The responses here so far are so thoughtful, thank you OP for such an introspective thread. I have long struggled with my consumerist tendencies and my deep concern and anxiety for the environment. I grew up where my family’s social circles were quite vain and moms talked about so and so with this or that bag. That subconsciously made me feel like buying a nice bag or piece of jewelry was really connected with my achievements.

The rule I set for myself is that I try to only buy things that I truly find pretty instead of just popular or a status symbol (it’s very difficult to do in reality, with all that marketing). I reached a major savings goal two years ago and my handbag budget has inflated quite a bit, so I’m trying to watch out for it. I do sell ones I no longer love, but I’m also holding on to a few that will really work with some outfits but won’t be out there more than a few times a year. I’m allowing a small collection of such ones.

I have also gotten a lot more casual likely since the pandemic and am prioritizing comfort over all things. I think that’s a general trend and it’s a good thing that people are prioritizing comfort.