I just found this blog on “A Perfectly Small Wardrobe” via The Space Between My Peers blog. The premise is, simply, that consumerism can and should be controlled, and clothing is one of the first ways to do it. In the face of fashion’s screaming “keep up!” at all of us who care how we look, or who at least have something to gain by maintaining a certain appearance, this is an interesting stand. In a way, it harks back to the time of the settlers, or the early 20th century, when you had two pairs of shoes (every day and Sunday) and at maximum five to seven outfits - and having two was an acceptable minimum.

This conflicts strongly with what I was told when leaving college: “If you’re a woman, you’re probably going to have to have two or three wardrobes.” And in my case, the way my lifestyle has evolved, I need essentially four (casual social, work at home/workout, dressy, and spiritual). I feel as though I’m only now on the brink of having a complete wardrobe - one pencil skirt, white button down shirt, and pair of ribbed hose away. And even then, in the face of completion, I still have the question of accessories and underwear hanging in the (bank) balance. While I don’t believe in keeping pace with fashion at fashion’s pace, I do believe there is something to be said for having the basics down for minor adjustments.

I’m trying to imagine going through life with only 20 pieces - I know it can be done, but the last time I tried it, back in college, I ran into all kinds of situations where I just didn’t have the right clothing as a result.

So how do you control your wardrobe?