Do we need to change our value system as a whole when purchasing clothing items?

This month actress, Jane Fonda, continued her protest on climate change and spoke candidly about not “ever” purchasing another piece of clothing again. I have thought a lot about this topic over the past year. Is it doable, if you like clothing, shopping, and the thrill? I get the political stance but is it realistic or necessary? Or, do we need to change our value system as a whole when purchasing clothing items and for that matter many consumer related products. 

Let me elaborate. I grew up in an affluent neighborhood. Status, was measured by the luxury items you had, including designer clothing. Although my family had resources, we never had the most fashionable clothing early on. In fact, I remember my mom buying a few of my party dresses at a thrift store. When we did get new clothing, it was a few good things, and they were to be worn on repeat. I never really noticed, my difference, until I was surrounded by young girls in late grammar and junior high who had high end luxury items like designer bags, pricey jewelry, and new outfits on repeat. In fact, some never wore the same items twice.

So where am I going with this? The culture you are surrounded by might define your values. Up until I was exposed to those experiences, my reality of having less, was the norm. It wasn’t until I was exposed as a pre-teen that my view on consumerism and values changed. I wanted the new outfits on repeat. The variety. I just was so accustomed to having and seeing a type of consumerism that it became part of my DNA. 

Now that I have lived in an urban environment for almost 20 years, my views on utility and necessity of clothing have changed. There are times I wish I could go back. All those designer shoes early on in my career. I could have had three times the amount of money if not more if I invested it. Sadly, it has not been easy for me to change my behavior toward clothing. I still peruse the online shopping sites for deals. Knowing I have a closet full of well-kept clothing available. I have tried to be more conscious about recycling my clothing, purchasing from producers who care about closing the loop with fashion, and most importantly, delaying a purchase until it is absolutely necessary.

My goal in sharing my experience is to give a relatable story of how our value system defines our actions with consumerism. If we are more conscious and aware of our behaviors and how they manifest, we have a better chance of changing the behavior. For myself, it was the environment I was raised in that subconsciously gave me a push to think this was the norm.

Unfortunately, the norm is there are people suffering in other countries to make our clothing. Just so we can have something new to wear for a new occasion. Honestly, do we need something else? It is this awareness that I hope resonates with you going into the holiday season. Awareness is the path to change! 

Finally, if you are interested in purchasing some of my lightly used clothing and accessories please feel free to shop: POSHMARK @ Kim_Sustainable (KIM _SUSTAINABLE) . 

BE WELL WITH THE MORE YOU KNOW IN 2019,
KIM