4 reflexes to have before buying a new item of clothing

The key to spending your money wisely when it comes to clothing? Sort, list and take your time before buying.

Whether for economic or ecological reasons, you want to put an end to compulsive purchases, but you find it difficult to resist the temptation? Before integrating a new piece into your wardrobe, adopt these good reflexes.

1. The 6 questions filter

These questions should become automatic before considering purchasing clothing:

• Do I really need this part?
• Will I wear it regularly? On more than a few occasions?
• Do I feel good when I wear this item of clothing?
• Is it comfortable?
• What will I pair it with?
• Does it match my lifestyle (depending on your job, the weather in the country where you live, etc.)?

If you answer positively to all of these questions, you can consider purchasing. But before taking action, it is interesting to take a step back to avoid impulse buying.

2. Sort yarn clothing

At least twice a year, remember to sort your wardrobe. This will allow you to realize what pieces you wear regularly, what you already have and what is missing.

To sort efficiently, divide your wardrobe into three categories:

• The pieces you love and wear.
• The clothes you no longer wear. Two subcategories can be created: clothes to donate and those, too damaged, to recycle. Please note that since January 1, 2025, you can no longer throw clothes, even damaged, in your trash bags. They will be subject to specific collection.
• And finally, the clothes you are hesitant about. To find out if you keep them, set a deadline: if after six months you haven’t worn them, give them away.

3. Create a list of needs

If you have long operated on impulse when it comes to your clothing purchases, now is the time to change course. To integrate lasting pieces into your wardrobe, make a list of your needs. It is indeed important to distinguish between wants and needs. Operating on desire leads to impulsive purchases and clothes that are generally rarely worn.

The list allows you to be aware of what you are really missing. Take it with you on your next shopping sessions.

Beyond your shopping list to respect, it is also interesting to set a shopping budget (per year, per quarter or per month). When this falls to 0€, you have reached your ceiling. If you haven’t spent everything, put this amount in an account or in a piggy bank that you won’t touch. At the end of the year, evaluate the money you have accumulated and invest it in a project that is close to your heart.

How to reduce your clothing expenses?

To reduce your clothing expenses, several other rules can be put in place:

• Leave time for reflection. Have you fallen for a jacket? Wait a few days before purchasing it. Evaluate whether it sticks in your mind…
• Stop shopping for single-use outfits: for a wedding, an evening… Consider renting or borrowing.
• Unsubscribe from newsletters from brands or fashion retailers that send you promotions (too) regularly.
• Don’t go shopping when you’re stressed or emotional. You might tend to buy parts to fill or unload.
• Do not save your banking details on e-shops; otherwise, in just a few clicks you will have a sweater you don’t need in your mailbox.
• Buy less but better. Favor quality and timeless pieces.

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