Keeping It Simple: Documenting my attempts to be more efficient and minimalist.
I seem to be adopting a regular rotation of certain outfits. This is due, at least in part, to my growing waistline. It seems that a significant portion of my maternity wardrobe was given away after my last pregnancy. I picked up a couple of things to supplement my selection, but it remains pretty limited. I have two pairs of maternity pants for work. At this point, there a couple pairs of pants that can go a while longer when used with a belly band (the maternity wardrobe staple – see below). There are also a couple of dresses and skirts, which will work, but are not the best option in light of the decreasing temperatures outside. On the weekend, you will likely find me in pajama pants, because those still work.
While I don’t have a lot to choose from, it’s not necessarily a bad thing. There is a simplicity that comes from not having to choose between different ensembles each morning. President Obama says that he
only wears gray or blue suits. He doesn’t want to waste his “decision-making energy” on trivial matters.
There was also that
news anchor who wore the same blue suit every day, for one year. His goal was to highlight sexism, but it really highlights just how little is noticed by others. Now, we don’t really wear brand names for our own gain. Clothing choice is all about the perception of others. We want to perceived as trendy, wealthy, coordinated, etc. If no one is paying attention, then why waste so much money on clothing?
I never really subscribed to those rules of the “fashion police” that you can only wear an outfit every so often. What is the rule anyways, once a month? They go on further, of course, to require that everything is current and in season. Look at how much time and money is wasted just trying to keep up with those trends. And what do you get? A closet filled with clothing that is no longer socially acceptable.
It’s just clothing. As long as we are dressed appropriately, with clothing that is in good condition and clean, then why shouldn’t we limit our expenditures and the demand on our brain to make decisions?
I plan to switch up the blouses that I wear under sweaters, but will likely utilize a weekly rotation of work clothes. I will use what I have because, honestly, I don’t NEED any more clothes right now.
This is a link to the maternity band that I am now using for a third pregnancy. It still is in great shape and is useful during multiple stages of pregnancy. You can use your existing wardrobe a lot longer if you have one.
