Just because you’re a minimalist doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy shopping! It just means you need to learn to shop with a purpose. You need to learn to shop smartly. So, here’s how to shop intentionally as a minimalist so you can still enjoy fashion without cluttering your closet.
I used to go shopping all the time just as a hobby. I would get a coupon in the mail or hear of sales and just go browse the clothing racks seeing if I could find a good deal. What ended up happening was me leaving the store with great deals, but also with clothes I didn’t need! And then I had a closet full of random pieces of clothes that weren’t high quality, weren’t versatile, and things I didn’t love. I was more in love with the rush of the sale than I was with the item I bought. Does this sound familiar???
Becoming a minimalist just made me realize that I had accumulated so many things that I just didn’t need! But I didn’t have to give up fashion and shopping. I’ve just had to learn how to shop smarter. I’ve learned how to be strategic and purposeful. I’ve learned how to shop intentionally and you can too!
Do Your Homework
Before you go shopping, always (always!) do your homework. Take some time to look through your closet to see what you already have. Are there things that you need? Are there things that you need to replace? Take inventory so you know what to look for when you go shopping.
Make a Shopping List
Once you’ve looked through your closet and refreshed your memory on what you have and what you need, make a list. Write it down on the notes section of your phone so you always have it with you and you can be prepared. And add to your list as you think of something you want or need.
When you have a list when you go shopping, it allows you to stay focused. It helps you have a purpose for when you shop. You aren’t just aimlessly looking through the clothing racks full of beautiful clothes, being tempted to buy all the things. You’re looking for something specifically that you need. Sometimes when you’re looking for something specifically, it can be hard to find! So, you definitely need to practice patience and self-control!
Only Buy Versatile Pieces
When you’re shopping, look for pieces (tops, bottoms, dresses, outerwear, shoes, accessories) that are versatile. You want to be able to envision wearing it in at least 3 different ways. You don’t want a closet full of random pieces. You want a closet full of versatile pieces that you can mix and match to get lots of different looks.
Only Buy High Quality Pieces
Say goodbye to cheap clothing. As a minimalist, you want to invest in high quality clothes that will last you for years! You may end up having to spend a little more money on those pieces, but you will save money in the long run because you won’t have to replace them as quickly.
You want to look for pieces that are made from silk, wool, cotton, linen, tencel, rayon, or leather. These are all-natural materials that will last you a very long time if you take good care of them.
Only Buy Pieces that You Love
Be honest with yourself as you shop. Do you really love it? Or do you just like it? Only buy it if you really love it! You don’t want a closet full of clothes that you just like! It can be frustrating having to wait and be patient when finding the perfect pieces, but when you do find them, you’ll love them and appreciate them even more!
Being a minimalist doesn’t have to be boring! It doesn’t mean we have to sacrifice shopping and stop being fashionable! It just means that we must be smarter, more intentional, and purposeful. We want our homes and closets to be full of things that we love. We want a simple way of life and you can still have that and enjoy shopping! When you shop intentionally as a minimalist, you learn to appreciate what you have!
Read more about how to build an intentional closet HERE!
