As usual, this is the time of year (capsule wardrobe or not) that I start to feel really bored with my clothes. I have felt an energy shift and just want to spend time browsing and shopping and thinking about new stuff. I want new clothes BAD. The hot weather doesn’t help at all, since I truly feel that it stifles my creativity. And of course, in 2020 there are a few other factors at play too. I’m not working or writing or traveling or crafting or sewing or even having much quiet time to let my brain expand. So shopping seems like the most exciting escape I can think of!

But of course as a former self-proclaimed shopping addict, I don’t want to jump all in and go back to my old spending habits. I daydream about doing that — trashing my wardrobe and starting fresh. But I know it doesn’t solve anything. So one thing I can be grateful for is that after years of work, I can recognize these types of patterns. Yes, I might stay up til 2am window shopping, but I’m not pushing that buy button just yet. Recognizing my old patterns alone doesn’t change my addictive behavior, but it’s choosing to direct it in a new way. So yes, I’ll browse till the cows come home and I can allow myself to do that without thinking I’m losing control. And then as the rush starts to dwindle, I will narrow down what I want and make lists and direct those panicked shopping feelings into something more productive. The key is remembering to take my time. And one thing that always helps with that is #thefourshoppingrules.

outfit details

This shirt is one of the first things I ever made. I’ve probably told you that already. Forgive me if I have, my brain is all but busted. It’s definitely a favorite, and part of that reason is because it changes with me. It’s already been altered twice since I made it 3-ish years ago. When I first put it together, I was just barely learning to sew. So the seams were weak and the construction left much to be desired. As my skills improved, I took it apart and basically re-made it with french seams and added a little tie in the front. Recently the tie developed a hole, so I hacked it off and hemmed this top once again. It’s perfect for right now, but I also love knowing that I can probably change it again if and when I need to.

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anti-racism notes

I’ll admit, I didn’t want to use the term “anti-racist” here when sharing resources because it sounds a little… harsh? Too far left maybe? I know the importance of being anti-racist, but somehow “Allyship Notes” felt like a softer title. I know its semantics in this case. However, after reading this post, I’m just gonna embrace it. These little notes going forward will be referred to as anti-racist.

loves,
jaana