Everyone has faced the dilemma at some point: what should I wear? It's most likely not because you have no clothes at all, but rather a feeling that what you have in your wardrobe simply isn't right. So how do you shop wisely to always have something to wear, ensure your chosen clothes are comfortable, and avoid harming the environment in the process?

Why does it matter what and how much we buy? 

Why is it important to shop wisely? To buy good quality clothes? Although it might seem that our decisions don't matter much, we're greatly mistaken to think that one more unnecessary item makes no difference at all. Because although one item indeed won't fix the world, on a larger scale it really can matter.

The fashion industry, mainly due to the phenomenon of fast fashion, poses a huge threat to the natural environment. And this happens at every stage. Starting from the natural resources needed for production, such as water or energy, through pollution in the form of carbon dioxide or microplastics, to waste pollution. The scale of damage caused by clothing production is so significant that it now holds the dubious second place in greenhouse gas production. And every unnecessary purchase we make is a drop in the ocean of waste. Because that's usually where unwanted clothes end up.

Hope for improving the situation can be found in the EU's planned circular economy strategy, which, besides improving quality, durability and recycling issues, also includes consumer education.

How to shop for clothes wisely and reduce consumerism

Buying clothes is often a pleasure, and that's how we treat it. We like shopping, so we go shopping not only when we actually need to. Online shopping often makes this even easier, since clicking in an app is even simpler than physically browsing shops. In times when trends change at breakneck speed and new collections keep appearing, it's easy to give in to temptation and buy on impulse. The result is accumulating things that end up at the bottom of the wardrobe. This often happens with unplanned purchases that frequently don't match your style. So how do you buy clothes wisely so they serve us for a long time? Here are tips on the key principles of successful shopping.

1. Quality matters more than quantity - buy good quality clothes

One of the most important steps towards smart clothes shopping is understanding that quality should take precedence over quantity. It's worth investing in a few more expensive but better-made wardrobe items that will last for years, instead of buying cheap clothes that wear out quickly. Good quality clothes are a long-term investment.

When choosing clothes, pay attention to the quality of materials. Natural ones, such as cotton, linen or wool, are usually more durable and comfortable to wear than synthetic counterparts. Also check the craftsmanship – sturdy seams and careful finishing are a sign that the garment was made with attention to detail. Choosing natural materials is also a step towards future recycling of such clothes.  Natural materials are the most suitable for recycling, as are garments made from a single material, with as few additions, decorations, etc. as possible.

2. Choose clothing that suits you

It's worth knowing yourself and your style, which will help you avoid shopping mistakes.  Think about which colours and cuts best suit your figure and lifestyle, and then stick to those preferences. This way your wardrobe will be coherent, and you'll find it easier to create various outfits without buying too many new clothes. It's a waste of money to buy clothes that don't match the rest of your wardrobe and that you'll never wear. Choose clothes that fit you well and that you feel good in, otherwise you won't be satisfied with your purchase.

3. Shop mindfully and avoid impulse purchases

Impulse purchases are the enemy of a wise wardrobe. Before you go shopping, think about what you really need. Consider whether the new item will match the rest of your clothes, especially if you're a fan of a capsule wardrobe. It's a good habit to make a list of needed items before going shopping.

If you see something you like but aren't sure about it, wait a few days. If after that time you still want to buy the item, that's a sign it's worth adding to your wardrobe. This method helps avoid purchases you'll later regret. Delay the purchase! Contrary to what we're often led to believe, it's better to think it through carefully and check whether you'll actually have something to pair your new item with.

If you shop online, it's best to do so in domestic shops, which significantly shortens the supply chain. Combine your purchases, think it over and place one order instead of constantly ordering more items. If possible, it's best to use a parcel locker collection point and eco-friendly packaging, if the shop offers such an option. Be sure to check the size chart carefully and try to order the right size, even if the shop offers free returns. Some brands that don't care about sustainability actually dispose of returned products. This is a huge loss and cost borne by the environment.

4. Avoid fast fashion and passing trends

Chain stores tempt with low prices and a wide range, but the impact of this fast fashion on the environment is huge. The quality of these products also often leaves a lot to be desired. Cheap clothes are usually made from poor quality materials, which means they wear out quickly and lose their original properties. It's hard to find the highest quality fabrics there, but polyester is often found instead. Instead of these, it's worth choosing brands that offer more durable and eco-friendly products.

Consciously choosing brands that care about sustainability can have a positive impact on the environment and help create a more ethical wardrobe. In the long run, such clothes also often prove to be a better choice, as they are more durable and can last longer. It's better to choose fewer items of decent quality with good raw material composition than more items of poor quality. In this case, less is more.

5. Buy second-hand

Using second-hand shops is a great way to find unique, high-quality clothes at affordable prices. We like giving clothes a second life, as evidenced by the popularity of apps like Vinted and similar ones. However, it's worth mentioning right away that only good quality clothes can be passed on further, whether for payment or for free. That's why buying durable items makes sense. On our part, we suggest a group - MyBasic Lovers, where our customers can offer their clothes to others. Most often these are cases when sizes no longer match. Despite previous use, these clothes are in good condition. It's beneficial for both parties. Such an approach is a way towards more sustainable consumption, which matters in the context of the growing problem of clothing overproduction.

6. Choose versatile styles

Of course, new clothes must be suited to your needs, but clothes with classic cuts have plenty of advantages. Above all, they never go out of style. They're also a great base for various combinations. This allows us to create many outfits from just a few clothes. It's better to buy a timeless T-shirt than a model popular this season, which will already be out of fashion next season and end up at the bottom of the wardrobe, only to be thrown out during a clear-out. It's also worth choosing plain clothes, which are easier to combine with other wardrobe items.

Take care of your clothes so they last longer

Buying clothes is only half the success. To make your clothes last as long as possible, you need to take proper care of them. Follow the washing instructions on the labels, sort clothes by colour and material, avoid frequent tumble drying, which can damage fabrics, and iron at the appropriate temperature.

Taking care of your clothes not only extends their lifespan but also keeps them looking new for longer. This mainly applies to clothes made from sturdy materials. It's also worth investing in small repairs, such as sewing on a button or mending a hole, instead of throwing items away.

What about sales?

Sales are an excellent opportunity to add high-quality items to your wardrobe at a lower price. However, to make the most of them wisely, it's worth approaching shopping with careful consideration. Above all, avoid buying clothes just because they're on sale. All the aforementioned shopping principles still apply. Additionally, ask yourself whether you'd buy this item at the regular price. If the answer is no, don't buy it. A lower price alone isn't enough.

During the shopping frenzy, it's price bargains that fuel our impulses, which very often don't respond to our real needs. It's worth resisting this approach to shopping, even though mass consumerism is particularly encouraged during this period.

What to buy in sales?

So what's worth buying in sales, and when? First of all, pay attention to whether it's something you'll be able to wear many times. Or is it a one-off outfit for an exceptionally special occasion? It's worth checking the label - see what materials it's made from. Although sales are a time when we're much more likely to give in to emotions, let's not forget that it's also when we buy the most clothes we later never wear. So let's keep a level head, even if there's a crowd waiting for the fitting room - always try the item on and check if it fits. During this period, it's especially important to check the condition of your chosen finds, as they are often damaged or slightly soiled. It's therefore always worth confirming the option to return a product, and using it whenever needed.

What to buy in sales? It's best to go for classic, timeless wardrobe pieces that won't go out of fashion after just one season. Good-quality clothes bought on sale are always a joy, but the key is healthy moderation and understanding your own needs. It's worth taking advantage of lower prices in shops we know and like - that way we know we're making the right choice. With us, you can find our outlet, where we offer styles in colours that will no longer be part of our regular collection.

Shopping for clothes sensibly is an art that requires a bit of planning, but it can bring many benefits. By investing in quality, taking care of your clothes and making conscious choices, you can enjoy fashion that stands the test of time. Sales are a great opportunity to enrich your wardrobe, but you need to do it wisely.