15 Comments
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Alex West's avatar

Thank you for this post. I have worn out quite a few things all at once too.

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Sophie's avatar

Shopping secondhand makes such a difference when you’re replacing a lot at once. It’s way more affordable, and it doesn’t sting as much when you realise something no longer works for you.

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Alex West's avatar

Yes, I totally agree. Where I struggle is with being petite as there is less available, but I try to spot when something is wearing out and then look for a second hand replacement, rather than totally destroying an essential item and having to buy new. It doesn’t always work out, though.

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Sophie's avatar

Spotting when something’s on its way out and planning ahead for a replacement is such a smart strategy.

I hear you on the petite sizing problems. I’m 5’4”, so I totally get the struggle of finding clothes that fit, especially when thrifting. You really have to know your brands!

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Sigrid Djernæs's avatar

Impressed with all that you managed to find second hand and loving your approach to rebuilding your wardrobe. Slowly getting more into second hand shopping myself and finding a way that it can work for me. Just found a pair of fine wool trousers with no signs of wear for about a third of the price.

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Sophie's avatar

Thanks so much! It’s such a rewarding way to shop, isn't it? There’s something special about giving clothes a second life. I'm glad you’re discovering how second hand can totally work for you too!

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Sigrid Djernæs's avatar

It's still very much a work in progress tbh. But a little is better than nothing and I think it can increase going forward.

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On Shopping My Closet's avatar

I cannot do closet diets either, Sophie. Restricting myself does not help. I've never had a shopping problem. I take good care of my clothes, shoes and accessories. I make sure everything in my closet is on constant rotation for a given season. ...and if something no longer fits me (aka my butt muscles have grown due to heavy weight lifting which is great!!!) I sell it off again.

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Sophie's avatar

I totally agree. I don’t think restriction ever really works or helps build a healthy relationship with clothes. I’m not a fan of spending bans or low buys either; from what I’ve seen, people often end up just counting down the days until it’s over and then splurging anyway.

For me, it’s all about buying what you need, when you need it, and making intentional choices about the things you want. That way it feels less like a punishment and more of a choice, which is a lot healthier and way more sustainable!

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On Shopping My Closet's avatar

Indeed! A lot healthier and way more sustainable! Amen to this!

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Joanna Chadwick's avatar

So much to enjoy in this post! But did you make a mistake with the RRP of the quilted jacket? I only ask as I was lusting after a navy one on EBay and it’s Ganni, definitely not £60….please correct me!

I also have Beyond Nine trousers. My kids hate them, so much fabric at the front and I admit I find them tricky to style (so far a plain grey r shirt from Arket seems to be the only contender). They are very cool in this heat though being linen. I also love that Lamb vest! Lovely post x

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Sophie's avatar

Ah, I know exactly the Ganni coat you mean but sadly not the one I found! Mine’s originally from ASOS. I was shocked by the quality though. It’s 100% cotton, which feels like a rare thing these days with fast fashion. And yes, the Beyond Nine trousers definitely divide opinion… but they’re just so comfy, I love them!

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Sheila (of Ephemera)'s avatar

Well done on your new-to-you items, Sophie! I get such a thrill from finding things that are "me" at a fraction of the retail price.

I love the Yin-Yang cardigan! So cool. The gingham trousers are also really fun - I'm often surprised at what random purchases can become wardrobe staples.

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Sophie's avatar

Thank you! I really do love thrifting. There’s just something so satisfying about saving money on things you were going to buy anyway, and giving something unwanted a new life. The cardigan is actually a tiny bit too small, but I love it too much to let it go… I’ll find a way to make it work!

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Dianna Hauser's avatar

"Letting go of clothes you love is never just about the clothes." Thank you for putting this into words. It's so true and important to acknowledge! Your posts are so thoughtful and have inspired me to change the way I look at my closet. 🖤

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