#6 Wardrobe audit
Reflecting on my shopping habits and setting intentions for a more thoughtful 2025 wardrobe
A recent self-imposed wardrobe audit brought some uncomfortable truths to light. In 2024 alone, I added 60 new items to my closet (excluding workout clothing, a major category for me), and the amount I spent? Well, better left unspoken, but whatever you estimate it is, it’s almost certainly way higher than that.
The trend isn’t new—2023 saw 54 new additions, and 2022 a staggering 68, not counting basics like socks, underwear, or workout gear. But the real revelation wasn’t just about the sheer volume or cost. When I tried to identify five standout “hero” pieces from 2024—the ones truly worth it—I could only name, like, three. So, what does that say about the rest? Were they just fleeting dopamine hits destined to become meaningless clutter?
After watching countless YouTube videos and reading endless posts about no-buy and low-buy years, I’ve started to wonder: am I addicted to the content itself? Is it just another way to avoid addressing my own shopping habits? Despite all that consumption, none of it has really illuminated what I should do moving forward.
What I did enjoy, however, was the spreadsheeting process of auditing my closet—data nerd tendencies in full swing. But beyond the numbers, what does it all mean for my style and overall contentment? (Still trying to answer this.) I know myself well enough to recognize that strict rules or bans would be a recipe for disaster. Any kind of rigid restriction would likely end in failure—or worse, a “yo-yo diet” effect where I’d go overboard once the time period was up.
Completely eschewing shopping isn’t realistic for me, nor is it aligned with my values. I already avoid fast fashion, and I genuinely appreciate thoughtful design and craftsmanship. I also love supporting small, emerging brands that resonate with me. And of course a few designer brands with inspiring creative direction.
While I was piecing together this post with no cohesive thought process in sight, I think I inadvertently managed to work through what I think my 2025 goal should be in regards to shopping. I want every purchase to be a home run—pieces I’m excited about and that fill real gaps in my wardrobe. And if I make a few mistakes or bad calls, that’s okay. In the grand scheme of things, this is still a fun and creative outlet for me. What matters most is buying with intention, keeping my proportions in mind (because not everything that looks amazing on a 5’10” size 2 model works for me), and sticking to a thoughtful plan.
To help me stay intentional, I’ve decided to “add to cart” and let items sit for a few days—or longer. For in-store purchases, I want to trust my gut more. How does the piece actually make me feel? As the saying goes, if it’s not a “hell yes,” it’s a no.
Speaking of “hell yes,” there’s a white tee I tried on back in September at a local boutique in Philadelphia. It’s been living rent-free in my head ever since. I didn’t buy it because of two reasons: first, my arbitrary rule that nothing white should cost more than $50 (this one was $123). I’m clumsier than the average person, and stains are inevitable. Second, it was labeled dry clean only, making it both pricey and inconvenient. But honestly, it might have been the perfect white tee in terms of fit and material—at least in my eyes. If it’s still there, I think I have to go back and get it.
With that in mind, I present to you my 2025 wardrobe wishlist — written slowly and thoughtfully over the past several weeks — a screenshot straight from my Notes app.
I’m hoping this list naturally helps me reduce acquisitions this year while leaving space for unexpected surprises that feel right. I’ll share the best finds and aim to keep myself accountable for not falling back into my old ways.
And if you’re like me and enjoy this type of content, Xue had a great round up of resources and links at the end of her own No-buy post.
Really appreciate your thoughtful process of understanding the why behind an ever-expanding wardrobe and creating a meaningful pause to curate things you truly love. I also love your style and would be thrilled to see more every day outfits or pieces you currently reach for often and those that make the cut from your future purchases list.
I want the spreadsheet template though :) love this sentiment and also feeling inspired to start shopping my closet, buying fewer things and really understanding closet gaps.