how to consume less

01: recently read - Consumed by Aja Barber

A few days ago I shared excerpts from a recent book I read, Consumed by Aja Barber, that speaks on consumerism and climate change in a really digestible way. It made me reflect a lot — on the ways I consume and why and also the ways I perpetuate consumerism in my work.

For years I found enjoyment in the *add to cart* button and getting that rush of newness by buying seasonal items, often seeing them on people like myself who share their outfits on Instagram, but I’ve since learned how much more satisfying it is to look into my closet and actually *want* to wear the pieces I have rather than skipping over them because they felt outdated.

When I’m tempted to buy something I see on Instagram immediately, because it’s fresh and new, I try to take pause and not let trends and the temptation to feel relevant define how I dress. I try to take a step back and think about what in my closet I actually wear and love, how I can make them last and pair with existing items I have, and about its lifespan — will I wear it multiple times, for years to come? When I’m done with it, can it have a second life because it’s timeless and well-made enough to stand the test of time and wear? Why do I want to make this purchase? Is it out of necessity or a feeling of being less than?

In general, I think being able to mix and match pieces you genuinely love is indicative of a distinct style because you have to be more creative with existing pieces instead of following the fleeting opinions of the masses and buying a whole new outfit, which takes money and not necessarily inherent style or a unique point of view.

Long story short, I’ve learned to opt for pieces I actually love and know I’ll wear often and for years to come (which can usually be found on secondhand sites) instead of ones that may satisfy me for the moment. And if you find yourself having the same itch to impulsively add to cart and want to know how to fight it, I suggest you order Aja Barber’s Consumed, which has much needed tips and reminders to help curb the amount we consume. In the meantime, though, I wanted to share some of my favorites below: