No Buy January
all the things I would've bought
My husband who was doing dry January challenged me to shop my closet for the entire month of January and not purchase a single item for 30 days. As someone who loves to shop and is the ultimate consumer this was really really hard, but a trip to Mexico without margaritas would’ve been harder.
You might be wondering if I held up my end of the bargain (no pun intended) and it might come as no surprise that I did not. In my defense, the Khaite Denali Sweater which I was dying to get came back in stock (on sale at SSense) and I jumped at the opportunity. I was haunted by the fact that I had missed out on it in the first round of sales and since I was still thinking about it a month later, I knew it deserved a place in (my very packed) closet.
There are plenty of other items that almost caused me to cave - and I kept track of them for you below. I am honestly impressed with myself that I only purchased one item all month, considering I would check the “What’s New” section of my favorite shopping sites daily. It was a cruel and unusual form of self torture, but also a habit I can’t break. These items are the ones that managed to stay on my wishlist through multiple revisions.
My Current Wishlist
Bottega Andiamo Clutch in Gold - this is at the top of my wishlist but since I wrote this, it has sold out (again). The bag also comes in wine, chocolate and green all of which are great colors. It’s giving Kelly Cut which has been a lifetime wishlist item of mine. For a more affordable option, the Savette Pochette is great (but also selling quickly). Again, wine would be my first choice, but the black is a great classic, think the suede is a great option too.
Citizens of Humanity Brynn Jeans - I had bought these when they first came out in September but they run large and they quickly sold out everywhere in my size. Determined to not let that happen again. Size down.
Dehanche Brancusi Belt - the last thing I need is another belt but this made me reconsider. The Dehanche is perfect for a blazer that needs cinching. This By Malene Birger belt is another great option too.
Cinched Waist Blazers - are my most reached for item at the moment and I am always on the hunt for unusual ones. Shopbop just launched MMusomaxwell, winner of the 2022 Woolmark Prize and the very talented designer of this keyhole blazer. I also love this black & white version from kimhekim.
Jil Sander Red Sandals - I got a lot of use out of my Bottega red wedges and need to promptly purchase a red pair of sandals for summer. As someone who doesn’t wear a ton of color, this is a great way to incorporate it into my wardrobe. I also love the silver, but ultimately feel like I’ll get more use out of the red.
Interior Black Dress - I have a wedding in a few months and this dress definitely made me pause. Other good contenders are this one from Acler (selling quickly so here’s another link), Staud and this one from New Arrivals. Also dying over the color of this Orire set for a welcome party or rehearsal dinner. I am obsessed with all things green.
Miu Miu Boat Shoes - the second these came down the runway, I knew I had to have them. One thing I realized throughout the month was that I kept reaching for brown shoes that I didn’t have. I have thought about the Freda Salvador Elba loafers for months and these Gucci boots have been living rent free in my head.
Free People Barn Jacket - although I am trying to focus more on investment pieces, this jacket is a fun trend item that I cant wait to wear with the Miu Miu boat shoes. The denim version is great too. In my dream world this Loewe jacket would be my first choice.
Neous Mesh Heels- these became final sale over the month, which is a bit annoying but I have been on the hunt for white mesh heels and I am a sucker for a kitten heel. I will report back. Reformation has a great pair too.
Zara Bubble Skirt & Double Waist Skirt - in a past life I wouldn’t have thought twice before adding either of these to my cart. Gonna let these marinate a little longer but think I am going to go with the double waistband version. This khaki is the perfect transitional color.
Charlotte Chesnais Ear Cuff - think ear cuffs are going to make a comeback and I love this one. I’ve also been eyeing the earrings and ear cuffs from Suisuee, but it was their rings which first caught my eye.
Chanel Eyebrow Powder - I do whatever Azi Brow tells me and she told me to buy this eyebrow powder. I went with medium.
Acne Trench - I did a lot of window shopping this month, and this might be my favorite item I have come across. I’m also loving Acne’s foldover trousers.
Not buying anything for the month was hard, but it was the reset that I needed. It was a good reminder that:
I need to stick to my perennial new years resolution to “buy better & buy less.” There are a few longstanding fast fashion pieces in my closet but they are few and far between.
Despite having a lot of clothes, it also allowed me to figure out what I am missing in my closet. Red sandals for example, more color, tops! Seriously where did all the tops go? (more on this coming soon).
Purchasing impulsively often results in buying just to buy and that I should take some time to really think about what I need.
Jeans, tees, and blazers are the foundation to any great wardrobe.
Going forward, this will be a weekly newsletter featuring Good Buys - the best of what I saw on the internet each week & some minor commentary/ thoughts on trends, must haves, and what I am wearing.
Enjoy! xx