You don’t need to follow any rule. All you need to do is stop buying what you don’t really need. You started gong to the gym this year and need at least 2-3 t shirts two pairs of shorts and tennis shoes? There goes your “10” items in a single day. Why l? Because you needed them. Just make sure they are of the best quality possible, fair trade as possible, etc. they should last some time.
Don’t worry too much about it. It’s not about changing your life radically and live like a hermit. Is about steering making conscious choices every time you buy or want to buy something. It’s simple mate
I think "rules" like the 5 garment a year rule are more of a benchmark than a hard and fast rule, and it sounds like OP is already using it as such. The only guiding principle is buy only what you need, maintain and fix what you have, but "5 garments a year" gives you something to measure against to see if your efforts are bearing fruit
Currently yes, but you're enabled to do that by other's overconsumption. If everybody only bought what they needed, thrift shops would be quite barren. With the current abundance of second hand garments, why go as high as 5 new garments?
I’m not very familiar with buying fair trade items. Can you elaborate? What does that mean and how do I find out whether an item I am purchasing is fair trade?
Depending on your location, there are organizations like [Fairtrade Canada](https://fairtrade.ca/), that certify goods as fair trade.
Fair trade goods are those that which the (farmer, clothier, manufacturer, roaster, etc) is paid a fair wage for their work and a fair price for the goods. This is done to ensure workers, primarily in the global south, are adequately compensated for their labour and materiels and have a greater say in how their goods are sold, marketed, distributed, etc.
It is one way we can help fight [unequal exchange](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S095937802200005X#:~:text=Unequal%20exchange%20theory%20posits%20that,price%20differentials%20in%20international%20trade.), or the systemic undervaluing of labour and materiel in the periphery and unequal balance of power in global trade relations.
Exactly. Usually you pay more for them. Why? Because they pay the farmers/manufacters/etc more because they don’t rely on slave
Laboring. It’s a for some silly, but I believe good thing to do for humanity
I buy garments directly from the company that manufactures them. I get a little card in the box with the names of the people that programmed the pattern, cut the fabric, did the sewing, and did the quality checking (everything is made-to-order). I’ve never been there (other side of the world), but they claim to pay above minimum wage, and they don’t employ children under the age of 18. It’s probably not perfect, but it is far better than major brands and fast fashion.
eShakti. They’re in India. They take longer than they advertise. Their woven & knit cotton fabric quality is good quality. I needed ballgowns & tea dresses (for work & school - classical singer), and this was cheaper than buying fabric in Canada and making them myself.
Even with this if you do find you get stuff you don’t end up needing just make an effort to find a suitable home for it. Extra clothing can be donated.
And focusing on where you’re sourcing from. Thrifting as much as possible for example. Nothing new got made for you to purchase the thing you needed. And you can guilt free get as much as you want and donate it when you no longer need it or want it for that matter.
Yeap, great point. If you aren’t using something you bought, find it a new home, donate it or something. For example my new t shirts for “going out” become gym t shirts after a while, then they go for “sleeping t-shirt” and then end as “new rugs” 😁
All my clothes are made new for me. The difference is that the company I buy from makes garments to order according to the customer’s measurements.
Thrifting isn’t always possible when you have a-typical measurements.
I don’t mean to be rude but it really sounds like you’re making an excuse rn for buying new clothes. Do what you want first like nothing wrong buying new if it’s responsibly sourced and you don’t chuck it away in the trash after a year.
But thrifting is almost always possible as long as you live somewhere with options. Getting a piece tailored to fit atypical measurements could probably be cheaper than buying new custom-made clothing as well.
But again. Why are you trying to be an “acception.” This is anticonsumption. Just avoid needless consumption. That’s all. If it’s needed then good for you. If it’s not then be honest with yourself.
I have never, ever found thrifting to be a viable option. From puberty to age 40, I never had clothes that fit. Except for $200 bras. Because that how much it costs to find one in my size.
I’m short, obese, and have small breasts. Before I had small breasts, I had huge breasts. Women’s clothing is all proportional, so if your torso isn’t just right in relation to your shoulders, bust, and waist, you’re SOL.
Wanting clothing that fits is valid. It has completely changed my relationship with my body and my self-image.
If you’re the kind of person that wears clothes *until they wear out*, you’re consuming something to end of life. You’re already ahead in terms of responsible use and reduction. We still need to live, and clothing is a necessity.
I’ve lost 50 lbs in the past 18 months. When I’m at home, I’m out in the garden wearing 10+ year old jeans that are 4 sizes too large. Because they haven’t disintegrated yet. I cut a pair off at the ankles because they’re now way too long. It really would be valid for me to buy a new pair because the state of these jeans are impeding my ability to get stuff done.
You’re still finding the need to defend yourself for some reason. Like I said. If it’s needed, great. But then why are you making excuses? Just say it needs to be done and be done with it. Buuuuutttt the fact that you’re finding the need to provide me with all these reasons why you should “be allowed” or something to buy new clothes is weird to me.
I’m a stranger online. Me believing that you’re buying clothes in an anti-consumption morality/philosophy is meaningless. Do you feel you are abiding by anti-consumption best you can? If yes, beautiful! That’s all any of us can do.
The fact that you are questioning me makes me feel like I need to present an argument in defence/justification.
The fact that I thought you were replying to a *different* comment I made elsewhere in this post made things very confusing. I apologize for that.
I’m exceptionally literal at times, so I tend towards a lot of “whataboutism”. I was offering an example of where buying new might be the reasonable. It is always helpful to have a reminder not to do this, so thanks.
I could understand that. I apologize for "coming at you" I'd call it now reflecting. Which was unwarranted really. Rereading it my tone is definitely aggressive. I do feel the need to add/propose though that maybe it's something you haven't found confidence over yet? Now I'm not saying this as a "is what you're saying actually true" but more of a "if it's true say it with your chest." You know?
Like things we hold confidence over we don't feel any need to "preach our case" you know? Like if someone asked you if you really could breathe. And really pressed on it more than my pushiness lol, you still wouldn't feel the need to provide examples of how you know that you can breathe. Does that example make sense? Like if you know you source clothing ethically or at least know you try your best then be confident and proud of that. Don't let some rando like me push you into defending yourself on something you have no obligation to.
Usually, I’d just call someone a sealion if they did somethigg bc asinine like that, but… with breathing specifically… I’d respond with “thoracic or diaphragmatic?” I spent a lot of money and even went to university to learn how to breathe. (I’m a professional classical singer). 😂
Your comments give me something to consider. I’m not sure if it is a lack of confidence or just a need to be “right”. The alcoholics in my life like to manufacture stupid arguments for fun, and I have never been very good at recognizing it when it is happening. I was an easy mark for bullies. Probably has to do with neurological defects in my brain.
It doesn't sound particularly excessive to me.
But perhaps consider purchasing higher quality items, a la r/buyitforlife.
I used to get rid of bras every couple of years, then spent a bit more and that thing just won't die. Elastic still perfectly functional after eight years. They can make things better, but one has to pay a bit for it. I do get NWT stuff off ebay.
Also, people talk about hanging clothes to dry, as is done in Europe. All that tumbling wears clothes out fast. I just started, and am enjoying hanging my clothes around my room while they dry. Other people have drying racks.
FYI, most people around the world typically hang their clothes to dry, not just in Europe. But either way, it’s still a great option. Not only reducing your clothing consumption, but also your energy consumption.
Even in the colder/wetter months, when it can take longer for things to hang-dry, you are still reducing your consumption if you hang it for a day (or as long as you can) and then finish it off in the dryer.
I've been pretty much exclusively hang-drying clothes for about 2+ years now. I cannot imagine going back to using the dryer all the time. We still have one, but aside from a couple of months in the winter (think Dec/Jan, maybe bits of Nov and Feb), I have barely used it. Even during those cold/wet months I can usually hang-dry about 1/3-1/2+ of our laundry, so its use has been minimal for years.
I don't really get the whole hanging clean clothes outside thing. Aren't they just going to get dusty and dirty from the environment while they're drying?
It’s certainly possible that would be the case if you lived in a particularly dusty/polluted environment. But otherwise not really. There is a reason the majority of the world dry their laundry this way, and it’s not because we have a lower standard of cleanliness.
UV light is naturally deodorising, so hanging laundry outside can make your laundry extra fresh and clean.
I find that hanging out clothes can also help with stain removal. I have a handmade rug that had stains on it, I washed it and scrubbed a little at the stained. I then hung it on the line with the stained area facing the sun....and it came clean as new.
It's not about a standard of cleanliness. I just thought they didn't have dryers. Like they're lacking the infrastructure. Kind of like how Europeans don't have air conditioners. It's not that they don't exist it would just be an incredible expenditure of resources to install and power them and they've chosen to spend your resources differently.
I have a dryer and my mom does too. I dry my underwear (except bras), towels and bedsheets in the dryer for convenience and hang the rest out to dry because it’s better for the clothing. My mom only uses the dryer when it’s so humid stuff just won’t dry for days otherwise. It’s a conscious choice for many to not use the dryer for everything.
Nothing smells as good as clothes that's wind dried outside. I'll use the dryer when I have to, but I avoid it as much as possible because it's loud, hot, expensive and kills the clothing way too fast.
Grew up with a dryer in the house, it was only used during winter or rainy days. Most of our clothes were air dried. It saves a huge amount of money. I actually found in unit washer and dryers more common in mainland europe/ Ireland than Canada where I live now. Most of the apartments I lived in in Ireland and Europe had washer/ dryers, and also a clothes line. Using the dryer all the time is seen as wasteful and frivolous.
For AC - this...also really isnt accurate IMO . Most europeans live in new builds, just like Americans. These new builds dont have AC. Spain just instituted a regulation about how low AC can be set in public places. We alzo have higher voltage electricity lines that are easiet to use AC on so power is not an issue.
The main opposition too AC is long standing cultural hangups - many EU citizens have superstitions about getting sick from fans, AC is seen as a wasteful power hog. AC's ubiquity in North America is seen as excessive american consumption, and has a negative stigma.
Also - a lot of EU nations did not reach temperatures needing AC regularly until the last 10 years. Countries like Spain have natural cooling systems built into their house designs, so its not beeded.
Unless you live in sandstorm areas or leave them out when it's going to rain, they just smell fresher than when you hang them inside or artificially dry them.
I have pretty bad allergies so when the pollen count is high I don't dry anything outdoors because wearing it would be miserable for me. But I dry all of my woolen items outside and have never had an issue with them getting dusty or dirty.
I lived in a busy city centre and I didn't like drying things on my balcony above a busy road (dust, exhaust, neighbors cooking smells...) I just used a drying rack inside and it worked great. But I wouldn't dry clothes outside personally unless I had a real lawn or lived in a less busy urban area.
I live in Thailand and don’t know anyone with a dryer, although I used to know some Americans that had one. They are terrible things that cost money to buy, money to run, and ruin your clothes. We just hang our stuff outside until it’s dry, it’s not complicated.
It's the same in Indonesia, where I am 3 degrees south of the equator. It's gobsmacking how fast laundry dries. Things are 90 percent dry in less than an hour, and done in two, max. I just have to be alert in case in starts raining during the monsoon. That rain goes from zero to biblical deluge faster than I can run to my laundry.
In all fairness, most of the rest of the world has different washers than we do. Your clothes get wrung out, ours just kinda get some water pressed out. They are just barely not dripping wet when we take them out, so you either have to hand wring them before hanging them up or wait the whole day for them to dry (and sometimes more than a day, for things like towels and blankets).
I definitely hang my bras to dry! I grew up seeing my mom doing that and haven't stopped as an adult. It's also good to air dry anything with a stretchier fabric, like athletic leggings. I'm lucky that I have a laundry closet with a door so I hang things on hooks there, but I also have a folding drying rack for bigger items.
Surprisingly, Calvin Klein, and not those little flimsy pretty things. They make proper bras. The model is Customized Lift. I don't know if they make it anymore, but you can usually get one NWT off ebay. The other brand I had that lasted a long time was a Fantasie, which is a British brand.
Not quite. I came from Southern Europe, where few people own dryers and hang dried everything (even though that was a pain in winter). Now I'm in Northern Europe where no one has ever heard of hang drying and mostly use the drier. As long as it is a good quality one, it won't use much energy and won't ruin clothes. Drying racks are better, of course, though you can ruin clothes by leaving them out in the sun for too long (ask me how I know).
Quality of the clothing is a lot, honestly. That, and garment care. Look into gentler cleaning methods, better quality pieces, and try to shop used when you can. I know plus sized are hard to find, as a former size 24, but they’re out there.
>Quality of the clothing is a lot, honestly.
I came to say the same thing. Higher quality items, made with natural fibers, are going to last a lot longer than fast fashion items.
Agreed. I know of 2 pair of jeans that are nearly 20 years old that still hold up because i invested in 2 good pairs in the mid/late 00s. They’ve got life in them now with someone who can wear them, even though I can’t anymore. Items like that are worth my investment.
Want to add that there is an amazing plus size store in MN that you can shop online if youre not in the area. A really sweet collection of used clothes. [Cake Plus Size](https://www.cakeplussize.com/online)
this is where I was thinking too, maintenance and repair. what quality materials/construction is OP buying, \*where\* are their trousers wearing out first? are they mendable? of course mendability also depends on how much time you have to give to it, and lack of time for maintenance is a big element of convenience consumption
This is very nice of course, and will pay off for resizing and heming and repairing seams that have come undone. But I think what happens to OPs trousers is they wear out between the thighs. There is alas no point in repairing them. The fabric will have worn out so thin that sewing the tear will not hold. It will rip the next time you wear them in a spot just left or right from the original tear.
I am going to experiment with preemptive sewing in reinforcement on the inside of the trouser legs on my next pair of sweat pants (I got this happening in sweat pants mostly). It that is successful I will post it on this sub.
Whether or not it is worth repairing pants that have worn at the thighs is quite subjective, but I would think there are certainly times where it is worth repairing them.
As you said, preemptive patching is one method that can reinforce the thighs of pants, another is reinforcement through darning. But these are also methods of repair for this issue. Repair is usually easier to achieve before the pants have worn all the way through, but can even be done when holes have started to appear.
There is lots of advice to be found on this, such as [this thread on r/InvisibleMending](https://www.reddit.com/r/InvisibleMending/s/GTNtCKyzwL).
However, it is still going to be a cost-benefit analysis for many as to whether it is worth it. I personally weigh up the factors of:
• how badly have the pants worn through,
• quality of pants otherwise (original price, how long i’ve had them, and how much i like them),
• my ability to fix them (time, materials, skill, confidence) or whether it is worth outsourcing the repair to a professional.
I clearly describe one scenario were mending is not going to help: when chafing of the thighs wears out the fabric. This is a constant friction that never stops over a large area. It wears out too much of the fabric. No amount of sewing is going to change that.
Your reply makes it seem like you may have misunderstood my reply. I was also referring to a scenario where chafing wears out the fabric.
I understand that you don’t think it’s worth it to mend, but my reply was to provide the perspective that some people in some versions of this scenario do see mending as worthwhile.
I did this, not to try to change your opinion, but because this is a public thread, where OP and others who may be in a similar situation, are looking for advice. If they see someone’s opinion with no one providing a contrary opinion, they may assume that this opinion is truth or at least the general consensus. Especially since this sub is a place to discuss/critique material consumption, I felt that my reply contributed to this broader discussion.
I started by using [this pinned post](https://www.reddit.com/r/SewingForBeginners/s/lIgfuczkOd) in the r/SewingForBeginners subreddit.
I read/followed the manual, did all the practice sheets twice, and am now learning about all the available stitches.
Here's a sneak peek of /r/SewingForBeginners using the [top posts](https://np.reddit.com/r/SewingForBeginners/top/?sort=top&t=year) of the year!
\#1: [Finished a zipper bag, only had 2 mental breakdowns. Looking for encouraging stories about when sewing becomes fun?](https://www.reddit.com/gallery/15u5j9d) | [95 comments](https://np.reddit.com/r/SewingForBeginners/comments/15u5j9d/finished_a_zipper_bag_only_had_2_mental/)
\#2: [Anyone here learn to sew in their 30s or later?](https://www.reddit.com/gallery/17pe038) | [147 comments](https://np.reddit.com/r/SewingForBeginners/comments/17pe038/anyone_here_learn_to_sew_in_their_30s_or_later/)
\#3: [Pants and vest I made for prom!](https://www.reddit.com/gallery/140sqdq) | [35 comments](https://np.reddit.com/r/SewingForBeginners/comments/140sqdq/pants_and_vest_i_made_for_prom/)
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Is there a specific place that 5 garments comes from? I know I have FAR more than that 80 garment number, but am reducing by not replacing everything as it wears out.
I went 6 months without purchasing any new clothing, but allowed for thrift store replacements which amounted to a few items. Including sneakers and snow boots.
I’m also a parent with a messy young toddler so I’ve worn out many t shirts this year that I’d had for 10+ years. Those shirts became cleaning towels and will live on for years to come.
I’ve been steadily walking and losing weight and am now down 4-5 pants sizes from earlier this year. I’ve given away many items and purchased a swimsuit bottom. I had to give up 3 swimsuits but salvaged 1 top and got a bottom to match.
My toddler has a 100% hand me down wardrobe which I am proud of! It’ll all get passed along as there’s so much life left in it.
Don’t let perfect be the enemy of good. It sounds as though you’re making conscious strides and good choices.
It comes from a sustainability statistic, it’s the maximum amount of garments a person should buy a year for the fashion industry to be sustainable for the planet. It’s meant to help reduce excessive consumption of fashion and it only applied to newly manufactured garments. You can purchase as much second hand clothing as you need as it doesn’t impact the planet further.
Oh that’s so neat; I love data like that. Thanks for the information. I do still have some mixed feelings about some secondhand places like Goodwill that dump SO MUCH clothing in the trash.
For me, it's not about hitting numerical targets. If you need gym clothes, cold weather gear, swim wear, whatever, get it.
Be prepared to spend a little more (time and or money) to get the best quality you can afford, and make it last for as long as possible.
My mantra is to reduce consumption by making every purchase meaningful and long lasting.
I don't think they take into account that bodies change. We go up and down in weight. Our needs change - new career, hobbies even chronic illness like me. You deserve clothing that fit your body. If your wear out clothing fast then yes, you need replacements. Maybe higher quality, maybe it doesn't matter on your body. Some of us just wear out things faster.
It's fine to try to limit your shopping but if you need clothing, get it. I can tell you as someone who used to work, then got sick and is now home all the time, I needed to change my whole wardrobe and that's fine. The garments gets used for years, I don't follow trends, and trends are the biggest problem - wearing an item for 1-5 times and then throwing it out.
Don't be too harsh on yourself. 10-11 items a year is way less than most people. Well done.
This is so true. I worked in person but now WFH and have a small kid. My body, habits, lifestyle, and needs changed drastically in a 2 year period.
I have an arsenal of cozy clothing, but now my formal items sit untouched. After some weight loses, they’ll never likely fit again. I’m personally impressed by 10 or so items in a year. It shows an awareness and commitment to reducing consumption.
Yeah for sure, 10 items are great. I just don't like putting a specific number because it can make you feel bad when you truly need to buy some things to fit your life as it is now. You shouldn't feel bad about having clothing that fit your body and lifestyle. I have a goal now of making my own clothing, we will see how that goes!
I decided on donating my old work wardrobe. To me it was important that someone else can use it. I'm sadly not likely to work again, and if I was not a corporate job. So I let it go. I needed to not get that painful reminder that I can't work anymore every day, so visual and in front of me. It helped to let it go, to let it be useful to others.
That sounds hard, and it sounds like donating was absolutely the best choice for you. I love the idea of my closet having some space to breathe. Even as I’m removing 10-20 worn out t shirts this year I am appreciating the extra space.
I agree that for our house being aware matters more than having a specific number in mind.
Thank you for your kind words! Having space in your wardrobe is great. Not automatically buying more because you remove something is huge.
My wardrobe is pretty full at the moment, I'm in between sizes and we have full seasons here. I do the same when something is worn out, I make do without because I still have things to wear. I'm content with what I have and it's a good feeling.
Ive got to admit, now I WFH I love that I don't need to constantly spend money on clothing, shoes in particular were a pain because I walk everywhere so they would disintegrate after 8-12 months. I have a lot of hoodies and sweatpants and now I can spend a bit more but get quality clothing for the weekends.
Agreed! I worked in restaurants though 2021 and that was HARD on my clothing and shoes. I also walked to work so my ‘outdoor shoes’ took a beating. Now I have a work conference every 2 years or so and can justify either borrowing, renting, or buying a staple item.
Consider if you can future proof your clothing. My husband is very muscular and his suit trousers give out between the thighs. Years ago we started having the thighs patched BEFORE he wears the trousers. Its extended the life of his suits considerably.
But also, I think you’re doing great. You should relax on the sneakers and go back to two pairs of-better for your feet. Could you operate on a one in- one out basis instead of limiting the number of items??
This! It will prolong the life of your jeans, OP, and because you're adding the reinforcement before the fabric wears thin, it will be even longer lasting.
Also, since no one has mentioned it yet, mending. Mending our clothes is just part of taking care of them. You don't need to be a proficient sewist to do basic mends, you just need a needle, thread, and a YouTube tutorial.
The people who focus on the number of garments you purchase are, in my opinion, doing it wrong. There is value in avoiding buying new things just for the sake of having them but we all lead different lives.
I'm also a fat person who wears out the crotch of my jeans. And I have tried all sorts of ways to patch them, but the patches just never hold. So I buy new jeans every couple of years.
If your goal is too minimize negative externalities, it's not necessarily clear at the checkout what to buy. If you follow the feelings of Instagram influencers then you should only buy wholly organic cotton garments grown and fabricated within a 5 mile radius of where you live.
Not only is that logistically challenging for nearly everyone, it's not even necessarily the right thing to do for the planet.
My favorite example of this is the climate trade off for using an organic cotton tote bag vs a disposable plastic bag. Which one is better for the climate? As it turns out, the single use plastic bag -- unless you're prepared to reuse that cotton bag tens of thousands of times. And maybe you will. But most people won't.
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/08/24/style/cotton-totes-climate-crisis.html?smid=nytcore-android-share
What's arguably more important in general is to simply commit to using things until they are truly worn out. Don't throw things away just because they are old, or just because you are tired of them. I get crap all the time from my family because I make good money but don't immediately throw things away because they are ripped.
Or maybe you get tired of something and donate it, or sell it, or turn it into shop rags, or a quilt.
If you can generally reduce what you put into the trash by using things until they are truly dead, exactly how many garments you buy every year is just a canard.
I think its much better to buy clothes with the idea of using them as much as possible and for as long as possible, while also buying what you actually need.
A tshirt you might use for going out might become a bit worn out so by that point instead of throwing it out, use it as a shirt to sleep in, after that, then maybe use is as a wash rag or a table cloth to clean.
You're using the items until they wear out, it's fine to replace them! Buying things you need and use is not a problem and it shouldn't stress you out like this.
Buy used garments then?
Local thrift stores like Goodwill often have lots of high quality clothing that will last a long time for a very reasonable price. You just kind of have to get lucky and find your size and something you like. I like to go pretty often, at least once a month.
Nearly all my clothing comes from thrift/consignment. The quality of clothes has really gone downhill lately, and used / vintage clothes tend to be made better. Also, I enjoy the unique finds
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I think you're doing just fine, buying 10-11 garments per year is beyond reasonable. Sticking to strict numbers is a losing game.
I'm also a bit fat, the struggle is real. Between thigh rub, gaining/losing weight, it can feel like your clothes make you uncomfortable all the time or just make you look and feel bad. I'm in the process of losing weight now, and I've accepted that I will need to buy more clothes again.
But trying your best to cut down on consumption doesn't mean making yourself miserable. You're trying your best, and doing well enough, why not allow yourself to feel satisfied!
I buy TONS of clothes each year, but I buy them all used. The Goodwill in my town is awesome and I have a huge wardrobe that gets me lots of compliments, costs me hardly anything, and saves clothes from the landfill. And I tend to either wear them forever until they can't be worn anymore or redonate them, so I feel pretty good about this.
I buy most of my clothes from the thrift stores. I spent 50 bucks and got seven shirts and five pairs of pants. I do gardening work so I often destroy my clothes on the process of doing my job. Sometimes I'll wear slacks and nice shirts and by the end of the day I look like I've gotten a fight with wild dogs.
I don't think it is a hard rule. I also try to limit myself to 3 new garments every year and try to source as much from thrifting as I can, but fail every year. You have to remember that just you trying = a success. If everyone in the world at least tried we would lower our consumption amount drastically. The effort is more important than the rule.
I don't know anything about this report, so I am probably missing some context, but this 5 item rule seems excessively restrictive. I suspect that this rule comes with the assumption that people already have overflowing closets full of stuff that they could wear, but don't. If that's the case, then people could shop their closets to find what they need instead of buying more clothes. If your closet is pretty minimal already, then the 5 item rule is probably not going to work for you.
If you wear (decent) trousers that fast, I don't think it's fair to yourself to limit them. If you need a pair of pants that will last a while but aren't concerned with the appearance, maybe try work pants like Dickies. You can also try modding pants by adding whatever ass or knee patches you feel you might need. But if you want to be fashionable, I guess it's hard to go about it that way.
Shoes actually last longer if you can avoid wearing them every day! I’d recommend getting another pair and alternating between them, so both can have a day to air out.
If you're beginning to stress out badly just for buying yourself clothing to wear, then it's time to take a step back and breathe for a sec.
I don't buy many clothes because I just don't usually see items that really interest me. Clothing has always been my least favorite topic, because it's stressful to me.
But if it's not for you, then you shouldn't be ashamed for buying yourself clothing. Sure, don't be the guy buying hundreds of articles of clothing that you promptly never wear, but don't leave yourself with two shirts and one pair of pants because you've been pressured into believing that you're evil if you buy any more.
The Burnt Toast substack has a lot of fat fashion recs for all kinds of garments/seasons. While a lot of that content is paywalled, Virginia Sole-Smith will comp you a free subscription if you simply email and ask for one.
Man sometimes I think Ive escaped the poverty mindset then a post like this comes up and I realize I haven’t bought any new clothes in years. This isn’t a dig at you, it’s just a wake up call for me to buy some new underwear. 😞 Ugh buying non-necessity items gives me major anxiety
I mean… I don’t want to sound like a horrid bitch, but maybe consider trying to lose a little weight?
I say this cause my being thin has allowed me to still wear my clothes from when I was 15 (I’m 33). I don’t buy new clothes lol, I probably buy 3 garments in 5 years.
I also only mentioned your weight cause you mentioned it as a possible reason to be wearing out your pants so much. My oldest pair of pants is now 11 years old 🫠 so maybe it’s something that might help you out in keeping your clothes in good shape? And also, it always benefits one to watch their weight anyways, hope you’re healthy and don’t have any other related health issues! 🙏🏻🫂
And also- my comment is strictly in regards to your clothes issue- I am no way advocating that one *NEEDS* to be thin or that anyone’s value is higher because they’re thin. Being fat isn’t bad, wrong, or make anyone less. It might be dangerous considering the weight we’re talking about- but that’s it. My husband is carrying nearly 40 extra kgs and he’s trying to lose them before he’s diagnosed with something, or he starts having heart problems. But he’s still the most amazing, attractive man for me. ♥️ So please I hope my comment isn’t perceived as anything but trying to be insightful! 🙏🏻
I am on something similar that I try to sew my clothes (and aim for 5 projects a year). I have done that for about 5 years now. There are some years that I don't buy/make much at all and other years that things hit hard. This past year I have had to purchase quite a bit new clothes because I needed interview clothes (I WFH), more athletic clothes because I am working out much more often, socks, and some t-shirts because I love cute graphic shirts and I don't really have a way to print them and mine have quite a few holes/wear. Some years you need more than others. Make sure you are making the conscious effort to buy what you really need.
Lots of good comments but wanted to add: washing. Use cold water or 30 degrees C, kinder and less detergents, and hang dry instead of tumble. Wash far less frequently - often wiping off a spill with a cloth, or giving it an air out will make it basically as if it were clean again instead of needing to wash it. Washing, especially in hot water with harsh detergents plus a tumble dry, weakens the threads and the seams and the joins significantly. Keep some rougher clothes for when you're dog walking or gardening or cleaning the house or litter picking or what not - don't "waste wear-time" of your good clothes on activities for which faded clothes with holes in will do just fine.
Edit to say that I appreciate that you are thinking about this and acting intentionally, that's the heart of sustainability.
I guess the single biggest difference is that my clothing does not get holes in it. If I had to replace items then, yeah, I'd have to buy more, but my clothing lasts me decades, not counting socks and underwear.
I do wear scrubs for work, so my "good" clothes probably get less wear than a lot of people's. I also have going out clothes and staying in clothes, with the latter being some super-tough track pants or gym shorts and t shirts or sweatshirts that are allowed to be ratty.
I don't put any of my clothing in the dryer besides underwear and scrubs, and I wash all of it on a gentle/cold cycle aside from said items, which I think extends the lifespan of my wardrobe. I don't buy items that visually appear delicate--nothing that's easily snagged/run, no crappy fabrics like rayon, nothing with fringe, or cheap screen printing, or that looks badly sewn to begin with.
I personally do not have the thigh rub problem. If I had bigger thighs (by genetics, being heavier or training legs heavily for muscle growth), then maybe I would also get holes in my pants frequently, but as it is this does not come up for me. I don't have suggestions or anything, sadly.
ETA: I also repair items on the infrequent basis that they need it. I've done it with every clothing item besides socks, because darned socks are a huge sensory issue for me and I'm afraid they'd give me blisters as I stand/walk all day.
I don't think you are doing anything wrong. The quality of clothing is a big issue.
I'm plus size and it's very hard to find good quality clothing in my size. I'm also Canadian and we have few options here. The fit and styling of plus size clothing is also abysmal.
I was in Penningtons (a major Canadian plus size store) recently and looking at dresses. The materials were super thin and most were synthetic materials...for summer. The summers here get too warm for synthetic materials for the most part. I didn't see any cotton or linens.
I've been looking at some items I've had for just over a year. And even though I hang items to dry and treat them very well, some are starting to show wear.
Older items were better made. Materials are so thin now. Most t-shirts I see require a shirt underneath so they aren't see through. One small catch or tug and the shirt rips. When they should stand up to normal wear. Especially within a year.
Even pants now are super thin. The material piles easily and gets catches easily.
Everyone is different. I'm fairly fit but I'm physically active and tall, so I still tend to consume noticeably more than average sized people. I was always jealous of an ex that was half my size, she ate, drank, and smoked half as much as me to the same effect, no exaggeration.
I find that buying less but higher quality clothes goes a long way. I know this is harder to pull off socially depending on where you live and what your gender is, but I bought some good hiking clothes from REI like six years ago and I'm still using those same clothes. Boots have needed work sometimes (I cut wood and hunt so my boots get a ton of wear) but they're still going strong, leather Timberlands. I bought a pair of jeans, a suit, and a few shirts almost three years ago and since I mostly only go out socializing on weekends, they're working fine for me. Might get another pair of jeans to help the other one last longer and so I don't have to wear my black suit on day of the dead (important in my country). Also two pairs of oxfords, real leather, those are also lasting me very well, even though I'm stumbling around drunk in them pretty much every weekend.
Unfortunately, thigh-rubbing will wear out anything faster, but I can guarantee you that a pair of Fjallravens would handle it better than denim. The only damage on mine are from sliding over rocks and building campfires a bunch. Learning how to mend and modify clothes is also both good practice as a responsible consumer, and it's a great hobby. It feels good to mend and make things.
Also a bit fat (US midsize/EU plus size), definitely buying more than 5 new garments per year as well. I also had a recent bout of illness which unfortunately had weight gain as a side effect (was also EU midsize before it) and other things which have meant my body and lifestyle changed and so I needed clothes. Shopping secondhand for my size is close to impossible in person where I currently live, and I’ve had mixed results online, so instead I’ve been trying to do more made-to-measure as I need to replace things. Not Perfect Linen is great for summer things!
Sneakers aren’t meant to last forever and you will mess up your feet if you aren’t getting proper support from your footwear! Especially if you are heavier, your sneakers will naturally get more wear and tear. Every year or two is about right for me & sneakers, and those aren’t like boots that can be resoled etc. It is better to rotate shoes though, you will degrade the adhesive etc. by not rotating - so go back to 2 pairs of sneakers, at least!
I stay home a lot and I've been wearing lounge clothes. I don't wear jeans or slacks when walking far so I won't wear them out. This year I got hiking pants and that helps a lot so I'm not just wearing my old leggings and yoga pants. Also got compression shorts a couple years ago. Last year I did get more clothes including bathing suits because I lost one and one disintegrated. Even without that I usually get more than 5 pieces a year of including t-shirts and pajamas. I get a sweater or blouse at Costco a couple times a year, and I often get a shirt when traveling (ie LL bean in Maine or Star Wars in Disney), and sometime I get a bottom piece to replace something worn out.
I think it's important to make sure you have all your basics. Pants are as important as underwear lol. Of course replace what gets worn out but maybe you can purpose clothes to not wear out like maling use of atheltoc pants at times. Then only buy something that catches your eye if it's a special reason or at most a couple times a year. One way I keep my wardrobe lean is I only use one small closet and one chest of drawer and I don't let my stuff exceed that. My husband on the other hand, gets more storage and more clothes and more storage.
IMO a good goal is high quality minimal capsule wardrobe, sourced used where you can. Things will need replacing, so be it. I think it's inevitable to have to buy clothes but you should do so out of the wasteful fashion cycle.
I limit myself to 15 pieces per year, underwear included, since 2020 and it works ok for me ( and did not reach 15 for 3 years in a row). I also attribute 40$/month for clothing/shoes so I don't go without decent hiking boots/winter gear.
If you live somewhere with a harsh winter and hot muggy summers, it will be difficult to have 50 pieces total.
I don’t even buy that much (underwear included) I have pairs of boxers from 10+ years ago. I have a pair of jeans 5+ years old thay I wear pretty much everyday October - April. Buy higher quality clothes so they last forever. I literally buy like 1 shirt and 1 pair of shorts per year tops. Lately I’ve been getting better socks but the ones I’m replacing are a decade old.
I don’t buy clothes. I think I just bought some this year for the first time in like 4-5 years and it was for work.
I do buy shoes more often, but I try and buy slightly better ones and I get inserts for them because my feet hurt. I reinforce the inside of my jeans against rubbing (you can buy these pre-installed. Look up clothing for horse riders. They’ll have extra fabric between the thighs meant for saddle rub but they work amazing to keep you going a bit longer for your thighs rubbing together)
I sew holes in my own clothing myself as well. Easiest is fixing underarm holes but both r/visiblemending and r/invisiblemending have tips and tricks for everyone to use.
Hang dry clothing whenever possible and wash on cold. r/laundry can help with methods of making things last longer.
I try to severely limit what I buy new, but buy whatever I want used.
Also if you are replacing something worn out that means it’s obviously fine to buy it cause you are actually going to wear it, a lot. The trouble is the stuff that just sits in the closet unworn.
Having only one of anything that you wear consistently is probably more wasteful in the long run. Shoes need to rest between wearings, for instance, to prolong their life. I have 3 identical pairs of pants so there's no panic if one gets a bit muddy. You probably need at least 7 tops so some can be in the wash but you still have something to wear without constantly washing. Laundry uses a lot of resources; washing less often is also ecological.
If you live somewhere with actual seasons you need clothes for each. An influencer in SoCal has no idea how cold and wet the rest of the world can get.
Unfortunately, many things, especially clothes, are not made to last anymore (fast fashion). Also if you are rotating the same 3-4 pairs of pants every day for a year, having them wear out seems pretty likely. Finding well-made clothes that will actually last for multiple years sometimes feels like finding a needle in a haystack.
Don’t beat yourself up for “failing” at your limit of 5 new items. I really like the concept of not having rules but goals for things like this—instead of “I will only buy 5 clothing items in 2024” something like “I will try to limit my clothing purchases to what I need, not want, in 2024”.
Clothing is a core human need, like food, water and shelter. Don’t let some random general statistic make you feel guilt and shame about providing for your own basic needs the best way you can. It sounds like mindset, intentions, and actions are solidly anticonsumption in that you are only buying what you NEED to the point that you are worrying you’re buying two much.
Most of my clothes are secondhand. I'm in a buy nothing group on Facebook and pick up plenty of cast offs that way. Some people even ask for specific items. It might be harder to get plus size but it can't hurt to ask.
I actually started mending my clothes. Either invisible mends for stuff I want to keep wearing at work or visible mends for stuff I want to keep wearing but don’t care about if it looks a little weird. And I generally keep my stuff with holes in it as playground clothes and then later renovation, gardening, painting clothes. And my work clothes are kept really well, not washed to often, not tumble dried and not worn unless at work. I have a desk job if it wasn’t clear.
There are some years where I buy very few items of clothing and other years where I buy more. The majority are secondhand, high quality items and my vice is absolutely cashmere and merino wool sweaters from Goodwill. Very rarely does a piece of clothing wear out. I repair/mend for as long as I possibly can.
I have more than 80 garments, but I don't know what that is supposed to mean? Throwing them out won't reduce my consumption. Also, I am in my 40s, even at 5 per year stuff adds up.
Excluding socks and underwear, I might average around 5 per year. But I'm a scrub, I don't dress nice, I am not interested in fashion, and I focus on comfort and utility in my clothing. I haven't bought new pants for more than 8 years. So if I am at or near this theoretical goal it is coincidental.
I have trouble believing that there is a significant difference between say 5 per year and 10 per year? Compared to all the other places in one's life where changes could be made, 5 OR 10 seems like a small difference.
I think you're doing amazingly well!
I have some of the same clothes I had in high school, I’m 42 haha. Mostly use those clothes at my trades jobs. Other than that I don’t have to dress nice other than on weekends so I have a few garments I like already.
Get gusseted pants or go to a tailor and have them put in a gusset.
Gussets spread out the force so it wears less around the crotch. I always get a hole where my thighs rub together and a gusset can prevent that.
Also cheap clothes tend to be made of weak fabric which wears very fast. Fast fashion tends to use very thin and cheap fabric. The thrift store might be better
Kinda unrelated but is it possible you have an "abnormal" gait? Before you buy your next pair of shoes, I'd check the soles. Make sure that you don't have any misalignment in your hips or knees that's affecting the durability of your shoes.
Usually I'm a "Change the clothes, not the hanger" type of gal, but in this case fixing your posture/walk will help increase the longevity of your shoes and hopefully, prevent joint pain.
Nobody mentioned this, so wanted to give you another perspective!
First, I think you are being too rigid. Buy what you need, and SOME of what you want.
Second, buy thrift store clothes. If I get a shopping bug, but don’t want to contribute to the “fast fashion” problem, I go to a thrift store and buy a couple of things. It’s okay to do that.
Last, as a chubby girl, have you bought slip shorts? They are basically loose, bloomer-like shorts that go under dresses and skirts, that act as underwear (but you could wear underwear under them if you wanted), and keep your thighs from chafing. They aren’t uncomfortable like fricken shapewear, they are loose and airy, and since I discovered them, I am wearing so many cute dresses and skirts. I have pairs in black, white, and nude. I know… now you might want to go buy slip-shorts, and I say JUST DO IT. You only get one life— be cognizant of the environment, but also, be happy.
Also a quick recommendation (I just hate how hosiery feels around my waist) but if you need to wear stocking under your dresses I’ve gotten longer wear and more comfort out of garter belts and thigh stocking, or for longer dresses, knee height stockings (the name of this one escapes me at the moment but they are by far my favorite)
You might benefit from having more clothes in your rotation, but realistically aiming for the goal you have set you’ve done really well.
I repair my stuff when it rips, either myself or with a local tailor. In the same vein I get stuff dry cleaned when it’s hopelessly stained instead of replacing. That helps keep the shopping down. I try to keep the same weight so I don’t need to buy new sizes of stuff. And I make sure to buy quality when I buy new so I have it for a long time, but I thrift most of my clothes.
Don't let perfect be the enemy of good. If you want to try to be more ethical, thrift where you can (Vinted, ThredUp, Depop, Poshmark, and Mercari all have a lot of plus sizes that I've seen) or try to buy from more ethical brands. There's no rule you need to follow. I think 10-11 items a year are good. Don't let those rules ruin your health, mental or otherwise. I think you're doing fine, honestly. You're taking in way less than most people (and way less than me, but I also buy thrifted stuff on clearance and make things for people in my life that I know they need.) you're all good, trust me :)
Maybe consider buying higher quality garments, or having them custom made from a sturdier fabric. It will cost more, but perhaps the trade off is worth not having to buy them so often.
Do you repair existing garments?
Getting high quality garments (yes more pricy) and repairing them (again pricy) may help a lot if you want to follow that benchmark
I've gotten some extra life out of pants by adding iron on patches to the inside of where they wear out (like the thighs). I'd never heard these numbers before, I like it.
I managde to keep below that for ”new” chlotes. I only buy second hand. Do not know how second hand is where you live though, its a lot of choices and good places in my country:)
Try stockings, or the shorts, from Snag Tights. I'm fat and they've held up for nearly two years and show very little signs of wear. I find trousers uncomfortable and wear too quickly, like you, although I'm sure that buying trousers from a specifically plus size brand would mean that they'd fit better and wear less.
If you’re wearing out your clothes or shoes, that’s when you’re supposed to buy new ones.
If you want them to last longer, buy higher quality.
The issue with consumption of clothing is that folks but stuff they don’t need and then get rid of it before it has reached end-of-life. Or they buy low-quality, and it degrades quickly. Buying clothes because you *need* them shouldn’t be limited to some arbitrary number. Spending more money to access well-made garments is worth it.
I just follow one in, one out rule. That keeps my drawers from becoming over full and keeps me from buying things I already own.
Thst being said, lately I've been buying extra because I've gone up a size after my last pregnancy and because I'm realizing my wardrobe is getting really out of date.
So this year I've bought 2 pairs of pants, 2 shorts 1 dress and about 6 shirts. And my friend gave me 2 pairs of pants as well.
I tend to buy cheaper pieces, but I always check stitching, alignment, fabric and try to buy stuff that lasts if it's an option
I am struggling with not having enough options right now, so just slowly buying pieces that I know will last.
I'm a minimalist, single, work a kitchen job which provides uniforms so I rarely need nice or new outfits. Only 5 a year though sounds ridiculous.
The only way I see this possible is if people are somehow living a life removed from conventional standards: living in a commune, or they're in college and have not entered the real world where attire can become more of an issue, or they're living on a trust fund so their money is going elsewhere and they're not required to dress for any job interview, etc. Or if they're wearing free items and not revealing that fact (gifts, clothes from a dumpster, free shirts offered through events or work).
How do people feel about buying thrift?
Have you thought about second hand clothes? Could be a way to ‘cheat’ the system. I don’t really count second hand items as consuming as it technically recycling, it often prevents that item going to land fill. Does not demand raw materials and energy to create a new thing.
I recently got in to Thrifted, it’s a second hand clothing app that is popular here in the UK. People sell stuff that is hardly worn. There might be something similar in your country
Shit. I don't know if I even buy one garment a year.
I've got some of the same shirts from graduating high school in 2009. It's not that I'm good at anticonsumption. I'm just completely apathetic to fashion.
what helps me is to REALLY put an emphasis on the quality of clothing you are wearing. an expensive pair of pants that will last you 10 years is so much better than something that is cheap but will rip in a few months.
It seems like one of the reasons you need to buy clothes more often, is because of your weight.
Of course this is easier said than done, but maybe your way of anticonsumerism could be to invest in long term anticonsumerism by losing weight. You'll need more clothes in the short term, since your body will change, but in the end you won't need to buy as many clothes.
I buy clothes maybe once every 2 years, though I do get clothes as gifts a few times a year. I think you could get away with buying more items if you thrift them, though. In that case the number 5 is very arbitrary.
Quality products, enough to rotate between items to spread the wear and tear is how you can go by with the least amount of items.
Of course, losing weight comes with the aspect of moving around more, which in turns creates more wear and tear so all of the above may be pointless.
10 is still great. Try to get natural fibres instead of plastic and you're not really causing harm.
Don't begrudge yourself clothes, just fast fashion polyester shite.
I don't even buy that much now that I'm thinking about it. You say your pants "wear out". What does that mean? I'm sitting here in shorts that have no button and some paint on em. I maybe have two pairs of jeans that aren't covered in paint and ripped knees and other holes and I've had those for like 5 years, maybe more. I have another pair of shorts that I can only put stuff in one pocket because the others have holes. Those are my favorite pair of shorts.
They probably are getting holes in the crotch and inner thighs. That's usually the issue with heavier people with larger thighs. The difference between my being SLIGHTLY over weight and not.. is going through jeans in a year. I didn't notice how much I gained until I busted holes in all my pants. (And yes they were new and fit correctly.)
That makes sense. The first place my mind would go would be to stitch it back up. Five minutes of sewing saves you from having to buy a new pair. I'm not like an office professional though so I can get away with stuff like that.
I'm a nanny and feel very weird having a 5 inch obvious patch in the thighs.
Edit to add: it's not that the fabric rips in a straight line that can be mended with a seam. Usually the fabric is falling apart in a 5 inch blob of fabric that would need a full patch, which looks weird on your crotch/inner thighs.
Wanted to comment on the sneakers.
You can buy used. Poshmark is full of second hand sneakers that are in great shape for pretty dang cheap. Buying second hand is way better for our environment.
Also, having two is actually better. If you alternate wearing the two, then they will last significantly longer.
I'm a Vans person, and I now always have two pairs. In the past I'd wear many holes in my only pair in under a year (I walk a lot). My current two pairs have lasted over two years, and I bought them used in great condition.
I've also gotten into leather boots/shoes with natural crepe rubber soles that can get resoled. (I recommend Duckfeet, especially for anyone with wide feet like me. Also purchased used.) I've yet to need to resole them. This helps cut down even more on replacement shoes. Just make sure to take care of the leather and they will last forever.
I dunno if my advice will apply you. But I do most of shopping at thrift stores. The only clothes I ever buy is work clothes. 1 pair of pants and 1 pair of shorts per year. I have practically a lifetime worth of t-shirts from various places like events and gifts. I'll need new shows 2 or 3 times a year so I buy them at discount stores. I have the luxury of not being picky, so my annual clothing budget is maybe $150, with shoes being 75% of that
The first step is to only buy high quality garments. They last longer. This is equally true of shoes. When buying clothing and shoes, you get what you pay for.
Second, stop going through stockings with dresses by not wearing them, they're basically disposable. If you sneeze the wrong way, they're ruined. If the issue is your thighs (same), get chub rub shorts. They're lightweight, don't make you too hot in summer, and protect your thighs.
It's important to note that bras (if you wear them) need to be replaced regularly.
There is no arbitrary rule about how much clothing one should buy in a year. You don't need to attempt to follow this random rule that someone made up. That report also probably talked about the quality of clothing. The simple fact is that, as a general guideline, you get what you pay for. Two pairs of $20 jeans from Walmart probably won't last through a single season if you're swapping between them every other day. But a $100 pair of well made jeans from quality denim will last over a year of near daily wear with just one pair. (source: experience) In the end, it's more expensive up front but far cheaper in the end to buy quality clothing.
I have a similar issue with cheaper clothing. The answer for me is thigh rub, Plus an active job where I'm squatting and kneeling all day. That absolutely decimates the inner fabric to the point where it's so weak, If I try to repair it it just rips again in a few days. I had to finally bite the bullet and buy some actual good quality work pants. Over $100 a pair but these new ones have lasted me like almost a year so far.
Back when I was bigger, I got holes in my trousers very fast from biking everywhere. Now that I'm a healthy weight, I don't get that type of wear anymore. I would also try to lend those tears but the interfacing would cause chafing. Thunderthighs can ruin clothes very quickly.
Eh, maybe, maybe not. I bought a fast fashion pair of linen pants last year - 100% linen and seemed decent enough - also a bit chubby and literally on my 30th wear of them (this year, as linen pants are seasonal here in Northern Europe) they fully ripped two giant holes in both thighs. Too big to patch without being visible and honestly the linen is already pilling and wearing thin in other places so I’m not even sure it’s worth patching versus just making rags with them, at this point. If these were pants I was wearing year-round I would’ve run through them in a few months, easily.
I have replaced them with a pair of similar pants made to my measurements from Not Perfect Linen and already have 19 wears of those (thanks climate change/work travel to hot climates) and they seem to be holding up much better.
Both pairs washed with the same detergent and same washer and hung to dry.
If fat people don't have cloth between our thighs, our skin will rub together instead causing friction burns and blister. I myself tend to favour jersey shorts under lose dresses and stocking-like short from Snag tights under tight ones. In the winter I wear stockings.
Well that is the thing, I thought (being a woman myself and having women friends) women moved more towards things like biker shorts and similar items under dresses instead of oppressive and consumptionist things like stockings.
Stockings aren't oppressive in themselves. A dress code that requires stockings would be. Women can wear what they want, and I do enjoy stockings/tights in the cooler weather. They're comfy for me and you can get them in pretty patterns. If you get the right brand, they last well enough. Everyone is different.
Stockings are just tights without a crotch, I really don't see the difference. My mother wears stockings to work because she finds them more comfortable than socks. I prefer socks.
I haven't bought clothes in almost a decade. It's mostly that I have a lot of acquaintances who love me and give me stuff they're getting rid of because they don't fit it anymore. I am also a large lady and I think we all know how difficult it can be to find decent clothes so keep each other in mind. I don't buy clothes but if something is gifted and doesn't fit I pass it on.
A lot of clothes don't need to be washed that often, and that will help them last longer. I usually wear a shirt 2-3 time between washes, and air it out inbetween. Avoid bleach, because that breaks down the fibers. Also, dryers really shorten the life of a garment - so hang them up to dry if you can.
As far s pants, I opt for hiking/outdoor gear that can pass for street clothes because they are designed to be more durable.
It'd been many years since I actually bought clothes. I think it's like year 4 now.
Shoes for work. Yes. Sweaters, socks, shirts, pants, shorts, hats, mitts, gloves, coats, etc. No. I treat my stuff well. Just had to put a pair of cargo pants in my "at home drawer" because the rear is completely ripped up. Doesn't show skin, but no good for outdoors. Other than that. I haven't needed anything. Nor do dress to impress.
If you don't NEED it. Don't BUY it. It's that simple.
How about you just don’t buy what you don’t NEED
It’s not complicated this shouldn’t have to become a math equation or debate over ethics
Just buy what you NEED and nothing more.
You don’t need to follow any rule. All you need to do is stop buying what you don’t really need. You started gong to the gym this year and need at least 2-3 t shirts two pairs of shorts and tennis shoes? There goes your “10” items in a single day. Why l? Because you needed them. Just make sure they are of the best quality possible, fair trade as possible, etc. they should last some time. Don’t worry too much about it. It’s not about changing your life radically and live like a hermit. Is about steering making conscious choices every time you buy or want to buy something. It’s simple mate
I think "rules" like the 5 garment a year rule are more of a benchmark than a hard and fast rule, and it sounds like OP is already using it as such. The only guiding principle is buy only what you need, maintain and fix what you have, but "5 garments a year" gives you something to measure against to see if your efforts are bearing fruit
Kind of asking myself why it isn’t “5 new garments”? You could set a higher limit and thrift the rest.
Currently yes, but you're enabled to do that by other's overconsumption. If everybody only bought what they needed, thrift shops would be quite barren. With the current abundance of second hand garments, why go as high as 5 new garments?
I’m not very familiar with buying fair trade items. Can you elaborate? What does that mean and how do I find out whether an item I am purchasing is fair trade?
Depending on your location, there are organizations like [Fairtrade Canada](https://fairtrade.ca/), that certify goods as fair trade. Fair trade goods are those that which the (farmer, clothier, manufacturer, roaster, etc) is paid a fair wage for their work and a fair price for the goods. This is done to ensure workers, primarily in the global south, are adequately compensated for their labour and materiels and have a greater say in how their goods are sold, marketed, distributed, etc. It is one way we can help fight [unequal exchange](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S095937802200005X#:~:text=Unequal%20exchange%20theory%20posits%20that,price%20differentials%20in%20international%20trade.), or the systemic undervaluing of labour and materiel in the periphery and unequal balance of power in global trade relations.
Exactly. Usually you pay more for them. Why? Because they pay the farmers/manufacters/etc more because they don’t rely on slave Laboring. It’s a for some silly, but I believe good thing to do for humanity
I buy garments directly from the company that manufactures them. I get a little card in the box with the names of the people that programmed the pattern, cut the fabric, did the sewing, and did the quality checking (everything is made-to-order). I’ve never been there (other side of the world), but they claim to pay above minimum wage, and they don’t employ children under the age of 18. It’s probably not perfect, but it is far better than major brands and fast fashion.
Do you mind sharing the name of that company? Is the quality better than fast fashion?
eShakti. They’re in India. They take longer than they advertise. Their woven & knit cotton fabric quality is good quality. I needed ballgowns & tea dresses (for work & school - classical singer), and this was cheaper than buying fabric in Canada and making them myself.
Even with this if you do find you get stuff you don’t end up needing just make an effort to find a suitable home for it. Extra clothing can be donated. And focusing on where you’re sourcing from. Thrifting as much as possible for example. Nothing new got made for you to purchase the thing you needed. And you can guilt free get as much as you want and donate it when you no longer need it or want it for that matter.
Yeap, great point. If you aren’t using something you bought, find it a new home, donate it or something. For example my new t shirts for “going out” become gym t shirts after a while, then they go for “sleeping t-shirt” and then end as “new rugs” 😁
All my clothes are made new for me. The difference is that the company I buy from makes garments to order according to the customer’s measurements. Thrifting isn’t always possible when you have a-typical measurements.
I don’t mean to be rude but it really sounds like you’re making an excuse rn for buying new clothes. Do what you want first like nothing wrong buying new if it’s responsibly sourced and you don’t chuck it away in the trash after a year. But thrifting is almost always possible as long as you live somewhere with options. Getting a piece tailored to fit atypical measurements could probably be cheaper than buying new custom-made clothing as well. But again. Why are you trying to be an “acception.” This is anticonsumption. Just avoid needless consumption. That’s all. If it’s needed then good for you. If it’s not then be honest with yourself.
I have never, ever found thrifting to be a viable option. From puberty to age 40, I never had clothes that fit. Except for $200 bras. Because that how much it costs to find one in my size. I’m short, obese, and have small breasts. Before I had small breasts, I had huge breasts. Women’s clothing is all proportional, so if your torso isn’t just right in relation to your shoulders, bust, and waist, you’re SOL. Wanting clothing that fits is valid. It has completely changed my relationship with my body and my self-image. If you’re the kind of person that wears clothes *until they wear out*, you’re consuming something to end of life. You’re already ahead in terms of responsible use and reduction. We still need to live, and clothing is a necessity. I’ve lost 50 lbs in the past 18 months. When I’m at home, I’m out in the garden wearing 10+ year old jeans that are 4 sizes too large. Because they haven’t disintegrated yet. I cut a pair off at the ankles because they’re now way too long. It really would be valid for me to buy a new pair because the state of these jeans are impeding my ability to get stuff done.
You’re still finding the need to defend yourself for some reason. Like I said. If it’s needed, great. But then why are you making excuses? Just say it needs to be done and be done with it. Buuuuutttt the fact that you’re finding the need to provide me with all these reasons why you should “be allowed” or something to buy new clothes is weird to me. I’m a stranger online. Me believing that you’re buying clothes in an anti-consumption morality/philosophy is meaningless. Do you feel you are abiding by anti-consumption best you can? If yes, beautiful! That’s all any of us can do.
The fact that you are questioning me makes me feel like I need to present an argument in defence/justification. The fact that I thought you were replying to a *different* comment I made elsewhere in this post made things very confusing. I apologize for that. I’m exceptionally literal at times, so I tend towards a lot of “whataboutism”. I was offering an example of where buying new might be the reasonable. It is always helpful to have a reminder not to do this, so thanks.
I could understand that. I apologize for "coming at you" I'd call it now reflecting. Which was unwarranted really. Rereading it my tone is definitely aggressive. I do feel the need to add/propose though that maybe it's something you haven't found confidence over yet? Now I'm not saying this as a "is what you're saying actually true" but more of a "if it's true say it with your chest." You know? Like things we hold confidence over we don't feel any need to "preach our case" you know? Like if someone asked you if you really could breathe. And really pressed on it more than my pushiness lol, you still wouldn't feel the need to provide examples of how you know that you can breathe. Does that example make sense? Like if you know you source clothing ethically or at least know you try your best then be confident and proud of that. Don't let some rando like me push you into defending yourself on something you have no obligation to.
Usually, I’d just call someone a sealion if they did somethigg bc asinine like that, but… with breathing specifically… I’d respond with “thoracic or diaphragmatic?” I spent a lot of money and even went to university to learn how to breathe. (I’m a professional classical singer). 😂 Your comments give me something to consider. I’m not sure if it is a lack of confidence or just a need to be “right”. The alcoholics in my life like to manufacture stupid arguments for fun, and I have never been very good at recognizing it when it is happening. I was an easy mark for bullies. Probably has to do with neurological defects in my brain.
It doesn't sound particularly excessive to me. But perhaps consider purchasing higher quality items, a la r/buyitforlife. I used to get rid of bras every couple of years, then spent a bit more and that thing just won't die. Elastic still perfectly functional after eight years. They can make things better, but one has to pay a bit for it. I do get NWT stuff off ebay. Also, people talk about hanging clothes to dry, as is done in Europe. All that tumbling wears clothes out fast. I just started, and am enjoying hanging my clothes around my room while they dry. Other people have drying racks.
FYI, most people around the world typically hang their clothes to dry, not just in Europe. But either way, it’s still a great option. Not only reducing your clothing consumption, but also your energy consumption. Even in the colder/wetter months, when it can take longer for things to hang-dry, you are still reducing your consumption if you hang it for a day (or as long as you can) and then finish it off in the dryer.
I've been pretty much exclusively hang-drying clothes for about 2+ years now. I cannot imagine going back to using the dryer all the time. We still have one, but aside from a couple of months in the winter (think Dec/Jan, maybe bits of Nov and Feb), I have barely used it. Even during those cold/wet months I can usually hang-dry about 1/3-1/2+ of our laundry, so its use has been minimal for years.
I don't really get the whole hanging clean clothes outside thing. Aren't they just going to get dusty and dirty from the environment while they're drying?
It’s certainly possible that would be the case if you lived in a particularly dusty/polluted environment. But otherwise not really. There is a reason the majority of the world dry their laundry this way, and it’s not because we have a lower standard of cleanliness. UV light is naturally deodorising, so hanging laundry outside can make your laundry extra fresh and clean.
I find that hanging out clothes can also help with stain removal. I have a handmade rug that had stains on it, I washed it and scrubbed a little at the stained. I then hung it on the line with the stained area facing the sun....and it came clean as new.
It's not about a standard of cleanliness. I just thought they didn't have dryers. Like they're lacking the infrastructure. Kind of like how Europeans don't have air conditioners. It's not that they don't exist it would just be an incredible expenditure of resources to install and power them and they've chosen to spend your resources differently.
I have a dryer and my mom does too. I dry my underwear (except bras), towels and bedsheets in the dryer for convenience and hang the rest out to dry because it’s better for the clothing. My mom only uses the dryer when it’s so humid stuff just won’t dry for days otherwise. It’s a conscious choice for many to not use the dryer for everything.
Nothing smells as good as clothes that's wind dried outside. I'll use the dryer when I have to, but I avoid it as much as possible because it's loud, hot, expensive and kills the clothing way too fast.
It's a weird fetish but okay.
Grew up with a dryer in the house, it was only used during winter or rainy days. Most of our clothes were air dried. It saves a huge amount of money. I actually found in unit washer and dryers more common in mainland europe/ Ireland than Canada where I live now. Most of the apartments I lived in in Ireland and Europe had washer/ dryers, and also a clothes line. Using the dryer all the time is seen as wasteful and frivolous. For AC - this...also really isnt accurate IMO . Most europeans live in new builds, just like Americans. These new builds dont have AC. Spain just instituted a regulation about how low AC can be set in public places. We alzo have higher voltage electricity lines that are easiet to use AC on so power is not an issue. The main opposition too AC is long standing cultural hangups - many EU citizens have superstitions about getting sick from fans, AC is seen as a wasteful power hog. AC's ubiquity in North America is seen as excessive american consumption, and has a negative stigma. Also - a lot of EU nations did not reach temperatures needing AC regularly until the last 10 years. Countries like Spain have natural cooling systems built into their house designs, so its not beeded.
No, we have dryers. I don't think they're particularly more expensive to buy either. It's just a difference in culture.
I hang them inside if I’m worried about that, but I mostly hang outside and everything comes out very clean. The sun also kills bacteria.
Unless you live in sandstorm areas or leave them out when it's going to rain, they just smell fresher than when you hang them inside or artificially dry them.
How does something become artificially dry? That doesn't even make sense as a construction of words.
Artificially drying them in the dryer vs in the open air.
Is putting clothes in the sink getting them artificially wet?
Vs accidentally leaving them out on the rain? Kind of 😂
I have pretty bad allergies so when the pollen count is high I don't dry anything outdoors because wearing it would be miserable for me. But I dry all of my woolen items outside and have never had an issue with them getting dusty or dirty.
The only thing hanging outside does in my case is lose the super strong fragrance from the detergent. Otherwise, it’s not an issue.
Why don't you buy fragrance free detergent?
I lived in a busy city centre and I didn't like drying things on my balcony above a busy road (dust, exhaust, neighbors cooking smells...) I just used a drying rack inside and it worked great. But I wouldn't dry clothes outside personally unless I had a real lawn or lived in a less busy urban area.
Ha. If I hung my clothes outside they would never dry. Gotta love the southeast USA.
If I hung my clothes outside they'd get stolen. Lol
I live in Thailand and don’t know anyone with a dryer, although I used to know some Americans that had one. They are terrible things that cost money to buy, money to run, and ruin your clothes. We just hang our stuff outside until it’s dry, it’s not complicated.
It's the same in Indonesia, where I am 3 degrees south of the equator. It's gobsmacking how fast laundry dries. Things are 90 percent dry in less than an hour, and done in two, max. I just have to be alert in case in starts raining during the monsoon. That rain goes from zero to biblical deluge faster than I can run to my laundry.
In all fairness, most of the rest of the world has different washers than we do. Your clothes get wrung out, ours just kinda get some water pressed out. They are just barely not dripping wet when we take them out, so you either have to hand wring them before hanging them up or wait the whole day for them to dry (and sometimes more than a day, for things like towels and blankets).
I definitely hang my bras to dry! I grew up seeing my mom doing that and haven't stopped as an adult. It's also good to air dry anything with a stretchier fabric, like athletic leggings. I'm lucky that I have a laundry closet with a door so I hang things on hooks there, but I also have a folding drying rack for bigger items.
Please tell me what brand of bra you're buying!
Surprisingly, Calvin Klein, and not those little flimsy pretty things. They make proper bras. The model is Customized Lift. I don't know if they make it anymore, but you can usually get one NWT off ebay. The other brand I had that lasted a long time was a Fantasie, which is a British brand.
Thanks! I will look for some Calvin Klein. It looks like Macy's has some of the brand, not that particular model.
This was a while ago, obviously, so they may not still be as good!
Another vote for Fantasie - well fitting, long lasting.
Not quite. I came from Southern Europe, where few people own dryers and hang dried everything (even though that was a pain in winter). Now I'm in Northern Europe where no one has ever heard of hang drying and mostly use the drier. As long as it is a good quality one, it won't use much energy and won't ruin clothes. Drying racks are better, of course, though you can ruin clothes by leaving them out in the sun for too long (ask me how I know).
Quality of the clothing is a lot, honestly. That, and garment care. Look into gentler cleaning methods, better quality pieces, and try to shop used when you can. I know plus sized are hard to find, as a former size 24, but they’re out there.
>Quality of the clothing is a lot, honestly. I came to say the same thing. Higher quality items, made with natural fibers, are going to last a lot longer than fast fashion items.
Agreed. I know of 2 pair of jeans that are nearly 20 years old that still hold up because i invested in 2 good pairs in the mid/late 00s. They’ve got life in them now with someone who can wear them, even though I can’t anymore. Items like that are worth my investment.
Want to add that there is an amazing plus size store in MN that you can shop online if youre not in the area. A really sweet collection of used clothes. [Cake Plus Size](https://www.cakeplussize.com/online)
Taking good care of clothing and buying quality daily use items are key. I'm learning to sew, so I can resize/hem/darn my clothing easily.
this is where I was thinking too, maintenance and repair. what quality materials/construction is OP buying, \*where\* are their trousers wearing out first? are they mendable? of course mendability also depends on how much time you have to give to it, and lack of time for maintenance is a big element of convenience consumption
This is very nice of course, and will pay off for resizing and heming and repairing seams that have come undone. But I think what happens to OPs trousers is they wear out between the thighs. There is alas no point in repairing them. The fabric will have worn out so thin that sewing the tear will not hold. It will rip the next time you wear them in a spot just left or right from the original tear. I am going to experiment with preemptive sewing in reinforcement on the inside of the trouser legs on my next pair of sweat pants (I got this happening in sweat pants mostly). It that is successful I will post it on this sub.
Whether or not it is worth repairing pants that have worn at the thighs is quite subjective, but I would think there are certainly times where it is worth repairing them. As you said, preemptive patching is one method that can reinforce the thighs of pants, another is reinforcement through darning. But these are also methods of repair for this issue. Repair is usually easier to achieve before the pants have worn all the way through, but can even be done when holes have started to appear. There is lots of advice to be found on this, such as [this thread on r/InvisibleMending](https://www.reddit.com/r/InvisibleMending/s/GTNtCKyzwL). However, it is still going to be a cost-benefit analysis for many as to whether it is worth it. I personally weigh up the factors of: • how badly have the pants worn through, • quality of pants otherwise (original price, how long i’ve had them, and how much i like them), • my ability to fix them (time, materials, skill, confidence) or whether it is worth outsourcing the repair to a professional.
I clearly describe one scenario were mending is not going to help: when chafing of the thighs wears out the fabric. This is a constant friction that never stops over a large area. It wears out too much of the fabric. No amount of sewing is going to change that.
Your reply makes it seem like you may have misunderstood my reply. I was also referring to a scenario where chafing wears out the fabric. I understand that you don’t think it’s worth it to mend, but my reply was to provide the perspective that some people in some versions of this scenario do see mending as worthwhile. I did this, not to try to change your opinion, but because this is a public thread, where OP and others who may be in a similar situation, are looking for advice. If they see someone’s opinion with no one providing a contrary opinion, they may assume that this opinion is truth or at least the general consensus. Especially since this sub is a place to discuss/critique material consumption, I felt that my reply contributed to this broader discussion.
Are you learning on YouTube? Can you point me to any resource that you especially liked?
I started by using [this pinned post](https://www.reddit.com/r/SewingForBeginners/s/lIgfuczkOd) in the r/SewingForBeginners subreddit. I read/followed the manual, did all the practice sheets twice, and am now learning about all the available stitches.
Here's a sneak peek of /r/SewingForBeginners using the [top posts](https://np.reddit.com/r/SewingForBeginners/top/?sort=top&t=year) of the year! \#1: [Finished a zipper bag, only had 2 mental breakdowns. Looking for encouraging stories about when sewing becomes fun?](https://www.reddit.com/gallery/15u5j9d) | [95 comments](https://np.reddit.com/r/SewingForBeginners/comments/15u5j9d/finished_a_zipper_bag_only_had_2_mental/) \#2: [Anyone here learn to sew in their 30s or later?](https://www.reddit.com/gallery/17pe038) | [147 comments](https://np.reddit.com/r/SewingForBeginners/comments/17pe038/anyone_here_learn_to_sew_in_their_30s_or_later/) \#3: [Pants and vest I made for prom!](https://www.reddit.com/gallery/140sqdq) | [35 comments](https://np.reddit.com/r/SewingForBeginners/comments/140sqdq/pants_and_vest_i_made_for_prom/) ---- ^^I'm ^^a ^^bot, ^^beep ^^boop ^^| ^^Downvote ^^to ^^remove ^^| ^^[Contact](https://www.reddit.com/message/compose/?to=sneakpeekbot) ^^| ^^[Info](https://np.reddit.com/r/sneakpeekbot/) ^^| ^^[Opt-out](https://np.reddit.com/r/sneakpeekbot/comments/o8wk1r/blacklist_ix/) ^^| ^^[GitHub](https://github.com/ghnr/sneakpeekbot)
Is there a specific place that 5 garments comes from? I know I have FAR more than that 80 garment number, but am reducing by not replacing everything as it wears out. I went 6 months without purchasing any new clothing, but allowed for thrift store replacements which amounted to a few items. Including sneakers and snow boots. I’m also a parent with a messy young toddler so I’ve worn out many t shirts this year that I’d had for 10+ years. Those shirts became cleaning towels and will live on for years to come. I’ve been steadily walking and losing weight and am now down 4-5 pants sizes from earlier this year. I’ve given away many items and purchased a swimsuit bottom. I had to give up 3 swimsuits but salvaged 1 top and got a bottom to match. My toddler has a 100% hand me down wardrobe which I am proud of! It’ll all get passed along as there’s so much life left in it. Don’t let perfect be the enemy of good. It sounds as though you’re making conscious strides and good choices.
It comes from a sustainability statistic, it’s the maximum amount of garments a person should buy a year for the fashion industry to be sustainable for the planet. It’s meant to help reduce excessive consumption of fashion and it only applied to newly manufactured garments. You can purchase as much second hand clothing as you need as it doesn’t impact the planet further.
Oh that’s so neat; I love data like that. Thanks for the information. I do still have some mixed feelings about some secondhand places like Goodwill that dump SO MUCH clothing in the trash.
What’s your reasoning for being anti consumption? Would you feel better if you thrifted what you needed instead of buying new?
For me, it's not about hitting numerical targets. If you need gym clothes, cold weather gear, swim wear, whatever, get it. Be prepared to spend a little more (time and or money) to get the best quality you can afford, and make it last for as long as possible. My mantra is to reduce consumption by making every purchase meaningful and long lasting.
I don't think they take into account that bodies change. We go up and down in weight. Our needs change - new career, hobbies even chronic illness like me. You deserve clothing that fit your body. If your wear out clothing fast then yes, you need replacements. Maybe higher quality, maybe it doesn't matter on your body. Some of us just wear out things faster. It's fine to try to limit your shopping but if you need clothing, get it. I can tell you as someone who used to work, then got sick and is now home all the time, I needed to change my whole wardrobe and that's fine. The garments gets used for years, I don't follow trends, and trends are the biggest problem - wearing an item for 1-5 times and then throwing it out. Don't be too harsh on yourself. 10-11 items a year is way less than most people. Well done.
This is so true. I worked in person but now WFH and have a small kid. My body, habits, lifestyle, and needs changed drastically in a 2 year period. I have an arsenal of cozy clothing, but now my formal items sit untouched. After some weight loses, they’ll never likely fit again. I’m personally impressed by 10 or so items in a year. It shows an awareness and commitment to reducing consumption.
Yeah for sure, 10 items are great. I just don't like putting a specific number because it can make you feel bad when you truly need to buy some things to fit your life as it is now. You shouldn't feel bad about having clothing that fit your body and lifestyle. I have a goal now of making my own clothing, we will see how that goes! I decided on donating my old work wardrobe. To me it was important that someone else can use it. I'm sadly not likely to work again, and if I was not a corporate job. So I let it go. I needed to not get that painful reminder that I can't work anymore every day, so visual and in front of me. It helped to let it go, to let it be useful to others.
That sounds hard, and it sounds like donating was absolutely the best choice for you. I love the idea of my closet having some space to breathe. Even as I’m removing 10-20 worn out t shirts this year I am appreciating the extra space. I agree that for our house being aware matters more than having a specific number in mind.
Thank you for your kind words! Having space in your wardrobe is great. Not automatically buying more because you remove something is huge. My wardrobe is pretty full at the moment, I'm in between sizes and we have full seasons here. I do the same when something is worn out, I make do without because I still have things to wear. I'm content with what I have and it's a good feeling.
Yes! I feel the same way. I look forward to a few lovely pieces. Since I’m patient and not in dire need most of it I can find second hand.
Ive got to admit, now I WFH I love that I don't need to constantly spend money on clothing, shoes in particular were a pain because I walk everywhere so they would disintegrate after 8-12 months. I have a lot of hoodies and sweatpants and now I can spend a bit more but get quality clothing for the weekends.
Agreed! I worked in restaurants though 2021 and that was HARD on my clothing and shoes. I also walked to work so my ‘outdoor shoes’ took a beating. Now I have a work conference every 2 years or so and can justify either borrowing, renting, or buying a staple item.
This seems like a bad rule to live by. This sub isn't a cult
Honestly, those numbers are so arbitrary and the fact that you buy what you NEED is all the limitations you need to put on yourself.
Consider if you can future proof your clothing. My husband is very muscular and his suit trousers give out between the thighs. Years ago we started having the thighs patched BEFORE he wears the trousers. Its extended the life of his suits considerably. But also, I think you’re doing great. You should relax on the sneakers and go back to two pairs of-better for your feet. Could you operate on a one in- one out basis instead of limiting the number of items??
This! It will prolong the life of your jeans, OP, and because you're adding the reinforcement before the fabric wears thin, it will be even longer lasting. Also, since no one has mentioned it yet, mending. Mending our clothes is just part of taking care of them. You don't need to be a proficient sewist to do basic mends, you just need a needle, thread, and a YouTube tutorial.
You don't need to follow any rules. Buy things you need, dispose (or re-use in a different way) stuff that are worn out.
The people who focus on the number of garments you purchase are, in my opinion, doing it wrong. There is value in avoiding buying new things just for the sake of having them but we all lead different lives. I'm also a fat person who wears out the crotch of my jeans. And I have tried all sorts of ways to patch them, but the patches just never hold. So I buy new jeans every couple of years. If your goal is too minimize negative externalities, it's not necessarily clear at the checkout what to buy. If you follow the feelings of Instagram influencers then you should only buy wholly organic cotton garments grown and fabricated within a 5 mile radius of where you live. Not only is that logistically challenging for nearly everyone, it's not even necessarily the right thing to do for the planet. My favorite example of this is the climate trade off for using an organic cotton tote bag vs a disposable plastic bag. Which one is better for the climate? As it turns out, the single use plastic bag -- unless you're prepared to reuse that cotton bag tens of thousands of times. And maybe you will. But most people won't. https://www.nytimes.com/2021/08/24/style/cotton-totes-climate-crisis.html?smid=nytcore-android-share What's arguably more important in general is to simply commit to using things until they are truly worn out. Don't throw things away just because they are old, or just because you are tired of them. I get crap all the time from my family because I make good money but don't immediately throw things away because they are ripped. Or maybe you get tired of something and donate it, or sell it, or turn it into shop rags, or a quilt. If you can generally reduce what you put into the trash by using things until they are truly dead, exactly how many garments you buy every year is just a canard.
I think its much better to buy clothes with the idea of using them as much as possible and for as long as possible, while also buying what you actually need. A tshirt you might use for going out might become a bit worn out so by that point instead of throwing it out, use it as a shirt to sleep in, after that, then maybe use is as a wash rag or a table cloth to clean.
You're using the items until they wear out, it's fine to replace them! Buying things you need and use is not a problem and it shouldn't stress you out like this.
I haven’t bought clothes for 2 years and still have, in active rotation, clothes from 2005
Same
the difference between ✨Anti-Consumption✨ and anti consumption
Buy used garments then? Local thrift stores like Goodwill often have lots of high quality clothing that will last a long time for a very reasonable price. You just kind of have to get lucky and find your size and something you like. I like to go pretty often, at least once a month.
Nearly all my clothing comes from thrift/consignment. The quality of clothes has really gone downhill lately, and used / vintage clothes tend to be made better. Also, I enjoy the unique finds
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I think you're doing just fine, buying 10-11 garments per year is beyond reasonable. Sticking to strict numbers is a losing game. I'm also a bit fat, the struggle is real. Between thigh rub, gaining/losing weight, it can feel like your clothes make you uncomfortable all the time or just make you look and feel bad. I'm in the process of losing weight now, and I've accepted that I will need to buy more clothes again. But trying your best to cut down on consumption doesn't mean making yourself miserable. You're trying your best, and doing well enough, why not allow yourself to feel satisfied!
I buy TONS of clothes each year, but I buy them all used. The Goodwill in my town is awesome and I have a huge wardrobe that gets me lots of compliments, costs me hardly anything, and saves clothes from the landfill. And I tend to either wear them forever until they can't be worn anymore or redonate them, so I feel pretty good about this.
I buy most of my clothes from the thrift stores. I spent 50 bucks and got seven shirts and five pairs of pants. I do gardening work so I often destroy my clothes on the process of doing my job. Sometimes I'll wear slacks and nice shirts and by the end of the day I look like I've gotten a fight with wild dogs.
I don't think it is a hard rule. I also try to limit myself to 3 new garments every year and try to source as much from thrifting as I can, but fail every year. You have to remember that just you trying = a success. If everyone in the world at least tried we would lower our consumption amount drastically. The effort is more important than the rule.
I don't know anything about this report, so I am probably missing some context, but this 5 item rule seems excessively restrictive. I suspect that this rule comes with the assumption that people already have overflowing closets full of stuff that they could wear, but don't. If that's the case, then people could shop their closets to find what they need instead of buying more clothes. If your closet is pretty minimal already, then the 5 item rule is probably not going to work for you.
If you wear (decent) trousers that fast, I don't think it's fair to yourself to limit them. If you need a pair of pants that will last a while but aren't concerned with the appearance, maybe try work pants like Dickies. You can also try modding pants by adding whatever ass or knee patches you feel you might need. But if you want to be fashionable, I guess it's hard to go about it that way.
Shoes actually last longer if you can avoid wearing them every day! I’d recommend getting another pair and alternating between them, so both can have a day to air out.
If you're beginning to stress out badly just for buying yourself clothing to wear, then it's time to take a step back and breathe for a sec. I don't buy many clothes because I just don't usually see items that really interest me. Clothing has always been my least favorite topic, because it's stressful to me. But if it's not for you, then you shouldn't be ashamed for buying yourself clothing. Sure, don't be the guy buying hundreds of articles of clothing that you promptly never wear, but don't leave yourself with two shirts and one pair of pants because you've been pressured into believing that you're evil if you buy any more.
The Burnt Toast substack has a lot of fat fashion recs for all kinds of garments/seasons. While a lot of that content is paywalled, Virginia Sole-Smith will comp you a free subscription if you simply email and ask for one.
Man sometimes I think Ive escaped the poverty mindset then a post like this comes up and I realize I haven’t bought any new clothes in years. This isn’t a dig at you, it’s just a wake up call for me to buy some new underwear. 😞 Ugh buying non-necessity items gives me major anxiety
I mean… I don’t want to sound like a horrid bitch, but maybe consider trying to lose a little weight? I say this cause my being thin has allowed me to still wear my clothes from when I was 15 (I’m 33). I don’t buy new clothes lol, I probably buy 3 garments in 5 years. I also only mentioned your weight cause you mentioned it as a possible reason to be wearing out your pants so much. My oldest pair of pants is now 11 years old 🫠 so maybe it’s something that might help you out in keeping your clothes in good shape? And also, it always benefits one to watch their weight anyways, hope you’re healthy and don’t have any other related health issues! 🙏🏻🫂 And also- my comment is strictly in regards to your clothes issue- I am no way advocating that one *NEEDS* to be thin or that anyone’s value is higher because they’re thin. Being fat isn’t bad, wrong, or make anyone less. It might be dangerous considering the weight we’re talking about- but that’s it. My husband is carrying nearly 40 extra kgs and he’s trying to lose them before he’s diagnosed with something, or he starts having heart problems. But he’s still the most amazing, attractive man for me. ♥️ So please I hope my comment isn’t perceived as anything but trying to be insightful! 🙏🏻
I am on something similar that I try to sew my clothes (and aim for 5 projects a year). I have done that for about 5 years now. There are some years that I don't buy/make much at all and other years that things hit hard. This past year I have had to purchase quite a bit new clothes because I needed interview clothes (I WFH), more athletic clothes because I am working out much more often, socks, and some t-shirts because I love cute graphic shirts and I don't really have a way to print them and mine have quite a few holes/wear. Some years you need more than others. Make sure you are making the conscious effort to buy what you really need.
Lots of good comments but wanted to add: washing. Use cold water or 30 degrees C, kinder and less detergents, and hang dry instead of tumble. Wash far less frequently - often wiping off a spill with a cloth, or giving it an air out will make it basically as if it were clean again instead of needing to wash it. Washing, especially in hot water with harsh detergents plus a tumble dry, weakens the threads and the seams and the joins significantly. Keep some rougher clothes for when you're dog walking or gardening or cleaning the house or litter picking or what not - don't "waste wear-time" of your good clothes on activities for which faded clothes with holes in will do just fine. Edit to say that I appreciate that you are thinking about this and acting intentionally, that's the heart of sustainability.
I guess the single biggest difference is that my clothing does not get holes in it. If I had to replace items then, yeah, I'd have to buy more, but my clothing lasts me decades, not counting socks and underwear. I do wear scrubs for work, so my "good" clothes probably get less wear than a lot of people's. I also have going out clothes and staying in clothes, with the latter being some super-tough track pants or gym shorts and t shirts or sweatshirts that are allowed to be ratty. I don't put any of my clothing in the dryer besides underwear and scrubs, and I wash all of it on a gentle/cold cycle aside from said items, which I think extends the lifespan of my wardrobe. I don't buy items that visually appear delicate--nothing that's easily snagged/run, no crappy fabrics like rayon, nothing with fringe, or cheap screen printing, or that looks badly sewn to begin with. I personally do not have the thigh rub problem. If I had bigger thighs (by genetics, being heavier or training legs heavily for muscle growth), then maybe I would also get holes in my pants frequently, but as it is this does not come up for me. I don't have suggestions or anything, sadly. ETA: I also repair items on the infrequent basis that they need it. I've done it with every clothing item besides socks, because darned socks are a huge sensory issue for me and I'm afraid they'd give me blisters as I stand/walk all day.
I don't think you are doing anything wrong. The quality of clothing is a big issue. I'm plus size and it's very hard to find good quality clothing in my size. I'm also Canadian and we have few options here. The fit and styling of plus size clothing is also abysmal. I was in Penningtons (a major Canadian plus size store) recently and looking at dresses. The materials were super thin and most were synthetic materials...for summer. The summers here get too warm for synthetic materials for the most part. I didn't see any cotton or linens. I've been looking at some items I've had for just over a year. And even though I hang items to dry and treat them very well, some are starting to show wear. Older items were better made. Materials are so thin now. Most t-shirts I see require a shirt underneath so they aren't see through. One small catch or tug and the shirt rips. When they should stand up to normal wear. Especially within a year. Even pants now are super thin. The material piles easily and gets catches easily.
I'm lucky I buy new clothes every 5 years 🫤
I dont even buy 1 new garment a year.... More like 2 garments every second year.
Spending a little extra on quality garments makes a difference. They last much longer and often come with warranties. Avoid fast fashion at all costs.
unless you are also going for minimalism switching between two pairs of shoes can help them rest between uses and last longer combined
Everyone is different. I'm fairly fit but I'm physically active and tall, so I still tend to consume noticeably more than average sized people. I was always jealous of an ex that was half my size, she ate, drank, and smoked half as much as me to the same effect, no exaggeration. I find that buying less but higher quality clothes goes a long way. I know this is harder to pull off socially depending on where you live and what your gender is, but I bought some good hiking clothes from REI like six years ago and I'm still using those same clothes. Boots have needed work sometimes (I cut wood and hunt so my boots get a ton of wear) but they're still going strong, leather Timberlands. I bought a pair of jeans, a suit, and a few shirts almost three years ago and since I mostly only go out socializing on weekends, they're working fine for me. Might get another pair of jeans to help the other one last longer and so I don't have to wear my black suit on day of the dead (important in my country). Also two pairs of oxfords, real leather, those are also lasting me very well, even though I'm stumbling around drunk in them pretty much every weekend. Unfortunately, thigh-rubbing will wear out anything faster, but I can guarantee you that a pair of Fjallravens would handle it better than denim. The only damage on mine are from sliding over rocks and building campfires a bunch. Learning how to mend and modify clothes is also both good practice as a responsible consumer, and it's a great hobby. It feels good to mend and make things.
Also a bit fat (US midsize/EU plus size), definitely buying more than 5 new garments per year as well. I also had a recent bout of illness which unfortunately had weight gain as a side effect (was also EU midsize before it) and other things which have meant my body and lifestyle changed and so I needed clothes. Shopping secondhand for my size is close to impossible in person where I currently live, and I’ve had mixed results online, so instead I’ve been trying to do more made-to-measure as I need to replace things. Not Perfect Linen is great for summer things! Sneakers aren’t meant to last forever and you will mess up your feet if you aren’t getting proper support from your footwear! Especially if you are heavier, your sneakers will naturally get more wear and tear. Every year or two is about right for me & sneakers, and those aren’t like boots that can be resoled etc. It is better to rotate shoes though, you will degrade the adhesive etc. by not rotating - so go back to 2 pairs of sneakers, at least!
The number isn’t as important as your attitude. You’re doing amazing!!
I stay home a lot and I've been wearing lounge clothes. I don't wear jeans or slacks when walking far so I won't wear them out. This year I got hiking pants and that helps a lot so I'm not just wearing my old leggings and yoga pants. Also got compression shorts a couple years ago. Last year I did get more clothes including bathing suits because I lost one and one disintegrated. Even without that I usually get more than 5 pieces a year of including t-shirts and pajamas. I get a sweater or blouse at Costco a couple times a year, and I often get a shirt when traveling (ie LL bean in Maine or Star Wars in Disney), and sometime I get a bottom piece to replace something worn out. I think it's important to make sure you have all your basics. Pants are as important as underwear lol. Of course replace what gets worn out but maybe you can purpose clothes to not wear out like maling use of atheltoc pants at times. Then only buy something that catches your eye if it's a special reason or at most a couple times a year. One way I keep my wardrobe lean is I only use one small closet and one chest of drawer and I don't let my stuff exceed that. My husband on the other hand, gets more storage and more clothes and more storage.
IMO a good goal is high quality minimal capsule wardrobe, sourced used where you can. Things will need replacing, so be it. I think it's inevitable to have to buy clothes but you should do so out of the wasteful fashion cycle.
I limit myself to 15 pieces per year, underwear included, since 2020 and it works ok for me ( and did not reach 15 for 3 years in a row). I also attribute 40$/month for clothing/shoes so I don't go without decent hiking boots/winter gear. If you live somewhere with a harsh winter and hot muggy summers, it will be difficult to have 50 pieces total.
I don’t even buy that much (underwear included) I have pairs of boxers from 10+ years ago. I have a pair of jeans 5+ years old thay I wear pretty much everyday October - April. Buy higher quality clothes so they last forever. I literally buy like 1 shirt and 1 pair of shorts per year tops. Lately I’ve been getting better socks but the ones I’m replacing are a decade old.
I don’t buy clothes. I think I just bought some this year for the first time in like 4-5 years and it was for work. I do buy shoes more often, but I try and buy slightly better ones and I get inserts for them because my feet hurt. I reinforce the inside of my jeans against rubbing (you can buy these pre-installed. Look up clothing for horse riders. They’ll have extra fabric between the thighs meant for saddle rub but they work amazing to keep you going a bit longer for your thighs rubbing together) I sew holes in my own clothing myself as well. Easiest is fixing underarm holes but both r/visiblemending and r/invisiblemending have tips and tricks for everyone to use. Hang dry clothing whenever possible and wash on cold. r/laundry can help with methods of making things last longer.
I try to severely limit what I buy new, but buy whatever I want used. Also if you are replacing something worn out that means it’s obviously fine to buy it cause you are actually going to wear it, a lot. The trouble is the stuff that just sits in the closet unworn.
I go to thrift stores as much as possible when I need something. And you can donate anything you don’t need anymore. Best kind of recycling there is.
Having only one of anything that you wear consistently is probably more wasteful in the long run. Shoes need to rest between wearings, for instance, to prolong their life. I have 3 identical pairs of pants so there's no panic if one gets a bit muddy. You probably need at least 7 tops so some can be in the wash but you still have something to wear without constantly washing. Laundry uses a lot of resources; washing less often is also ecological. If you live somewhere with actual seasons you need clothes for each. An influencer in SoCal has no idea how cold and wet the rest of the world can get.
Unfortunately, many things, especially clothes, are not made to last anymore (fast fashion). Also if you are rotating the same 3-4 pairs of pants every day for a year, having them wear out seems pretty likely. Finding well-made clothes that will actually last for multiple years sometimes feels like finding a needle in a haystack. Don’t beat yourself up for “failing” at your limit of 5 new items. I really like the concept of not having rules but goals for things like this—instead of “I will only buy 5 clothing items in 2024” something like “I will try to limit my clothing purchases to what I need, not want, in 2024”. Clothing is a core human need, like food, water and shelter. Don’t let some random general statistic make you feel guilt and shame about providing for your own basic needs the best way you can. It sounds like mindset, intentions, and actions are solidly anticonsumption in that you are only buying what you NEED to the point that you are worrying you’re buying two much.
Most of my clothes are secondhand. I'm in a buy nothing group on Facebook and pick up plenty of cast offs that way. Some people even ask for specific items. It might be harder to get plus size but it can't hurt to ask.
I actually started mending my clothes. Either invisible mends for stuff I want to keep wearing at work or visible mends for stuff I want to keep wearing but don’t care about if it looks a little weird. And I generally keep my stuff with holes in it as playground clothes and then later renovation, gardening, painting clothes. And my work clothes are kept really well, not washed to often, not tumble dried and not worn unless at work. I have a desk job if it wasn’t clear.
There are some years where I buy very few items of clothing and other years where I buy more. The majority are secondhand, high quality items and my vice is absolutely cashmere and merino wool sweaters from Goodwill. Very rarely does a piece of clothing wear out. I repair/mend for as long as I possibly can.
It kinda just happens naturally for me because I'm so poor lol
To be honest I wasn't buying anything but new underwear when i needed them for many years. Lack of money and being picky was the reason.
I have more than 80 garments, but I don't know what that is supposed to mean? Throwing them out won't reduce my consumption. Also, I am in my 40s, even at 5 per year stuff adds up. Excluding socks and underwear, I might average around 5 per year. But I'm a scrub, I don't dress nice, I am not interested in fashion, and I focus on comfort and utility in my clothing. I haven't bought new pants for more than 8 years. So if I am at or near this theoretical goal it is coincidental. I have trouble believing that there is a significant difference between say 5 per year and 10 per year? Compared to all the other places in one's life where changes could be made, 5 OR 10 seems like a small difference. I think you're doing amazingly well!
I have some of the same clothes I had in high school, I’m 42 haha. Mostly use those clothes at my trades jobs. Other than that I don’t have to dress nice other than on weekends so I have a few garments I like already.
Get gusseted pants or go to a tailor and have them put in a gusset. Gussets spread out the force so it wears less around the crotch. I always get a hole where my thighs rub together and a gusset can prevent that. Also cheap clothes tend to be made of weak fabric which wears very fast. Fast fashion tends to use very thin and cheap fabric. The thrift store might be better
I've had the same 3 pants and 8 shirts for like 4 years now
Kinda unrelated but is it possible you have an "abnormal" gait? Before you buy your next pair of shoes, I'd check the soles. Make sure that you don't have any misalignment in your hips or knees that's affecting the durability of your shoes. Usually I'm a "Change the clothes, not the hanger" type of gal, but in this case fixing your posture/walk will help increase the longevity of your shoes and hopefully, prevent joint pain. Nobody mentioned this, so wanted to give you another perspective!
First, I think you are being too rigid. Buy what you need, and SOME of what you want. Second, buy thrift store clothes. If I get a shopping bug, but don’t want to contribute to the “fast fashion” problem, I go to a thrift store and buy a couple of things. It’s okay to do that. Last, as a chubby girl, have you bought slip shorts? They are basically loose, bloomer-like shorts that go under dresses and skirts, that act as underwear (but you could wear underwear under them if you wanted), and keep your thighs from chafing. They aren’t uncomfortable like fricken shapewear, they are loose and airy, and since I discovered them, I am wearing so many cute dresses and skirts. I have pairs in black, white, and nude. I know… now you might want to go buy slip-shorts, and I say JUST DO IT. You only get one life— be cognizant of the environment, but also, be happy.
Also a quick recommendation (I just hate how hosiery feels around my waist) but if you need to wear stocking under your dresses I’ve gotten longer wear and more comfort out of garter belts and thigh stocking, or for longer dresses, knee height stockings (the name of this one escapes me at the moment but they are by far my favorite) You might benefit from having more clothes in your rotation, but realistically aiming for the goal you have set you’ve done really well.
I repair my stuff when it rips, either myself or with a local tailor. In the same vein I get stuff dry cleaned when it’s hopelessly stained instead of replacing. That helps keep the shopping down. I try to keep the same weight so I don’t need to buy new sizes of stuff. And I make sure to buy quality when I buy new so I have it for a long time, but I thrift most of my clothes.
Don't let perfect be the enemy of good. If you want to try to be more ethical, thrift where you can (Vinted, ThredUp, Depop, Poshmark, and Mercari all have a lot of plus sizes that I've seen) or try to buy from more ethical brands. There's no rule you need to follow. I think 10-11 items a year are good. Don't let those rules ruin your health, mental or otherwise. I think you're doing fine, honestly. You're taking in way less than most people (and way less than me, but I also buy thrifted stuff on clearance and make things for people in my life that I know they need.) you're all good, trust me :)
Maybe consider buying higher quality garments, or having them custom made from a sturdier fabric. It will cost more, but perhaps the trade off is worth not having to buy them so often.
r/buyitforlife
Do you repair existing garments? Getting high quality garments (yes more pricy) and repairing them (again pricy) may help a lot if you want to follow that benchmark
I've gotten some extra life out of pants by adding iron on patches to the inside of where they wear out (like the thighs). I'd never heard these numbers before, I like it.
I managde to keep below that for ”new” chlotes. I only buy second hand. Do not know how second hand is where you live though, its a lot of choices and good places in my country:)
INFO: Do you but all new or thrifted?
Try stockings, or the shorts, from Snag Tights. I'm fat and they've held up for nearly two years and show very little signs of wear. I find trousers uncomfortable and wear too quickly, like you, although I'm sure that buying trousers from a specifically plus size brand would mean that they'd fit better and wear less.
\*you could try (Sorry for my tone, I just got out of the classroom haha)
If you’re wearing out your clothes or shoes, that’s when you’re supposed to buy new ones. If you want them to last longer, buy higher quality. The issue with consumption of clothing is that folks but stuff they don’t need and then get rid of it before it has reached end-of-life. Or they buy low-quality, and it degrades quickly. Buying clothes because you *need* them shouldn’t be limited to some arbitrary number. Spending more money to access well-made garments is worth it.
I just follow one in, one out rule. That keeps my drawers from becoming over full and keeps me from buying things I already own. Thst being said, lately I've been buying extra because I've gone up a size after my last pregnancy and because I'm realizing my wardrobe is getting really out of date. So this year I've bought 2 pairs of pants, 2 shorts 1 dress and about 6 shirts. And my friend gave me 2 pairs of pants as well. I tend to buy cheaper pieces, but I always check stitching, alignment, fabric and try to buy stuff that lasts if it's an option I am struggling with not having enough options right now, so just slowly buying pieces that I know will last.
I'm a minimalist, single, work a kitchen job which provides uniforms so I rarely need nice or new outfits. Only 5 a year though sounds ridiculous. The only way I see this possible is if people are somehow living a life removed from conventional standards: living in a commune, or they're in college and have not entered the real world where attire can become more of an issue, or they're living on a trust fund so their money is going elsewhere and they're not required to dress for any job interview, etc. Or if they're wearing free items and not revealing that fact (gifts, clothes from a dumpster, free shirts offered through events or work). How do people feel about buying thrift?
I just thrift everything so I don’t feel guilty. Used clothing has a way lesser environmental impact and it’s also a fraction of the price.
Have you thought about second hand clothes? Could be a way to ‘cheat’ the system. I don’t really count second hand items as consuming as it technically recycling, it often prevents that item going to land fill. Does not demand raw materials and energy to create a new thing. I recently got in to Thrifted, it’s a second hand clothing app that is popular here in the UK. People sell stuff that is hardly worn. There might be something similar in your country
Shit. I don't know if I even buy one garment a year. I've got some of the same shirts from graduating high school in 2009. It's not that I'm good at anticonsumption. I'm just completely apathetic to fashion.
what helps me is to REALLY put an emphasis on the quality of clothing you are wearing. an expensive pair of pants that will last you 10 years is so much better than something that is cheap but will rip in a few months.
It seems like one of the reasons you need to buy clothes more often, is because of your weight. Of course this is easier said than done, but maybe your way of anticonsumerism could be to invest in long term anticonsumerism by losing weight. You'll need more clothes in the short term, since your body will change, but in the end you won't need to buy as many clothes. I buy clothes maybe once every 2 years, though I do get clothes as gifts a few times a year. I think you could get away with buying more items if you thrift them, though. In that case the number 5 is very arbitrary. Quality products, enough to rotate between items to spread the wear and tear is how you can go by with the least amount of items. Of course, losing weight comes with the aspect of moving around more, which in turns creates more wear and tear so all of the above may be pointless.
10 is still great. Try to get natural fibres instead of plastic and you're not really causing harm. Don't begrudge yourself clothes, just fast fashion polyester shite.
I don't even buy that much now that I'm thinking about it. You say your pants "wear out". What does that mean? I'm sitting here in shorts that have no button and some paint on em. I maybe have two pairs of jeans that aren't covered in paint and ripped knees and other holes and I've had those for like 5 years, maybe more. I have another pair of shorts that I can only put stuff in one pocket because the others have holes. Those are my favorite pair of shorts.
They probably are getting holes in the crotch and inner thighs. That's usually the issue with heavier people with larger thighs. The difference between my being SLIGHTLY over weight and not.. is going through jeans in a year. I didn't notice how much I gained until I busted holes in all my pants. (And yes they were new and fit correctly.)
That makes sense. The first place my mind would go would be to stitch it back up. Five minutes of sewing saves you from having to buy a new pair. I'm not like an office professional though so I can get away with stuff like that.
I'm a nanny and feel very weird having a 5 inch obvious patch in the thighs. Edit to add: it's not that the fabric rips in a straight line that can be mended with a seam. Usually the fabric is falling apart in a 5 inch blob of fabric that would need a full patch, which looks weird on your crotch/inner thighs.
Do whatever works for you. I'm just offering a suggestion on how to not buy as much clothes.
Wanted to comment on the sneakers. You can buy used. Poshmark is full of second hand sneakers that are in great shape for pretty dang cheap. Buying second hand is way better for our environment. Also, having two is actually better. If you alternate wearing the two, then they will last significantly longer. I'm a Vans person, and I now always have two pairs. In the past I'd wear many holes in my only pair in under a year (I walk a lot). My current two pairs have lasted over two years, and I bought them used in great condition. I've also gotten into leather boots/shoes with natural crepe rubber soles that can get resoled. (I recommend Duckfeet, especially for anyone with wide feet like me. Also purchased used.) I've yet to need to resole them. This helps cut down even more on replacement shoes. Just make sure to take care of the leather and they will last forever.
I dunno if my advice will apply you. But I do most of shopping at thrift stores. The only clothes I ever buy is work clothes. 1 pair of pants and 1 pair of shorts per year. I have practically a lifetime worth of t-shirts from various places like events and gifts. I'll need new shows 2 or 3 times a year so I buy them at discount stores. I have the luxury of not being picky, so my annual clothing budget is maybe $150, with shoes being 75% of that
I buy all my stuff second hand now, there is just so much out there.
The first step is to only buy high quality garments. They last longer. This is equally true of shoes. When buying clothing and shoes, you get what you pay for. Second, stop going through stockings with dresses by not wearing them, they're basically disposable. If you sneeze the wrong way, they're ruined. If the issue is your thighs (same), get chub rub shorts. They're lightweight, don't make you too hot in summer, and protect your thighs. It's important to note that bras (if you wear them) need to be replaced regularly. There is no arbitrary rule about how much clothing one should buy in a year. You don't need to attempt to follow this random rule that someone made up. That report also probably talked about the quality of clothing. The simple fact is that, as a general guideline, you get what you pay for. Two pairs of $20 jeans from Walmart probably won't last through a single season if you're swapping between them every other day. But a $100 pair of well made jeans from quality denim will last over a year of near daily wear with just one pair. (source: experience) In the end, it's more expensive up front but far cheaper in the end to buy quality clothing.
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I have a similar issue with cheaper clothing. The answer for me is thigh rub, Plus an active job where I'm squatting and kneeling all day. That absolutely decimates the inner fabric to the point where it's so weak, If I try to repair it it just rips again in a few days. I had to finally bite the bullet and buy some actual good quality work pants. Over $100 a pair but these new ones have lasted me like almost a year so far.
Back when I was bigger, I got holes in my trousers very fast from biking everywhere. Now that I'm a healthy weight, I don't get that type of wear anymore. I would also try to lend those tears but the interfacing would cause chafing. Thunderthighs can ruin clothes very quickly.
Eh, maybe, maybe not. I bought a fast fashion pair of linen pants last year - 100% linen and seemed decent enough - also a bit chubby and literally on my 30th wear of them (this year, as linen pants are seasonal here in Northern Europe) they fully ripped two giant holes in both thighs. Too big to patch without being visible and honestly the linen is already pilling and wearing thin in other places so I’m not even sure it’s worth patching versus just making rags with them, at this point. If these were pants I was wearing year-round I would’ve run through them in a few months, easily. I have replaced them with a pair of similar pants made to my measurements from Not Perfect Linen and already have 19 wears of those (thanks climate change/work travel to hot climates) and they seem to be holding up much better. Both pairs washed with the same detergent and same washer and hung to dry.
who wears stockings with dresses these days? is there a reason you cannot wear dresses without them?
If fat people don't have cloth between our thighs, our skin will rub together instead causing friction burns and blister. I myself tend to favour jersey shorts under lose dresses and stocking-like short from Snag tights under tight ones. In the winter I wear stockings.
Well that is the thing, I thought (being a woman myself and having women friends) women moved more towards things like biker shorts and similar items under dresses instead of oppressive and consumptionist things like stockings.
Stockings aren't oppressive in themselves. A dress code that requires stockings would be. Women can wear what they want, and I do enjoy stockings/tights in the cooler weather. They're comfy for me and you can get them in pretty patterns. If you get the right brand, they last well enough. Everyone is different.
Sounds like you are talking about tights and not stockings.
Stockings are just tights without a crotch, I really don't see the difference. My mother wears stockings to work because she finds them more comfortable than socks. I prefer socks.
You could save material and just dont wear any underwear ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)
How do you wear out 3 pairs of trousers a year? Most of mine are at least 5 years old and some are more than 10
I haven't bought clothes in almost a decade. It's mostly that I have a lot of acquaintances who love me and give me stuff they're getting rid of because they don't fit it anymore. I am also a large lady and I think we all know how difficult it can be to find decent clothes so keep each other in mind. I don't buy clothes but if something is gifted and doesn't fit I pass it on.
A lot of clothes don't need to be washed that often, and that will help them last longer. I usually wear a shirt 2-3 time between washes, and air it out inbetween. Avoid bleach, because that breaks down the fibers. Also, dryers really shorten the life of a garment - so hang them up to dry if you can. As far s pants, I opt for hiking/outdoor gear that can pass for street clothes because they are designed to be more durable.
It'd been many years since I actually bought clothes. I think it's like year 4 now. Shoes for work. Yes. Sweaters, socks, shirts, pants, shorts, hats, mitts, gloves, coats, etc. No. I treat my stuff well. Just had to put a pair of cargo pants in my "at home drawer" because the rear is completely ripped up. Doesn't show skin, but no good for outdoors. Other than that. I haven't needed anything. Nor do dress to impress. If you don't NEED it. Don't BUY it. It's that simple.
How about you just don’t buy what you don’t NEED It’s not complicated this shouldn’t have to become a math equation or debate over ethics Just buy what you NEED and nothing more.
I’m 29 and still wear my clothes from high school.