Fashion dictates we have to have a new wardrobe, or at least some new clothes, not every year but every season.
Society dictates that unless you do so, you’re (too) poor.
The jeans of yesteryear, the chique suit bought for a job interview, the nice strapless dress worn once in a lifetime: your clothes closet might be harboring “new” clothes ready to wear.
That’s hard earned dollars that can stay in your pocket.
Remember, shopping in and from your own closets also means you don’t throw things away simply because this or that is “out”: it’ll be in again. Likewise you don’t throw clothes out simply because you changed size: are you sure you can afford to buy a new wardrobe by the time you change size again?
Sharon Harvey Rosenberg aka The Frugal Duchess, spots the old is new trend as well and noted these variations:
- Closet vintage clothing: My friend Ellen recently stepped out in a navy Alfred Nipon suit — a classic — purchased for a family celebration in 2004. Four years later, the suit is still stunning.
- Borrowed clothing: Monica — a neighbor — showed up at a dressy dinner party wearing an outfit borrowed from her adult daughter’s closet. I was tempted to ask if I could borrow the same outfit for another event.
- Favorite classics: At a recent gathering, my friend Ahava wore a 20-year-old black and white skirt. She dressed it up with newer accessories, but the old skirt was the centerpiece of her outfit.
- Thrift-store specials: One friend proudly sported a designer shirt (Givenchy) purchased from $2.50 at an area thrift store.
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