How long can you go without shopping?

The New York Times recently ran a piece called “My Year of No Shopping.” The author, Ann Patchett, explained that she went a year without buying many nonessential items, and she didn’t miss them. 

As far as New Year’s resolutions go, not shopping is a little more unusual. However, this is the time when people often receive significant credit card bills and are shocked by the balances. Many people certainly want to shop less, to save money and space. Minimalists and people practicing a zero waste lifestyle in particular are already focused on limiting their shopping. 

But my first thought was, how can someone not go shopping for a year? My clothes aren’t so high quality that they will last decades. Chances are that I’m going to wear out shoes and sweaters and T-shirts in that time, or my clothing needs will change.

For example, in December I thought my capsule wardrobe of clothing was all set. That is, until the temperature dropped to -9 F (-22 C) and I started looking for seriously warm winter gear.  

I haven’t bought any clothing so far this year, but I eventually will. I plan to start shopping more locally, looking at thrift shops first and prioritizing natural or recyclable fibers - and, of course, bringing a reusable bag.

Photo by Soragrit Wongsa on Unsplash