The idea of Conscious Consuming sounds good on paper (or on Instagram) but when you begin to think about how this manifests in your life, and how to shift your mindset, it can seem daunting. It doesn’t have to be. Let’s take one step, one area of your home to get started. Or if you’ve been living as a very conscious consumer already, we’re sure this area still needs your attention throughout the year – your closet. 

Now don’t panic, we’re not going to tell you to get rid of half your wardrobe. Instead, let’s take an inventory of what you have, what important seasonal items are still in play and how you’re styling everything in your closet. Here are some questions to ask yourself: 

• Do I have one category that I could pair down? Do I really need 8 black dresses (or insert any category you might have in abundance) or will 4 work? 

• Do I style the same clothing items most of the time? What if I mixed things up to make new outfits? 

• Which seasonal items are the workhorse of my wardrobe? Are any pieces needing to be replaced? 

• If I could buy two key items for my closet this season, what would they be and what would I wear the most? 

• Are items in need of repair or could clever cut and sew or dye bath give them new life? 

This is a helpful exercise to do every 6 months or so to be thoughtful about what you’re bringing into your closet. After all, when hangers are jammed so tight that there’s little space left, you can’t see what you have and it also makes hanging your clean clothing a frustrating chore. 

Moving forward, after this evaluation, there are some interesting strategies to consider when practicing conscious consuming in your wardrobe.  

• Be an Outfit Repeater. Of course we all repeat outfits but think of this like your favorite personal style hits. If you love a white tee and jeans, what jackets or sweaters and jewelry can you add that changes it up. Find key solid pieces that can work as a single layer for warm weather or can be paired with boots and a sweater for cool days.   

• Embrace Thrifting. This comes in SO many forms. You can find a local thrift store you love or sites like Poshmark, ThredUp or ebay are full of items that are ready for a second owner. 

• Use the One In, One Out Rule. A simple idea that eliminates clutter right at the core. When you replace an item such as your favorite white tee, then donate or recycle the one that is past its prime. This is not a buy a jacket, donate a t-shirt situation. 😉

I hope these exercises and ideas provide a solid foundation for embarking on your conscious consuming journey. Starting in an area like your closet, is a simple space where small shifts can make a big impact!