The Power of Pressing Pause on Buying New :
A Journey to Rediscovering Your Wardrobe.
Why have one Striped top when a few more will make you happy?
Every year for the last five or so years, I've made the conscious decision to stop buying new clothes, shoes, bags, and other accessories for six months or more. What began as a personal challenge has evolved into a powerful practice that aligns with both my values and the guidance I offer my clients.
As a life coach, I help people break free from feeling stuck and overwhelmed—whether it’s about finding motivation, decluttering their lives, or leading with intention.
One of my core values is to "do good in the world," and a key aspect of that is being mindful of my consumption, particularly when it comes to fashion. By stepping off the merry-go-round of fast fashion, I strive to make more sustainable choices, not just with clothes but in all areas of life.
I’ve also discovered that decluttering my physical space directly impacts my mental clarity—it's a cathartic process that brings a sense of calm and focus. Many of my clients express similar struggles: they feel bogged down by "stuff" and say things like, "If only I had time to sort out X, Y, Z, I could think more clearly." This is why I’m sharing the "why" and "how" of taking control of your wardrobe below. It’s not just about the clothes, it’s about freeing up mental space, gaining clarity, and living more intentionally.
But let’s be real—this isn’t about deprivation. I allow myself a few caveats: swimwear, lingerie, and trainers are things I always buy new. However, for anything else I genuinely need during my no-buy period, I happily browse and purchase from platforms like Vinted, eBay or Thrift+.
4x steps to getting started - my tried and tested process.
1. Declutter and Reevaluate:
Before I start the ban, I take everything out of my closet and try it all on; especially those items that have been hiding at the back for months (we all have them!). If I find something I still love, it goes right into the centre of my wardrobe, where I’ll make a point of wearing it within the next two weeks. (Of course, I’m not going to force myself into a jumper dress during a heatwave!)
2. Make Thoughtful Decisions:
For items that no longer fit right or I have just got bored of wearing, I consider what to do with them. My four considerations are:
Clothes swap: My preferred option as it’s fun. It’s also an extremely cheap way to refresh your wardrobe and be more adventurous. Oh! And it’s sustainable of course.
Reassess: Sometimes, I’ll give a piece a second chance by wearing it differently e.g. a dress I normally wear for a dinner out, I’ll wear in the day with trainers and no jewellery. If it still doesn’t work, it’s time for it to go.
Donate to charity: A great way to give back and clear space.
Sell it: Sites like Vinted, Depop, eBay or Thrift+ make it easy to find a new home for your preloved items.
3. Rearrange Your Wardrobe:
When I put everything back, I make a point of rearranging my wardrobe differently than before. This small change stops me from automatically overlooking those items I rarely wear, allowing me to see my collection with fresh eyes. It also gives me a chance to count how many similar items I have; 6x black dresses! 8x stripey tops!
4. Accessorize:
"Accessories are what makes or marks a woman" said Chanel.
To combat the “this is boring” feeling I sometimes get with familiar items, I’ve leaned into the power of accessories. Even if I’m just working from home or running errands, I’ll wear that plain T-shirt with a statement necklace or some bold earrings. Why not make full use of what you have? Fashion blogs are right when they say, “shop your wardrobe.”
What I’ve Learned:
Need vs. Want
One of the most significant lessons I have taken away from not buying for months on end, is understanding the difference between need and want. This realisation is crucial, especially in a world where it’s all too easy to click "add to basket" without a second thought. This period of reflection and restraint makes me more conscious of my choices and helps me break free from the short lived instant gratification of consumerism.
Re-entering the high street — with a twist.
When my no-buy period ends, I often find that my perspective on shopping has shifted. The high street feels less enticing—everything looks the same, and I’m uninspired. Instead, I’m drawn to unique, preloved, or handcrafted items that tell a story. Whether it’s browsing Etsy for one-of-a-kind finds, exploring second-hand on Vinted, browsing in charity shops, or visiting local boutique style market stalls like France Chaulet on Northcote Road, I seek out pieces that resonate with my style and values.
It has encouraged me to get the sewing machine out again!
I made a fun pink gingham dress for my summer holiday and am currently in the middle of tackling a 1950’s style strapless dress with boning… wish me luck on getting it finished in time for a lunch date with friends!
Final Thoughts, links and top tips:
Taking a break from buying new clothes isn’t just about saving money or reducing waste (though those are excellent benefits). It’s about reconnecting with your wardrobe, rediscovering what you love, and being more mindful of your consumption. The experience is a lot of fun, eye-opening and empowering.
So, if you’re feeling uninspired by your current wardrobe or just want to challenge yourself to consume less, why not give it a try? You might be surprised by what you discover; both in your closet and within yourself.
Have a read of Sophie Benson’s book Sustainable Wardrobe (does what it says on the tin). Be influenced by Patrick Grant’s book Less (Stop Buying So Much Rubbish: How Having Fewer, Better Things Can Make Us Happier) And if you too are feeling challenged by our throwaway culture consider following Gemma Metheringham on Instagram who ponders if fashion’s future is secondhand.
Top Tip! Make a pinterest board of looks you love, it will make you feel like you’re shopping and you can hone your style as you go.
Another Top Tip! Use some of the money you saved to treat yourself. For me, it was either having a massage, lunch out by myself (i.e. not at Pret!) or a trip to the theatre. #MeTime
Sustainable wedding outfit: necklace, bag and shoes from Etsy, dress from a clothes swap I hosted.