TIMESTAMPS (since it's a long one): 00:00 intro 03:02 how did we get here (overconsumption, anti-influencer, tiktok) 11:47 anti-consumption movements that failed 17:27 no buy year 22:29 low buy year 25:18 the 75 hard style challenge (shopping ban) 27:01 little personal style rant/pinterest rant 29:30 back to the 75 hard style challenge 32:01 75 day shopping ban trend vs de-influencing trend 33:18 reflection of my own shopping habits (be nice plz I'm getting vulnerable) 37:44 final thoughts
As much as I like Thrift with me's and Thrift hauls, the videos I like the most from you are your styling videos, especially the Recreating Pinterest outfits with things you already own or Fixing our styling issues. If you made less thrifting related content, I don't think it would harm your viewership that much, especially if you do it for your own good
Ngl, the only vids I watch on this channel are the styling ones. Watching thrift vids/hauls inevitably gives me the buying 'itch", and I don't want to be influenced, both for my mental health and bank account!! Meanwhile styling my things in creative ways has been so much fun, and rewarding to love how I look in items that I just didn't know how to wear before
I have been a “low-buy” “no-buy” person pretty much my entire life since we’ve been poor and seeing people online over the years owning so much stuff and consuming so much is mind blowing when you grow up having to choose between buying bread or a bus ticket to school
Same hahaha When I first saw people doing this, they were like I'm not buying anything new, only if something breaks or if it's something I really need. And for me that's just normal life. The amount of things people buy, especially Americans, is shocking.
I’m the opposite (kinda) - grew up dirt poor, now I am okay-ish (for my country). And this “poor child” inside of me wants to BUY BUY BUY. This is something I have been struggling with, and all these deinfluencers help a bit.
😊The "low/no buy" trend tickles me too coming from considerably more humble roots too. Now, it just strikes me as a sound practice. In a city where high 🏘housing🏢, costly transportation🚘, & other expenses can devour all our income😵〰️most of us need to economize. 💵Save somewhere in order to splurge💸 elsewhere. Accruing debt is not sexy😬. It only adds to unwanted stress & diminishes our quality of living😔. 🤫Not gonna lie, there's always that momentary thrill in a 🛒successful retail hunt🛍〰️esp. when you discover a deep discount on some seasonal clearance that suits you perfectly. That purchasing high is so great, but it's also transitory & temporary. It can quickly turn into a fix. Something you need to repeat over & over 🔄 to feel that sense of power, accomplishment, self-worth, value, etc. Purposely embracing this popular philosophy helps me resist the temptation😈 to buy something I truly don't need. The style challenges keep me fresh & modern by "shopping my closet." It's helpful to use icons, films/TV characters, trends, or aesthetics to inspire. These style exercises help me see what I own in a new & more favorable light. 😘As a maximalist, I've managed to collect a variety of clothing for different purposes. Having a large collection has saved my 🐷bacon〰️esp. during periods of weight ⬆️⬇️ fluctuations. Now, I've been able to sustain ↔️ my weight for a while, I feel freer to let go of things. Have a cap on my closet〰️ decided there's no more acquiring to acquire. Only wanting to replace items that need updating. Being committed to low buy has helped me resist the 😳peer pressure to buy something bcos it's 🔥hot. 😉Thankfully, it's become positive to economize, save the planet🌎, thrift, etc. 🤔Having less discretionary income to splurge on non-essentials forces you to be creative w/what you do own & strategic about your purchases. 🔁 Purposely cycling things in & out of rotation is as good for our clothing (& decor) as it is for our overall style. Lived in times of lack & in plenty. 💰Money certainly doesn't buy happiness, but it can make the ride more exciting🎉. If you can figure out a side hustle〰️esp. using recycled ♻️ goods or materials〰️just do it. 🤗At this stage, I don't want to be wasteful any more. I wish to be a better steward of what's been entrusted to me. Much better to use resources to bless others instead of trying to impress or please anyone. 💚Bridget from Cali☘️ (using my pal's YT acct)
Same. It's bizarre watching people struggle with having so much money to spend and for once in their life, have to grapple with not getting *another* specific thing in a specific colour, just the way they want it. A win is a win for people trying to stop shopping addictions and overconsumption, but I couldn't watch more of it
That’s exactly my thought when I saw the 75/ no buy year thing too. Like when you don’t have money ur already buying only the bare necessities or debating if you can even afford to pay them. The trend really airs out who’s buying things just cuz it’s trendy and how much ppl in general over consume. Like they had to make it a trend to stop buying shit😂
I love the no-buy/low-buy slant to thrifting videos. As someone who has a modest income, I find "shopping my closet" videos and videos about being creative with what you already have more useful than haul videos.
@amypoague2831 I agree! I also feel that often influencers are shopping similar thing to what they already have, so it's not always as interesting to me. But styling videos and "shopping my closet", or my mum's closet etc. are always extremely interesting! It's always fun to see youtubers challenge themselves with what they already own :)
I’ve noticed something that I’m going to call the influencer pass - you know those videos like “I tried all these expensive trends so you don’t have to!” It’s behaviour that clearly wouldn’t normally be acceptable, but influencers feel theyre not only allowed but obligated to overconsume so that their viewers can live through them. Some people are careful about how they make this type of video, like thrifting trends instead of buying new. I just can’t stand when youtubers seem to think that sustainability concerns don’t apply to them.
Like the amount of people I see doing those 'I brought stuff from Temu IS IT A SCAM?' videos like do we really need multiple people doing that? Or variants of 'I brought stuff from one of those sketchy shops you find via pinterest ads' like yes, we know it's dodgy.
I totally get this but I kinda go back and forth on it because it definitely can de influence people from trying it themselves…. But some people will buy it anyways 😅
Something that annoys me about trend videos is when the creator says "get rid of this and buy this instead" or "wear this style of item instead of this other one because this other one looks very 2019". What? Clothes from a few years ago should still be in good condition to be worn. Clothes don't even need to be very high to last more than 4 years, depending on the item and how frequently you wear them. I guess those type of "guides" can be useful if you're buying an item for the 1st time and you want to be trendy, but the vibe is always "get ride of this or stop wearing this and buy this instead". Also in a few years the same creator will be saying "don't wear that because it looks very 2024".
Exactly, I always roll my eyes when I see something like that. And the truth is, trends always come in cycles and the things we didn't throw away will always come back lol. Look at all those tacky printed tops or sheer clothing or low waisted jeans that are trendy now, they were all trendy 10~20 years ago.
And honestly? Most “cheap” clothes can last a long time by not throwing them in the dryer, or using the air only setting on the dryer(that’s how I keep the fluffy part of my blankets from matting)
I think it's sad that we moved away from "pick this type of clothing item to flatter your figure" to "pick this type of clothing item to look CURRENT" like... the point of dressing is to look and feel good about yourself not whatever some influencer in their spare room is getting commission to drive sales to!
And for me the annoying part is the author of articles I read are like "as much as i love this style, I have to say goodbye" Like what? Wear it if you love it!
Gateway into low buy is to stop buying things online (if it’s logistically possible). Force yourself to go into the store, if you’re like me it will slow down your purchases like crazy because going to the mall is a pain and I don’t want to buy something unless I can try it on because I don’t want to drive back to the mall. Also if you can’t quickly tap a link to buy something you’ll probably just forget about in a week.
I also feel like that's a great way to avoid regrets - I've had it happen a fair amount of times that I bought something online, and then the fit and feel of it was just not what I envisioned based on the photos and description
I'm doing this atm where I not only have to try it on in store but then once I know my size I actually source it off depop/somewhere else secondhand. It's crazy how much current season fast fashion is BNWT on depop
@@jamieson4293 yessss sometimes I do buy it online when I’m in store because their is a better deal, but not always. I’m also trying to apply it to buying food online. If I want something I can’t post mates it I have to get in my car and drive their. This works great because their is no fast food on my drove to and from work lol.
I would add: never look at New In website pages. Shop only when you’ve noted there’s a specific thing you’d like to have. Otherwise the tendency is to pick the best of each release, when five minutes ago you didn’t know it existed and don’t need it.
I totally agree with this philosophy and additionally I think it is much more fun to shop in the stores anyway, we need to save our malls and our high streets.
We give you our blessing to buy less and style more. We love clearing out and being deliberating. We'll still watch you, don't worry. Find the styles authentic to the 30-year-old you. I love challenging myself with these types of things.
I think that people who treat the whole "no buy" thing as a trend won't be able to do it for a long time. People who are used to not buying or buying less, either because they don't like shopping or unfortunately they are struggling financially, are the ones that will stick with the trend, exactly because it's not a trend for them.
You didn't include people like me who has the means, likes to shop but has made a conscious choice that I have a lot & I'm not buying more. It was a struggle but I enjoy wearing pieces more often. I plan to work with what I already own & not filling future gaps in my wardrobe.
@@sinnombre4357yes this is me too! I was taking in on average 8-10 items a month, whether new or used/handmedown. I haven’t bought any clothes in 2024 and it feels so good.
one thing about me I’m a CERTIFIED outfit repeater ☝️ I log all of my outfits into my phone and they are sorted by the weather and type - then I can scroll through and pick out what I’m gonna wear, and I wear them again and again and again until sometimes I may update an outfit if I found a piece that works better or say bye to one I no longer like and try to style the clothes in a new way! Highly recommend it then you won’t go through the experience of panicking putting a new outfit together on the spot aka something I cannottt do. So I hate the shame that comes with outfit repeating that is such an influencer thing to do…. clothes are meant to be worn!!!
As someone who isn't the traditional "ideal" body type, if I find an outfit that makes me feel beautiful/good/fun/happy, I am repeating it until death.
I didn't even know it was a thing not to outfit repeat. I remember a girl tried to insult me about wearing the same pair of jeans for one week, but I was just confused and didn't even register it as a diss until years later.
Ideally we should only purchase when necessary. Clothes, cars, furniture, decor... My goal this year is to learn to mend and maintain the things i own. Also, to seek dopamine elsewhere than retail therapy... That'll be tough.
I do this for most things because I don't have a lot of disposable income to begin with but struggle to do this with clothes, shoes, bags, and skincare and makeup. As for searching for dopamine elsewhere...I think styling what you already own in different ways can help with that along with...I dunno...0 to no spending hobbies like writing, journaling, maybe being a local tourist? I, for one, looovvee beaches and have just been to 2 that's an hour away from the city I live in. Chilling in those places were...pretty lowcost for me over the 2 days, 1 night weekend for me that am currently thinking of doing it more often. We never know, these almost weekly excursions out of the city may help me make use of a lot of things I hardly use in my closet as the day, weeks etc go/pass.
I'm doing a low-buy year mostly because I'm going through something that requires more financial discipline but two months in, and I realize how much stuff I already have that I can make work. It is an interesting trend to watch, alongside watching influencers "influencing" me to try get more things. 😂
My boyfriend is doing a no buy/low buy year too, party financial, partly too much stuff in his house. I have a problem with thrifted books lol, I should just take a picture and add it to the library list
I like the new concepts of “anti-haul” showing items you didn’t purchase for different reasons (size, not your style) at the thrift but want to share anyway cause it was a cool find! Or even videos of what you are donating/selling or giving away. Closet clean outs.
Minimalism has always meant that you only own what is valuable to you, and then in 2013 those weirdos showed up who only owned 15 items of clothing and made it their personality 😂❤ EDIT: I was referring to Joshua Fields Millburn and TK Coleman, I am NOT saying owning 15 items is weird or bad
How is owning 15 clothing items (very reasonable) the reason someone is a weirdo? If your point is annoying holier than thou folks who think they’re above others are weirdos then say that.
@@casswashwash1070 hey hey, i was referring to those particular guys calling themselves The Minimalist who were being so strange about it, going around on tours talking about it and hugging people randomly, not every person who owns 15 items of clothing. I apologize if I sounded preachy or holier than thou, I for sure I am the least holy dumb ass out there, and yes I find those kinda ppl annoying lol
@@casswashwash1070I know they replied but I wanted to add that I think they were referring to the capsule wardrobe trend too where people would shame other people for having more than 15 things and the trend itself was very based on privilege and very expensive items
I lost it when I saw a guy who owned only 100 items overall (clothing, his personal stuff and also including some furniture items). His solution? Going out to eat for every meal. I mean dude, more power to you when thats what you like, but how many people can afford that?!
I’m day 35 into my 75 hard and it’s been amazing. It has really brought to light just how much I was spending on clothes (I only thrift but I was always spending $100 a trip) and how much I have. It’s also been great to see over the last 30 days my style evolving. Highly highly recommend this challenge!
Some things I wanted to add: - I literally was saying how I always look on the “positive” and then right after talked bad about the Minimalism movement and the Capsule wardrobe 💀 I was purposely trying to find the negatives in those to compare with the popularity of the no buys/low buys right now and was mainly relating criticism that I’ve seen from others that have participated in it and negatives shared from online creators! - there’s nothing wrong with using affiliates!!!! I am specifically talking about a certain type of content that pushes new “gadgets you need in your life from Amazon” type videos that promote wasteful things!! Being able to support creators through affiliates is something super cool if you genuinely want an item that they may have influenced you which being influenced to buy a top again isn’t bad, it’s just the rate of the influencing on TikTok with things like the House of Sunny Green dress where everyone had to have it and then nobody would wear it after it was “outdated” the next week. - there’s nothing wrong with sponsorships and you could say on UA-cam people just try to sell you stuff too, but again I am mainly talking about a specific type of content and content that gets pushed out the most because it’ll make TikTok more money if you say buy something from TikTok shop. I think with UA-cam videos because they can be longer, you’re able to maybe get more out of it vs multiple 10 second videos promoting you to buy something wasteful. - when I’m talking about the “how we got here” in regards to people pushing for less consuming content online, I am again relaying more criticism I’ve seen from viewers through comments and videos and more trying to reflect/guess why people feel overwhelmed by say TikTok and Amazon store fronts etc. - when I say losing trust in influencers again it’s more things I’ve seen viewers talk about specifically on TikTok more in regards to things like Lashgate and confusion around what’s an ad and what’s not. I am not perfect at all and am super open about that like I literally made a 20+ item thrift haul last Sunday, but like I said it’s something I’m personally constantly trying to find balance and wanted to share that vulnerable take in the reflection part. I just want this videos to be mainly a look at a “trend” that may actually have good affects vs. some more wasteful trends we usually see!
I've started a no-buy year for 2024 (and am posting about it) and it's wild how much my brain has changed already, in approaching shopping, wanting stuff, and seeing ads for what they are. I fully support the trending of this movement/shift in consumption habits!!! Thank you for this video 😊 - from another Alexa
I am a bit sceptical about this no-buy "trend". It's like going on a diet and cutting out all the carbs. You most likely cannot up-keep this for a long time and the risk for a binge is quite high. Bans almost never work long time. Moderation is better. Plan your purchases and be aware what you already own. Also, maybe it helps to cut down social media time to not get tempted to buy things you don't need.
The no/low-buy community I'm in is very individually designed for this reason. Everyone has their own rules and specific goals in order to make it more sustainable for the whole year. For example I'm allowing myself to spend money on experiences like concerts without really questioning it, my 'yellow list' where I have to question purchases a lot before committing is things like going out for drinks, buying convienience food out, books etc, and my ban list is things like clothes, new tech, jewellery and home decor. From what I've seen, most people's rules are similar, where it's very tailored to people's problem areas and focuses on trying to shop your own home, and when purchasing, being very intentional. Honestly, hardly anyone is actually doing a pure 'no buy', but I can see how the name seems very restrictive.
What’s been interesting to me as someone who is constantly doing a thoughtful low buy (going on year 3) is now seeing the people who decided to do a no-buy year for the first time doing great for the first 6-8 weeks of the year, and it’s only now that the excitement is wearing off that people are starting to break their no-buys and “backslide” into spending again
I love the encouragement to reduce our consumption. I am super impulsive with buying sometimes, but recently I’ve had to stop and really consider if I actually NEED this item / if it really ADDS to my life in a meaningful way. I think a lot of language online is all or nothing though which can feel difficult to attain. I love taking a more nuanced approach since it’s more compassionate for me! So I won’t be doing ‘no-buys’ but I will be reducing my consumption so I’m only buying high-quality items that genuinely fill a hole ❤
One thing I find helpful to consider is that each item will require its own work: cleaning, ironing, storing, eventually agonizing about decluttering, selling, etc. Is one more sweater worth the hassle or can I just enjoy the ones I already have without signing up for more clothing management?
My friend actually had me start doing the “if I buy new items I have to give that same amount away” type of shopping and it has really changed the way I look at my clothes. (It’s also helped me finally curate a wardrobe that I /love/)
I really like seeing you wear your clothes over and over. To me, it shows that you can wear pieces in different ways with different things. It helps me figure out new ways to wear my own clothing.
I am excited to see people, especially younger people actually realizing they don’t need to buy every single thing they see someone else have on the internet. That is part of why I don’t have social media anymore. It’s been 2 almost 3 years since I got off the internet(Mostly), only have my UA-cam now and I buy way less things. I even thrift less. I get more use out of the things I already own. I also got better at sewing to make my own clothes and repairing my thrifted clothing. I love to see more people not shopping all the time. I love your talking videos and outfit videos. I still like thrift with me videos people do but as someone who has always shopped at the thrift since childhood, us none influencer types can’t afford to shop there anymore. Love this video 🧡💜❤️
Thank you for this video! Let's make this trend stick! It's not just about reduce, reuse, recycle...REFUSE is what should come to mind first in terms of reducing your consumption
Your creativity with outfits is definitely not something limited to hauls or new clothing videos. We love your thoughts on fashion and a lot of us want to be able to see how to work with an existing closet
As a viewer and consumer of this kind of content, I really respect the switch from hauls/buying things to commentary, research, and social trends content. I am switching from super consumerism content to commentary, financial, and just day to day life. Thank you for branching out and having a brain dump!❤ We are pushed hyper consumerism tendencies from various influencers, famous people, and just ads on social media platforms. I love the switch to low buy or no buy content, it fights against the capitalist ways we are programmed into.
Honestly I love the no buy videos, I had never heard of no buy January until I saw a tiktok on it which led me to do a no buy January and made me realize how much stuff I wanted to buy for no reason at all! So now my focus this year is mindful purchases and using what I own
I think you have so so so much to offer apart from “thrift with me” videos! ❤ Like the type of “deep dive / talking head” video you have here, as well as your videos where you address “style dilemmas” of viewers, videos where you style clothing you already have, videos where you talk about what’s going on in the world of fashion, videos where you go thrift shopping for other people, videos where you talk about why you personally like or dislike a certain style or trend, and lots more! 😊 I think this shift you’re looking to make is an excellent one and I’m so here for it. I know it will bring you so many benefits too! For instance, it will open you up to a broader audience and spark many new creative video ideas you can add to your existing lineup! 😻 Trust and believe in yourself- you’ve got this! 💯🤗👏
I've definitely seen a HUGE uptick on no buy videos this year. I think no buy/buy ban videos were the second most common video I saw this new year next to 2024 trend prediction videos
I started thrifting more of my clothes as of last year. I didn’t even realize until later in the day yesterday that practically my whole outfit was thrifted. Chap long sleeve shirt-$4.00, Levi pants $5.99, suede type bootie-$14.00 and small cross over Coach purse-$4.00. All great brands and prices. I will definitely continue to thrift my clothing. It’s one of my favorite things to do now.
Unrelated to the content of the video since I am still watching - my cat, who does not respect or particularly like ANYONE, and does not usually respond to me calling her - just came out of her afternoon coma in the other room and sat down to watch with me at the sound of your voice. This has happened more than once, please feel honored 😂❤
I used to compulsively shop a lot and I’m doing my second no buy month (I did one last year). I think with having a style rut or feeling kind of lost aesthetically, it can actually help so much to find clarity through pausing shopping. It seems counterintuitive because shopping is how we let more opportunities into our closet, right? But actually the constraint of not shopping and being forced to make what I have work is far more useful for learning what my taste is. My no-buy periods have helped show me how much shopping distracts me instead of enlightens me. It’s a short lived source of inspiration and a dopamine rollercoaster for sure, but ultimately shopping for fashion (as opposed to shopping for necessities) has never brought me the satisfaction that going through the shopping withdrawal and coming out the other side with a clear sense of myself has. The short term discomfort is worth the clarity for me (and for lots of folks apparently 😊). Also I have seen a zillion “Things I regret buying” or “don’t make these mistakes” videos, but I have never ever seen someone on any platform say they regretted a no-/low-buy.
Thanks for bringing this up, Alexa - even if you don’t have the answers for yourself! I think about this a lot too and don’t know how I want to approach it. I try to always buy second hand unless it’s something specific I need (being petite has its challenges at the thrift but I make it work) anyways, I also wanted to add that I love when people rewear their clothes on videos because it shows me they love and value their items. Also, if you do want to delve into a no/low buy challenge of some kind - you can make it whatever you want. - like you said. I’ve watched several videos on low buy years and they all do different stuff. Okay, bye - good work!
Well a big problem with the influencer hauls is that once they become sponsored people BY NECESSITY are softer on the item. So something from Shein or BooHoo becomes "yeah it's not bad for the price!" or "This looks so cute in pictures!" even though it's clearly poorly made and fitted. There can be things from fast fashion brands that are good, but generally most of it is going to be pretty bad. When somebody has been given clothes for free they feel more obligated to be positive about it even subconsciously, so the whole "I'm doing this so you don't have to" goes out the window and it becomes sales.
I came here to say this! Back in the day, people used to do hauls where they honestly evaluated the items and returned whatever didn't work for them, and I genuinely used to find them helpful. Now they're just glorified ads because they can't criticise anything (I've also stopped buying new clothing, so I watch thrift hauls now for inspiration instead!)
So true but then we also need to dig deeper. Why is everyone trying to be an influencer? Because they can't handle the ever growing demands and toxic culture of offline work spaces anymore. To then make money, you have to accept all sponsorships at first (totally judging those people who are already rich and still continue to promote Temu).
I’ve been deciding to sell or give away things I don’t fit or don’t love this year instead of putting them away in hopes I’ll magically fit them or love them again, that way when I do buy I’ll make sure it’s something I actually really want and grows my style outside of my simple t-shirt and jeans. The upside is people who are gonna truly love the pieces give them a new life!
Your video inspired me to do a low buy for 75 days! I'm going to have to combine and alter challenges you mentioned due to having lost nearly 100lbs. I'm good for winter, spring and fall... but I don't have a summer wardrobe that fits. I was thinking about doing the 75 hard because I'm struggling to find my style after a changed body and getting out of a long term toxic relationship... but I'm going to allow myself to thrift a summer wardrobe, possibly a maximum amount of items. If anyone's dealing with big weight fluctuations please let me know how you'd do this because I need ideas to make it work! :)
somehow your thoughts about this excite me a lot, they hold the idea of finding so much new mental space without having to add anything from the outside. I would love to see you taking part in any sort of challenge, especially of someone in your position seeing and hearing your thoughts and experiences would be so interesting. and most definitely so many people will stick to your journey
Thank you for making this video, and being so open about your feelings and experiences! It is really hard to reflect on relationships to clothing and buying it, even more so when secondhand fashion is one of the main topics on your channel. While I did subscribe originally for thrifting back in the day, I love these types of videos and seeing your growing thoughts on consumption and fashion. It would be really neat to see you talk more about possibly exploring a low buy and/or the evolving relationship to your own style and what you feel comfortable in. I'm a big time outfit repeater, actively trying to limit impulse secondhand buys, and it took me a while to even be okay with consistent outfit repeating. I felt almost obligated to style everything differently aaalll the time, and avoid owning too much green (even though it's my favorite color and I feel so so good in it). It for sure never hurts to try something new, but I think it's important to care for the part of you that feels drawn to certain things, and not force it down to change it up for others' enjoyment. I'm not sure if that last part made any sense haha. Best of luck to you and I hope the various existential crises let up a bit!
Writing this while watching the videos: I'm at the point where you talk about sponsorship and how people aren't tagging if it's a sponsorship. I live in France, and as of very recently, there's a law about that: it's now illegal to not write properly if it's a sponsorship (paid or not, doesn't matter, they have to write it with a very specific phrasing), same for invite for events, trips, invite to restaurants etc etc. It seems like a lot at first, but it's truly about transparency at the end of the day. I feel like it's a good thing for viewers
I just wanted to say, I love this audio quality! I normally listen to videos without headphones so it doesn't always bother me, but it makes it easier to consume your content now.
I did a no buy year and it was sooo helpful, I really was caught up in the “drop” mentality of things coming out and feeling the need to get it on that release and get it before it’s gone. The no buy year helped me break that
I went from being a high earner to a low earner, and as a result have gone one 2 involuntary low-buy years. It kind of sucks. I do admit that I've gained some perspective in what does and does not add value to my life, and I definitely agree that I consumed more than I needed to before. However, I think there's a big difference between reducing consumption which frees up your resources toward savings or other meaningful goals, and reducing spending so that you...don't really get anything but don't go into debt, I guess. Intentionality only feels good when it's your choice.
I appreciate your authenticity and vulnerability so much! You're so transparent about your thought process, your doubts. It's refreshing and feels like you really try to do the right thing :)
I have been really enjoying seeing people do the 75 Hard Style challenge! One thing I find is sometimes missing from the influencer fashion space is the acknowledgment that many viewers work jobs with dress codes and most of their day to day outfits are work clothes. So for me thinking about ways I can style and rewear work clothes and outfits is really helpful.
Yes!! I’ve seen too many videos of a very young not out of college influencer making “outfits for the office” videos with their midriff showing or other overly casual outfits that are unrealistic for any job I’ve ever had.
That is one of the things I see with thrifting influncers as well is it seems to very rarely address work dress codes and not just in office dress codes. There are going to be items like steel toe boots meeting current standards, heavy duty work pants or coveralls, hi-vis shirts that you are not necessarily going to be able to find second hand. It veru rarely gets mentioned that sometimes buying an item new and then using until it is beyond worn out is also an option
I'm doing a low buy/no buy year. I did really good the first month, but oh man, not great this month so far. Mostly because I was able to go out with a friend and she hadn't been out in a while and really missed thrifting so whoops. But I enjoyed my time with her, I found something that I collect, a baby carrier for my pregnant friend, and a cute hat. The last couple of times I have gone, I put back so many things and actually talked to myself about why I wanted something and if it would work with my current wardrobe or was it filling a hole. It has really helped.
I can relate...if shopping is what you do for fun, with or without friends, it's really hard to resist! I have this one friend that always wants to go to sales together and...I have to admit that I've been avoiding this friend lately.
One thing that helped me very much to not buy more than I need is to check in with my favorite clothing store from time to time WITHOUT buying. If I had strong feelings for an item for several weeks (in my case even months), it was worth buying. I even caught the dress on a sale this way.
I've definitely been getting recommended Grace Nevitt's videos too, she's super cool! I actually did a no buy year for myself when I was a junior in high school over ten years ago (it was great because I didn't have to pay for food or bills either haha). I was super creative with it too and made a mini booklet of all the things I wish I could afford (travel, concert tickets, a new wardrobe) and I knew one day I'd be able to afford the big things, especially if I skip impulse purchases altogether.
Your style has almost no overlap with mine but I keep coming back to this channel because I really appreciate the focus on thrifting and videos like this, and all the discourse about trends. Thanks for making this one! Overconsumption isn’t talked about enough and I definitely think this is a better take than 2010’s minimalism. And don’t be scared of 30! I just turned last year and (at least for me) I kept thinking I felt too old to wear some stuff and while some of that related to my personal style, some of it was influenced by weird societal expectations. Yeah my relationship with purchasing has become healthier but my style is evolving as it should. It’s weird, stepping into a new decade and supposed milestone when literally nothing changes. Recommended watching: Bryony Claire’s video about “age appropriate” clothing.
I really enjoyed hearing your thoughts on all these trends, I used to blog about sustainable and second hand fashion too and years ago I noticed that it became an excuse to buy more and more stuff. I dived into Minimalism but that was too strict for me so now I found a solution that works for me: I‘m having a list of items I want to purchase. In general, only things from this list are allowed after they‘ve been on there for at least 2 weeks (stops impulse purchase). Whenever I feel too consumed by consumerism I add 1-6 no-buy-months. Usually afterwards it feels more rewarding to NOT buy anything. Would love to see you trying the 75 hard challenge!
I actually love seeing you rewear your items! I was so happy to see you repeat this outfit in this video this week, I think it's so cute and deserves to be shown off.
There are so many ways to justify our personal overconsumption. Just because someone quits shopping fast fashion and transitions to only buying second hand is not practicing sustainable habits if they are still purchasing way more than they actually need or are buying more clothes than they can wear in a lifetime with the outcome of a bunch of clothes in one’s closet that they wear once or forget about. If you don’t need it or it doesn’t fill a hole in a planned wardrobe it’s better to leave the item for someone who might have a real need for the item. I don’t actually need any more clothes. I have everything I need to fulfill the various aspects of my life and I don’t need to shop for anything unless a favorite item wears out. Do I see things that I want? Heck yes…all the time, but I don’t need them. I have enough that I can be creative with what I have. I have enough to sustain me for a very long time. Will I indulge and add a new item from time to time? Of course, but only after careful consideration. Having shopping mode as your default is a dangerous thing. We aren’t shopping for needs 95% of the time, we shop for that shot of dopamine. How many times have we purchased something that we thought was going to be an answer to a problem or problems only to find that it wasn’t and the shopper’s high is fleeting? As a society we shop too much, eat, too much, and drink too much to try to fill the void of something more substantial and meaningful that’s missing in our lives. Our overconsumption is a band-aide. The justification that “I shop because I love beautiful things” rings a bit hollow. Who on this planet doesn’t appreciate beauty and beautiful things? It’s not an excuse for overconsumption. Some may claim that shopping and styling clothes is a creative hobby. Well, styling and coming up with new outfit combinations from an existing wardrobe is one of the most creative things you can do! There are also of plenty of other creative hobbies that are very satisfying. Try creating something with your own hands like knitting or learning to sew so that you can refashion older items of clothing. There are so many other ways to be creative that doesn’t require the endless cycle of purchasing items we do t need. Whenever I get the itch to buy something I don’t really need, I immediately put some money into my retirement fund because I know that that action will benefit my future more than that pair of shoes I’ve been eyeing.
The best thing I ever did for my wallet and my overall wellbeing, was going on a low-buy year last year. The rules were I could only buy ONE clothing item (including shoes and bags, as well as thrifts) and one makeup/fragrance item per month. No more. I have a full closet and beauty shelf. I don't need more. It forced me to really think about every purchase, whether I really wanted that specific item, or if something better might come along. You'll almost entirely pass on every new (micro-) trend. I didn't miss anything and extended my low-buy for another year.
Love hearing your thoughts on this!! And so supportive of whichever content you decide to pursue- I really enjoy your styling videos and even sit down videos like this! And even in terms of thrift hauls, I think it’s so nice to see your thrifting vids where you don’t necessarily buy everything you found. I find it really helpful for my own reflection when I see you reflecting on the items in your cart and telling us why or why you’re not purchasing a piece! It’s super relatable to see an creator talk about their own consumer guilt and the journey to becoming more sustainable and mindful in our purchases in a society that encourages the opposite!! Excited for what’s to come🫶🫶💗💗
Honestly, i think we can all agree that we are not here just for your hauls. I personally really like your styling videos and just you talking about fashion and sharing your train of thought about styling. I have loved seeing you become more consious about what you buy and it has been inspirational for me. Also, when you do thrift with me's, i love when you show clothing you like but talk about why it may not be perfect for you. I think you could definitely only buy 3 items a month and maybe at the end of the month you couls do a video showing us the items and create some outfits using them. I would also love to see a what i wore this week video or something similar
I’m doing a no buy for clothing this year because I didn’t like my old clothes’ style anymore (theye were grunge, e-girl and kawaii aesthetic) which I wore from the age of 14. I am 23 now so I think it’s just I grow up… and it’s fine. ☺️ I also made a local Facebook group where I share challenges and give creative homework for the people every month. I also have a note on my phone to track what pieces I want to buy to match my lifestyle now (I’m a uni student and work as a journalist part time because that’s what I’m studying). I feel happy and it’s good to do such things in a community. I also want to organize a clothing swap when the challenge ends. So good luck to everyone who is doing a no buy, you are doing great! 🥰
I prefer to buy high quality. A lot of new and secondhand items are poor quality. Sometimes it’s the other way around and new is better because it’s made well and it’s going to last longer. Sometimes vintage is even better. The materials used back then were more robust. New items are cheaply produced and fall apart. I’ve been sewing for over two decades and mend/repair/restore/create ALL the time. It has saved me thousands. Great skill to have. I still buy things from time to time. I just will pay more for a few items of quality over lots of cheap poorly made items. My closet is clean and organized and I haven’t decluttered in years. I’m adding a new zipper to a pair of knee high leather boots I’ve had for 10 years…at the moment. I like that I’m not adding to the landfill. I’m not perfect…I never will be. I do believe that consuming is still a necessity and a joy. You’re also helping people and businesses pay their livelihoods and Taxes/Insurance. Happy medium 👌🏻✌️✨
I miss lookbooks on UA-cam. I was obsessed with them in the 2010’s, they were just fashion channels showing what they were going to wear in whatever season we were in and they didn’t push for us to buy anything. It was more so about the styling and using what you have to stay on trend! I wish we could get back to that instead of haul videos.
I love the no buy year! (This is my first year doing it) I have a craft supply addiction and a low income job, technically I think it would be considered a low buy year because I still have goals to invest in new hiking shoes and a passport, something I could not do before because of my frivolous purchasing of every pretty yarn I walk by. The next goal is to use all the craft supplies I do have 😅
I’m glad you did this video. Very interesting information. I’m a maximalist and only purchase secondhand items. I have put myself on an allowance so I’m not spending an abundance of money . Keep doing what you’re doing. You are my favorite and have great videos!!
Really enjoyed your perspective, no matter what route you go, we’ll be here (: I have a couple ideas I think could be fun to incorporate into the channel if you decide to go some sort of low/no buy route. I would love to see you style the pieces you have not just in different ways, but into different aesthetics (boho plssss!). Kind of a how to participate in xyz aesthetic without buying anything. Would be a fun way to live out those Pinterest outfits you wouldn’t actually necessarily wear that you were talking about, plus give inspo to some viewers that don’t align with your personal style. Also could do histories and backstories. Brands, materials, aesthetics, etc. I’ve seen a lot of deep dive type content like this lately.
I did a no buy year back in 2020 and have a video on here about it - and soooooo many people in the comments are ridiculous ‘you liar, it’s not a no buy because you bought food’ 🙄🤣 The internet is weird.
"holding off buying something for a month can make you realize you don't actually need it" is so real but for me I've had that just because I'm poor and can't impulse buy or I'd go completely broke lmaooo. I grew up poor and with strict parents who wouldn't really let me express my own style so buying lots of new clothes after I moved out and left half my wardrobe was certainly addicting but I ran out of that saved money I had for clothes and really slowed down on buying new stuff and then I had more of the freedom to really develop my style. I feel like a lot of the stuff I bought at first just wasn't really right for me or maybe my style has just changed but I think some things just didn't suit me but I know I shouldn't feel bad about it bc it was a learning experience and now I am a lot more careful about what I buy. ironically I'm hoping to buy MORE clothes this year because I'm making a bit more money and have some important stuff paid for! but I do like the idea of only allowing yourself to buy a certain number of clothes new. I love thrifting but it does kinda suck when I only really have the time to go thrifting like once every few months and then we just go to 1 store and last time I went we didn't have time to look through completely everything like I wanted rip. but hopefully I can go thrifting more this year because soooo many times I've been putting together an outfit and thought "this would be so much better if I had this specific piece I want" and never end up finding it at a thrift store but I don't wanna buy it online just to get something either really expensive or really bad quality. like I want a simple white cami but I want something under $20 that isn't just completely sheer and uncomfortable and too cropped on me, but I also want specific things with it like I'd prefer thicker straps than spaghetti style and I don't want it too long and I want it to fit but not be too fitted. ugh. and there's only 2 thrift stores that are kiiinda close by. and I mean that's just 1 example lol I have a lot of just staples I wanna get and I often end up getting lots of other stuff I think is cute at the thrift store instead loool but I always try on everything and my rule is kinda like "would I miss this if I put it back on the rack?" and that always works. sometimes I'm undecided about something and put it back but then I keep thinking about it while I'm checking out other stuff. another kinda silly thing I do for deciding which clothes to buy is take pics of what I own + grab screenshots of clothes online I like and make outfits with them. I did this a few times when I had an upcoming eventful week/vacation kinda thing and felt my current wardrobe was lacking or that I was tired or not totally happy with the pieces I had but I didn't want to buy a lot of stuff so I just put together outfit combos to figure out some ideas and then narrowed it down to what was the most realistic for me, like what I would be comfortable wearing not just physically but mentally bc altho I liked all of the outfits in theory, some of them were just too much for me to realistically wear bc I would stand out and feel really nervous. and also physical comfort like I don't rlly wear short skirts much bc I don't like my thighs, and I try not to buy white clothing on sites like shein bc they're usually really sheer, etc. it really helps to solidify my decisions and I highly recommend that to anyone who struggles with impulse buying!!
growing up my mum wouldn't buy me something unless I could actually describe to her ten different outfits that item would work with. I feel like because of this I've always had fairly restricted shopping habits compared to some of my friends. I kind of find some consumerism outrageous these days, like when people were buying brand new outfits to see BARBIE? (and now ALL of it is for sale on depop). Two years ago I used an app to track every single clothing item I owned for 365 days and it was really interesting to see what I actually wear and when. I also found it fun because I would notice when something hadn't been worn for a while and try to style it In terms of secondhand clothes, I personally think buying it as much as you want is fine. The alternative is it goes to landfill anyway. I only find it tricky when I have too many things cos I really feel a key part of wearing what you have is being able to SEE what you have
I have been on a no-by since the beginning of the year, but in april I will visit another country and I am going to allow myself to go thrifting there. For the last 15 years or so I have had lots of rules to gamify my low-buy habits and it has made me appreciate much more those few items I allow myself to buy. I also choose them very wisely and make sure that the fabrics are of good quality, and that the pieces are versatile and realistic for my personal style and lifestyle. I also avoid temptations by not going into my favorite shops unless I'm going to allow myself to buy something there. I did to a no buy year 10 years ago, it was very refreshing! I did attend some clothes swap events though, I think that's a really nice loophole to enjoy if you're on a no buy :). But regarding your content - I really enjoy to see what you have thrifted before re-appear in videos, and seeing you style what you already have in different ways, so if you decide to do a nobuy-challenge I will definitely still watch your videos! Maybe you can have a swap with other content creators if you get tired of your clothes? I would love to see different creators swap and style each others old clothes with their own :D!
I pretty much do a low buy or no buy, though I've never called it that, for a specific category of clothing when I have more than enough of it. Right now it's tee shirts, in the past it's been hoodies and before that it was hats. I like to go through and sort out the ones I really don't wear to try to style them in a way I will actually wear them. Then after a few months I go through them again and the ones I still won't wear I try to sell or donate. I still have what seems like too many tee shirts but I actually wear them all so it's not actually too many.
Until last month, I hadn't purchased any clothes since 2019. I've collected clothes for ~12 years and have 3 wardrobes full of clothes. In 2020, I started creating myself a new capsule wardrobe (clothes to last 10 days) for each season which I would select from what I already owned. I would then only wear the clothes in my capsule wardrobe until the end of that season. This works really well for me and I still do it now! Since I've started purchasing again too, I've decided to start a 1 in 2 out policy - when I find clothes that don't fit or I don't love anymore, I can donate or recycle 2, and then go to a charity shop and buy myself a new (to me) item of clothing.
I own some "costume clothes" that live in the same place as the rest of my wardrobe, I also have a wardrobe that includes all four seasons of clothing (I live in maine, so a lot of weather fluctuations) so I often feel like I don't wear all of my clothes enough in summer and then accidentally get rid of a large portion of my winter clothing.
I’m not letting myself buy any new clothes for three month. But my caveat is I’m allowed to sew new clothes. Therefore it’s forcing me to get better at something I love to do and really appreciate what I’m wearing. :)
I’ve been (loosely) doing the 75 hard style challenge since Jan 1st because I knew it would be more realistic for me with my birthday falling within that time frame. So I’m more so doing a low buy while documenting my outfits and maintaining a wishlist- I’ve already been able to declutter and I’ve noticed a couple holes within my closet. After I get through this 75 days I plan to do the challenge again but follow it more strictly!
I’ve joined the “low-buy” initiative, but I’m taking it month by month, figuring out what feels best for me. I’m definitely not super strict, and I’ve managed to not buy clothes, but I’ve bought some accessories which I feel help me reinvent the clothes I already have. I think it’s at least a start, as bows, headbands, etc. Are not as expensive as clothes. I like the “no-buy” idea but it’s definitely challenging, so I’m doing the best I can, I really want to save money this year 🥰.
For environmental reasons, this year I decided to see if I could not by any NEW clothes. I've shifted to thrifting & online 2nd hand markets. Amazingly, I like the style of my clothes more now than I did before and I'm having more fun with clothes. Also, I think turning 30 can be a tough birthday for people BUT I also many people I know are way happier in their mid-thirties than when they were in there 20s. Thank you for another great video! 🦋
I haven’t been able to buy anything for a really long time due to being unemployed after graduating and losing my work-study sponsored job. Even before then, I was low buying just to decrease expenses in general as I was still only making bare minimum what financial aid said I needed. That said, it’s really interesting to me seeing this as a trend as someone who had no choice. I think it speaks a lot to our current economy for sure as I imagine most people are doing this for financial reasons over sustainability (though that might be the less embarrassing purpose to broadcast). As for me, I am doing a thrift shopping haul every season this year because I have felt so deprived and my closet is stuck in 2016. Plus I’ve also put on some weight. Definitely in the camp of donate before you buy again though! We all have our seasons and reasons and I really like how you included how every one is creating their own rules around low buying. I think 75 hardstyle is an awesome way for people to build mindfulness in their consumption.
So much of your thought pattern was so relatable. When you said you were in a style crisis I was like lololol yo same. I actually quit my thrifting page because I didn’t feel like I had a cohesive style and sense of fashion. And then you said you said have OCD and I was like yess queen we are on the same level!!! Thank you for sharing, it feels good knowing I’m not the only one and maybe that’s why it takes me so long to get dressed?? lol . This content is so inspiring I’m excited to see how our consumption habits will change!
Really enjoyed this video! I’m trying to navigate curbing spending whilst also really enjoying buying and owning a decent amount of second hand clothes. I keep finding it’s so hard to enjoy any material things without a lot of guilt either financially or environmentally
loved hearing your thoughts on this topic!! i'm currently writing my research project at uni about virtual wardrobes and if documenting outfits can help with mindful consumption, so it's really cool how the 75 hard style challenge ties into that. i'm excited to see the results and how people feel after taking part!
YEAH loving an Alexa rant video! Personally, while thrift hauls are fun to watch it’s too encouraging of mindless consuming for me so I tend to skip those kinds of videos. I also have a hard time with thrifting getting a full green light versus buying new because it still feeds my consumerism, dopamine dependency on purchasing items, and over consumption.
For the past couple of years I've been doing 'low buy years' where I limit the number of new clothes that I buy. It has gotten me to search second-hand first and I've been gradually lowering the number of new clothes I buy, which to me feels more reasonable than going cold turkey!
This has been going on forever! It is all linked in with so much, consumerism is and all always will be influenced by how the world is doing, wars, poverty, climate crisis all the bigger picture stuff that trickles down into buying another blouse or pair of jeans. This is not new! Love you Alexa, you shouldn't feel guilty, sometimes I sense you feel that way, please don't, we enjoy your videos and love your passion for fashion. Clare and my mother, Susan from the UK.
I just started slowly with a no-buy month (and of course I chose the shortest month lol), but I feel really good about it! So far, it's helped me appreciate the things that I already have.
I love experimental fashion videos that really stretch the creativity, like disney bounding or recreating/modernizeling other tv characters outfits with what you have, or drawing scenarios and conditions out of hat to thrift for (i.e. brunch outfit but must include a hat or certain color etc.) that you just try on in store and dont have to purchase, upcycling things that dont fit into new items (a video where you try a sewing class coukd be very fun to build those skills too!). Stuff that could still scratch that itch and make interesting content without having to consume.
I would totally be a shopaholic if I had the money (or if it wasn’t insanely unethical) I used to go to the goodwill bins all the time, but now I started dumpster diving and finding creative ways to prevent trash from going to landfills. Im hoping I can make a rain jacket out if some cool plastic bags I found. Lmao I think I watched too much project runway growing up. But it’s a lot of fun (& free & good for the planet) and I’m hoping to start saving textile waste from being thrown away once I have moved from my apartment. It’s crazy that overconsumption hasn’t been *as* big as last year. I hope people will remember to not replace their unethical stuff until they’ve finished using it. Otherwise it completely negates efforts to shove sustainibky
Personally I’ve been ~taking inspiration~ from the no/low buy lol. I think it’s a great concept to not over consume after I just donated back 3 huge trash bags of thrifted clothes over the last few months. Now w secondhand I buy things only that are on my thrift wishlist & fit a gap in my wardrobe/ have a functional purpose for me, and/or are basically showstoppers (not the occasion piece type that you’ll never wear) that I am in LOVE with and will wear within literally the next week- given its seasonally appropriate. For firsthand & online secondhand shopping I’ve been really trying to only buy things that I’ve been wanting for months to be sure I really want it and that it will fit into my closet & I’ll wear it. Love your videos Alexa 💋
I've done a no buy year couple of years ago and failed at 7months. But it still was a wonderful experience that truly changes my perspective on spending money. I allowed myself to "buy" experiences (such as travel/concerts etc) but not buying material things. At the end of the day, experience makes memories but rarely materials things will make you so happy that you still remember the joy years afterwards.
If you look back at the houses that were built in the 1950’s the closest were very small and they had to share it with their spouse. Today the new houses are made with walk in closets. Crazy when you think of it.
I too have been feeling overwhelmed by the number of items in my closet recently. I made the switch to shopping almost exclusively to secondhand in 2019, but I still consume too much. I’ve adopted a “one in, one out” rule in 2024. Before I purchase something, I ask myself what item I would be willing to part with in order to make room for this new thing. If I can’t come up with something, I don’t need the new item that badly!
I also LOVE that creators are sharing their own experiences with overconsumption and creating content focused on overcoming that. I love your styling videos! I also enjoyed your Thriftmas content when you were thrifting for other people. The thought and creativity you put into such content is what inspires me to play in my own closet!
It was hilarious to me recently- my mom and I went to REI to replace shoes that finally died after a decade. We got our shoes and headed for the checkout. On our way, we spotted a display of Stanley cups, yeti, Hydroflask, Nalgene, and other previously fashionable water bottles. And we laughed. We both have Nalgene bottles with the local hospital’s logo on it, given to us a a cancer survivor lunch. And honestly, we’re in our 50s (me) and 70s (mom) both of us figure if we’re wearing it, nobody under 30 will want to. I’ve been frustrated for ages about the lack of jeans I like for decades.
I love the topic of this video. I am currently this year doing a low buy, it is my first time and I gave myself a few rules for thew low buy and it's sorta been like a New Years resolution. its actually been working out and helping me with overspending. I now keep track of all my spending and notice most of the money I spend is on food and drink out as opposed to physical stuff. but yeah I think it has been great for me so far
TIMESTAMPS (since it's a long one):
00:00 intro
03:02 how did we get here (overconsumption, anti-influencer, tiktok)
11:47 anti-consumption movements that failed
17:27 no buy year
22:29 low buy year
25:18 the 75 hard style challenge (shopping ban)
27:01 little personal style rant/pinterest rant
29:30 back to the 75 hard style challenge
32:01 75 day shopping ban trend vs de-influencing trend
33:18 reflection of my own shopping habits (be nice plz I'm getting vulnerable)
37:44 final thoughts
As much as I like Thrift with me's and Thrift hauls, the videos I like the most from you are your styling videos, especially the Recreating Pinterest outfits with things you already own or Fixing our styling issues. If you made less thrifting related content, I don't think it would harm your viewership that much, especially if you do it for your own good
Agreed
100% would perfect style videos. I love a good haul but watch for how they style it.
Ngl, the only vids I watch on this channel are the styling ones. Watching thrift vids/hauls inevitably gives me the buying 'itch", and I don't want to be influenced, both for my mental health and bank account!!
Meanwhile styling my things in creative ways has been so much fun, and rewarding to love how I look in items that I just didn't know how to wear before
+1
I would love to see a poll about what your viewers favorite videos are :)
Same!!!!
I have been a “low-buy” “no-buy” person pretty much my entire life since we’ve been poor and seeing people online over the years owning so much stuff and consuming so much is mind blowing when you grow up having to choose between buying bread or a bus ticket to school
Same hahaha
When I first saw people doing this, they were like I'm not buying anything new, only if something breaks or if it's something I really need. And for me that's just normal life.
The amount of things people buy, especially Americans, is shocking.
I’m the opposite (kinda) - grew up dirt poor, now I am okay-ish (for my country). And this “poor child” inside of me wants to BUY BUY BUY. This is something I have been struggling with, and all these deinfluencers help a bit.
😊The "low/no buy" trend tickles me too coming from considerably more humble roots too. Now, it just strikes me as a sound practice. In a city where high 🏘housing🏢, costly transportation🚘, & other expenses can devour all our income😵〰️most of us need to economize.
💵Save somewhere in order to splurge💸 elsewhere. Accruing debt is not sexy😬. It only adds to unwanted stress & diminishes our quality of living😔.
🤫Not gonna lie, there's always that momentary thrill in a 🛒successful retail hunt🛍〰️esp. when you discover a deep discount on some seasonal clearance that suits you perfectly. That purchasing high is so great, but it's also transitory & temporary. It can quickly turn into a fix. Something you need to repeat over & over 🔄 to feel that sense of power, accomplishment, self-worth, value, etc.
Purposely embracing this popular philosophy helps me resist the temptation😈 to buy something I truly don't need. The style challenges keep me fresh & modern by "shopping my closet." It's helpful to use icons, films/TV characters, trends, or aesthetics to inspire. These style exercises help me see what I own in a new & more favorable light.
😘As a maximalist, I've managed to collect a variety of clothing for different purposes. Having a large collection has saved my 🐷bacon〰️esp. during periods of weight ⬆️⬇️ fluctuations. Now, I've been able to sustain ↔️ my weight for a while, I feel freer to let go of things. Have a cap on my closet〰️ decided there's no more acquiring to acquire. Only wanting to replace items that need updating.
Being committed to low buy has helped me resist the 😳peer pressure to buy something bcos it's 🔥hot. 😉Thankfully, it's become positive to economize, save the planet🌎, thrift, etc.
🤔Having less discretionary income to splurge on non-essentials forces you to be creative w/what you do own & strategic about your purchases. 🔁 Purposely cycling things in & out of rotation is as good for our clothing (& decor) as it is for our overall style.
Lived in times of lack & in plenty.
💰Money certainly doesn't buy happiness, but it can make the ride more exciting🎉. If you can figure out a side hustle〰️esp. using recycled ♻️ goods or materials〰️just do it.
🤗At this stage, I don't want to be wasteful any more. I wish to be a better steward of what's been entrusted to me. Much better to use resources to bless others instead of trying to impress or please anyone.
💚Bridget from Cali☘️
(using my pal's YT acct)
Same. It's bizarre watching people struggle with having so much money to spend and for once in their life, have to grapple with not getting *another* specific thing in a specific colour, just the way they want it. A win is a win for people trying to stop shopping addictions and overconsumption, but I couldn't watch more of it
That’s exactly my thought when I saw the 75/ no buy year thing too. Like when you don’t have money ur already buying only the bare necessities or debating if you can even afford to pay them. The trend really airs out who’s buying things just cuz it’s trendy and how much ppl in general over consume. Like they had to make it a trend to stop buying shit😂
I love the no-buy/low-buy slant to thrifting videos. As someone who has a modest income, I find "shopping my closet" videos and videos about being creative with what you already have more useful than haul videos.
@amypoague2831 I agree! I also feel that often influencers are shopping similar thing to what they already have, so it's not always as interesting to me. But styling videos and "shopping my closet", or my mum's closet etc. are always extremely interesting! It's always fun to see youtubers challenge themselves with what they already own :)
I agree!
same!! I'm here for the styling, not the buying :)
I’ve noticed something that I’m going to call the influencer pass - you know those videos like “I tried all these expensive trends so you don’t have to!” It’s behaviour that clearly wouldn’t normally be acceptable, but influencers feel theyre not only allowed but obligated to overconsume so that their viewers can live through them.
Some people are careful about how they make this type of video, like thrifting trends instead of buying new. I just can’t stand when youtubers seem to think that sustainability concerns don’t apply to them.
Like the amount of people I see doing those 'I brought stuff from Temu IS IT A SCAM?' videos like do we really need multiple people doing that? Or variants of 'I brought stuff from one of those sketchy shops you find via pinterest ads' like yes, we know it's dodgy.
I totally get this but I kinda go back and forth on it because it definitely can de influence people from trying it themselves…. But some people will buy it anyways 😅
Fair point! I guess it can have some benefits. Depends on what they buy and how they present it I guess
Something that annoys me about trend videos is when the creator says "get rid of this and buy this instead" or "wear this style of item instead of this other one because this other one looks very 2019". What? Clothes from a few years ago should still be in good condition to be worn. Clothes don't even need to be very high to last more than 4 years, depending on the item and how frequently you wear them. I guess those type of "guides" can be useful if you're buying an item for the 1st time and you want to be trendy, but the vibe is always "get ride of this or stop wearing this and buy this instead". Also in a few years the same creator will be saying "don't wear that because it looks very 2024".
Exactly, I always roll my eyes when I see something like that. And the truth is, trends always come in cycles and the things we didn't throw away will always come back lol. Look at all those tacky printed tops or sheer clothing or low waisted jeans that are trendy now, they were all trendy 10~20 years ago.
And honestly? Most “cheap” clothes can last a long time by not throwing them in the dryer, or using the air only setting on the dryer(that’s how I keep the fluffy part of my blankets from matting)
Right?! It’s like there’s such a thing as PERSONAL STYLE. don’t tell me what to do! Haha
I think it's sad that we moved away from "pick this type of clothing item to flatter your figure" to "pick this type of clothing item to look CURRENT" like... the point of dressing is to look and feel good about yourself not whatever some influencer in their spare room is getting commission to drive sales to!
And for me the annoying part is the author of articles I read are like "as much as i love this style, I have to say goodbye" Like what? Wear it if you love it!
Gateway into low buy is to stop buying things online (if it’s logistically possible). Force yourself to go into the store, if you’re like me it will slow down your purchases like crazy because going to the mall is a pain and I don’t want to buy something unless I can try it on because I don’t want to drive back to the mall. Also if you can’t quickly tap a link to buy something you’ll probably just forget about in a week.
I also feel like that's a great way to avoid regrets - I've had it happen a fair amount of times that I bought something online, and then the fit and feel of it was just not what I envisioned based on the photos and description
I'm doing this atm where I not only have to try it on in store but then once I know my size I actually source it off depop/somewhere else secondhand. It's crazy how much current season fast fashion is BNWT on depop
@@jamieson4293 yessss sometimes I do buy it online when I’m in store because their is a better deal, but not always. I’m also trying to apply it to buying food online. If I want something I can’t post mates it I have to get in my car and drive their. This works great because their is no fast food on my drove to and from work lol.
I would add: never look at New In website pages. Shop only when you’ve noted there’s a specific thing you’d like to have. Otherwise the tendency is to pick the best of each release, when five minutes ago you didn’t know it existed and don’t need it.
I totally agree with this philosophy and additionally I think it is much more fun to shop in the stores anyway, we need to save our malls and our high streets.
We give you our blessing to buy less and style more. We love clearing out and being deliberating. We'll still watch you, don't worry. Find the styles authentic to the 30-year-old you. I love challenging myself with these types of things.
I think that people who treat the whole "no buy" thing as a trend won't be able to do it for a long time. People who are used to not buying or buying less, either because they don't like shopping or unfortunately they are struggling financially, are the ones that will stick with the trend, exactly because it's not a trend for them.
You didn't include people like me who has the means, likes to shop but has made a conscious choice that I have a lot & I'm not buying more. It was a struggle but I enjoy wearing pieces more often. I plan to work with what I already own & not filling future gaps in my wardrobe.
@@sinnombre4357yes this is me too! I was taking in on average 8-10 items a month, whether new or used/handmedown. I haven’t bought any clothes in 2024 and it feels so good.
Or bc they just want to stick to having a better mindset towards material goods
I think if we stop calling influencers "influencers" and instead call them sales people like we did in the past.....
That’s pretty much what they are! Good point!
@@omomo202I’m gonna start referring to them as Avon Ladies and TikTok as QVC
one thing about me I’m a CERTIFIED outfit repeater ☝️ I log all of my outfits into my phone and they are sorted by the weather and type - then I can scroll through and pick out what I’m gonna wear, and I wear them again and again and again until sometimes I may update an outfit if I found a piece that works better or say bye to one I no longer like and try to style the clothes in a new way! Highly recommend it then you won’t go through the experience of panicking putting a new outfit together on the spot aka something I cannottt do.
So I hate the shame that comes with outfit repeating that is such an influencer thing to do…. clothes are meant to be worn!!!
I literally cannot believe people care about outfit repeating, I thought this was just a joke from Lizzy McGuire!
I love your outfit repeating system.
@@oohlookatthatdoggoaren’t you SUPPOSED to repeat your outfits or pieces? Lol
@@lauras4472 yes, I mean I find it wild people would think it is weird to repeat outfits. (edited comment because I replied to the wrong one btw :) )
As someone who isn't the traditional "ideal" body type, if I find an outfit that makes me feel beautiful/good/fun/happy, I am repeating it until death.
I didn't even know it was a thing not to outfit repeat. I remember a girl tried to insult me about wearing the same pair of jeans for one week, but I was just confused and didn't even register it as a diss until years later.
Ideally we should only purchase when necessary. Clothes, cars, furniture, decor... My goal this year is to learn to mend and maintain the things i own.
Also, to seek dopamine elsewhere than retail therapy... That'll be tough.
I do this for most things because I don't have a lot of disposable income to begin with but struggle to do this with clothes, shoes, bags, and skincare and makeup.
As for searching for dopamine elsewhere...I think styling what you already own in different ways can help with that along with...I dunno...0 to no spending hobbies like writing, journaling, maybe being a local tourist? I, for one, looovvee beaches and have just been to 2 that's an hour away from the city I live in. Chilling in those places were...pretty lowcost for me over the 2 days, 1 night weekend for me that am currently thinking of doing it more often. We never know, these almost weekly excursions out of the city may help me make use of a lot of things I hardly use in my closet as the day, weeks etc go/pass.
My goal is to take care of my stuff and not rebuy anything for 5 yrs unless the one I have is non repairable. I definitely don't need more clothes.
I'm doing a low-buy year mostly because I'm going through something that requires more financial discipline but two months in, and I realize how much stuff I already have that I can make work. It is an interesting trend to watch, alongside watching influencers "influencing" me to try get more things. 😂
My boyfriend is doing a no buy/low buy year too, party financial, partly too much stuff in his house. I have a problem with thrifted books lol, I should just take a picture and add it to the library list
I like the new concepts of “anti-haul” showing items you didn’t purchase for different reasons (size, not your style) at the thrift but want to share anyway cause it was a cool find! Or even videos of what you are donating/selling or giving away. Closet clean outs.
In my whole fyp, like 8/10 are ads, and you're right, SO many arent disclosed!!
Minimalism has always meant that you only own what is valuable to you, and then in 2013 those weirdos showed up who only owned 15 items of clothing and made it their personality 😂❤
EDIT: I was referring to Joshua Fields Millburn and TK Coleman, I am NOT saying owning 15 items is weird or bad
How is owning 15 clothing items (very reasonable) the reason someone is a weirdo? If your point is annoying holier than thou folks who think they’re above others are weirdos then say that.
@@casswashwash1070 hey hey, i was referring to those particular guys calling themselves The Minimalist who were being so strange about it, going around on tours talking about it and hugging people randomly, not every person who owns 15 items of clothing. I apologize if I sounded preachy or holier than thou, I for sure I am the least holy dumb ass out there, and yes I find those kinda ppl annoying lol
@@casswashwash1070I know they replied but I wanted to add that I think they were referring to the capsule wardrobe trend too where people would shame other people for having more than 15 things and the trend itself was very based on privilege and very expensive items
@@casswashwash1070how is owning only 15 items of clothing “very reasonable”? Show me someone who only owns 15 pieces?
I lost it when I saw a guy who owned only 100 items overall (clothing, his personal stuff and also including some furniture items). His solution? Going out to eat for every meal. I mean dude, more power to you when thats what you like, but how many people can afford that?!
I’m day 35 into my 75 hard and it’s been amazing. It has really brought to light just how much I was spending on clothes (I only thrift but I was always spending $100 a trip) and how much I have. It’s also been great to see over the last 30 days my style evolving. Highly highly recommend this challenge!
Some things I wanted to add:
- I literally was saying how I always look on the “positive” and then right after talked bad about the Minimalism movement and the Capsule wardrobe 💀 I was purposely trying to find the negatives in those to compare with the popularity of the no buys/low buys right now and was mainly relating criticism that I’ve seen from others that have participated in it and negatives shared from online creators!
- there’s nothing wrong with using affiliates!!!! I am specifically talking about a certain type of content that pushes new “gadgets you need in your life from Amazon” type videos that promote wasteful things!! Being able to support creators through affiliates is something super cool if you genuinely want an item that they may have influenced you which being influenced to buy a top again isn’t bad, it’s just the rate of the influencing on TikTok with things like the House of Sunny Green dress where everyone had to have it and then nobody would wear it after it was “outdated” the next week.
- there’s nothing wrong with sponsorships and you could say on UA-cam people just try to sell you stuff too, but again I am mainly talking about a specific type of content and content that gets pushed out the most because it’ll make TikTok more money if you say buy something from TikTok shop. I think with UA-cam videos because they can be longer, you’re able to maybe get more out of it vs multiple 10 second videos promoting you to buy something wasteful.
- when I’m talking about the “how we got here” in regards to people pushing for less consuming content online, I am again relaying more criticism I’ve seen from viewers through comments and videos and more trying to reflect/guess why people feel overwhelmed by say TikTok and Amazon store fronts etc.
- when I say losing trust in influencers again it’s more things I’ve seen viewers talk about specifically on TikTok more in regards to things like Lashgate and confusion around what’s an ad and what’s not.
I am not perfect at all and am super open about that like I literally made a 20+ item thrift haul last Sunday, but like I said it’s something I’m personally constantly trying to find balance and wanted to share that vulnerable take in the reflection part. I just want this videos to be mainly a look at a “trend” that may actually have good affects vs. some more wasteful trends we usually see!
I've started a no-buy year for 2024 (and am posting about it) and it's wild how much my brain has changed already, in approaching shopping, wanting stuff, and seeing ads for what they are. I fully support the trending of this movement/shift in consumption habits!!! Thank you for this video 😊 - from another Alexa
I am a bit sceptical about this no-buy "trend". It's like going on a diet and cutting out all the carbs. You most likely cannot up-keep this for a long time and the risk for a binge is quite high. Bans almost never work long time. Moderation is better. Plan your purchases and be aware what you already own. Also, maybe it helps to cut down social media time to not get tempted to buy things you don't need.
The no/low-buy community I'm in is very individually designed for this reason. Everyone has their own rules and specific goals in order to make it more sustainable for the whole year. For example I'm allowing myself to spend money on experiences like concerts without really questioning it, my 'yellow list' where I have to question purchases a lot before committing is things like going out for drinks, buying convienience food out, books etc, and my ban list is things like clothes, new tech, jewellery and home decor.
From what I've seen, most people's rules are similar, where it's very tailored to people's problem areas and focuses on trying to shop your own home, and when purchasing, being very intentional. Honestly, hardly anyone is actually doing a pure 'no buy', but I can see how the name seems very restrictive.
What’s been interesting to me as someone who is constantly doing a thoughtful low buy (going on year 3) is now seeing the people who decided to do a no-buy year for the first time doing great for the first 6-8 weeks of the year, and it’s only now that the excitement is wearing off that people are starting to break their no-buys and “backslide” into spending again
I love the encouragement to reduce our consumption. I am super impulsive with buying sometimes, but recently I’ve had to stop and really consider if I actually NEED this item / if it really ADDS to my life in a meaningful way. I think a lot of language online is all or nothing though which can feel difficult to attain. I love taking a more nuanced approach since it’s more compassionate for me! So I won’t be doing ‘no-buys’ but I will be reducing my consumption so I’m only buying high-quality items that genuinely fill a hole ❤
One thing I find helpful to consider is that each item will require its own work: cleaning, ironing, storing, eventually agonizing about decluttering, selling, etc. Is one more sweater worth the hassle or can I just enjoy the ones I already have without signing up for more clothing management?
My friend actually had me start doing the “if I buy new items I have to give that same amount away” type of shopping and it has really changed the way I look at my clothes. (It’s also helped me finally curate a wardrobe that I /love/)
I do this too. Only when I sell a piece, am I allowed to THRIFT another piece. It's the beauty of ♻️.
I really like seeing you wear your clothes over and over. To me, it shows that you can wear pieces in different ways with different things. It helps me figure out new ways to wear my own clothing.
I am excited to see people, especially younger people actually realizing they don’t need to buy every single thing they see someone else have on the internet. That is part of why I don’t have social media anymore. It’s been 2 almost 3 years since I got off the internet(Mostly), only have my UA-cam now and I buy way less things. I even thrift less. I get more use out of the things I already own. I also got better at sewing to make my own clothes and repairing my thrifted clothing. I love to see more people not shopping all the time. I love your talking videos and outfit videos. I still like thrift with me videos people do but as someone who has always shopped at the thrift since childhood, us none influencer types can’t afford to shop there anymore. Love this video 🧡💜❤️
Love your comment ❤ Social media is mostly ads now so I also only stick to UA-cam!
Thank you for this video! Let's make this trend stick! It's not just about reduce, reuse, recycle...REFUSE is what should come to mind first in terms of reducing your consumption
Your creativity with outfits is definitely not something limited to hauls or new clothing videos. We love your thoughts on fashion and a lot of us want to be able to see how to work with an existing closet
As a viewer and consumer of this kind of content, I really respect the switch from hauls/buying things to commentary, research, and social trends content. I am switching from super consumerism content to commentary, financial, and just day to day life. Thank you for branching out and having a brain dump!❤
We are pushed hyper consumerism tendencies from various influencers, famous people, and just ads on social media platforms. I love the switch to low buy or no buy content, it fights against the capitalist ways we are programmed into.
Love this comment! We need more influencers pushing against the mold.
Honestly I love the no buy videos, I had never heard of no buy January until I saw a tiktok on it which led me to do a no buy January and made me realize how much stuff I wanted to buy for no reason at all! So now my focus this year is mindful purchases and using what I own
love that you were voted most optimistic in high school. that's so cute and definitely fitting from what I've seen from you in your videos haha
I think you have so so so much to offer apart from “thrift with me” videos! ❤ Like the type of “deep dive / talking head” video you have here, as well as your videos where you address “style dilemmas” of viewers, videos where you style clothing you already have, videos where you talk about what’s going on in the world of fashion, videos where you go thrift shopping for other people, videos where you talk about why you personally like or dislike a certain style or trend, and lots more! 😊 I think this shift you’re looking to make is an excellent one and I’m so here for it. I know it will bring you so many benefits too! For instance, it will open you up to a broader audience and spark many new creative video ideas you can add to your existing lineup! 😻 Trust and believe in yourself- you’ve got this! 💯🤗👏
I've definitely seen a HUGE uptick on no buy videos this year. I think no buy/buy ban videos were the second most common video I saw this new year next to 2024 trend prediction videos
Taking things to the extreme can never be a good thing… it will just lead us to another extreme 😔Thanks for doing this video💖
I started thrifting more of my clothes as of last year. I didn’t even realize until later in the day yesterday that practically my whole outfit was thrifted. Chap long sleeve shirt-$4.00, Levi pants $5.99, suede type bootie-$14.00 and small cross over Coach purse-$4.00. All great brands and prices. I will definitely continue to thrift my clothing. It’s one of my favorite things to do now.
Unrelated to the content of the video since I am still watching - my cat, who does not respect or particularly like ANYONE, and does not usually respond to me calling her - just came out of her afternoon coma in the other room and sat down to watch with me at the sound of your voice.
This has happened more than once, please feel honored 😂❤
Commenting before I am even 13 seconds in because IM SO HONORED TO BE IN UR INTRO AHHHH
💘💘💘
I used to compulsively shop a lot and I’m doing my second no buy month (I did one last year). I think with having a style rut or feeling kind of lost aesthetically, it can actually help so much to find clarity through pausing shopping. It seems counterintuitive because shopping is how we let more opportunities into our closet, right? But actually the constraint of not shopping and being forced to make what I have work is far more useful for learning what my taste is. My no-buy periods have helped show me how much shopping distracts me instead of enlightens me. It’s a short lived source of inspiration and a dopamine rollercoaster for sure, but ultimately shopping for fashion (as opposed to shopping for necessities) has never brought me the satisfaction that going through the shopping withdrawal and coming out the other side with a clear sense of myself has. The short term discomfort is worth the clarity for me (and for lots of folks apparently 😊).
Also I have seen a zillion “Things I regret buying” or “don’t make these mistakes” videos, but I have never ever seen someone on any platform say they regretted a no-/low-buy.
You’re feeding us well with all these uploads!!
Thanks for bringing this up, Alexa - even if you don’t have the answers for yourself! I think about this a lot too and don’t know how I want to approach it. I try to always buy second hand unless it’s something specific I need (being petite has its challenges at the thrift but I make it work) anyways, I also wanted to add that I love when people rewear their clothes on videos because it shows me they love and value their items. Also, if you do want to delve into a no/low buy challenge of some kind - you can make it whatever you want. - like you said. I’ve watched several videos on low buy years and they all do different stuff. Okay, bye - good work!
HLP is a great content creator. She is very thoughtful about the videos she makes.
Well a big problem with the influencer hauls is that once they become sponsored people BY NECESSITY are softer on the item. So something from Shein or BooHoo becomes "yeah it's not bad for the price!" or "This looks so cute in pictures!" even though it's clearly poorly made and fitted. There can be things from fast fashion brands that are good, but generally most of it is going to be pretty bad. When somebody has been given clothes for free they feel more obligated to be positive about it even subconsciously, so the whole "I'm doing this so you don't have to" goes out the window and it becomes sales.
I came here to say this! Back in the day, people used to do hauls where they honestly evaluated the items and returned whatever didn't work for them, and I genuinely used to find them helpful. Now they're just glorified ads because they can't criticise anything (I've also stopped buying new clothing, so I watch thrift hauls now for inspiration instead!)
So true but then we also need to dig deeper. Why is everyone trying to be an influencer? Because they can't handle the ever growing demands and toxic culture of offline work spaces anymore. To then make money, you have to accept all sponsorships at first (totally judging those people who are already rich and still continue to promote Temu).
I’ve been deciding to sell or give away things I don’t fit or don’t love this year instead of putting them away in hopes I’ll magically fit them or love them again, that way when I do buy I’ll make sure it’s something I actually really want and grows my style outside of my simple t-shirt and jeans. The upside is people who are gonna truly love the pieces give them a new life!
Your video inspired me to do a low buy for 75 days! I'm going to have to combine and alter challenges you mentioned due to having lost nearly 100lbs. I'm good for winter, spring and fall... but I don't have a summer wardrobe that fits. I was thinking about doing the 75 hard because I'm struggling to find my style after a changed body and getting out of a long term toxic relationship... but I'm going to allow myself to thrift a summer wardrobe, possibly a maximum amount of items. If anyone's dealing with big weight fluctuations please let me know how you'd do this because I need ideas to make it work! :)
somehow your thoughts about this excite me a lot, they hold the idea of finding so much new mental space without having to add anything from the outside. I would love to see you taking part in any sort of challenge, especially of someone in your position seeing and hearing your thoughts and experiences would be so interesting. and most definitely so many people will stick to your journey
Thank you for making this video, and being so open about your feelings and experiences! It is really hard to reflect on relationships to clothing and buying it, even more so when secondhand fashion is one of the main topics on your channel. While I did subscribe originally for thrifting back in the day, I love these types of videos and seeing your growing thoughts on consumption and fashion. It would be really neat to see you talk more about possibly exploring a low buy and/or the evolving relationship to your own style and what you feel comfortable in. I'm a big time outfit repeater, actively trying to limit impulse secondhand buys, and it took me a while to even be okay with consistent outfit repeating. I felt almost obligated to style everything differently aaalll the time, and avoid owning too much green (even though it's my favorite color and I feel so so good in it). It for sure never hurts to try something new, but I think it's important to care for the part of you that feels drawn to certain things, and not force it down to change it up for others' enjoyment. I'm not sure if that last part made any sense haha. Best of luck to you and I hope the various existential crises let up a bit!
Writing this while watching the videos: I'm at the point where you talk about sponsorship and how people aren't tagging if it's a sponsorship. I live in France, and as of very recently, there's a law about that: it's now illegal to not write properly if it's a sponsorship (paid or not, doesn't matter, they have to write it with a very specific phrasing), same for invite for events, trips, invite to restaurants etc etc. It seems like a lot at first, but it's truly about transparency at the end of the day. I feel like it's a good thing for viewers
Same in the UK, some influencers have been hit by the Advertising Standards Agency recently for not disclosing stuff was an ad clearly enough.
I just wanted to say, I love this audio quality! I normally listen to videos without headphones so it doesn't always bother me, but it makes it easier to consume your content now.
I did a no buy year and it was sooo helpful, I really was caught up in the “drop” mentality of things coming out and feeling the need to get it on that release and get it before it’s gone. The no buy year helped me break that
I went from being a high earner to a low earner, and as a result have gone one 2 involuntary low-buy years. It kind of sucks. I do admit that I've gained some perspective in what does and does not add value to my life, and I definitely agree that I consumed more than I needed to before. However, I think there's a big difference between reducing consumption which frees up your resources toward savings or other meaningful goals, and reducing spending so that you...don't really get anything but don't go into debt, I guess. Intentionality only feels good when it's your choice.
I appreciate your authenticity and vulnerability so much! You're so transparent about your thought process, your doubts. It's refreshing and feels like you really try to do the right thing :)
I have been really enjoying seeing people do the 75 Hard Style challenge! One thing I find is sometimes missing from the influencer fashion space is the acknowledgment that many viewers work jobs with dress codes and most of their day to day outfits are work clothes. So for me thinking about ways I can style and rewear work clothes and outfits is really helpful.
Yes!! I’ve seen too many videos of a very young not out of college influencer making “outfits for the office” videos with their midriff showing or other overly casual outfits that are unrealistic for any job I’ve ever had.
That is one of the things I see with thrifting influncers as well is it seems to very rarely address work dress codes and not just in office dress codes. There are going to be items like steel toe boots meeting current standards, heavy duty work pants or coveralls, hi-vis shirts that you are not necessarily going to be able to find second hand. It veru rarely gets mentioned that sometimes buying an item new and then using until it is beyond worn out is also an option
I'm doing a low buy/no buy year. I did really good the first month, but oh man, not great this month so far. Mostly because I was able to go out with a friend and she hadn't been out in a while and really missed thrifting so whoops. But I enjoyed my time with her, I found something that I collect, a baby carrier for my pregnant friend, and a cute hat. The last couple of times I have gone, I put back so many things and actually talked to myself about why I wanted something and if it would work with my current wardrobe or was it filling a hole. It has really helped.
I can relate...if shopping is what you do for fun, with or without friends, it's really hard to resist! I have this one friend that always wants to go to sales together and...I have to admit that I've been avoiding this friend lately.
It I buy something in the next few months it might be stocks.
One thing that helped me very much to not buy more than I need is to check in with my favorite clothing store from time to time WITHOUT buying. If I had strong feelings for an item for several weeks (in my case even months), it was worth buying. I even caught the dress on a sale this way.
I've definitely been getting recommended Grace Nevitt's videos too, she's super cool! I actually did a no buy year for myself when I was a junior in high school over ten years ago (it was great because I didn't have to pay for food or bills either haha). I was super creative with it too and made a mini booklet of all the things I wish I could afford (travel, concert tickets, a new wardrobe) and I knew one day I'd be able to afford the big things, especially if I skip impulse purchases altogether.
Your style has almost no overlap with mine but I keep coming back to this channel because I really appreciate the focus on thrifting and videos like this, and all the discourse about trends. Thanks for making this one! Overconsumption isn’t talked about enough and I definitely think this is a better take than 2010’s minimalism.
And don’t be scared of 30! I just turned last year and (at least for me) I kept thinking I felt too old to wear some stuff and while some of that related to my personal style, some of it was influenced by weird societal expectations. Yeah my relationship with purchasing has become healthier but my style is evolving as it should. It’s weird, stepping into a new decade and supposed milestone when literally nothing changes. Recommended watching: Bryony Claire’s video about “age appropriate” clothing.
I really enjoyed hearing your thoughts on all these trends, I used to blog about sustainable and second hand fashion too and years ago I noticed that it became an excuse to buy more and more stuff. I dived into Minimalism but that was too strict for me so now I found a solution that works for me:
I‘m having a list of items I want to purchase. In general, only things from this list are allowed after they‘ve been on there for at least 2 weeks (stops impulse purchase).
Whenever I feel too consumed by consumerism I add 1-6 no-buy-months. Usually afterwards it feels more rewarding to NOT buy anything.
Would love to see you trying the 75 hard challenge!
I actually love seeing you rewear your items! I was so happy to see you repeat this outfit in this video this week, I think it's so cute and deserves to be shown off.
soooo feel you on the scariness of a no buy and having a style crisis - I'm doing the '75' hard challenge just for February to sort of ease myself in
There are so many ways to justify our personal overconsumption. Just because someone quits shopping fast fashion and transitions to only buying second hand is not practicing sustainable habits if they are still purchasing way more than they actually need or are buying more clothes than they can wear in a lifetime with the outcome of a bunch of clothes in one’s closet that they wear once or forget about. If you don’t need it or it doesn’t fill a hole in a planned wardrobe it’s better to leave the item for someone who might have a real need for the item. I don’t actually need any more clothes. I have everything I need to fulfill the various aspects of my life and I don’t need to shop for anything unless a favorite item wears out. Do I see things that I want? Heck yes…all the time, but I don’t need them. I have enough that I can be creative with what I have. I have enough to sustain me for a very long time. Will I indulge and add a new item from time to time? Of course, but only after careful consideration. Having shopping mode as your default is a dangerous thing. We aren’t shopping for needs 95% of the time, we shop for that shot of dopamine. How many times have we purchased something that we thought was going to be an answer to a problem or problems only to find that it wasn’t and the shopper’s high is fleeting? As a society we shop too much, eat, too much, and drink too much to try to fill the void of something more substantial and meaningful that’s missing in our lives. Our overconsumption is a band-aide. The justification that “I shop because I love beautiful things” rings a bit hollow. Who on this planet doesn’t appreciate beauty and beautiful things? It’s not an excuse for overconsumption. Some may claim that shopping and styling clothes is a creative hobby. Well, styling and coming up with new outfit combinations from an existing wardrobe is one of the most creative things you can do! There are also of plenty of other creative hobbies that are very satisfying. Try creating something with your own hands like knitting or learning to sew so that you can refashion older items of clothing. There are so many other ways to be creative that doesn’t require the endless cycle of purchasing items we do t need. Whenever I get the itch to buy something I don’t really need, I immediately put some money into my retirement fund because I know that that action will benefit my future more than that pair of shoes I’ve been eyeing.
I’m SO TIRED of the tiktok storefront. It’s just people shoveling Temu crap for 5-10x the price. 🤮
Would love to have more advice on shopping your stash!
The best thing I ever did for my wallet and my overall wellbeing, was going on a low-buy year last year. The rules were I could only buy ONE clothing item (including shoes and bags, as well as thrifts) and one makeup/fragrance item per month. No more. I have a full closet and beauty shelf. I don't need more. It forced me to really think about every purchase, whether I really wanted that specific item, or if something better might come along. You'll almost entirely pass on every new (micro-) trend. I didn't miss anything and extended my low-buy for another year.
Love hearing your thoughts on this!! And so supportive of whichever content you decide to pursue- I really enjoy your styling videos and even sit down videos like this! And even in terms of thrift hauls, I think it’s so nice to see your thrifting vids where you don’t necessarily buy everything you found. I find it really helpful for my own reflection when I see you reflecting on the items in your cart and telling us why or why you’re not purchasing a piece! It’s super relatable to see an creator talk about their own consumer guilt and the journey to becoming more sustainable and mindful in our purchases in a society that encourages the opposite!! Excited for what’s to come🫶🫶💗💗
Honestly, i think we can all agree that we are not here just for your hauls. I personally really like your styling videos and just you talking about fashion and sharing your train of thought about styling. I have loved seeing you become more consious about what you buy and it has been inspirational for me. Also, when you do thrift with me's, i love when you show clothing you like but talk about why it may not be perfect for you.
I think you could definitely only buy 3 items a month and maybe at the end of the month you couls do a video showing us the items and create some outfits using them.
I would also love to see a what i wore this week video or something similar
I’m doing a no buy for clothing this year because I didn’t like my old clothes’ style anymore (theye were grunge, e-girl and kawaii aesthetic) which I wore from the age of 14. I am 23 now so I think it’s just I grow up… and it’s fine. ☺️ I also made a local Facebook group where I share challenges and give creative homework for the people every month. I also have a note on my phone to track what pieces I want to buy to match my lifestyle now (I’m a uni student and work as a journalist part time because that’s what I’m studying). I feel happy and it’s good to do such things in a community. I also want to organize a clothing swap when the challenge ends. So good luck to everyone who is doing a no buy, you are doing great! 🥰
your videos have been so so so good lately!! ❣️🌟 i've been enjoying them a lot!!
For anyone wanting to see more around capsule wardrobes, dressing for fun, and a frequently changing body-- leenanorms is fantastic.
I second this!
I prefer to buy high quality. A lot of new and secondhand items are poor quality. Sometimes it’s the other way around and new is better because it’s made well and it’s going to last longer. Sometimes vintage is even better. The materials used back then were more robust. New items are cheaply produced and fall apart. I’ve been sewing for over two decades and mend/repair/restore/create ALL the time. It has saved me thousands. Great skill to have. I still buy things from time to time. I just will pay more for a few items of quality over lots of cheap poorly made items. My closet is clean and organized and I haven’t decluttered in years. I’m adding a new zipper to a pair of knee high leather boots I’ve had for 10 years…at the moment. I like that I’m not adding to the landfill. I’m not perfect…I never will be. I do believe that consuming is still a necessity and a joy. You’re also helping people and businesses pay their livelihoods and Taxes/Insurance. Happy medium 👌🏻✌️✨
I miss lookbooks on UA-cam. I was obsessed with them in the 2010’s, they were just fashion channels showing what they were going to wear in whatever season we were in and they didn’t push for us to buy anything. It was more so about the styling and using what you have to stay on trend! I wish we could get back to that instead of haul videos.
I love the no buy year! (This is my first year doing it) I have a craft supply addiction and a low income job, technically I think it would be considered a low buy year because I still have goals to invest in new hiking shoes and a passport, something I could not do before because of my frivolous purchasing of every pretty yarn I walk by. The next goal is to use all the craft supplies I do have 😅
I’m glad you did this video. Very interesting information. I’m a maximalist and only purchase secondhand items. I have put myself on an allowance so I’m not spending an abundance of money . Keep doing what you’re doing. You are my favorite and have great videos!!
Really enjoyed your perspective, no matter what route you go, we’ll be here (: I have a couple ideas I think could be fun to incorporate into the channel if you decide to go some sort of low/no buy route. I would love to see you style the pieces you have not just in different ways, but into different aesthetics (boho plssss!). Kind of a how to participate in xyz aesthetic without buying anything. Would be a fun way to live out those Pinterest outfits you wouldn’t actually necessarily wear that you were talking about, plus give inspo to some viewers that don’t align with your personal style. Also could do histories and backstories. Brands, materials, aesthetics, etc. I’ve seen a lot of deep dive type content like this lately.
I did a no buy year back in 2020 and have a video on here about it - and soooooo many people in the comments are ridiculous ‘you liar, it’s not a no buy because you bought food’ 🙄🤣 The internet is weird.
"holding off buying something for a month can make you realize you don't actually need it" is so real but for me I've had that just because I'm poor and can't impulse buy or I'd go completely broke lmaooo. I grew up poor and with strict parents who wouldn't really let me express my own style so buying lots of new clothes after I moved out and left half my wardrobe was certainly addicting but I ran out of that saved money I had for clothes and really slowed down on buying new stuff and then I had more of the freedom to really develop my style. I feel like a lot of the stuff I bought at first just wasn't really right for me or maybe my style has just changed but I think some things just didn't suit me but I know I shouldn't feel bad about it bc it was a learning experience and now I am a lot more careful about what I buy.
ironically I'm hoping to buy MORE clothes this year because I'm making a bit more money and have some important stuff paid for! but I do like the idea of only allowing yourself to buy a certain number of clothes new. I love thrifting but it does kinda suck when I only really have the time to go thrifting like once every few months and then we just go to 1 store and last time I went we didn't have time to look through completely everything like I wanted rip. but hopefully I can go thrifting more this year because soooo many times I've been putting together an outfit and thought "this would be so much better if I had this specific piece I want" and never end up finding it at a thrift store but I don't wanna buy it online just to get something either really expensive or really bad quality. like I want a simple white cami but I want something under $20 that isn't just completely sheer and uncomfortable and too cropped on me, but I also want specific things with it like I'd prefer thicker straps than spaghetti style and I don't want it too long and I want it to fit but not be too fitted. ugh. and there's only 2 thrift stores that are kiiinda close by. and I mean that's just 1 example lol I have a lot of just staples I wanna get and I often end up getting lots of other stuff I think is cute at the thrift store instead loool but I always try on everything and my rule is kinda like "would I miss this if I put it back on the rack?" and that always works. sometimes I'm undecided about something and put it back but then I keep thinking about it while I'm checking out other stuff.
another kinda silly thing I do for deciding which clothes to buy is take pics of what I own + grab screenshots of clothes online I like and make outfits with them. I did this a few times when I had an upcoming eventful week/vacation kinda thing and felt my current wardrobe was lacking or that I was tired or not totally happy with the pieces I had but I didn't want to buy a lot of stuff so I just put together outfit combos to figure out some ideas and then narrowed it down to what was the most realistic for me, like what I would be comfortable wearing not just physically but mentally bc altho I liked all of the outfits in theory, some of them were just too much for me to realistically wear bc I would stand out and feel really nervous. and also physical comfort like I don't rlly wear short skirts much bc I don't like my thighs, and I try not to buy white clothing on sites like shein bc they're usually really sheer, etc. it really helps to solidify my decisions and I highly recommend that to anyone who struggles with impulse buying!!
growing up my mum wouldn't buy me something unless I could actually describe to her ten different outfits that item would work with. I feel like because of this I've always had fairly restricted shopping habits compared to some of my friends. I kind of find some consumerism outrageous these days, like when people were buying brand new outfits to see BARBIE? (and now ALL of it is for sale on depop). Two years ago I used an app to track every single clothing item I owned for 365 days and it was really interesting to see what I actually wear and when. I also found it fun because I would notice when something hadn't been worn for a while and try to style it
In terms of secondhand clothes, I personally think buying it as much as you want is fine. The alternative is it goes to landfill anyway. I only find it tricky when I have too many things cos I really feel a key part of wearing what you have is being able to SEE what you have
I have been on a no-by since the beginning of the year, but in april I will visit another country and I am going to allow myself to go thrifting there. For the last 15 years or so I have had lots of rules to gamify my low-buy habits and it has made me appreciate much more those few items I allow myself to buy. I also choose them very wisely and make sure that the fabrics are of good quality, and that the pieces are versatile and realistic for my personal style and lifestyle. I also avoid temptations by not going into my favorite shops unless I'm going to allow myself to buy something there. I did to a no buy year 10 years ago, it was very refreshing! I did attend some clothes swap events though, I think that's a really nice loophole to enjoy if you're on a no buy :). But regarding your content - I really enjoy to see what you have thrifted before re-appear in videos, and seeing you style what you already have in different ways, so if you decide to do a nobuy-challenge I will definitely still watch your videos! Maybe you can have a swap with other content creators if you get tired of your clothes? I would love to see different creators swap and style each others old clothes with their own :D!
I pretty much do a low buy or no buy, though I've never called it that, for a specific category of clothing when I have more than enough of it. Right now it's tee shirts, in the past it's been hoodies and before that it was hats. I like to go through and sort out the ones I really don't wear to try to style them in a way I will actually wear them. Then after a few months I go through them again and the ones I still won't wear I try to sell or donate. I still have what seems like too many tee shirts but I actually wear them all so it's not actually too many.
Love love LOVE this video, so good! Never shouted back at a video before with so many " yes!", " exactly", "amen", "so true" 😅
Until last month, I hadn't purchased any clothes since 2019. I've collected clothes for ~12 years and have 3 wardrobes full of clothes. In 2020, I started creating myself a new capsule wardrobe (clothes to last 10 days) for each season which I would select from what I already owned. I would then only wear the clothes in my capsule wardrobe until the end of that season. This works really well for me and I still do it now! Since I've started purchasing again too, I've decided to start a 1 in 2 out policy - when I find clothes that don't fit or I don't love anymore, I can donate or recycle 2, and then go to a charity shop and buy myself a new (to me) item of clothing.
I own some "costume clothes" that live in the same place as the rest of my wardrobe, I also have a wardrobe that includes all four seasons of clothing (I live in maine, so a lot of weather fluctuations) so I often feel like I don't wear all of my clothes enough in summer and then accidentally get rid of a large portion of my winter clothing.
I’m not letting myself buy any new clothes for three month. But my caveat is I’m allowed to sew new clothes. Therefore it’s forcing me to get better at something I love to do and really appreciate what I’m wearing. :)
I’ve been (loosely) doing the 75 hard style challenge since Jan 1st because I knew it would be more realistic for me with my birthday falling within that time frame. So I’m more so doing a low buy while documenting my outfits and maintaining a wishlist- I’ve already been able to declutter and I’ve noticed a couple holes within my closet.
After I get through this 75 days I plan to do the challenge again but follow it more strictly!
I’ve joined the “low-buy” initiative, but I’m taking it month by month, figuring out what feels best for me. I’m definitely not super strict, and I’ve managed to not buy clothes, but I’ve bought some accessories which I feel help me reinvent the clothes I already have. I think it’s at least a start, as bows, headbands, etc. Are not as expensive as clothes. I like the “no-buy” idea but it’s definitely challenging, so I’m doing the best I can, I really want to save money this year 🥰.
I think the stricter the rules, the higher the chance to fail, so a low buy that stays consistent is surely better than a short no buy.
For environmental reasons, this year I decided to see if I could not by any NEW clothes. I've shifted to thrifting & online 2nd hand markets. Amazingly, I like the style of my clothes more now than I did before and I'm having more fun with clothes. Also, I think turning 30 can be a tough birthday for people BUT I also many people I know are way happier in their mid-thirties than when they were in there 20s. Thank you for another great video! 🦋
I haven’t been able to buy anything for a really long time due to being unemployed after graduating and losing my work-study sponsored job. Even before then, I was low buying just to decrease expenses in general as I was still only making bare minimum what financial aid said I needed. That said, it’s really interesting to me seeing this as a trend as someone who had no choice.
I think it speaks a lot to our current economy for sure as I imagine most people are doing this for financial reasons over sustainability (though that might be the less embarrassing purpose to broadcast).
As for me, I am doing a thrift shopping haul every season this year because I have felt so deprived and my closet is stuck in 2016. Plus I’ve also put on some weight. Definitely in the camp of donate before you buy again though!
We all have our seasons and reasons and I really like how you included how every one is creating their own rules around low buying. I think 75 hardstyle is an awesome way for people to build mindfulness in their consumption.
So much of your thought pattern was so relatable. When you said you were in a style crisis I was like lololol yo same. I actually quit my thrifting page because I didn’t feel like I had a cohesive style and sense of fashion. And then you said you said have OCD and I was like yess queen we are on the same level!!! Thank you for sharing, it feels good knowing I’m not the only one and maybe that’s why it takes me so long to get dressed?? lol . This content is so inspiring I’m excited to see how our consumption habits will change!
Really enjoyed this video! I’m trying to navigate curbing spending whilst also really enjoying buying and owning a decent amount of second hand clothes. I keep finding it’s so hard to enjoy any material things without a lot of guilt either financially or environmentally
loved hearing your thoughts on this topic!! i'm currently writing my research project at uni about virtual wardrobes and if documenting outfits can help with mindful consumption, so it's really cool how the 75 hard style challenge ties into that. i'm excited to see the results and how people feel after taking part!
YEAH loving an Alexa rant video! Personally, while thrift hauls are fun to watch it’s too encouraging of mindless consuming for me so I tend to skip those kinds of videos. I also have a hard time with thrifting getting a full green light versus buying new because it still feeds my consumerism, dopamine dependency on purchasing items, and over consumption.
For the past couple of years I've been doing 'low buy years' where I limit the number of new clothes that I buy. It has gotten me to search second-hand first and I've been gradually lowering the number of new clothes I buy, which to me feels more reasonable than going cold turkey!
This has been going on forever! It is all linked in with so much, consumerism is and all always will be influenced by how the world is doing, wars, poverty, climate crisis all the bigger picture stuff that trickles down into buying another blouse or pair of jeans. This is not new! Love you Alexa, you shouldn't feel guilty, sometimes I sense you feel that way, please don't, we enjoy your videos and love your passion for fashion. Clare and my mother, Susan from the UK.
I just started slowly with a no-buy month (and of course I chose the shortest month lol), but I feel really good about it! So far, it's helped me appreciate the things that I already have.
I love experimental fashion videos that really stretch the creativity, like disney bounding or recreating/modernizeling other tv characters outfits with what you have, or drawing scenarios and conditions out of hat to thrift for (i.e. brunch outfit but must include a hat or certain color etc.) that you just try on in store and dont have to purchase, upcycling things that dont fit into new items (a video where you try a sewing class coukd be very fun to build those skills too!). Stuff that could still scratch that itch and make interesting content without having to consume.
I would totally be a shopaholic if I had the money (or if it wasn’t insanely unethical) I used to go to the goodwill bins all the time, but now I started dumpster diving and finding creative ways to prevent trash from going to landfills. Im hoping I can make a rain jacket out if some cool plastic bags I found. Lmao I think I watched too much project runway growing up. But it’s a lot of fun (& free & good for the planet) and I’m hoping to start saving textile waste from being thrown away once I have moved from my apartment.
It’s crazy that overconsumption hasn’t been *as* big as last year. I hope people will remember to not replace their unethical stuff until they’ve finished using it. Otherwise it completely negates efforts to shove sustainibky
Personally I’ve been ~taking inspiration~ from the no/low buy lol. I think it’s a great concept to not over consume after I just donated back 3 huge trash bags of thrifted clothes over the last few months.
Now w secondhand I buy things only that are on my thrift wishlist & fit a gap in my wardrobe/ have a functional purpose for me, and/or are basically showstoppers (not the occasion piece type that you’ll never wear) that I am in LOVE with and will wear within literally the next week- given its seasonally appropriate.
For firsthand & online secondhand shopping I’ve been really trying to only buy things that I’ve been wanting for months to be sure I really want it and that it will fit into my closet & I’ll wear it.
Love your videos Alexa 💋
Outfit repeat, boycott Starbucks, never buy new, divest. ✨
I've done a no buy year couple of years ago and failed at 7months. But it still was a wonderful experience that truly changes my perspective on spending money. I allowed myself to "buy" experiences (such as travel/concerts etc) but not buying material things. At the end of the day, experience makes memories but rarely materials things will make you so happy that you still remember the joy years afterwards.
If you look back at the houses that were built in the 1950’s the closest were very small and they had to share it with their spouse. Today the new houses are made with walk in closets. Crazy when you think of it.
I too have been feeling overwhelmed by the number of items in my closet recently. I made the switch to shopping almost exclusively to secondhand in 2019, but I still consume too much.
I’ve adopted a “one in, one out” rule in 2024. Before I purchase something, I ask myself what item I would be willing to part with in order to make room for this new thing. If I can’t come up with something, I don’t need the new item that badly!
I also LOVE that creators are sharing their own experiences with overconsumption and creating content focused on overcoming that. I love your styling videos! I also enjoyed your Thriftmas content when you were thrifting for other people. The thought and creativity you put into such content is what inspires me to play in my own closet!
It was hilarious to me recently- my mom and I went to REI to replace shoes that finally died after a decade. We got our shoes and headed for the checkout. On our way, we spotted a display of Stanley cups, yeti, Hydroflask, Nalgene, and other previously fashionable water bottles. And we laughed. We both have Nalgene bottles with the local hospital’s logo on it, given to us a a cancer survivor lunch. And honestly, we’re in our 50s (me) and 70s (mom) both of us figure if we’re wearing it, nobody under 30 will want to. I’ve been frustrated for ages about the lack of jeans I like for decades.
I love the topic of this video.
I am currently this year doing a low buy, it is my first time and I gave myself a few rules for thew low buy and it's sorta been like a New Years resolution.
its actually been working out and helping me with overspending. I now keep track of all my spending and notice most of the money I spend is on food and drink out as opposed to physical stuff.
but yeah I think it has been great for me so far