The Fashion Fast

A Changed Woman

noreply@blogger.com (CH) — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 14:57:00 +0000

I spent all of this past Saturday shopping in my new home of downtown Boston (see updated profile), and only walked away with a $14 red and chrome egg-timer from Black Ink, Inc. on Charles Street, which I have honestly been eyeing for months now. In fact, I am a changed woman.

Further, my husband, who initially pushed me into this endeavor by doubting I could accomplish such a feat, said to me, "I have noticed a change in your shopping habits. You are much more selective now."

Selective, indeed.

Being that my year of fasting was such a success in my own life and pertaining to my own habits, I am thinking I need to attack another vice in my world and stave it off for a year.

High Fructose Corn Syrup?
Looking in the mirror?
Email? (I wish)

Thoughts?

And She Shopped

noreply@blogger.com (CH) — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 18:47:00 +0000

It was overwhelming and I was a touch skittish, but I shopped. On Saturday, a loyal pair of friends accompanied me to a vast shopping center in upstate New York, which has nearly 250 stores. Not only was the experience a lot to digest, but completing my first shopping consumption endeavor-- after not shopping for a year-- made me a little uneasy.

I felt so much pressure to make the right choices when shopping and labored over my decisions. After all was said an done, and after nearly 9 hours of perusing, I walked out with three pairs of flats, one pair of pumps, one t-shirt, two belts, three skirts, and a dress. Fortunately for me and my pocketbook, I didn't spend nearly as much as one might think on those goodies.

Will have photos coming in the next little while....

A Let Down

noreply@blogger.com (CH) — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 13:07:00 +0000

So, it can be said that I have gone a year and a day without shopping.

I had every intention of purchasing something online yesterday or running to Barney's and buying something terrific, but it never happened. I got caught at work and, thus, have yet to make my first post-fast purchase.

I will keep you posted. Perhaps an extravaganza this Saturday? Or maybe a fashion fast extension?

The Eve Before

noreply@blogger.com (CH) — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 01:41:00 +0000

I don't know what to expect tomorrow. I don't know what levels of liberation I will feel in being able to shop for fashion items again. Part of me wants to attack every sample sale in town and the other part of me doesn't want to do anything in commemoration of this achievement.

In the cab ride home this evening, I was thinking that I would wake up at 12:01 a.m. this coming morning to make my first purchase right away and usher in a new shopping code of conduct. But I can't decide if I really feel the need to shop that badly.

It's been a year and I still don't need anything. In fact, about 75% of my wardrobe is in storage right now and I don't miss any of it. Not to mention, there are things in the other 25% of my closet that I have only worn once.

What does this craving to shop say about our culture? It's a habit and not a good one. I will let you know how I fare tomorrow.

8 Days to Go!

noreply@blogger.com (CH) — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 12:59:00 +0000

Not that I am counting or anything.... But it has been almost an entire year and I have not purchased one fashion item. It feels like a great accomplishment, and although my blogging has dwindled over the past few months, I have been keeping true to my promise.

I have been really thinking about the lessons I have learned since embarking on this adventure and, for the most part, the experience has been terrific.

But back to those lessons:

1. Sales Come and Go.
When I was shopping previously, I would come head-to-head with a sale, see something that seemed like a great deal, and then rationalize the purchase by saying, "Well, I will never find this product at this price, ever again. Not true. Most stores, designers or not, have sales at least twice a year. And while the product might not be identical, it's usually very likely that you will find something just as great at another time. Don't get sucked into the sale mentality of "I have to get this now, or I may be missing out on a great deal."

2. Don't Impulse Buy.
Be patient when shopping. If you are unsure as to whether you really like a piece, don't purchase it. Ask the sales associate to put the item(s) on hold and go home or elsewhere. If you can't get the product out of your head, go back to the store and buy it. Don't buy something if you aren't 100% sure you can "own" the piece.

3. Think Long-Term.
Most fashion magazines will hate that I am saying this, but don't feel inclined to change your wardrobe to meet the current fads. Fads are fads because they don't last forever. Style is classic, enduring, smart. Find your personal style and stick to it. When shopping, ask, "Would I wear this in five years? Or is it something that is only appealing for this season?" Go with the piece that you will still love putting on in the morning five years from now.

4. Remember: Quality, not Quantity.
American women tend to think, "Okay, I have X amount of cash, so that means I need to get as many articles of clothing possible with my limited funds." On the other hand, most European women think, "Okay, I have X amount of cash, so that means I need to find one, good quality item that is perfect for me." Blowing your fashion budget on clothing that will literally fall apart at the seams in 3 months is not worth your money or time. Spend your energies on a piece that is gorgeous, durable, and works just as hard as you do.

5. Live Simply.
You don't need to fill your closet to the point of combustion. Over-consumption is a major issue in the United States and Americans need to start, not only living within their means, but also start learning when to say, "Enough is enough." Having too many possessions is not a status symbol, it's only indicative of someone who cannot practice self-restraint.

Three Post-Fast Visits I Intend to Make

noreply@blogger.com (CH) — Tue, 19 May 2009 20:29:00 +0000

Doyle & Doyle
Specializing in vintage jewelry, I first heard about this gem from a co-worker in my office's fashion closet. A pair of sisters created this chic and classic vault that sells all types of pieces, many now one-of-a-kind, from necklaces to earrings to rings. A majority of the items for sale were with picked up at an estate sale or other type of antique sale and Doyle & Doyle allows you to reap the benefits of their scouring.
What I am Drooling Over: Citrine and Gold Studs or Garnet and Gold Studs
Located at:
189 Orchard Street
New York, NY
doyleanddoyle.com
212-677-9991

Eryn brinié
This South Korea-based design firm consistently produces one feminine article of clothing after another. Every piece is simple and classic, yet modern and fancy, with ruffles, lace, and quality fabrics. Somewhat like the Gap of Korea, Eryn brinié is going to transform American shopping, with its low price point and exceptional design.
What I am Drooling Over: The Long Ruffle Cardigan
Located at:
501 Broadway
New York, NY
erynbrinie.com
212-308-6134

Madewell
Madewell is another brand created and run by a team of designers, similar to Eryn brinié. With denim, cardigans, and t-shirts, they focus their lines on casual, comfortable items that can be worn until you've worn 'em out. Basically, the pieces alone will never go out of style, so each is a wise investment.
What I am Drooling Over: Any one of their scarves
Located at:
486 Broadway
New York, NY
madewell1937.com
212-226-6954

Could I Have Single-Handedly Prevented the Recession?

noreply@blogger.com (CH) — Wed, 06 May 2009 13:35:00 +0000

The Fashion Fast began as an attempt to do some good--reduce waste, consume less, give back to a charity, and enhance my personal will-power. But now I am beginning to feel bad about my non-shopping habits. Due to the recession, retailers are having a difficult time meeting their sales quotas and saying afloat financially (who isn't right now?), and most are blaming these trials on the fact that the money Americans once spent on shopping has now been tucked into mattresses.

A few Fashion Fast followers have questioned me on this paradox, "Don't you feel bad about not shopping? Don't you feel bad about not injecting funds into a hurting economy?" The answer is no, I don't feel one once of remorse. (And, it's been nearly 10 months!)

First of all, I began the fast before the mass downfall of the economy. Yes, America was already experiencing a recession, but the financial sector collapse didn't happen until a few months after I engaged in my anti-shopping habits. Second, there is no way that I would have bought enough clothing to help curtail the deficits that retailers are seeing on their balance sheets. I used to buy a lot, but not that much. Third, given the economic climate on my own micro level, my funds for shopping would likely have been limited anyway, just like everyone else.

When I think about the empty storefronts and the folding of multiple retail chains, I can't feel bad. The fashion world has been so bloated with retailers trying to sell the next person the same thing as the person before, that it's probably a healthy thing to trim the retail fat.

I want to know though, how have your shopping habits changed over the past year?

My First Post-Fast Purchase

noreply@blogger.com (CH) — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 12:37:00 +0000

The finish date for doing The Fashion Fast is quickly coming up, so it's only natural that I would be thinking about what my first post-fast expenditure might be. After a year of no fashion or clothing purchases, it will be really strange to start buying for myself again. I don't know how it's going to feel to enter a store, browse, try things on, and check out after not doing so for so long. Sometimes I think that I could go without shopping for longer than a year.... (Someone dare me.)

But after realizing the limited nature of my shoe selection, I have determined that shoes are the items that I miss purchasing most. Not because I have any sort of fetish, but because a pair of uncomfortable shoes can ruin a gal's day. There have been some moments during the fast where I would give anything to run to the closest boutique and pick out a new pair of cute flats, for this simple and sole (!) reason: my feet are killing me.

So, to celebrate the closing of my fast in just a few short months, I intend to purchase a pair of nude, super-comfy, but entirely chic, pumps. Believe it or not, there are designers out there that make a comfortable heel, and I intend to find them!

Of course, this will all happen after my July 15 anniversary date.

8 Down, 4 To Go

noreply@blogger.com (CH) — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 15:38:00 +0000

It's a few days past, but I have officially met the 8-month mark.

Either time is flying by or I have really gotten this no-shopping mentality down. It could be a combination of both.

How to do the Closet Cleanse

noreply@blogger.com (CH) — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 02:52:00 +0000

Following my previous post on purging unused clothes and shoes, I was asked numerous times for some tips on how to go about getting rid of the unwanted. Many women fear giving away their clothes. They rationalize keeping the old items around like a no-good boyfriend by asking, “What if it comes back in style? What if I lose weight and can fit into it again? What if I need it for a Halloween costume?”

Gals (and guys), let me put it to you plain and simple: If you haven’t worn it or thought about wearing it in over 8 months- GET RID OF IT. It’s just taking up space.

Another trick—if you have the space—is to toss your unused items into a black plastic bag and store it for two months. If you don’t think about tearing into the bag for that long or can’t even remember what was in there to begin with, then just drop it off at a donation location and use it as a tax write-off. (Yes! You can write off donated clothes!)

Some more suggestions:
1. If you wore it once, decided it didn’t fit right, and haven’t worn it since, then consider taking it to be altered or dyed. If neither of those options work, toss it.
2. If you hate wearing it because the wool is too itchy, the color washes out your face, or it makes you uncomfortable in any other way, toss it. Why put yourself through the misery?
3. If there are non-repairable holes, defects, stains, or other damages, toss it.
4. If you forgot that you even owned a piece, chances are that it’s not a very memorable piece in general. Your clothes should make a statement and not be forgettable.
5. If it reminds you of an ex-significant other, toss it.
6. There is no sense in keeping an item if you’re afraid the style will return and you’ll need the item again. Unless the piece is spectacular or of really superior quality, then it just takes up space. It’s not worth keeping around on the off chance you’ll ever wear it again.
7. Losing weight? If you just had a baby and you are considering another, then keep your maternity clothes. But if you are losing significant amounts of weight, toss the clothes that have become too big for you. It will act as an incentive to keep those pesky pounds off.
8. If you have closets, upon closets of items, try setting small goals for yourself. Determine that you are going to condense 4 closets into one, and you’ll realize quite quickly what you love and what you must have.

Having said this, I would really encourage you to only buy items that are significant building blocks to your wardrobe. It’s not necessary to wear a new or different outfit everyday. Wearing a new article of clothing to match each passing fad only hinders the definition of your personal style.

I also advise that you don’t bother with the over-the-top, flashy items that will likely be out of style in 8 months. Invest in articles that will last a long time and are of a classic taste that you will want to hold onto forever.

Spring Cleaning: The Wardrobe Purge

noreply@blogger.com (CH) — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 15:31:00 +0000

It reached nearly 60 degrees last weekend, and as a result, I am feeling the spring cleaning bug. After attacking my bathroom and kitchen with some Softsoap and a sponge, I took to my still over-stuffed closet, where I began pulling out all of the items that I have not worn or attempted to wear in the last year. I could not believe the amount of clothing and shoes pulled from the racks and stuffed into a box to be mailed off to my cousins.

I have gone over half a year without shopping and I can still get rid of so much nonsense-- proof that I really do have too much.

Similar at Heart: Sustainable Dave

noreply@blogger.com (CH) — Sun, 01 Mar 2009 01:00:00 +0000

Imagine not throwing away one article of garbage for an entire year. Yes, that is 365 Days of Trash-- the exact title of Sustainable Dave's (or Dave Chameides's) blog, where he chronicles a life where every ounce of refuse, whether created on the road or at home, is kept in his basement to keep it from ending up in a landfill.

Confining all one's self-inflicted garbage in a small space sounds crazy, right? Well, don't write off Dave, just yet. He's an Emmy-award winning cameraman who just cares about the environment. Nothing wrong with that.

And I am sure the experiment was effective, in that, was your garbage to literally surround you on a daily basis, you would likely be more cautious of what was bought.

So, by the end of his year-long project, he tallied the numbers and it came to:
Trash
30.5 Pounds
Cardboard
19 Pounds
Plastic Bags
4 Pounds
E-Waste
12 Pounds
Misc. Recycling
26.5 Pounds
Paper
69.5 Pounds
9 Pizza Boxes
11 Tetra Paks
153 Glass Bottles
14 Cups
2 Aluminum Cans
64 Plastic Bottles and Jugs
8 Plastic Yogurt Tubs w/Tops
8 Old Paint Cans

Though one doesn't have to hold onto every article of self-created debris (I can't imagine how that would turn out in my 700 square foot NYC apartment), one can be more conscious of what is bought and consumed. And, should you desire to turn your basement or living room, for that matter, into a personal landfill, just check out Sustainable Dave's blog, where he additionally offers tips similar to some given here at The Fashion Fast through posts such as: "Think Before You Buy," "Junk Your Junk Mail," "Stop Drinking Bottled Water," and "Coffee Cups Aren't Disposable!"

Photo courtesy of Leon Chameides.

If I Went Shopping Today...

noreply@blogger.com (CH) — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 14:19:00 +0000

These are the things I would pick up.

American Apparel T-Shirts
V-Necks in gray, black, navy.
These shirts are by far some of the most comfortable and can be worn under a blazer for a cute preppy look or alone as I run errands around Manhattan.

Riding Boots
In Brown or Whiskey.
Since I no longer have the opportunity to purchase shoes, my one desire is a handsome pair of flat boots that I can dress up or down. I would wear a pair like these by Moschino everyday if I had them.

Cuff
In silver or white gold.
Again, something classic that I could wear to work or out on the town.

The Scare Down There

noreply@blogger.com (CH) — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 00:40:00 +0000

While I was preparing to set off on vacation a few weeks ago, I realized that my favorite traveling jeans were at the cleaners and there was no time to pick them up prior to catching my flight. Luckily, I had the same pair, only a few years more worn, laying in my closet and hastily packed those instead. Upon arrival to my first destination, I hopped out the of shower and went to slide on this older pair of jeans, when I realized (or re-remembered) that there was a giant hole in the upper left-hand, inner thigh (a.k.a. the crotch).

I rationalized that it was on the inside and was not too noticeable and gladly went on my way. But by the time a day full of walking ended, the hole had grown slightly bigger and the surrounding denim slightly weaker. I had only packed a skirt or two and three pairs of jeans-- two skinny-leg pairs that could not be worn with anything but boots, and this one-- so my selection for the 15-day trip was rather limited. Right before catching a flight to my second destination, I tossed the dirty jeans in the laundry for a quick whirl, completely forgetting, once again, about the hole. By the time I went to wear them, I could slide my entire fist through it with room to spare. Worst of all, it was starting to become very noticeable from the rear. So much so, that I was tempted to tape a sign to my back that read, "Yes, I know there's a hole down there. Yes, I still chose to wear these jeans despite the fact. And no, you cannot get a closer look."

I seriously contemplated purchasing a new pair-- I was on vacation after all-- but I staved off the temptation, and stuck it out in the pants with the built-in air conditioning. Much like the whole idea of The Fashion Fast, it was a trial of my will. I felt silly, very self-conscious, and felt like a total mess everyday that I was forced to wear those jeans, but I did it, and those worn pants are now like a trophy to me.

Change Has Come

noreply@blogger.com (CH) — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 02:19:00 +0000

Last September/October, I wanted to obtain a piece of history while simultaneously supporting a cause I truly believe in. I searched high and low for a visible, non-fashion item that could commemorate my dedication to getting Barack Obama into the Oval Office, but posters were not transportable and pins seemed to get lost in the shuffle of New York City. I decided to look into creating a tote. Before I could do so, I visited Obama's campaign site and saw the Runway to Change line of products, designed by famous high fashion label-makers, but manufactured in America.

For a few days, I debated on whether or not this would be breaking the fast, and came to the conclusion that because the money spent would go toward the Obama campaign as a contribution, and was not going into the pockets of a large corporation, it was permissible. The Isaac Mizrahi tote pictured here is a keepsake that I will cling to for decades in hopes that the legacy of Obama will last even longer.

Half Has Never Felt So Complete

noreply@blogger.com (CH) — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 15:19:00 +0000

The fact that I began my fashion fast on July 15, 2008 indicates that, as of yesterday, I have refrained from purchasing clothes, shoes, handbags, and jewelry for SIX MONTHS. All I have to say is, bring on the next six!

Thanks to all who have donated thus far, and who continue to support this crazy idea.

Out with the Old

noreply@blogger.com (CH) — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 14:21:00 +0000

As people are increasingly astonished when I tell them that it has almost been 6 months of no self-shopping, they ask me for tips on how they can curtail their own fashion frenzies. One of the biggest changes that I have made to my daily life is to cease all incoming catalogues and emails that might tempt me to break The Fashion Fast's rules. Given the current state of the economy and the countless, seemingly impossible, sales out there; it's best that I pretend like I don't know anything about the existing deals. Therefore, I have called the companies sending merchandise catalogues and asked them to stop. This is not only good for my fashion morale (I am not looking at or craving what I cannot have), but it is also good for the environment, because the discarded catalogues don't end up in the recycling bin.

Secondly, I have unsubscribed to all emails sent from clothing companies with hot tips or insider deals on new sales, discounts, or promotions. Most marketing emails have a mechanism at the bottom of the message that allows the receiver to unsubscribe. Again, not only has this decreased the number of emails infiltrating my inbox (allowing me to feel a little more Zen every time I log in), but I am not tempted to check out Barneys.com or KennethCole.com and hate myself for initiating this fast in the first place.

Happy New Year!

noreply@blogger.com (CH) — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 15:17:00 +0000

We all know the stigma that is attached to the coming of a new year-- resolutions. So, this year, instead of dreaming about how you would like to shed a few pounds from the waistline, imagine ways to trim your wardrobe. And while you are at it, think of a good charity to where you can send those unused articles of clothing.

See 'ya in 2009.

Can You Believe It?! 5 MONTHS DOWN!

noreply@blogger.com (CH) — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 15:29:00 +0000

I have to admit, I never thought that my fast would live to see this day...5 BIG ONES! That is, I have reached my five-month mark and I have not broken my vow to refrain from purchasing any fashion item. In fact, besides scoring some super-cute tights from the GAP a few weeks ago (which are, in fact, permissible), I have not brought home any article of clothing nor I have intentionally added to my wardrobe in any way.

As each and everyday passes, I am reminded of how much time and money I used to spend on attire every week, and it's so refreshing to have that burden off my mind. I no longer scan websites everyday for great deals nor do I wander aimlessly around Bloomingdale's for hours on end. I am very pleased with the contents of my closet, and still find new ways to wear outfits and individual pieces. It may be more of a challenge to find something unique to put on in the morning, but my clothes are no longer a barometer of my self-image. I don't rely on my clothes to improve my self-esteem, but I instead work on making sure my confidence is at healthy levels everyday-- before I pull articles of clothing from my dresser.

Beyond not allowing clothes to sway my mood, The Fashion Fast is timely in relation to the current economic hardships affecting the world. Not only are budgets tighter, but also non-profits are finding fewer and fewer donors. Thus, their funds are quickly drying up. So, help me celebrate my five months and contribute to a great cause, either my charity of choice-- Women In Need--or your charity of choice. It's the perfect time of year to give some cash to those that need it most.

Temptation Tuesday: Birthday and Holiday Gifts

noreply@blogger.com (CH) — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 22:45:00 +0000

Being that my birthday was a last week and the gift-giving/consumerist-filled holiday of Christmas is approaching, I am anxious about possible fashion fast faults. Turning a year older proved to be fashion-fast-friendly, as I didn't receive any clothing beyond some scarves, a hat, gloves, biking shorts (see October's A Moral Dilemma) and a dangerous gift card (i.e. it's for a store I really love).

Yet, as Christmas comes and loved-ones begin asking for my gift ideas list, it is taking every ounce of strength in me to resist telling them that I will gladly accept any skirt in black, any comfy cardigan, and any pair of pumps or boots that one could possibly find in my size. I. Must. Resist.

After all, in this economy where everyone is strapped for extra cash and I am slowly weeding out impulsive consumption from my life, it's a good time to re-recognize why Christians celebrate this beloved holiday. It's hard to sift through the genius marketing ploys and pounds of gingerbread to remember that, should you believe, there is a deeper, more profound reason that we congregate with family and friends each December.

A New Motto

noreply@blogger.com (CH) — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 01:06:00 +0000

As I was helping my mother clear out her home in preparation for her move across the country, it truly dawned on me just how much stuff we accumulate throughout a lifetime or even over a few years. Do we need it all? No. Do we ever use it all? Definitely not. For the most part, it goes to waste while we are too busy scooping up the new, the better, the faster, and the sleeker stuff.

While I was hauling box upon box from her crammed attic to her even more crowded living room and then (finally) to its resting place-- the super-jam-packed basement, I came to realize that I should value space more than I do stuff. And thus it began, my new motto. I repeat, "I should value space more that I do stuff."

Some might argue that because I live in New York City, where space is a luxury and certainly not the standard, I am forced to limit how much stuff I bring into my life. And it's true. But my new motto becomes even more valid because of the non-existent amount of openness I enjoy. I need to minimize what is cluttering my life and make sure that with which I fill my home, office, handbag, life, schedule, and relationships is practical, but above all, important.

I am Thankful For...

noreply@blogger.com (CH) — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 00:47:00 +0000

As the economic recession dissolves into more of a depression and as Thanksgiving quickly approaches, I am thankful for more and more of the seemingly small things.

Fashion-wise, I am thankful for warm clothes, comfortable shoes, a sturdy handbag, tailored pants, a well-fitted bra, and t-shirts. I also am grateful for snuggly sweaters and socks without holes in them. I appreciate tights that don't snag the first time I put them on, high-waisted skirts that hide my sometimes bloated tummy, and baggy, bedtime sweatpants. I realize that sweaters that don't pill, heels that feel like flats, and stretchy jeans are all gems to come by. It's amazing how we take the clothes on our backs for granted.

However, grateful or not, there are things that I can do without, like biking shorts that make me self-conscious, thongs, spandex, tube tops, and stirrup pants.

Image courtesy of cucinatestarossa.blogs.com.

Shout Out to Shout!

noreply@blogger.com (CH) — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 13:09:00 +0000

I was recently eating breakfast at my work desk, when some of my meal fell into my lap. Upset by my clumsiness, but calm, I reached for a Shout Wipe to lift the stain off the khaki skirt from which I had just removed the tags that morning. The Shout Wipe did not seem to work, so I went to the ladies' room to rinse the area and deal with the fact that I was going to be walking around the Condé Nast building all day with a big fat blotch on the front of my outfit. But I could handle it, because I knew I could simply go home and have the skirt dry cleaned to remove the remnants of my breakfast.

Or so I thought...

After my impromptu rinsing cycle had dried, I noticed that the Shout Wipe had discolored every inch of the skirt that it had touched, completely ruining the piece of clothing and effectively removing a nearly unworn item from my now limited wardrobe. Angry, I scoured over the Shout Wipe box for any limitations, warnings, or expiration dates, but there were none that matched my situation. I read and reread the section that said that I could use Shout Wipes on "dry clean only" clothing. Still even more mad that I had done everything correctly, and it was the product that malfunctioned, I picked up the phone, called the Shout hotline, took a deep breath, and simply explained what had happened to the Shout Wipe specialist on the other end. After we had gone through the trouble-shooting, and he accepted that it was the product, not me, that did something wrong, he issued me a monetary credit for the loss of my skirt. I was skeptical, but it arrived within the week and I felt somewhat vindicated for my lost item. So, I want to give a shout out to Shout for coming through and standing behind the quality of their products.

Crisis Averted

noreply@blogger.com (CH) — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 15:41:00 +0000

I returned the shorts, and must say, I am quite proud of the effort. Yes, I am a touch ashamed that they came home with me to begin with, but I did the right thing in the end and can continue my fast without the guilt trip.

Thanks to all of you who provided me with sound advice.

A Moral Dilemma

noreply@blogger.com (CH) — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 21:56:00 +0000

Now that I have just completed my THIRD MONTH without shopping and am onto the FOURTH, I am facing a dilemma. The other day, I was out and about running some errands after work, and I stumbled into a Modell's Sporting Goods store for some socks. While I was there, I found myself wandering into the women's athletic apparel department and checking out the ladies' biking shorts. Then, out of a stupor, I came to the realization that I was paying for the said shorts and walking out the door with them.

Did I lapse? While biking attire is more athletic equipment than fashion item, I am feeling very guilty about this purchase.

If I feel nervous about having them in my possession and removing the tags, then I am thinking that I broke one of the rules-- especially the one where "Permanently expanding my wardrobe is not" permitted." What you think? Should they be returned? Or are they to be considered equipment?