For several years, I could only afford to shop at thrift stores, and I was quite overweight at the time, so the selection of what was available that would fit me was pretty limited. I only wanted natural fibers, and that limited things further. Sometimes there was just nothing that I wanted to wear. It was so depressing. Sometimes there would be several items that would fit my criteria, and then I often bought more than I needed, because I knew it would be difficult to replace things if they wore out, and yes, I did need that many black T-shirts if I only wore black T-shirts. Now I’m much thinner and I can actually afford to invest in better quality clothing and I don’t need as many clothes because a black merino wool T-shirt can be worn for months before it needs washing. Yes, it costs more, but it’s just one shirt instead of ten, and it’s much higher quality so it will last longer, and it doesn’t need washing so often so it will save water and detergent and electricity.
Buying 5 really considered pieces in a year will avoid the shopping feast or famine situation. If you fast completely I guess you are more likely to binge buy and then regret it? Fashion is a joy to be savoured, and it does not need to be new, just new to you! Be it recycled, reused or reincarnated by upcycling old items you will probably never wear again in the original incarnation! Another reason to buy beautiful and quality fabrics that last👍. Restraint can inspire your creativity.
In January I decided to start tracking the clothing purchases that were made or were delivered in 2025. In late February I decided to move towards a smaller wardrobe and implemented a purchase freeze except for a couple of identified gaps. I found this movement in early March. Reviewing my purchases list now, in mid March, I’ve already bought my five new items and four second hand items. Gosh. Tracking is quite eye opening isn’t it! Steels my commitment to the fast for the rest of this year! Loving this community
I discovered your newsletter last year and I need to take some time to dive into it. This was a great start! I had a no buy 2024 extending now in 2025. I want to try the 5 things rule. So happy for this community. 💚
Last month I spend more on clothing alterations than on clothing! I finally got around to getting my shorts waistband fixed. I work in a consignment store, the temptation is all day, everyday. But this year I have been switching off from it. I love what I own, why switch it out for something new?
I love this Rule of 5. Yeah, I’m living in the hellscape of the US, and frankly, consuming less is key as I watch friends lose their grant-based jobs. We’re all talking about the Rule of 5!
Using consignment and charity shops are not only cheaper, but also much more fun and I feel part of my own community (also important). It turns out that several of my friends sew, and I’ve gotten to know several local tailors and cobblers as well. I’m pleased to be curating more carefully, and enjoying my pieces more fully and creatively.
It's been totally crazy how the No Buy 25 trend is really gaining traction! It fascinates to see how many people are embracing the idea of reducing consumption, whether it's to save money, help the planet, or simply because they're tired of having too much stuff. Plus, it seems like a fantastic way to rediscover and appreciate what we already own. 🌱👗 Lesley's experiences with intermittent fashion fasting are particularly inspiring. I am still afraid that any limitations - and I'm really not a big shopper - will result in a yo-yo effect...
So far this year? Some gym wear on sale and with reward points. Great reinforcement of my workout obsession. Yesterday, a charcoal cotton sweater and a gray/navy stripe cotton shirt with tags, both from the men’s dept of Goodwill!
Is it also an age thing? I’m male, in my sixties, and have too much stuff. Suits and ‘business’ shirts I’ll may never need. Enough shoes to see me out… too much furniture, too many books…my sons might need a suit, but maybe not. I can’t bear have them remade to fit. Maybe some shoes…probably not the lovely French beds…
The trouble is…they’re all good; good condition, good quality. I can’t bear to ditch them to the tip, and demand is limited. What IS the answer…? Rhetorical question…(unless you DO have the answer!)
Congrats on building a great wardrobe of good quality things. I think I'd say do get a suit re-fitted for your son. You might get much more pleasure seeing him wearing it than keeping it for the rare occasion for yourself. I would get it all out, be ruthless and donate what you can, try and rewear what you haven't worn in ages (fun to dress up) or try a yard sale if it is good stuff. You could spend the money on a lovely meal out/bottle/holiday/piece of art. We have to force ourselves to reinvent or we get stuck. Imagine if your house burnt down. What would you really regret losing?
Perhaps see if a local charity might take them! I have had luck looking specifically for charities that are focused on getting people back into the workforce (for example, after a long stretch of unemployment or incarceration) and will accept business/professional clothing to be able to provide to folks who may not have anything suitable for interviews or professional jobs.
It's not an active link. I added the dot com bit because of the scroll verb, but Im certainly not advocating for it and certainly not for clicking through!
For several years, I could only afford to shop at thrift stores, and I was quite overweight at the time, so the selection of what was available that would fit me was pretty limited. I only wanted natural fibers, and that limited things further. Sometimes there was just nothing that I wanted to wear. It was so depressing. Sometimes there would be several items that would fit my criteria, and then I often bought more than I needed, because I knew it would be difficult to replace things if they wore out, and yes, I did need that many black T-shirts if I only wore black T-shirts. Now I’m much thinner and I can actually afford to invest in better quality clothing and I don’t need as many clothes because a black merino wool T-shirt can be worn for months before it needs washing. Yes, it costs more, but it’s just one shirt instead of ten, and it’s much higher quality so it will last longer, and it doesn’t need washing so often so it will save water and detergent and electricity.
Buying 5 really considered pieces in a year will avoid the shopping feast or famine situation. If you fast completely I guess you are more likely to binge buy and then regret it? Fashion is a joy to be savoured, and it does not need to be new, just new to you! Be it recycled, reused or reincarnated by upcycling old items you will probably never wear again in the original incarnation! Another reason to buy beautiful and quality fabrics that last👍. Restraint can inspire your creativity.
In January I decided to start tracking the clothing purchases that were made or were delivered in 2025. In late February I decided to move towards a smaller wardrobe and implemented a purchase freeze except for a couple of identified gaps. I found this movement in early March. Reviewing my purchases list now, in mid March, I’ve already bought my five new items and four second hand items. Gosh. Tracking is quite eye opening isn’t it! Steels my commitment to the fast for the rest of this year! Loving this community
Welcome to rule of five! Maybe your year starts now?
I discovered your newsletter last year and I need to take some time to dive into it. This was a great start! I had a no buy 2024 extending now in 2025. I want to try the 5 things rule. So happy for this community. 💚
After such a great palate cleansing 24 you can reward yourself with something really well thought out. Something made especially for you perhaps?
I’ll have to think of that…
Last month I spend more on clothing alterations than on clothing! I finally got around to getting my shorts waistband fixed. I work in a consignment store, the temptation is all day, everyday. But this year I have been switching off from it. I love what I own, why switch it out for something new?
Ah the joy of personally tailored clothes!
I love this Rule of 5. Yeah, I’m living in the hellscape of the US, and frankly, consuming less is key as I watch friends lose their grant-based jobs. We’re all talking about the Rule of 5!
Using consignment and charity shops are not only cheaper, but also much more fun and I feel part of my own community (also important). It turns out that several of my friends sew, and I’ve gotten to know several local tailors and cobblers as well. I’m pleased to be curating more carefully, and enjoying my pieces more fully and creatively.
Thank you! ❤️
I love this community aspect. You're so right.
It's been totally crazy how the No Buy 25 trend is really gaining traction! It fascinates to see how many people are embracing the idea of reducing consumption, whether it's to save money, help the planet, or simply because they're tired of having too much stuff. Plus, it seems like a fantastic way to rediscover and appreciate what we already own. 🌱👗 Lesley's experiences with intermittent fashion fasting are particularly inspiring. I am still afraid that any limitations - and I'm really not a big shopper - will result in a yo-yo effect...
So far this year? Some gym wear on sale and with reward points. Great reinforcement of my workout obsession. Yesterday, a charcoal cotton sweater and a gray/navy stripe cotton shirt with tags, both from the men’s dept of Goodwill!
I always go straight to menswear in charity shops!
Is it also an age thing? I’m male, in my sixties, and have too much stuff. Suits and ‘business’ shirts I’ll may never need. Enough shoes to see me out… too much furniture, too many books…my sons might need a suit, but maybe not. I can’t bear have them remade to fit. Maybe some shoes…probably not the lovely French beds…
The trouble is…they’re all good; good condition, good quality. I can’t bear to ditch them to the tip, and demand is limited. What IS the answer…? Rhetorical question…(unless you DO have the answer!)
Congrats on building a great wardrobe of good quality things. I think I'd say do get a suit re-fitted for your son. You might get much more pleasure seeing him wearing it than keeping it for the rare occasion for yourself. I would get it all out, be ruthless and donate what you can, try and rewear what you haven't worn in ages (fun to dress up) or try a yard sale if it is good stuff. You could spend the money on a lovely meal out/bottle/holiday/piece of art. We have to force ourselves to reinvent or we get stuck. Imagine if your house burnt down. What would you really regret losing?
Perhaps see if a local charity might take them! I have had luck looking specifically for charities that are focused on getting people back into the workforce (for example, after a long stretch of unemployment or incarceration) and will accept business/professional clothing to be able to provide to folks who may not have anything suitable for interviews or professional jobs.
Smart Works Charity!
Thanks for the advice! All very helpful!! One question - I’m curious why is there an active zara..com link in the body of your email/text.
It's not an active link. I added the dot com bit because of the scroll verb, but Im certainly not advocating for it and certainly not for clicking through!
Excellent strategy