When it comes to recycling and other sustainability measures, I try to think of it less as “I have to do this to change the world” and more “I want to be the kind of person who does this because I believe the world can be changed”
My nana told me it didn’t matter how many coupons you were given, there was still times when you couldn’t buy things because they were just not in the shops. Not just clothing but other coupons as well.
Yes! Very true! I know many knitters have told me that for a long time after the war you could only get yarn in 'service colours'. Enough to put some of the ladies I spoke to off Navy Blue for life!
@@RetroClaude my Nana didn’t knit after the war. She hated it and like you said, the colours were very drab. When I was knitting in the 80’s here in Yorkshire you could only get sock yarn in black, navy or brown. Not very inspiring.
As someone who has difficulty buying clothes in general (because I'm fat, trans nonbinary, and disabled i.e. can only access the fast fashion stores directly around me) I have always has a weird relationship with ethical clothing consumption. Most forms of ethical consumption just aren't possible for me, and things people recommend almost never work (sew your own clothes! buy second hand! buy from expensive sustainable clothing companies!). In the past my seeming lack of ability to avoid supporting what is essentially modern day slavery *almost* made me apathetic, because it felt better than acknowledging my non-consensual support of something horrible. I was also so swamped by a million other (global and personal) issues that threatened my survival, so I felt like I didn't have any excess energy to care in an actionable way (and honestly I probably didn't). So I get where at least some people who say this are coming from. All these issues apply to clothing, food, furniture, technology, travel, etc, it can get very overwhelming.That said, having limited options very rarely means having _no_ options. And some people definitely just say this because they want to continue mindlessly consuming tons and tons of clothes they don't need, without thinking about the exploitative dynamics that are involved. Sometimes this argument is good faith (I'm struggling too much to care) or bad faith (I want an excuse not to care). Personally, I have now adopted your clothing rationing scheme, because I think if buying fast fashion is your only choice, this is one of the best ways to make more ethical choices. That and learning how to pick quality clothes that will last a while and how to mend/care for these clothes. I am also (very slowly) learning how to sew! Thanks again for always encouraging me to adjust things I care about to my needs and abilities. You're a great role model for small (and big!) actions meaning something.
It's not always about buying the right things from the right store, it's mostly about buying less and using what you already have. In my perspective at least. So you're doing great!
You can only do, what you can do. You are trying and the first step is to wear the cloth you have as long as possible. The next step is to learn how to do small repairs. You are already doing that, so you are so far ahead of other people. You are doing great!
@Estertje93 I'm learning this! I always assumed this was correct but I think there was a point at least on social media where it was trendy to talk about sustainability only in terms of _where_ you bought clothes from and not how much clothing you bought. So you saw a lot of non-nuanced fast fashion shaming ('buying fast fashion is inherently bad'), meanwhile people would be constantly buying and discarding clothes from sustainable brands or sewing tons of clothes they never wore and got rid of. And this was considered completely sustainable even if most of those clothes would just end up in landfills because they were being bought/made and discarded at such high volumes. So I guess I internalised the idea that if I bought fast fashion at all I had failed. I did eventually logically come to the conclusion that I should just buy less and mend more, but I had massively fallen off the band wagon, so Claude's coupon challenge came about at the exact right time!
@@chrisssssssi5598 thank-you for the encouragement! I'm looking forward to learning to care for and cherish the clothes I already have, instead of looking for more more more!
If fast fashion is the best choice you can make for yourself, especially if you are getting maximum wear out of each piece, then that is a good achievement. Every time I see a celebrity in a fully plastic-sequinned gown/jacket, I wish they would consider that lots of people don't have much choice in what they can buy. The first consideration for red-carpet outfits should be ethical & sustainable production, because they’re the people most able to afford it.
I’ve made a bunch of undies from old t-shirts this year and I love them. Once I got the pattern right I batch-processed them and made like 30 in a couple of days
There are a variety of patterns available for making one's undies--both knickers and bras. Looking forward to hearing how it goes. Thanks for the challenges.
I like making underpants because they’re a small project and you can finish them fairly quickly. I also like making them in fun colors or making fancy ones. I think you’ll like it. I buy almost all my clothes and shoes second hand and have for years. Though that was primarily because of limited funds and growing up with a mother who did the same. I struggle with buying second hand for my kids-aside from fancy dress things, I need to work on that, but I feel guilty. Having been a gardener all my life I don’t know how anyone can deny climate change. And like you said, as a practical matter there might come a time when rationing and/or shortages become a reality again.
@@roslynholcomb I really think the climate deniers are like little kids sticking their fingers in their ears going "NA NA NA ! I CAN'T HEAR YOU !" Acting like overtired children or sheep. At 61 years old, I have seen the climate change, period.
I wrote a paper in college that, while it was centered around Ghandi and passive resistance, I think the main point applies here as well: If you want to create change, you must first change yourself. Apathy only breeds more apathy, but making a change can inspire others to do so as well. And if enough people take that step and make a change, in time, it can add up to something not insignificant. But someone must take that first step. I applaud you for finding a fascinating way to make that change. Edit: P.S. Love the bangs/fringe!
So well said - you're right, we might see rationing again! And thanks so much for the shout out too, glad it was helpful. You're doing excellent work, we got this! ;) x
I love learning more about the rationing and coupon allowance changes! Also, completely agree that every change you can make as an individual adds up, and it also feels so much more empowering to live your life in the best way you can that aligns with your values - great message and I'm so glad you're speaking up about this. On a lighter note - your bangs look great!
While your looks are the least interesting thing about you (as is true for all of us), those looks are seriously on point in this video. You look stunning.
Loved the transition mention because I felt so guilty for needing to go buy clothes as opposed to being able to wear thrifted items I'd collected over the years. I've been watching you before I got ill and you have actually inspired me to start pacing. So while you did not inspire me to buy scissors, you really made a difference here :) So thank you!
I found your videos when I decided to pick up knitting to learn some patience while trying to get what eventually turned out to be an ME/CFS diagnosis. Your content has been a great inspiration and comfort to me. Making do and mending has become necessary for me since having to stop working due to illness. It was a money saving strategy, but it does make me consider how and where my clothes are coming from. When I consider selling my crafts as a means to support myself, the amount I would have to charge to make a living wage seems astronomical compared to what you can get in the shops. It makes me consider who is making those clothes, what they're getting paid to do so. My body has changed a lot in the last few years, and I'm now moving a lot of clothes on to friends and family. If/when I need new clothes, I hope to slowly build my wardrobe with things I've made, using carefully considered fibers and fabrics.
Claude! This is yes! You made a great video! And concerning feeling part of the community in time of crisis, that is of course what happened in WWII as well. Together, buying second hand, eating less or no meat (if your health allows) etc. ; all those things give body to something that is not visible, same as the war was not always visible. Not wanting to sound to down cast, but in a sense the climate crisis is a war as well and the first battle is awareness. And in that battle, you have rallied troops, created more awareness and gave me at least the feeling that I am not the only one in this war.
this is exactly the point jonathan safran foer makes in his book “we are the weather” - he draws parallels between ww2 rationing and how the world banded together to get through a crisis, and what sacrifices we could make today to preserve a livable planet for future generations. the problem is that not enough humans today understand or accept the scale and seriousness of the problem. but here we are, at least, spreading the word and growing our little army of make-doers-and-menders
If every individual does just one good thing that adds up to millions of good things. I don’t understand why people can’t see that. Thank you for speaking out!
Yes to all of this. I think you did a fine job explaining your thoughts, and thank you for the additional resource. I don't tend to buy a lot of clothes myself, but I could probably use some rationing elsewhere in my life. Keep up the good job. 🐑
I tend to have a lot of clothes, t-shirts & jeans, mostly ! I live in an Apt., and HATE going to the laundromat ! Since Covid, I find I STILL hate being in spaces with a lot of people ! Most of my tshirts are OLD, though. Lol ! A gal I know said, "Hey, I like your vintage shirt!". I replied, 'It's just OLD !' LOL 😁 The thing I buy the most are Underwear, so would love if this channel did a video on that. I'm learning to knit, and getting good enough I want to get away from the crappy polyester yarn & get wool or alpaca & start making sweaters !
Love your platform and it's getting stronger because of you and me and everyone who listens to you. Reminds me of our Welsh Government adverts on YT that remind us that there are 3 million Individuals in this small country and if we all act we can Make a Difference ! Blessings
I live in France and volunteer at a locale scheme in the next village. We receive donations of clothes, sort them and send for recycling anything that is damaged. The rest are sorted by gender, age / size, type and organised by room / rail (we have several rooms over three floors). All items are sold for €1 each and the proceeds go to support disadvantaged children in local schools - to subsidise school trips, activities etc. The clothes are switched over twice a year - in spring and autumn - and the 'off season' clothes boxed and stored away. The scheme is really popular. All those involved give their time for free.
RE inspiring people: when you made the first video, I got as far as making myself a coupon book and striking out half of them because it was already June. Then I went "no, this won't work, I've too many major changes that have me replacing most of my wardrobe" and I dropped it. Well, I just dug out the coupon book again and struck out the stuff I've bought, and I still have coupons left. I spent an irritating number on new underwear, but it needed to happen, and I've still got enough to go forward with. So, I guess I'm doing this going foward! Thanks for the push and the company :)
Lucy on the channel ‘loepsie’ made a raincoat in a series of videos last year, admittedly it was pink and sparkly, but stylistically it was actually something you might like so the videos are worth checking out. Lots about working with the fabric. I’m enjoying your perspective on modern rationing. I have a clothes hoarding problem. I’m desperate to de clutter them, but the reality is none of my clothes fit particularly well or are particularly nice and there is not a lot to choose between them. No point throwing away one over another when really they are all pretty bad. I also have zero funds to buy a better wardrobe or therapy to fix my head, which is the real problem. So I’m doing my own version of this challenge by relying on natural attrition to clear out the wardrobe and the passage of time for the war to pass and the coupons to replenish themselves…….. Love this series. Looking forward to seeing how you get on.
Well, learning some basic "fitting" sewing techniques sounds like it would help ! I grew up pretty poor and was stuck wearing whatever my mother foisted on me. I think that's why I never was "into" clothes. The entire thing was frustrating & shaming. During covid I started following a few historic Costumers & started regaining interest in clothes. I am still mostly a "t-shirt & jeans" kind of gal, but I AM trying to at least dip my toes into making my own clothes !
Pretty interesting ruminations! One thing I noticed very recently finishing a dress I started many many years ago is how much more attention to detail I pay now, trying to make a really well-made garment... It took a lot of time, kind of drove my sister crazy, and kind of also drove home even more just how much work goes into a well-made garment and how disproportionate everything about fast fashion is. With my health (skin) requirements for fibre composition, and figure requirements on fit (I don't fit into straight sizes very well), I have ended up making a much larger percentage of my wardrobe in recent years. And I'm incapable of churning things out. I can't overconsume simply because I can't keep up the tempo! So it's interesting to see you ruminate on it from a very different perspective and amazingly arrive at a similar place. I, too, started making my own undergarments, and getting hand-me-downs from my mother, and buying second-hand. 😅
"what's the point of trying?" I want to be able to look my nieces and nephews in the eye and say that I tried to make a better world for them. I appreciate this video, we need to be more mindful and you've come up with a cool method of doing so. The ration book is so cool!
I agree with everything you said about tiny steps counting. All those tiny steps add up to a big momentum for change. I have a large stash, thoughtlessly bought. I want to be much more ethical in my purchases in future but in order to deal with what I have now I have to keep reminding myself that the most sustainable fabric is the one I already own.
While I agree with you about tiny steps I also realise that there is a big World out there and huge developing countries are now on the cusp of modernisation. They are not going to restrict themselves (and irs arrogant of us to think they should when weve spent years having a good time). We need to think of ways to deal with this other than taxing people.
thank you for raising awareness of what a reasonable level of consumption ought to be. i’m having a bad brain day so this isn’t going to be a brilliantly useful or verbose comment, but every time you post, i just want to send some love your way and thank you for your amazing videos. you’re a delightful source of creative inspiration, and a champion of pacing and disability advocacy. oh, and the new haircut looks amazing! cheers ❤ edit: respect for handling the climate deniers in the comments with utter class, as always 👌 also, whenever someone throws the ”individual action is pointless” line at me, my response is (1) i couldn’t sleep at night if i didn’t do everything in my power to minimise my impact as much as possible, so that’s reason enough for me, and (2) maybe other people seeing that i’m doing something, anything, will motivate them to do something, anything, and suddenly we’ve got loads of individuals making collective progress, whether that’s not supporting the meat industry in your weekly grocery shop, or protesting outside government offices to pass a green energy bill. apathy will get us nowhere, or “you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take”.
Your haircut is so pretty on you!!! You have been keeping me company this past week when I have been in bed with COVID, and I just started knitting my first Icelandic sweater! You are such an inspiration for me... Love from the US!
EXCELLENT video - you have a very powerful platform, and i applaud you for thoughtfully using it to inspire change. As to what constitutes a wardrobe that is appropriate, i have been trying for some time now to limit the quantity of an item that is worn daily to no more than 10, assuming that laundry can be done regularly. It has helped to also reduce the variety of colors and to focus on colors that can easily be interchanged. And i am working towards eliminating entirely specific items (does one need slacks AND cropped pants AND capris AND shorts?). You get the idea. And finally, your hairstyle in this video is particularly fetching - well done!!!
Thank you for explaining! I was definitely a little confused, but couldn't put it into words 😄. I agree with you that whatever shape your tiny steps take, it's all progress. Due to my severe allergies, I can't go into second-hand shops never mind try things on, so I buy new with the intention/expectation that I will have the item for 10+ years. I have items from H&M (fast fashion) that I got in the early 2000's! Also, love the bangs/fringe 💜
Thank you! I still have an H&M skirt I bought 16 years ago! It's finally getting holes in. Maybe I'll try and mend it and see how long I can keep it alive 😁
I make my pants using the free Acacia pattern from Megan Nielsen, using jersey offcuts, t-shirts…..I make them in batches of 6-10 pairs. It’s very satisfying. I started making them as I couldn’t find the ones I liked in M&S. There are lots of TH-cams showing the “Burrito method” for the crotch. All you need is some elastic. I eventually adapted the pattern to turn over the top to use half inch elastic. Usual “knicker elastic” works for the legs. I’m not sure how many coupons for elastic but they cost next to nothing and allows your favourite armpit stained t-shirts to live on.
I've contemplated doing a handmade wardrobe before but I get put off by the fact the materials are so expensive that it's usually cheaper to buy new (having said that, I'm now massively into buying from Vinted) and also that mass manufacture has skewed our view on how much clothes should cost.
I've also considered it but there are just so many things that I'm either not interested in making, leggings for example, or are just so expensive in comparison. It's only when you get into looking at 'high end'' fashion brands that making your own might be considered a saving but I have pretty simple tastes so would never be buying from them anyway!
I try to make my stuff because the fit better and I can get better materials. The thrifted market is really bad where I live. That being said I try to buy dead stock fabric to save cost.
Clothes and fabric have always been very expensive. The cheap stuff from China is cheap cause of slave labor and rampant pollution keeping costs down. Make a long term plan so you can go one piece at a time. Spreads the pain of fabric prices out.
Glad to hear of your plans and progress with this challenge! I've decided to participate as well and boy has it helped me be more conscious of my consumption. I agree that that is the point of this exercise. Awareness and education will facilitate change. That's what we need right now ( ok, honestly, we needed it yesterday or a couple decades ago). Shopping at "Mom's mystery closet" is one of my favorite ways of acquiring new pieces. I've been doing it for years. We actually swap wearable items often. Win, win if you ask me. Keep warm and ration on! Can't wait to see what you create next!
Thanks for this update, Claude! I’ve been tracking my own consumption using this scheme, and it’s been an interesting little experiment. I’ll share here in case it’s helpful to someone. Since June 1st, I’ve bought 6 skeins of knitting yarn (all wool). They’re all slightly overweight, so I got approximately 615 grams (or roughly 22 ounces). You could get two ounces of yarn per coupon, so I spent 11 coupons. I had no plans to buy clothes this summer, but then I had an unexpected medical procedure and needed some clothes in bigger sizes and softer materials while in recovery. If I’d had advance notice, I probably would have tried to plan ahead and get things secondhand-but hey, life happens! Mostly, I’m just grateful that I’m in good health now and my medical issues were resolved. I was initially in too much pain to think about this for very long, so I just went with a brand that has served me well in the past, and whose items I’ve used for a long time and are hard wearing. In the end, I bought: Two pairs of shorts (5 coupons each) One pair of jeans (8 coupons) Three summer dresses, non-wool (7 coupons each) One shirt (5 coupons) So I spent 44 coupons in clothes, basically in one go-and 55 coupons altogether. I can’t say I’m upset about it, especially given my circumstances. Again, I’m more grateful that my health is in a good place than anything else. Still, it definitely has been eye opening, considering that in some years I would have exceeded my entire allocation in a single shopping trip. Thankfully, I shouldn’t need new clothes beyond this. I’m lucky that I’ll be able to fit into my pre-procedure wardrobe easily; I know that isn’t always possible for everyone. Also, the shorts I got have an elastic drawstring so I’ll be able to keep wearing them going forward. But this has also gotten my wheels spinning about what to do with the dresses and jeans. Before this little experiment, I probably would have donated them as soon as I’d recovered, and told myself that they’d served their purpose when I needed them. But I’m less satisfied with that answer now. I might try my hand at altering the dresses to see if I can get more use out of them.
I am surprised so many people don't care or are so apathetic. I love your new bangs or fringe. You are looking good, I hope you are feeling better. I do look for ways to change the environment in my own small ways.
I can’t wait to see the results for the underwear and raincoat making! This project is so inspiring, I love seeing these updates! (Also, the bangs and undercut are so cute!! 💗)
Your rationing challenge is such a wonderful way to be mindful of our consumption. Something we should all take on board. I won’t be doing a challenge, as such, but you have made me think twice before buying. BTW, your new fringe looks good.
Hey Claude, I've been watching your videos for a while now (since your yarn stashbusting era) and I'm really sorry to hear you're dealing with all the negativity and climate change deniers. I guess it's easier for people to live in denial because it helps them feel less guilty? Idk. I'm not perfect either, I drive a car that I don't want to give up, but I'm vegan for the animals and for the planet and I try to buy as little as possible, even though I can easily afford it. The amount of marketing and consumerism pushed on us is absolutely insane and I really appreciate your videos and find them very inspiring. It's so cool that you're doing this challenge and it made me wonder how I can further improve, maybe by taking up sewing as well or so. Keep up the great and inspiring work. 🙂
Hooray for secondhand bras! (They are a common exchange item in my friend group.) Also, thanks for bringing up Leena's great video. One of her points that I really like is that if you have a child who's hitting other kids on the playground, you don't intervene and teach them not to do that because you believe it will stop violence worldwide: you do it because you don't want another child to be hit and you don't want your child to live a friendless lonely life because they don't know how to treat other people. Scalability is not the only yardstick by which we measure whether doing something ethical is worthwhile.
really interesting concept! love the idea of this series! a lot of my struggle with clothing is that im plus size and also put on weight which isn't easy to lose so a lot of the time I do have to go for new, or make my own clothes (but I don't always have the energy/brain power to do this) but im sure there will be tips I can pick up along the way - If I do get new now I really try to think how much ill get the wear out of it which I think has done me well in choosing useful pieces, not just trend led fast fashion. Also totally digging the fringe, looks very mod!
I found this very inspiring and I just wanted to thank you for sharing. I did a "66 coupon year" for the first half of, 2022 but got discouraged when I bought more than I meant to and gave up, which wasn't the point of the project but still. I am new to making my own clothing starting this year and I am trying to find a way to make sure I don't go from buying too many clothes to immediately making too many clothes and I love your approach. Thank you for sharing!
Thank you for doing this and making these videos! I am also doing Leenas year of makedo, and I'm honestly shocked at how easy it is. I don't buy anything if it's not to replace a specific item that's beyond repair, and I find it truly liberating. I don't go into shops randomly, I (mostly) don't click the ads I'm being served online, and I find new ways to wear the (mountain of) stuff I already own. I haven't cut down on the knitting, though. 😊
Wow! This is a wonderful idea!! I gave up fast fashion last year and I thought it would be hard, but it was so easy. Thrifting is more fun and much better quality. I will never go back. But I do like the idea of a ration book to hold me accountable for those few items that are hard to thrift that I might be tempted to buy. Thank you so much for sharing.
Oh the hair looks so cute! And honestly, whenever I see you upload I can not click fast enough. Your videos are just amazing and I do feel represented in a way, even though I have a different disability :) Also, on a german "late night" show, the host talked about ME/CFS and how doctors are still handling it horribily and also bringing it more into the mainstream conversation which I thought was so great since I saw your Q&A video where you talked about doctors and how many still don't even know ME and what it means.
I recently came across a fashion designer on TikTok that said that if you are the type of person who would rather not buy clothes all the time, it may be just as sustainable to buy synthetic fibers because they don't break down as much. I don't have a lot of clothes and I keep my clothes until they are falling apart. I've started allowing myself to buy blends with natural and synthetic fibers to knit in so that the clothes I make can hold up to the wear I put them through. For anyone who likes to change their wardrobe from time to time natural fibers are the way to go because they will break down faster! That concept changed my way of viewing clothing and I hope it helps anyone who may need it!
What an interesting thing to take on. I kinda started to do the same thing but not for the reason of rationing, but my size due to illness is changing rapidly and I’m not doing the fast fashion thing anymore. I have no choice but to buy all natural material on account of illness also and when you said you were going to focus on outerwear, I’m in the exact same situation. I found some new wool in fabric form for much less than buying a jacket, so off I go to my machine. Keep up the great work.
Individual actions are no longer individual if enough people are doing the same thing. One person doing what they can might not help if they are the only one but 20,000, 200,000, eventually millions of people can change the world.
I love your thoughts on fighting apathy, the climate crisis, and what underconsumption really looks like. A lot of it was just what I needed to hear to inspire myself. I also love your fringe!
Thanks for the video, this was interesting! Well done for the first quarter! I can't wait to see how the rest of the year goes for you. Love your new hair, the fringe really suits you xx
This video came up as I was spending the afternoon mending some of my clothes! I've been fixing the hem on two pairs of pants, sewed in a new elastic into a skirt where it had given up the ghost. I hope you are enjoying your challenge 😊
I love the fringe! And also still very grateful for the scissors recommendation which I'm using and an finding much easier.... Little things mean a lot! ❤
Absolutely love your hair. That being said, in terms of the impact that you as a consumer make, I don't see it as the impact that one individual can make. Of course one person will not make that huge difference. But I as a consumer, do have the obligation to let the big companies I am consuming from know what I need and want, as a consumer. And if enough people are sending that same message, that we want eco friendly, sustainable, good for the world goods, ans are not willing to buy otherwise, corporations have to listen eventually to literally not go bankrupt. It's the same as voting: one vote alone will not make the change, but if we all keep informed, we have the moral obligation to make our voices heard, and together we stand tall.
Thank you for the follow up and further explanation, answered a few questions. And what a beautiful sweater (jumper?) Good take on sustainable habits as getting ready for the future, hope you don't mind, I'm going to use it as my standard answer. Thank you!
Absolutely love all of this and great to see how you are progressing with it all! The wedding dress looked lovely. The "individual actions are pointless" line drives me up the wall. Completely agree with you about the importance of acting in line with your beliefs (and excited to see you share a video from another of my favourite youtubers). Plus - why do people think that these big polluting companies exist? Why do they think we are drilling for more oil? Because of individual actions. If there wasnt the demand, it wouldnt be happening.
Yes! I love this. I once (2020/2021??) set myself the goal to 'never buy any new clothes again' and I'm still doing okay with it! Exceptions are for Dancewear (pointe shoes, tights etc) and underwear. I sew, knit, thrift but mostly try to use up what i have. I did buy *some* new things here and there... I've had the same winter coat for 6 winters and its still good so i got a second hand summer coat from the same brand, knowing it would last. When i buy fabric or yarn I'm also really picky about where it all comes from ... Which can be hard because sometimes the most durable is not necessary the most environmentally friendly?? Like a bit of acrylic in sock wool is great for durability. But i dislike the shedding of microplastics as well. Either way i also had to give up vegetarianism because of medical reasons and yes i feel guilty sometimes, but i think if everyone ate 'less' meat and bought fewer clothes like me then the world would be going in the right direction as well. So i accept this about myself.
The individual actions are useful, because they help us feel less powerless to change the big industry and help us to become more active towards a more sustainable way of living
Love the hair! The way I think about it is that the environment is like a dial, not a switch, everything we can do to make the dial go around less is important. There's a lot of room for little steps to make the world a better place!
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and opinions! I think you did a great job articulating your beliefs, and I couldn’t agree more. It’s important for everyone to do what we can
Ive loved every minute of your video today. I guess because I am an historical costumer, my everyday wardrobe is small - basic, boring, it all fits in a few drawers and one 60cm wide hanging space. My formal clothes are stored elsewhere, but i have about 4 or 5 pieces. I have far more historical clothing than everyday stuff. However even before I did this, I never was really into clothes, my budget didnt really ever allow it. Well done, im not a knitter, ive tried but i just suck at it.
1. Thank you for mentioning transition as a reason to need many new clothes. When my person transitioned a few years ago we had such a struggle coming up with a whole new wardrobe! 😱 2. Wool dresses are increasingly available and popular, at least in the US. Highly recommend! 3. Of course small individual actions matter. People just don't want to take responsibility for themselves. You're doing good things. Enjoy doing them. ❤
Thank you so much for this Video series! You inspired me a lot to make, do and ment but also to use up my yarn stash instead of buying new yarn! Thank you for all the inspiration, I love your channel a lot.
Very nice video 😊 I’m currently in almost the exact middle of doing a no buy year for any newly produced garments and accessories and might use your video as inspiration for what to do afterwards, but i recently bought the exact same shrug in white from vinted for a lot less and have the suspicion that it originally was a loooot cheaper that you think, after doing some research. Unfortunately nowadays even crochet items get sold for atrociously cheap prices, despite being really labor intensive😕 I hope in your hands it at least gets the appreciation it deserves ❤
Bravo……you have inspired me. I started my reduce stash 2 years now. I sew many of my own clothes…Small actions count..many raindrops make up a mighty ocean!
Your videos inspired me to start a strabismus challenge of my own... in that I'm only allowed to use my fabric stash to make clothes. Thanks for another great video!
I pretty much only buy shoes and under garments new now because I buy everything else secondhand. It’s so crazy how much clothing there is out there for $1 a piece or less. You just have to be willing to dig in huge bins. I even thrift quality fabrics so my stash is full of natural fabrics.
I completely understand your feelings. It’s not about changing the world it’s about what you believe and how you feel. I buy most of my clothing secondhand. I do glance through the bra section as sometimes you actually find things with tags. I do buy knickers new but recently I saw a video series on making a custom pattern with my measurements. I have lots of stash fabric so I might give that a try. Best part they will fit not sorta fit! I do still buy synthetic fabric but I get it at thrift stores! I’m so very amazed at the fabric that goes through there. I’ve recently found some wonderful things so my stash is growing! I have to stop looking in that section until I use what I have! I like this concept and rethinking what you buy. I’m not sure I will give coupons a try but I will put more though into what I’m buying!
I think it definitely makes sense to tweak the coupon allowance to modern day requirements- something like swapping synthetic for woollen feels like it would make sense? (that would cover the knitting too). I also remember looking at the sheet and thinking that some of the garments didn't really match up 1:1 with what I'd find in my wardrobe now, like trousers are easy enough but I have no clue what a bathing gown is 😂and the coupons used for the underwear definitely reflects how big knickers used to be (rather than what we wear now). I think you'll benefit from already having a reasonable wardrobe of well made garments, but I'd imagine it would be more difficult for someone going cold turkey from fast fashion clothing. I don't think the discrepancies matter as long as it's workable for you (or whoever else is using it) if the point is mindful consumption it sounds like it's working really well for you! :D
Ooh I wonder if a bathing gown is a bath robe? Or maybe a swimsuit coverup... But yeah I was thinking the same thing, about how one might try a few intermediate steps if going from zero secondhand to even 1941 rationing. Maybe starting with more coupons, or natural fibers and secondhand items are free so only new plastics are rationed.
I was tickled to see woollen combinations as an option on the list but if you grew up in the 1890s I guess you could still be wearing them if that's what you're used to?
most of what i can see for the 40s appears to be a bath robe/dressing gown. though i did find an article on the term from the 1700s which was a dress women had to wear in the bath which.. weird. archaic. interesting to know i guess. also pretty unlikely to be the same thing and just an evolution of term considering the change in "modesty" standards between the two (ankles and legs no longer a scandal)
I love this video and concept so much, thank you for sharing it! Knickers are easy peasy, you’ll be great. I highly recommend the Emerald Erin Black Beauty bra pattern - although I was making the largest size so may be different. I cut up some old boxers to make a pattern from and those have also turned out really well. Hope you’re doing well 🌻
I jumped on this challenge 3 months ago when your first video came out. I have spent some coupons - BUT I find myself with a different mindset - I don't just buy what I want as before, I use what I have first and plan ahead. It's such a freeing feeling for me. It is restrive yes, but I find that I think about if things are need to.. or nice to have in my wardrobe.
Not to distract from anything you said, but I love your hair! The secondhand, lightly worn bra is a great result from this experiment. Glad it worked out, and glad you saved £40 in the process!
Love love love this! I've even convinced my mom to not buy synthetic fibers anymore too! Even if it's second-hand. Which does mean a lot of disappointment when we go shopping, but it also means we are making what we already own last and work for us.
When I had a look at this system when you first mentioned it, I assigned the lower coupon value (if a difference between fabrics was noted) to natural fibres and the higher one to synthetic. I didn’t end up going ahead with it, but that seemed more relevant to todays circumstances than wool vs not wool
There are time I think I will never understand people. Person says I am going to do xyz for myself for xyz reasons.... and other people get upset about it? Like why? It's not hurting you. Let them just try something that might help. Anyway, I appreciate you sharing your projects and explaining what you needed to adjust and your logic. Hope the haters leave you alone
I was also puzzled by this. Same thing happened when I started my Stashbusting series. Couldn't understand why people were upset about what I did with my own yarn?
@@RetroClaude People's reactions to you are never about YOU; they are always about THEM. Just learning you're planning to do xyz for yourself makes them feel that you are criticizing THEM for not doing it. (Bonkers, but that's how humans generally are.) And they react to that perceived criticism by lashing out at you. Frankly, I found the entire internet made a lot more sense once I started applying this lens to the comments section.
My great-grandmother was a tailoress and she made my mother and my aunt's clothes throughout the war. For their coats she always used old woollen blankets. My mum still talks fondly of the beautiful coat her grandmother made her during WWII.
My parents lived through the Depression and WW2. Though I grew up in the 60s and 70s my sense of consumerism was grounded on having one warm coat, 2 pairs of shoes - every day and dress shoes, a good dress and 2 or 3 sets of "play clothes". We got a new jumper/sweater each winter and a cardigan for summer. The fact that I have several different colours and styles of coat in my wardrobe would have been considered by my mum as absolute decadence. I do enjoy the freedom of having so much choice but those old principles were really the basis of the capsule wardrobe. You had to think carefully about what you needed, what fabrics were most adaptable to your needs, lifestyle and climate. And what colours worked with what you had. I find myself returning to them more and more, to make the choices easier. What we think now as essential was luxury to my parents. Historical context does affect perception, l know. But perhaps there is wisdom to be gained from scrutinising our beliefs about clothes and consumption more closely? That's why l appreciate this video and your challenging yourself with this concept. Am l ready to do the same? ? ......😮
My husband and I have a store in Belgium (specialized in the bohemian look), and have chosen to have no or minimal polyester in the clothing we sell in our store. We also promote homemade and upcycled clothing by selling them, but also by offering custom patterns and clothing made from original patterns from the 1930s to the 1970s. Good habits and care for our environment starts with ourselves.
Changing one’s shopping habits is crucial for many reasons. Essentially, we’re voting with our dollars (in my case), so that the companies pay better attention to what’s important to their customers. If we do nothing - nothing will change and things will get worse, like they keep getting worse right now with Shein and similar companies. As a side note: as a post-soviet child who actually lived with coupons for a couple of years and who experienced extreme deficit, there is no way I’d do your experiment to myself again. But I can see its value
I draw the line at second hand knickers 😅 I'm considering just emptying out everything that hasn't been gifted or made and taking up this challenge to force myself to start sewing again. Also unrelated but your hair is looking awesome. The full fringe suits you so well 🥰
I've been thrifting since High School in the 1970s, but used shoes always seemed icky. Recently I wanted to replace a favorite old pair and someone suggested Poshmark. After looking for a couple of weeks I found an essentially brand new pair of these 8 year old shoes! Now I look there every time I want to replace an old favorite, since I know the size will work. I have never bought bras second hand but I see the benefit for a specialty item such as yours.
I did make a raincoat about 6 years ago now, coz I was tired of the commercial ones. Even the good brands die after 3 yrs b/c of the climate here. So I chose a "dead" one with nice lining still intact, removed the lining, and took the coat apart to use as a pattern. Saved the zippers, had to get new poppers, and made it a foot longer (and a bit wider so I could walk!) And it's still going strong!!! It's not the worlds fanciest or elegant, but it doesn't have to be. It is comfortable and it works just fine. I want to work out how to make my own bras too, but that is an incredibly slow and frustrating process. Still beats me. Odd sizes are incredibly expensive and still doesn't quite do what I want/need, a large cup, small band, minimiser. Ugh.
I'm in 😊 Will limit myself to 50 points a year and the mere thought is a huge relief. No feelings of guilt anymore, no time wasted on "maybe I want this dress" anymore. Thank you
As someone who struggles with the apathy you’re talking about, especially as a fat and chronically ill person for whom finding and affording ethical clothes is so hard, I appreciate your hope in small actions. I do want to be a person who takes those small actions to be in line with what I believe and hearing your hope gives me a nudge in the right direction I think.
I am engaged. I am not apathetic and I have seen "small" things make a difference. I'm nearly 60 and was influenced to not smoke, do drugs, pollute, waste food or ride in a car without a seatbelt. I have a fire escape plan and taught my kids to understand that they had autonomy over their bodies, their bodies are not shameful and if anyone is bothering them (family/friend/stranger/teacher) then they needed to tell an adult that they trust. Those are a few examples of things that my mom wasn't taught (and I swear I had fights with her about putting my kids in a carseat) and entire generations of people have come to accept the wisdom of those actions. I don't buy Temu or Shein or their ilk. I frankly object to the manipulation of tax/import/shipping rules to benefit huge corporations that have very dubious and opaque human rights situations involved in manufacture. I don't want to benefit and enrich a slaver who is also using import loopholes that cost Americans more money while china ships to us for nearly free. Its a bit of pettiness on my side since I have done a lot of reselling on ebay and I think it is so wrong that people can manufacture, sell and ship items across the world for less than a person in my city could ship it to the next city. Principle of the thing even though I am not currently a reseller. I guess I will step off of my soapbox now.
As someone who was born less than 10 years after the war, and just as rationing ended, I am following your journey with interest. I wore uniform all my working life so my off duty clothing was always bought to last. I have items in my wardrobe that are more than 20 years old. I've had the ability, but not always the time, to make my own clothes since I was a teenager. I have also become aware that items of clothing that I buy or make now will probably last longer than I will. I try to limit myself to buying one or two new items of clothing for winter. Summer even less, being in England. I still have too many clothes because I live in pyjamas, jeans and t-shirts or jumpers.
I've seen some beautiful repairs done to a range of different types of clothing using leftover yarn. Even on things that are not knit like jeans, tracksuits and shirts. I picked up two books on beautiful darning in Japan and I've seen some adorable crochet repair projects. These might be some nice ways to repair old items while having them look amazing, as long as the base item fits.
You do have influence. I got that Make Do and Mend book when you mentioned it last video 😂 I'm extremely beginner in sewing. The only article of clothing I've made is a very wonky skirt. I've mostly sewn easy things like curtains and cushions using fabric that I inherited from my mother and aunt. I also crochet and have made washcloths, shawls, and slippers. I do have some acrylic yarn (it all fits in one tote bag), but I haven't bought any more for a year, and my goal is to use it all without buying more. The rest of the "yarn" I have has also been inherited, and it's all thin cotton thread, which is great for lightweight clothing. Especially where I live, where winter is a myth and it's too hot for anything thicker than a linen shirt 😂 I've also tried to not buy any new clothing. I recently did some decluttering and some organizing of my closet and realized that, apart from a couple of dresses and a pair of those fancy office trousers, most of my clothing is either from thrift shops or hand me downs from family members and neighbors. I'm pretty proud of achieving that without even noticing.
When it comes to recycling and other sustainability measures, I try to think of it less as “I have to do this to change the world” and more “I want to be the kind of person who does this because I believe the world can be changed”
nice way of putting it. I also need to be able to look at myself in the mirror and respond to my daughter's questions: did I do what I could?
My nana told me it didn’t matter how many coupons you were given, there was still times when you couldn’t buy things because they were just not in the shops. Not just clothing but other coupons as well.
Didn't we just face this in the grocery stores in 2020?
@@wendystumpf1274 not even close to what my Nana told me about.
Yes! Very true! I know many knitters have told me that for a long time after the war you could only get yarn in 'service colours'. Enough to put some of the ladies I spoke to off Navy Blue for life!
@@RetroClaude my Nana didn’t knit after the war. She hated it and like you said, the colours were very drab. When I was knitting in the 80’s here in Yorkshire you could only get sock yarn in black, navy or brown. Not very inspiring.
yes
As someone who has difficulty buying clothes in general (because I'm fat, trans nonbinary, and disabled i.e. can only access the fast fashion stores directly around me) I have always has a weird relationship with ethical clothing consumption. Most forms of ethical consumption just aren't possible for me, and things people recommend almost never work (sew your own clothes! buy second hand! buy from expensive sustainable clothing companies!). In the past my seeming lack of ability to avoid supporting what is essentially modern day slavery *almost* made me apathetic, because it felt better than acknowledging my non-consensual support of something horrible. I was also so swamped by a million other (global and personal) issues that threatened my survival, so I felt like I didn't have any excess energy to care in an actionable way (and honestly I probably didn't). So I get where at least some people who say this are coming from. All these issues apply to clothing, food, furniture, technology, travel, etc, it can get very overwhelming.That said, having limited options very rarely means having _no_ options. And some people definitely just say this because they want to continue mindlessly consuming tons and tons of clothes they don't need, without thinking about the exploitative dynamics that are involved. Sometimes this argument is good faith (I'm struggling too much to care) or bad faith (I want an excuse not to care).
Personally, I have now adopted your clothing rationing scheme, because I think if buying fast fashion is your only choice, this is one of the best ways to make more ethical choices. That and learning how to pick quality clothes that will last a while and how to mend/care for these clothes. I am also (very slowly) learning how to sew! Thanks again for always encouraging me to adjust things I care about to my needs and abilities. You're a great role model for small (and big!) actions meaning something.
It's not always about buying the right things from the right store, it's mostly about buying less and using what you already have. In my perspective at least. So you're doing great!
You can only do, what you can do. You are trying and the first step is to wear the cloth you have as long as possible. The next step is to learn how to do small repairs. You are already doing that, so you are so far ahead of other people. You are doing great!
@Estertje93 I'm learning this! I always assumed this was correct but I think there was a point at least on social media where it was trendy to talk about sustainability only in terms of _where_ you bought clothes from and not how much clothing you bought. So you saw a lot of non-nuanced fast fashion shaming ('buying fast fashion is inherently bad'), meanwhile people would be constantly buying and discarding clothes from sustainable brands or sewing tons of clothes they never wore and got rid of. And this was considered completely sustainable even if most of those clothes would just end up in landfills because they were being bought/made and discarded at such high volumes. So I guess I internalised the idea that if I bought fast fashion at all I had failed.
I did eventually logically come to the conclusion that I should just buy less and mend more, but I had massively fallen off the band wagon, so Claude's coupon challenge came about at the exact right time!
@@chrisssssssi5598 thank-you for the encouragement! I'm looking forward to learning to care for and cherish the clothes I already have, instead of looking for more more more!
If fast fashion is the best choice you can make for yourself, especially if you are getting maximum wear out of each piece, then that is a good achievement. Every time I see a celebrity in a fully plastic-sequinned gown/jacket, I wish they would consider that lots of people don't have much choice in what they can buy. The first consideration for red-carpet outfits should be ethical & sustainable production, because they’re the people most able to afford it.
I’ve made a bunch of undies from old t-shirts this year and I love them. Once I got the pattern right I batch-processed them and made like 30 in a couple of days
There are a variety of patterns available for making one's undies--both knickers and bras. Looking forward to hearing how it goes. Thanks for the challenges.
This is what I'm hoping to do! Make a couple of prototype pairs out of scrap or old clothes before I see what I like and commit to making a batch!
LizSews has undies YT channel/pattern recommendations.
I like making underpants because they’re a small project and you can finish them fairly quickly. I also like making them in fun colors or making fancy ones. I think you’ll like it.
I buy almost all my clothes and shoes second hand and have for years. Though that was primarily because of limited funds and growing up with a mother who did the same.
I struggle with buying second hand for my kids-aside from fancy dress things, I need to work on that, but I feel guilty.
Having been a gardener all my life I don’t know how anyone can deny climate change. And like you said, as a practical matter there might come a time when rationing and/or shortages become a reality again.
@@roslynholcomb I really think the climate deniers are like little kids sticking their fingers in their ears going "NA NA NA ! I CAN'T HEAR YOU !" Acting like overtired children or sheep.
At 61 years old, I have seen the climate change, period.
I wrote a paper in college that, while it was centered around Ghandi and passive resistance, I think the main point applies here as well: If you want to create change, you must first change yourself. Apathy only breeds more apathy, but making a change can inspire others to do so as well. And if enough people take that step and make a change, in time, it can add up to something not insignificant. But someone must take that first step. I applaud you for finding a fascinating way to make that change.
Edit: P.S. Love the bangs/fringe!
So well said - you're right, we might see rationing again! And thanks so much for the shout out too, glad it was helpful. You're doing excellent work, we got this! ;) x
I love learning more about the rationing and coupon allowance changes! Also, completely agree that every change you can make as an individual adds up, and it also feels so much more empowering to live your life in the best way you can that aligns with your values - great message and I'm so glad you're speaking up about this. On a lighter note - your bangs look great!
Your fringe suits you so well! Lovely video as always ❤
Thank you!
I came her to say that- the hair is super flattering!
While your looks are the least interesting thing about you (as is true for all of us), those looks are seriously on point in this video. You look stunning.
Loved the transition mention because I felt so guilty for needing to go buy clothes as opposed to being able to wear thrifted items I'd collected over the years. I've been watching you before I got ill and you have actually inspired me to start pacing. So while you did not inspire me to buy scissors, you really made a difference here :) So thank you!
So glad I could help in some way! Pacing is more important than scissors anyway, and free! 😁
Yeah, I had that moment recently too. My jeans and tank tops are still fine, but Hoo Boy do I have zero formalwear 😂
I found your videos when I decided to pick up knitting to learn some patience while trying to get what eventually turned out to be an ME/CFS diagnosis. Your content has been a great inspiration and comfort to me.
Making do and mending has become necessary for me since having to stop working due to illness. It was a money saving strategy, but it does make me consider how and where my clothes are coming from. When I consider selling my crafts as a means to support myself, the amount I would have to charge to make a living wage seems astronomical compared to what you can get in the shops. It makes me consider who is making those clothes, what they're getting paid to do so.
My body has changed a lot in the last few years, and I'm now moving a lot of clothes on to friends and family. If/when I need new clothes, I hope to slowly build my wardrobe with things I've made, using carefully considered fibers and fabrics.
Claude! This is yes! You made a great video! And concerning feeling part of the community in time of crisis, that is of course what happened in WWII as well. Together, buying second hand, eating less or no meat (if your health allows) etc. ; all those things give body to something that is not visible, same as the war was not always visible. Not wanting to sound to down cast, but in a sense the climate crisis is a war as well and the first battle is awareness. And in that battle, you have rallied troops, created more awareness and gave me at least the feeling that I am not the only one in this war.
this is exactly the point jonathan safran foer makes in his book “we are the weather” - he draws parallels between ww2 rationing and how the world banded together to get through a crisis, and what sacrifices we could make today to preserve a livable planet for future generations. the problem is that not enough humans today understand or accept the scale and seriousness of the problem. but here we are, at least, spreading the word and growing our little army of make-doers-and-menders
If every individual does just one good thing that adds up to millions of good things. I don’t understand why people can’t see that.
Thank you for speaking out!
Yes to all of this. I think you did a fine job explaining your thoughts, and thank you for the additional resource. I don't tend to buy a lot of clothes myself, but I could probably use some rationing elsewhere in my life. Keep up the good job. 🐑
I agree - my wardrobe is sparse by many people's standards but I'm probably frivolous in other areas where I could benefit from showing restraint
I tend to have a lot of clothes, t-shirts & jeans, mostly ! I live in an Apt., and HATE going to the laundromat !
Since Covid, I find I STILL hate being in spaces with a lot of people !
Most of my tshirts are OLD, though. Lol ! A gal I know said, "Hey, I like your vintage shirt!". I replied, 'It's just OLD !' LOL 😁
The thing I buy the most are Underwear, so would love if this channel did a video on that.
I'm learning to knit, and getting good enough I want to get away from the crappy polyester yarn & get wool or alpaca & start making sweaters !
Not the point of the video but you look INCREDIBLE???? holy cow
Thank you ☺️
Love your platform and it's getting stronger because of you and me and everyone who listens to you. Reminds me of our Welsh Government adverts on YT that remind us that there are 3 million Individuals in this small country and if we all act we can Make a Difference ! Blessings
Do you watch @welshviking here on TH-cam ? Love him !
I live in France and volunteer at a locale scheme in the next village. We receive donations of clothes, sort them and send for recycling anything that is damaged. The rest are sorted by gender, age / size, type and organised by room / rail (we have several rooms over three floors). All items are sold for €1 each and the proceeds go to support disadvantaged children in local schools - to subsidise school trips, activities etc. The clothes are switched over twice a year - in spring and autumn - and the 'off season' clothes boxed and stored away. The scheme is really popular. All those involved give their time for free.
RE inspiring people: when you made the first video, I got as far as making myself a coupon book and striking out half of them because it was already June. Then I went "no, this won't work, I've too many major changes that have me replacing most of my wardrobe" and I dropped it.
Well, I just dug out the coupon book again and struck out the stuff I've bought, and I still have coupons left. I spent an irritating number on new underwear, but it needed to happen, and I've still got enough to go forward with. So, I guess I'm doing this going foward! Thanks for the push and the company :)
Lucy on the channel ‘loepsie’ made a raincoat in a series of videos last year, admittedly it was pink and sparkly, but stylistically it was actually something you might like so the videos are worth checking out. Lots about working with the fabric.
I’m enjoying your perspective on modern rationing.
I have a clothes hoarding problem. I’m desperate to de clutter them, but the reality is none of my clothes fit particularly well or are particularly nice and there is not a lot to choose between them. No point throwing away one over another when really they are all pretty bad. I also have zero funds to buy a better wardrobe or therapy to fix my head, which is the real problem. So I’m doing my own version of this challenge by relying on natural attrition to clear out the wardrobe and the passage of time for the war to pass and the coupons to replenish themselves……..
Love this series. Looking forward to seeing how you get on.
Well, learning some basic "fitting" sewing techniques sounds like it would help !
I grew up pretty poor and was stuck wearing whatever my mother foisted on me. I think that's why I never was "into" clothes. The entire thing was frustrating & shaming.
During covid I started following a few historic Costumers & started regaining interest in clothes.
I am still mostly a "t-shirt & jeans" kind of gal, but I AM trying to at least dip my toes into making my own clothes !
Pretty interesting ruminations!
One thing I noticed very recently finishing a dress I started many many years ago is how much more attention to detail I pay now, trying to make a really well-made garment... It took a lot of time, kind of drove my sister crazy, and kind of also drove home even more just how much work goes into a well-made garment and how disproportionate everything about fast fashion is. With my health (skin) requirements for fibre composition, and figure requirements on fit (I don't fit into straight sizes very well), I have ended up making a much larger percentage of my wardrobe in recent years. And I'm incapable of churning things out. I can't overconsume simply because I can't keep up the tempo!
So it's interesting to see you ruminate on it from a very different perspective and amazingly arrive at a similar place. I, too, started making my own undergarments, and getting hand-me-downs from my mother, and buying second-hand. 😅
"what's the point of trying?" I want to be able to look my nieces and nephews in the eye and say that I tried to make a better world for them.
I appreciate this video, we need to be more mindful and you've come up with a cool method of doing so. The ration book is so cool!
I agree with everything you said about tiny steps counting. All those tiny steps add up to a big momentum for change. I have a large stash, thoughtlessly bought. I want to be much more ethical in my purchases in future but in order to deal with what I have now I have to keep reminding myself that the most sustainable fabric is the one I already own.
While I agree with you about tiny steps I also realise that there is a big World out there and huge developing countries are now on the cusp of modernisation. They are not going to restrict themselves (and irs arrogant of us to think they should when weve spent years having a good time). We need to think of ways to deal with this other than taxing people.
thank you for raising awareness of what a reasonable level of consumption ought to be. i’m having a bad brain day so this isn’t going to be a brilliantly useful or verbose comment, but every time you post, i just want to send some love your way and thank you for your amazing videos. you’re a delightful source of creative inspiration, and a champion of pacing and disability advocacy. oh, and the new haircut looks amazing! cheers ❤
edit: respect for handling the climate deniers in the comments with utter class, as always 👌 also, whenever someone throws the ”individual action is pointless” line at me, my response is (1) i couldn’t sleep at night if i didn’t do everything in my power to minimise my impact as much as possible, so that’s reason enough for me, and (2) maybe other people seeing that i’m doing something, anything, will motivate them to do something, anything, and suddenly we’ve got loads of individuals making collective progress, whether that’s not supporting the meat industry in your weekly grocery shop, or protesting outside government offices to pass a green energy bill. apathy will get us nowhere, or “you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take”.
Your haircut is so pretty on you!!! You have been keeping me company this past week when I have been in bed with COVID, and I just started knitting my first Icelandic sweater! You are such an inspiration for me... Love from the US!
Part of the reason knickers was counted as a coupon is that the rubber in the elastic would have been needed for the war effort, not just the fabric.
EXCELLENT video - you have a very powerful platform, and i applaud you for thoughtfully using it to inspire change.
As to what constitutes a wardrobe that is appropriate, i have been trying for some time now to limit the quantity of an item that is worn daily to no more than 10, assuming that laundry can be done regularly. It has helped to also reduce the variety of colors and to focus on colors that can easily be interchanged. And i am working towards eliminating entirely specific items (does one need slacks AND cropped pants AND capris AND shorts?). You get the idea. And finally, your hairstyle in this video is particularly fetching - well done!!!
Thank you for explaining! I was definitely a little confused, but couldn't put it into words 😄. I agree with you that whatever shape your tiny steps take, it's all progress. Due to my severe allergies, I can't go into second-hand shops never mind try things on, so I buy new with the intention/expectation that I will have the item for 10+ years. I have items from H&M (fast fashion) that I got in the early 2000's!
Also, love the bangs/fringe 💜
Thank you! I still have an H&M skirt I bought 16 years ago! It's finally getting holes in. Maybe I'll try and mend it and see how long I can keep it alive 😁
I make my pants using the free Acacia pattern from Megan Nielsen, using jersey offcuts, t-shirts…..I make them in batches of 6-10 pairs. It’s very satisfying. I started making them as I couldn’t find the ones I liked in M&S. There are lots of TH-cams showing the “Burrito method” for the crotch. All you need is some elastic. I eventually adapted the pattern to turn over the top to use half inch elastic. Usual “knicker elastic” works for the legs. I’m not sure how many coupons for elastic but they cost next to nothing and allows your favourite armpit stained t-shirts to live on.
I've contemplated doing a handmade wardrobe before but I get put off by the fact the materials are so expensive that it's usually cheaper to buy new (having said that, I'm now massively into buying from Vinted) and also that mass manufacture has skewed our view on how much clothes should cost.
I've also considered it but there are just so many things that I'm either not interested in making, leggings for example, or are just so expensive in comparison. It's only when you get into looking at 'high end'' fashion brands that making your own might be considered a saving but I have pretty simple tastes so would never be buying from them anyway!
I try to make my stuff because the fit better and I can get better materials. The thrifted market is really bad where I live. That being said I try to buy dead stock fabric to save cost.
@@tigerpunk1996 ooh, dead stock fabric! Great idea! You're right, the fit is superior for handmade clothes 😊
Clothes and fabric have always been very expensive. The cheap stuff from China is cheap cause of slave labor and rampant pollution keeping costs down.
Make a long term plan so you can go one piece at a time. Spreads the pain of fabric prices out.
@tigerpunk1996 Since Covid, the thrift shops went NUTS on their prices (Northeast USA).
Glad to hear of your plans and progress with this challenge!
I've decided to participate as well and boy has it helped me be more conscious of my consumption.
I agree that that is the point of this exercise. Awareness and education will facilitate change. That's what we need right now ( ok, honestly, we needed it yesterday or a couple decades ago).
Shopping at "Mom's mystery closet" is one of my favorite ways of acquiring new pieces. I've been doing it for years. We actually swap wearable items often. Win, win if you ask me.
Keep warm and ration on! Can't wait to see what you create next!
Thanks for this update, Claude! I’ve been tracking my own consumption using this scheme, and it’s been an interesting little experiment. I’ll share here in case it’s helpful to someone.
Since June 1st, I’ve bought 6 skeins of knitting yarn (all wool). They’re all slightly overweight, so I got approximately 615 grams (or roughly 22 ounces). You could get two ounces of yarn per coupon, so I spent 11 coupons.
I had no plans to buy clothes this summer, but then I had an unexpected medical procedure and needed some clothes in bigger sizes and softer materials while in recovery. If I’d had advance notice, I probably would have tried to plan ahead and get things secondhand-but hey, life happens! Mostly, I’m just grateful that I’m in good health now and my medical issues were resolved.
I was initially in too much pain to think about this for very long, so I just went with a brand that has served me well in the past, and whose items I’ve used for a long time and are hard wearing. In the end, I bought:
Two pairs of shorts (5 coupons each)
One pair of jeans (8 coupons)
Three summer dresses, non-wool (7 coupons each)
One shirt (5 coupons)
So I spent 44 coupons in clothes, basically in one go-and 55 coupons altogether. I can’t say I’m upset about it, especially given my circumstances. Again, I’m more grateful that my health is in a good place than anything else. Still, it definitely has been eye opening, considering that in some years I would have exceeded my entire allocation in a single shopping trip.
Thankfully, I shouldn’t need new clothes beyond this. I’m lucky that I’ll be able to fit into my pre-procedure wardrobe easily; I know that isn’t always possible for everyone. Also, the shorts I got have an elastic drawstring so I’ll be able to keep wearing them going forward. But this has also gotten my wheels spinning about what to do with the dresses and jeans. Before this little experiment, I probably would have donated them as soon as I’d recovered, and told myself that they’d served their purpose when I needed them. But I’m less satisfied with that answer now. I might try my hand at altering the dresses to see if I can get more use out of them.
I am surprised so many people don't care or are so apathetic. I love your new bangs or fringe. You are looking good, I hope you are feeling better. I do look for ways to change the environment in my own small ways.
People get overwhelmed by the scope of the problem.
I can’t wait to see the results for the underwear and raincoat making! This project is so inspiring, I love seeing these updates!
(Also, the bangs and undercut are so cute!! 💗)
Your rationing challenge is such a wonderful way to be mindful of our consumption. Something we should all take on board. I won’t be doing a challenge, as such, but you have made me think twice before buying. BTW, your new fringe looks good.
Hey Claude, I've been watching your videos for a while now (since your yarn stashbusting era) and I'm really sorry to hear you're dealing with all the negativity and climate change deniers. I guess it's easier for people to live in denial because it helps them feel less guilty? Idk. I'm not perfect either, I drive a car that I don't want to give up, but I'm vegan for the animals and for the planet and I try to buy as little as possible, even though I can easily afford it. The amount of marketing and consumerism pushed on us is absolutely insane and I really appreciate your videos and find them very inspiring. It's so cool that you're doing this challenge and it made me wonder how I can further improve, maybe by taking up sewing as well or so. Keep up the great and inspiring work. 🙂
Hooray for secondhand bras! (They are a common exchange item in my friend group.) Also, thanks for bringing up Leena's great video. One of her points that I really like is that if you have a child who's hitting other kids on the playground, you don't intervene and teach them not to do that because you believe it will stop violence worldwide: you do it because you don't want another child to be hit and you don't want your child to live a friendless lonely life because they don't know how to treat other people. Scalability is not the only yardstick by which we measure whether doing something ethical is worthwhile.
really interesting concept! love the idea of this series! a lot of my struggle with clothing is that im plus size and also put on weight which isn't easy to lose so a lot of the time I do have to go for new, or make my own clothes (but I don't always have the energy/brain power to do this) but im sure there will be tips I can pick up along the way - If I do get new now I really try to think how much ill get the wear out of it which I think has done me well in choosing useful pieces, not just trend led fast fashion. Also totally digging the fringe, looks very mod!
I found this very inspiring and I just wanted to thank you for sharing. I did a "66 coupon year" for the first half of, 2022 but got discouraged when I bought more than I meant to and gave up, which wasn't the point of the project but still. I am new to making my own clothing starting this year and I am trying to find a way to make sure I don't go from buying too many clothes to immediately making too many clothes and I love your approach. Thank you for sharing!
I absolutely adore the bangs!
Thank you for doing this and making these videos! I am also doing Leenas year of makedo, and I'm honestly shocked at how easy it is. I don't buy anything if it's not to replace a specific item that's beyond repair, and I find it truly liberating. I don't go into shops randomly, I (mostly) don't click the ads I'm being served online, and I find new ways to wear the (mountain of) stuff I already own. I haven't cut down on the knitting, though. 😊
Wow! This is a wonderful idea!! I gave up fast fashion last year and I thought it would be hard, but it was so easy. Thrifting is more fun and much better quality. I will never go back. But I do like the idea of a ration book to hold me accountable for those few items that are hard to thrift that I might be tempted to buy. Thank you so much for sharing.
After watching your first video I tracked down a copy of that wonderful book 'make do and mend'. What a great addition to my library!
Oh the hair looks so cute! And honestly, whenever I see you upload I can not click fast enough. Your videos are just amazing and I do feel represented in a way, even though I have a different disability :)
Also, on a german "late night" show, the host talked about ME/CFS and how doctors are still handling it horribily and also bringing it more into the mainstream conversation which I thought was so great since I saw your Q&A video where you talked about doctors and how many still don't even know ME and what it means.
Also, I am in LOVE with your fringe!!! They suit you so well!!
Three minutes in and I'm already nodding along to everything you're saying. What an excellent idea to have a reset!
I recently came across a fashion designer on TikTok that said that if you are the type of person who would rather not buy clothes all the time, it may be just as sustainable to buy synthetic fibers because they don't break down as much.
I don't have a lot of clothes and I keep my clothes until they are falling apart. I've started allowing myself to buy blends with natural and synthetic fibers to knit in so that the clothes I make can hold up to the wear I put them through.
For anyone who likes to change their wardrobe from time to time natural fibers are the way to go because they will break down faster!
That concept changed my way of viewing clothing and I hope it helps anyone who may need it!
What an interesting thing to take on. I kinda started to do the same thing but not for the reason of rationing, but my size due to illness is changing rapidly and I’m not doing the fast fashion thing anymore. I have no choice but to buy all natural material on account of illness also and when you said you were going to focus on outerwear, I’m in the exact same situation. I found some new wool in fabric form for much less than buying a jacket, so off I go to my machine. Keep up the great work.
Have to comment before even watching - your hair looks amazing!! The fringe really suits you.
Individual actions are no longer individual if enough people are doing the same thing. One person doing what they can might not help if they are the only one but 20,000, 200,000, eventually millions of people can change the world.
I love your thoughts on fighting apathy, the climate crisis, and what underconsumption really looks like. A lot of it was just what I needed to hear to inspire myself. I also love your fringe!
Thanks for the video, this was interesting! Well done for the first quarter! I can't wait to see how the rest of the year goes for you. Love your new hair, the fringe really suits you xx
This video came up as I was spending the afternoon mending some of my clothes! I've been fixing the hem on two pairs of pants, sewed in a new elastic into a skirt where it had given up the ghost. I hope you are enjoying your challenge 😊
I love the fringe! And also still very grateful for the scissors recommendation which I'm using and an finding much easier.... Little things mean a lot! ❤
Absolutely love your hair. That being said, in terms of the impact that you as a consumer make, I don't see it as the impact that one individual can make. Of course one person will not make that huge difference. But I as a consumer, do have the obligation to let the big companies I am consuming from know what I need and want, as a consumer. And if enough people are sending that same message, that we want eco friendly, sustainable, good for the world goods, ans are not willing to buy otherwise, corporations have to listen eventually to literally not go bankrupt. It's the same as voting: one vote alone will not make the change, but if we all keep informed, we have the moral obligation to make our voices heard, and together we stand tall.
Thank you for the follow up and further explanation, answered a few questions. And what a beautiful sweater (jumper?) Good take on sustainable habits as getting ready for the future, hope you don't mind, I'm going to use it as my standard answer. Thank you!
I was so happy to see a bew video from you in time for bedtime! Yoyr content is so relaxing and cosy. Your hair looks lovely by the way
Absolutely love all of this and great to see how you are progressing with it all! The wedding dress looked lovely.
The "individual actions are pointless" line drives me up the wall. Completely agree with you about the importance of acting in line with your beliefs (and excited to see you share a video from another of my favourite youtubers). Plus - why do people think that these big polluting companies exist? Why do they think we are drilling for more oil? Because of individual actions. If there wasnt the demand, it wouldnt be happening.
When I watched your knickers video I was baffled at the size of them, but I just had a realization: those would be great for precenting chafing!
Yes! I love this. I once (2020/2021??) set myself the goal to 'never buy any new clothes again' and I'm still doing okay with it! Exceptions are for Dancewear (pointe shoes, tights etc) and underwear. I sew, knit, thrift but mostly try to use up what i have. I did buy *some* new things here and there... I've had the same winter coat for 6 winters and its still good so i got a second hand summer coat from the same brand, knowing it would last.
When i buy fabric or yarn I'm also really picky about where it all comes from ... Which can be hard because sometimes the most durable is not necessary the most environmentally friendly?? Like a bit of acrylic in sock wool is great for durability. But i dislike the shedding of microplastics as well.
Either way i also had to give up vegetarianism because of medical reasons and yes i feel guilty sometimes, but i think if everyone ate 'less' meat and bought fewer clothes like me then the world would be going in the right direction as well. So i accept this about myself.
That fringe REALLY suits you. Enjoyed your thought process in this video, looking forward to the next stages.
This is really inspiring! Keep us updated.
The individual actions are useful, because they help us feel less powerless to change the big industry and help us to become more active towards a more sustainable way of living
Love the hair! The way I think about it is that the environment is like a dial, not a switch, everything we can do to make the dial go around less is important. There's a lot of room for little steps to make the world a better place!
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and opinions! I think you did a great job articulating your beliefs, and I couldn’t agree more. It’s important for everyone to do what we can
I love this! I've been working on changing my attitude to shopping a lot over the past 5 years or so. Definitely picking up a few tips here!
Ive loved every minute of your video today. I guess because I am an historical costumer, my everyday wardrobe is small - basic, boring, it all fits in a few drawers and one 60cm wide hanging space. My formal clothes are stored elsewhere, but i have about 4 or 5 pieces. I have far more historical clothing than everyday stuff. However even before I did this, I never was really into clothes, my budget didnt really ever allow it. Well done, im not a knitter, ive tried but i just suck at it.
Lovely to see you looking so well. And I’m very much looking forward to the next instalment to see your decisions on winter clothes
I love this challenge and I can't wait to see your sewing plans!
1. Thank you for mentioning transition as a reason to need many new clothes. When my person transitioned a few years ago we had such a struggle coming up with a whole new wardrobe! 😱 2. Wool dresses are increasingly available and popular, at least in the US. Highly recommend! 3. Of course small individual actions matter. People just don't want to take responsibility for themselves. You're doing good things. Enjoy doing them. ❤
Thank you so much for this Video series! You inspired me a lot to make, do and ment but also to use up my yarn stash instead of buying new yarn! Thank you for all the inspiration, I love your channel a lot.
Very nice video 😊 I’m currently in almost the exact middle of doing a no buy year for any newly produced garments and accessories and might use your video as inspiration for what to do afterwards, but i recently bought the exact same shrug in white from vinted for a lot less and have the suspicion that it originally was a loooot cheaper that you think, after doing some research. Unfortunately nowadays even crochet items get sold for atrociously cheap prices, despite being really labor intensive😕 I hope in your hands it at least gets the appreciation it deserves ❤
I love this I look forward to later updates ❤❤
Bravo……you have inspired me. I started my reduce stash 2 years now. I sew many of my own clothes…Small actions count..many raindrops make up a mighty ocean!
Okay, LOVING the hair do ! You look very chic in bangs !
Back to the video.
P.s. that wine color sweater looks great on you !
Your videos inspired me to start a strabismus challenge of my own... in that I'm only allowed to use my fabric stash to make clothes. Thanks for another great video!
I pretty much only buy shoes and under garments new now because I buy everything else secondhand. It’s so crazy how much clothing there is out there for $1 a piece or less. You just have to be willing to dig in huge bins. I even thrift quality fabrics so my stash is full of natural fabrics.
I completely understand your feelings. It’s not about changing the world it’s about what you believe and how you feel.
I buy most of my clothing secondhand. I do glance through the bra section as sometimes you actually find things with tags. I do buy knickers new but recently I saw a video series on making a custom pattern with my measurements. I have lots of stash fabric so I might give that a try. Best part they will fit not sorta fit!
I do still buy synthetic fabric but I get it at thrift stores! I’m so very amazed at the fabric that goes through there. I’ve recently found some wonderful things so my stash is growing! I have to stop looking in that section until I use what I have!
I like this concept and rethinking what you buy. I’m not sure I will give coupons a try but I will put more though into what I’m buying!
I think it definitely makes sense to tweak the coupon allowance to modern day requirements- something like swapping synthetic for woollen feels like it would make sense? (that would cover the knitting too).
I also remember looking at the sheet and thinking that some of the garments didn't really match up 1:1 with what I'd find in my wardrobe now, like trousers are easy enough but I have no clue what a bathing gown is 😂and the coupons used for the underwear definitely reflects how big knickers used to be (rather than what we wear now).
I think you'll benefit from already having a reasonable wardrobe of well made garments, but I'd imagine it would be more difficult for someone going cold turkey from fast fashion clothing.
I don't think the discrepancies matter as long as it's workable for you (or whoever else is using it) if the point is mindful consumption it sounds like it's working really well for you! :D
Ooh I wonder if a bathing gown is a bath robe? Or maybe a swimsuit coverup...
But yeah I was thinking the same thing, about how one might try a few intermediate steps if going from zero secondhand to even 1941 rationing. Maybe starting with more coupons, or natural fibers and secondhand items are free so only new plastics are rationed.
I was tickled to see woollen combinations as an option on the list but if you grew up in the 1890s I guess you could still be wearing them if that's what you're used to?
most of what i can see for the 40s appears to be a bath robe/dressing gown.
though i did find an article on the term from the 1700s which was a dress women had to wear in the bath which.. weird. archaic. interesting to know i guess. also pretty unlikely to be the same thing and just an evolution of term considering the change in "modesty" standards between the two (ankles and legs no longer a scandal)
I love this video and concept so much, thank you for sharing it! Knickers are easy peasy, you’ll be great. I highly recommend the Emerald Erin Black Beauty bra pattern - although I was making the largest size so may be different. I cut up some old boxers to make a pattern from and those have also turned out really well. Hope you’re doing well 🌻
I was going to suggest Emerald Erin too!! She has great patterns
I jumped on this challenge 3 months ago when your first video came out. I have spent some coupons - BUT I find myself with a different mindset - I don't just buy what I want as before, I use what I have first and plan ahead. It's such a freeing feeling for me. It is restrive yes, but I find that I think about if things are need to.. or nice to have in my wardrobe.
Not to distract from anything you said, but I love your hair! The secondhand, lightly worn bra is a great result from this experiment. Glad it worked out, and glad you saved £40 in the process!
Love love love this! I've even convinced my mom to not buy synthetic fibers anymore too! Even if it's second-hand. Which does mean a lot of disappointment when we go shopping, but it also means we are making what we already own last and work for us.
When I had a look at this system when you first mentioned it, I assigned the lower coupon value (if a difference between fabrics was noted) to natural fibres and the higher one to synthetic. I didn’t end up going ahead with it, but that seemed more relevant to todays circumstances than wool vs not wool
There are time I think I will never understand people. Person says I am going to do xyz for myself for xyz reasons.... and other people get upset about it? Like why? It's not hurting you. Let them just try something that might help. Anyway, I appreciate you sharing your projects and explaining what you needed to adjust and your logic. Hope the haters leave you alone
I was also puzzled by this. Same thing happened when I started my Stashbusting series. Couldn't understand why people were upset about what I did with my own yarn?
@@RetroClaude People's reactions to you are never about YOU; they are always about THEM. Just learning you're planning to do xyz for yourself makes them feel that you are criticizing THEM for not doing it. (Bonkers, but that's how humans generally are.) And they react to that perceived criticism by lashing out at you.
Frankly, I found the entire internet made a lot more sense once I started applying this lens to the comments section.
My great-grandmother was a tailoress and she made my mother and my aunt's clothes throughout the war. For their coats she always used old woollen blankets. My mum still talks fondly of the beautiful coat her grandmother made her during WWII.
Would be interested to see your future projects, especially the raincoat.
My parents lived through the Depression and WW2. Though I grew up in the 60s and 70s my sense of consumerism was grounded on having one warm coat, 2 pairs of shoes - every day and dress shoes, a good dress and 2 or 3 sets of "play clothes". We got a new jumper/sweater each winter and a cardigan for summer. The fact that I have several different colours and styles of coat in my wardrobe would have been considered by my mum as absolute decadence. I do enjoy the freedom of having so much choice but those old principles were really the basis of the capsule wardrobe. You had to think carefully about what you needed, what fabrics were most adaptable to your needs, lifestyle and climate. And what colours worked with what you had. I find myself returning to them more and more, to make the choices easier. What we think now as essential was luxury to my parents. Historical context does affect perception, l know. But perhaps there is wisdom to be gained from scrutinising our beliefs about clothes and consumption more closely? That's why l appreciate this video and your challenging yourself with this concept. Am l ready to do the same? ? ......😮
My husband and I have a store in Belgium (specialized in the bohemian look), and have chosen to have no or minimal polyester in the clothing we sell in our store. We also promote homemade and upcycled clothing by selling them, but also by offering custom patterns and clothing made from original patterns from the 1930s to the 1970s. Good habits and care for our environment starts with ourselves.
Changing one’s shopping habits is crucial for many reasons. Essentially, we’re voting with our dollars (in my case), so that the companies pay better attention to what’s important to their customers. If we do nothing - nothing will change and things will get worse, like they keep getting worse right now with Shein and similar companies.
As a side note: as a post-soviet child who actually lived with coupons for a couple of years and who experienced extreme deficit, there is no way I’d do your experiment to myself again. But I can see its value
We need a RetroClaude and Leena Norms collaboration!
Love your hair like that! It really suits you.
Thank you!
Thanks for the update!
I draw the line at second hand knickers 😅 I'm considering just emptying out everything that hasn't been gifted or made and taking up this challenge to force myself to start sewing again. Also unrelated but your hair is looking awesome. The full fringe suits you so well 🥰
I've been thrifting since High School in the 1970s, but used shoes always seemed icky. Recently I wanted to replace a favorite old pair and someone suggested Poshmark. After looking for a couple of weeks I found an essentially brand new pair of these 8 year old shoes! Now I look there every time I want to replace an old favorite, since I know the size will work. I have never bought bras second hand but I see the benefit for a specialty item such as yours.
I did make a raincoat about 6 years ago now, coz I was tired of the commercial ones. Even the good brands die after 3 yrs b/c of the climate here. So I chose a "dead" one with nice lining still intact, removed the lining, and took the coat apart to use as a pattern. Saved the zippers, had to get new poppers, and made it a foot longer (and a bit wider so I could walk!) And it's still going strong!!! It's not the worlds fanciest or elegant, but it doesn't have to be. It is comfortable and it works just fine.
I want to work out how to make my own bras too, but that is an incredibly slow and frustrating process. Still beats me. Odd sizes are incredibly expensive and still doesn't quite do what I want/need, a large cup, small band, minimiser. Ugh.
I'm in 😊
Will limit myself to 50 points a year and the mere thought is a huge relief. No feelings of guilt anymore, no time wasted on "maybe I want this dress" anymore. Thank you
As someone who struggles with the apathy you’re talking about, especially as a fat and chronically ill person for whom finding and affording ethical clothes is so hard, I appreciate your hope in small actions. I do want to be a person who takes those small actions to be in line with what I believe and hearing your hope gives me a nudge in the right direction I think.
I am engaged. I am not apathetic and I have seen "small" things make a difference. I'm nearly 60 and was influenced to not smoke, do drugs, pollute, waste food or ride in a car without a seatbelt. I have a fire escape plan and taught my kids to understand that they had autonomy over their bodies, their bodies are not shameful and if anyone is bothering them (family/friend/stranger/teacher) then they needed to tell an adult that they trust.
Those are a few examples of things that my mom wasn't taught (and I swear I had fights with her about putting my kids in a carseat) and entire generations of people have come to accept the wisdom of those actions.
I don't buy Temu or Shein or their ilk. I frankly object to the manipulation of tax/import/shipping rules to benefit huge corporations that have very dubious and opaque human rights situations involved in manufacture. I don't want to benefit and enrich a slaver who is also using import loopholes that cost Americans more money while china ships to us for nearly free. Its a bit of pettiness on my side since I have done a lot of reselling on ebay and I think it is so wrong that people can manufacture, sell and ship items across the world for less than a person in my city could ship it to the next city. Principle of the thing even though I am not currently a reseller.
I guess I will step off of my soapbox now.
As someone who was born less than 10 years after the war, and just as rationing ended, I am following your journey with interest. I wore uniform all my working life so my off duty clothing was always bought to last. I have items in my wardrobe that are more than 20 years old. I've had the ability, but not always the time, to make my own clothes since I was a teenager. I have also become aware that items of clothing that I buy or make now will probably last longer than I will. I try to limit myself to buying one or two new items of clothing for winter. Summer even less, being in England. I still have too many clothes because I live in pyjamas, jeans and t-shirts or jumpers.
I've seen some beautiful repairs done to a range of different types of clothing using leftover yarn. Even on things that are not knit like jeans, tracksuits and shirts. I picked up two books on beautiful darning in Japan and I've seen some adorable crochet repair projects. These might be some nice ways to repair old items while having them look amazing, as long as the base item fits.
You do have influence. I got that Make Do and Mend book when you mentioned it last video 😂
I'm extremely beginner in sewing. The only article of clothing I've made is a very wonky skirt. I've mostly sewn easy things like curtains and cushions using fabric that I inherited from my mother and aunt. I also crochet and have made washcloths, shawls, and slippers. I do have some acrylic yarn (it all fits in one tote bag), but I haven't bought any more for a year, and my goal is to use it all without buying more.
The rest of the "yarn" I have has also been inherited, and it's all thin cotton thread, which is great for lightweight clothing. Especially where I live, where winter is a myth and it's too hot for anything thicker than a linen shirt 😂
I've also tried to not buy any new clothing. I recently did some decluttering and some organizing of my closet and realized that, apart from a couple of dresses and a pair of those fancy office trousers, most of my clothing is either from thrift shops or hand me downs from family members and neighbors. I'm pretty proud of achieving that without even noticing.