those unused articles of clothing.
See 'ya in 2009.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Monday, December 15, 2008
Can You Believe It?! 5 MONTHS DOWN!
I have to admit, I never thought that my fast would live to see this day...5 BIG ONES! That is, I have reached my five-month mark and I have not broken my vow to refrain from purchasing any fashion item. In fact, besides scoring some super-cute tights from the GAP a few weeks ago (which are, in fact, permissible), I have not brought home any article of clothing nor I have intentionally added to my wardrobe in any way.
As each and everyday passes, I am reminded of how much time and money I used to spend on attire every week, and it's so refreshing to have that burden off my mind. I no longer scan websites everyday for great deals nor do I wander aimlessly around Bloomingdale's for hours on end. I am very pleased with the contents of my closet, and still find new ways to wear outfits and individual pieces. It may be more of a challenge to find something unique to put on in the morning, but my clothes are no longer a barometer of my self-image. I don't rely on my clothes to improve my self-esteem, but I instead work on making sure my confidence is at healthy levels everyday-- before I pull articles of clothing from my dresser.
Beyond not allowing clothes to sway my mood, The Fashion Fast is timely in relation to the current economic hardships affecting the world. Not only are budgets tighter, but also non-profits are finding fewer and fewer donors. Thus, their funds are quickly drying up. So, help me celebrate my five months and contribute to a great cause, either my charity of choice-- Women In Need--or your charity of choice. It's the perfect time of year to give some cash to those that need it most.
Monday, December 8, 2008
Temptation Tuesday: Birthday and Holiday Gifts
Being that my birthday was a last week and the gift-giving/consumerist-filled holiday of Christmas is approaching, I am anxious about possible fashion fast faults. Turning a year older proved to be fashion-fast-friendly, as I didn't receive any clothing beyond some scarves, a hat, gloves, biking shorts (see October's A Moral Dilemma) and a dangerous gift card (i.e. it's for a store I really love).
Yet, as Christmas comes and loved-ones begin asking for my gift ideas list, it is taking every ounce of strength in me to resist telling them that I will gladly accept any skirt in black, any comfy cardigan, and any pair of pumps or boots that one could possibly find in my size. I. Must. Resist.
After all, in this economy where everyone is strapped for extra cash and I am slowly weeding out impulsive consumption from my life, it's a good time to re-recognize why Christians celebrate this beloved holiday. It's hard to sift through the genius marketing ploys and pounds of gingerbread to remember that, should you believe, there is a deeper, more profound reason that we congregate with family and friends each December.
Yet, as Christmas comes and loved-ones begin asking for my gift ideas list, it is taking every ounce of strength in me to resist telling them that I will gladly accept any skirt in black, any comfy cardigan, and any pair of pumps or boots that one could possibly find in my size. I. Must. Resist.
After all, in this economy where everyone is strapped for extra cash and I am slowly weeding out impulsive consumption from my life, it's a good time to re-recognize why Christians celebrate this beloved holiday. It's hard to sift through the genius marketing ploys and pounds of gingerbread to remember that, should you believe, there is a deeper, more profound reason that we congregate with family and friends each December.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
A New Motto
As I was helping my mother clear out her home in preparation for her move across the country, it truly dawned on me just how much stuff we accumulate throughout a lifetime or even over a few years. Do we need it all? No. Do we ever use it all? Definitely not. For the most part, it goes to waste while we are too busy scooping up the new, the better, the faster, and the sleeker stuff.
While I was hauling box upon box from her crammed attic to her even more crowded living room and then (finally) to its resting place-- the super-jam-packed basement, I came to realize that I should value space more than I do stuff. And thus it began, my new motto. I repeat, "I should value space more that I do stuff."
Some might argue that because I live in New York City, where space is a luxury and certainly not the standard, I am forced to limit how much stuff I bring into my life. And it's true. But my new motto becomes even more valid because of the non-existent amount of openness I enjoy. I need to minimize what is cluttering my life and make sure that with which I fill my home, office, handbag, life, schedule, and relationships is practical, but above all, important.
While I was hauling box upon box from her crammed attic to her even more crowded living room and then (finally) to its resting place-- the super-jam-packed basement, I came to realize that I should value space more than I do stuff. And thus it began, my new motto. I repeat, "I should value space more that I do stuff."
Some might argue that because I live in New York City, where space is a luxury and certainly not the standard, I am forced to limit how much stuff I bring into my life. And it's true. But my new motto becomes even more valid because of the non-existent amount of openness I enjoy. I need to minimize what is cluttering my life and make sure that with which I fill my home, office, handbag, life, schedule, and relationships is practical, but above all, important.
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