SEASONAL SHOPPING

It's that magical word, "September", that has given me permission to reminisce about the crunch of leaves, crackling fires, and pumpkins. And so even though it's still 90 plus degrees in Raleigh this week, I have begun to consider the contents of my closet. Again.

Last fall, I was pregnant, so it's been a couple of years since I've sorted through my autumn wardrobe, and many of the items in it were purchased a couple of years before that. Trying to uphold my commitment to a basic wardrobe, I've consolidated clothing down to what I plan to keep and what I plan to consign, donate or turn into utility rags for a new house project.

I'm trying something new this season - I'm going to write down exactly what I need to to buy in order to fill in the gaps in my current wardrobe. Until spring (seriously), my goal is to avoid buying anything not on that list. Planning your shopping is important if the budget allotment is tinier than you'd like and you don't want to blow half of it on that nonessential sweater just because you were enchanted by that first brisk day.

Here's my fall buying plan (still in the works), and here's hoping I can stick to it!

JUST ONE DRESS

Deciding what to wear has always been a source of stress for me, having to factor into the decision what's appropriate for an event, what's clean, what matches, what makes me feel good, and what looks put together. When there isn't much cash allotted to the clothing budget, the situation gets even more complicated.

This summer I made a very good decision. I bought just one dress that I've mostly worn to every event. I've worn it to a baby shower, on a date night, to a birthday brunch, to an afternoon wedding, for a family photo, to church, and to go shopping. I have no problem repeating an outfit to save money- especially one that's comfortable, quality, and receives compliments.

Buy just one dress that is sturdy enough to withstand many wears and washes, versatile enough to wear to multiple events, and beautiful enough that you are always thrilled to pull it over your head. And as long as it's a dress you really love, it will be as easy to wear as a t-shirt and shorts.


*the dress pictured is by Madewell, but no longer available.

BUILD A BASIC WARDROBE

I typically buy one pair of sandals that I wear every day through a few springs and summers, until they are scuffed or ripped to the point of no repair. I'm reluctant to replace them, as they represent a season of my life.

This year I have set out to do the same with the rest of my clothing. With the money made from consigning 90% of my closet, I've purchased some simpler pieces. Quality basics to withstand many, many strolls through the neighborhood, coffee drips, and baby snuggles. 

I know that a minimalist wardrobe doesn't appeal to many, and that it could hinder creative expression for those that have an artistic passion for clothing. But for me, someone who needs simplicity and organization to enjoy life and find motivation, the acceptance of a stylish, simple wardrobe has been a gift.


more on clothes:
tips for building a simple wardrobe
a new way of retail
male entrepreneurs writing the fashion code?
eco-friendly online fashion list
a short history of the little black dress