I have not been one to have an growing wishlist, much to my mom’s disagreement. Most of this is due to the fact that I started working at 14 and babysitting at 12. I have always been one to save up for what I want while making sure my future desires were covered too. But as college shopping is in its prime, the wishlist of many a college kid is ever growing. From dorm/apartment stuff, to game day attire, or books, there always seems to be something more. What if I told you, you do not need half of the stuff on that list?
The refashion movement has caught on with as the green movement grows. Everyone looks to Pinterest for inspiration or thrift shops thanks to the newest trend. When was the last time people looked to their own closets for their wishlist? People tend to forget the three nuggets of advice below.
1. Look for the things that can be remastered. That shirt with a spot on it? Bleach it or dye it. The dress that you bought on a whim but it doesn’t quite fit right? Alter it slightly or make it into something else. I am a firm believer that Pinterest powers can be
used for good if you use the knowledge to your advantage.
All of the information can be overwhelming. And as someone who grew up in the south, I promise, mason jars are not used as much as the internet thinks. In fact, I don’t think I saw a mason jar until a year ago. Make sure to read this article as a reminder of how Pinterest can ruin your life.
Pinterest can be used to teach yourself new things. If you’ve checked out my first post, you know I made my prom dress out of a shower curtain. What I didn’t tell you though is that I taught myself how to sew. I have yet to have a lesson to this day. I have only had the fortune of experienced seamstresses help me fit where I can’t reach. In addition to that prom dress, I have hemmed pants to fit my 5 foot 2 frame, created a dress for a semi-formal event, and even refashioned a maternity shirt to be a classic wardrobe staple. The possibilities are endless.
2. Rethink how you shop. Instead of pinning every cute outfit under the sun I see, I try to pin only outfits at least one of the pieces (jeans not included) and a possible substitute sit in my laundry bin or closet. Nothing says you have to revamp your closet just because it does not match what you see online or in magazines. And who knows, that one piece you never thought you’d wear might have the potential to be the star of a themed party. (Yes, I still regret getting rid of those cheetah print pants (plural)).
3. G
et rid of the things you don’t wear to make room for the things that you will. A closet is not exempt from the 80/20 rule. Chances are, you wear 20% of your clothes 80% of the time. While there is no shame to this, think about all of that space! When in college, space is a valuable commodity. Think about selling these objects, having a clothing swap with friends, or donating to someone who could use the clothes instead. Not only will you have more room, but you can also make room for the ever growing wishlist of goods. If you sell the objects, you may even be able to purchase one piece of the outfit.
While comparison may seem like the be all, end all; everyone has their own style. So whether you like classic silhouettes or funky patterns, rock what you are comfortable with and your clothes will complement your personality. If you are not happy with what is in your closet, give it to someone who cherish it or rock the outfit in a way you never could.
While for me this is something I am learning to adapt to since moving into and out of dorm life, its a valuable lesson for any age. (Plus the liberation of 10 bags of clothes feels fantastic.) I’ll be the first to admit that I am not perfect, but my closet is one step closer now.
XOXO,
Ann-Marie
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