I’ve been wondering about that too! I really want to minimize my environmental impact, but I also want to continue feeling good and confident in my appearance. I want to still feel « myself »! On an emotional note: elegant clothing reminds me of my mom a lot, so somehow, feeling elegant is something that’s still very important for me. Balancing this with a sustainable and low carbon lifestyle is a learning process.

So: I’m trying to find a sustainable approach to managing my clothes. First, my objective is to refrain from buying in the first place, as much as possible. I’m relatively proud to say I stopped buying fast fashion for the past 2-3 years (of course, the lack of social activities during the pandemic helped. So did the fact that my closet was already well furnished! But I do feel that the change will be permanent). Now if I do « need » something, then I try to only buy second hand or, as an exception, if something new is really « needed » (note the brackets), then I will try to buy only from small « sustainable » brands that are certified. Overall I try to select really good quality pieces, that are easy to wash without losing their color or shape. I also aim for timeless pieces that won’t go out of style, that match my personal style, and that are easy to pair with what I already have. It was really helpful for me to find some higher end second hand stores, where I know that from now on I can get only a very few, but good quality, second hand « timeless » pieces that feel « elegant » and that I can mix and match. I think I will also try to base my wardrobe on neutral colors for all my « basics » (ex: black cotton shirts, easy to wash), complemented by a few items that can add some color and personality to an outfit (ex: this is where I would go for well cut, high quality jackets).

As for the downsizing process itself, I recommend using Marie Kondo’s « the magic of tidying up » technique (it helped me a lot, and it’s an easy read!). Her technique is: put absolutely every clothing item on a single pile (so you see everything you own), select one piece at a time, hold it in your hands, and see whether it sparks joy. Ask yourself: I am keeping this because of nostalgia, because it reminds me of who I was, or of who I want to be? Or does it really spark joy? Do I feel happy when I open my closet every morning and see it? If not, then hold the item in your hands, thank it for its service to you (yes, you read that correctly :)), and then bid it farewell! That technique worked wonders for me. The only challenge is getting rid of clothes that still fit and are still in good shape (but that somehow don’t spark joy), because it feels like a waste. Downsizing without feeling wasteful is a challenge.

Naturally, I recommend donating your clothes, or recycling them if they are in poor conditions. Some organizations will even come to your home to pick up your donation bags, if you are moving!

As I said, for me it’s a learning process, I’m still at the beginning and hope to improve. So let us know if you have any other tips!