“I really need new clothes.”
– Me, every morning.
If you often find yourself staring cluelessly at your wardrobe, wondering what to wear to work, a brunch date or a party, well, we sympathise. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed when you’re unsure of how to impinge a sense of newness into your existing sartorial pieces. Boredom and lack of creative ideas are two strong reasons for endless shopping binges. So, the next time when temptation knocks, these are questions that will help you decide if you really need to purchase a new piece of clothing.
Question 1: Will I Wear It?
The answer to this question depends a lot on your lifestyle. Where you work, what your social life is like and the kind of places you visit and people you meet, and how experimental you are – these are some factors that can help you decide if a piece of clothing will add value to your life and personal style. Avoid following trends blindly if you really wish to make conscious wardrobe decisions.
Question 2: Is It Comfortable?
Those leather pants might look great; but if you live in hot climes, they are going to be quite difficult to live in or get out of! Remember Ross’s predicament in the sitcom, Friends? It’s a good idea to check the fabrics used and figure out on what occasions the said piece of clothing will fit. Fashion gurus may disagree, but honestly, comfort should be a priority.
Question 3: What Can I Pair/Wear It With?
When you’re thinking of buying a top or bottom wear like trousers or skirt, you need to make a quick analysis of what you’re going to pair it with; by that, we mean something that already exists in your wardrobe. You don’t want to end up with a piece that matches with nothing in your wardrobe, which means you’ll have to buy something new again! Build a capsule wardrobe? Learn more.
Question 4: Is It Easy To Maintain?
Fabrics that shrink, colours that run, pieces that need to be handwashed each time, or drycleaned, mean high maintenance. While we all have a couple of such pieces (and that’s okay), it can become a huge chore if most of your pieces need special care. The trouble you have to go to, to clean these, could mean you won’t wear them enough. A big no-no!
Question 5: Does It Fit Me Well?
Never buy clothing a size smaller thinking you’re going to get fitter in a few weeks/months. That strategy never works and you’re going to end up having pieces that don’t ever get worn/used. Buy clothing that flatters your current body and makes you feel confident right now. Read our blog on how to dress for your body type.
Question 6: Would I Buy It If It Wasn’t On Sale?
This is critical. Sometimes you want to buy aspirational clothing or accessories just because they are on sale. It could be a brand that you otherwise cannot afford but is now available at sale prices. Go back to the questions above to analyse aspects such as your lifestyle, need for comfort, and so on, and then decide if you really need the piece.
Question 7: Is It Sustainable?
Now, this may not be for everyone; but that doesn’t change the fact that shopping for clothing and accessories must become a sustainable activity for every fashion-conscious shopper. Try to invest in pieces that have lower impact on the environment. Put your money on natural fibres, organic or certified ones, be aware of where and how these pieces were made, and what type of business you’re supporting by buying their clothing.
Question 8: Can I Shop For Something “New” In My Own Closet?
We’ve spoken about this before – that when you have an important meeting or a social event to attend, nine out of 10 times you’ll want to buy a new outfit. Instead, understand what type of event you’re attending and how you want to be perceived by others. With those ideas in perspective, look in your closet and create a look that you’ve never created before. Almost always we already have some versatile pieces that can be used to create a fresh look. Just experiment with styling and give your existing pieces a chance.
If you still feel stuck, consult with a stylist, who will help you rediscover your wardrobe.
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