The advice I’m gonna give you here is simple. Remember, simple isn’t easy. I’ve known this basic information for years but still find it pretty hard to implement in my daily life. I really like nice things. I’m a Kapha Taurus (dosha/sun sign), which means I was born to collect beautiful things. But even with limitless spending power and space, being selective about what you buy is important to the environment and your mental health.

Having too many pieces of clothing clutters closets and minds and takes getting dressed impossible. I’ve learned the art of editing over the years and even more important … buying intentionally. Everyone has bought something on impulse. They thought they loved the item and then never wore it. Why is that? Instant gratification. We humans love immediate satisfaction. Cultivating patience when it comes to buying clothes takes practice.

These two simple habits can help you not only afford the things you love but help your personal style soar. I know we think more is better, but it’s actually not. We wear 20% of the things we own 80% of the time. Think about it. If you didn’t buy that 80% you hardly ever wear, that 20% could really be sensational.

Make a Budget

I am not a budget person. Budgets make me feel confined and suffocated. I don’t usually make budgets, but when it comes to the things I really love and can’t afford, a budget is actually the answer. When I fall in love with a piece that’s out of my budget (which is most things), I make a budget. First, figure out how much you spend every month on clothing/accessories. For the sake of this example, let’s say that number is $100. If the item you want is $300, you know that buying it will mean no other purchases for 3 months. If it’s a no-brainer, then you’ve passed the first test and the piece should be yours. If the idea of not buying anything else for 3 months doesn't feel worth it, the item might not be for you.

ractice Patience

This tool is good for when the piece in question isn't really expensive but you just don't know if you love it. Practice patience. A little waiting has never hurt anyone. If you have to have a piece so bad you need to walk out of the store with it, it’s most likely an impulse buy or a purchase that’s trying to fill a hole in your heart, not your closet. My rule is 24 hours. The pieces that stick with you after you’ve left the store/website are the pieces to go back to. 

Life is too short to not own the things you love. If there is only one piece of advice you take, it should be to follow your joy. Own things that make you happy every time you wear them, that’s priceless.

With style,

jodi xx