Confession: One of the reasons that I put off moving towards ethical fashion for so long was the social aspect of shopping.
You know what I mean?
I go shopping (or window shopping) all of the time with friends and family at the mall. It’s a natural and easy way to connect and share an experience.
And I know that a lot of people that start pursuing ethical fashion, don’t like to be surrounded by fast fashion anymore and so they avoid these consumerism hubs. I get that.
But for me? I’m not quitting the mall.
Here’s the thing: I’ve made my decision to only shop from ethical brands and that’s not changing. So I’m not afraid about the temptation of being at the mall.
What I am afraid of is isolating my friends and family. I’m afraid of being “that” person who is up on my soapbox and can’t relax enough to realize that my convictions are mine and mine alone.
I’m not going to influence anyone else’s decisions by being self righteous and judgmental. But I might influence someone by meeting them where they’re at.
So I’ll still be participating in the social aspect of shopping. I don’t need to buy something to enjoy the time that I’m having with my friend. The point is that I’m enjoying the relationship and that’s what really matters.
Before I started doing a capsule wardrobe and pursuing ethical fashion, buying something was what made the experience. Not anymore. Now, the experience is about spending time with my friend and focusing on our relationship… and I kind of like that.
Until next time,
I actually prefer to not shop when I’m going shopping with someone. Then I can focus on interacting with them.
If I go shopping to buy something, I actually prefer to go alone to zone in on whether something fits me well and whether I truly like it (and want to add it to my wardrobe).
I’m the same way too Kate when I have the objective to get in and get out. But as a social thing, I do enjoy going with friends and family.
I think it’s great you aren’t quitting the mall regardless of your shopping ethics. Quality time with family and friends is something that shouldn’t be hindered because of shopping preference. Plus, as you said, you may be the only reason they might change to more ethical brands.
Erin | http://www.awelderswife.com
Yes exactly Erin! I don’t ever want to isolate someone.
I was JUST thinking these same thoughts yesterday when I went to the mall! Even though my husband and I have changed our shopping habits, we still like going to the mall from time to time for the social experience – to walk around, get a coffee, people watch, and window shop. Thanks for this post 🙂
I so agree Ashley! My daughter and I go all the time in the winter to walk around and just get out around people. 🙂
Great post Karin! I agree – our convictions are our own. Just like we want others to respect them, we shouldn’t force our ideas and goals on others. R e s p e c t (yes, I kinda hummed it? XO
Yes exactly Leslie! And thank you!
I totally agree. It’s okay to have our convictions but no need to force them on others. And why not go have some fun shopping time together with friends just browsing and having a good time. That’s basically all I did as a teenager and I had no money to shop with and still had tons of fun. LOL.
Haha! SO true Amanda!
I could NEVER give up the mall!! That’s the fun of shopping…the whole experience!!!
Good perspective on shopping I hadn’t considered before. Being a introvert usually keeps me away from the mall but it is a great time to connect and form relationships with friends and family.
That’s a great point Bethany! I know my husband hates the mall and he’s an introvert. I never thought about how those two go hand in hand.
I could never quit the mall. Even if I have to bulldoze people out of the way with my millions of shopping bags, I could never do it!
Shopping can be amazing and fun even if you have no intention of buying. I will say this though, the older I get, the more I love online shopping. You can read up on all of the info on clothing and you don’t even have to put pants on!
Katy
http://www.coveredstyle.com/look-for-less-classic-striped-dress/
Haha! The best kind of shopping right?
I love that you only shop at ethical brands! I need to learn more about them.
Thanks Marette! I do have some posts on good brands to shop from that you should check out!
Depends on what I am looking for if I shop on line or go to a mall or store. I do enjoy getting out and shopping especially when I.m with friends.
I wouldn’t be able to give up shopping either. It’s a way that me and my mom spend time together, so I couldn’t give that up. I think you’ve made a great decision.
I do so with my mom as well Shann. She was exactly who I thought of when writing this! 🙂
I am right there with you. i will never give up shopping or quit the mall. not only do i prefer buying things in person at the mall but it gives me quality time with loved ones whether we buy or not
I think it’s great that you’re so passionate about this cause and that you also recognize that there’s a social component there that you still enjoy. I understand this from perhaps a different POV. I became a vegetarian in 1997. I’ve learned over the years that the most effective way of having a conversation about my beliefs is to let them unfold organically. Sometimes people are curious as to my reasons, and I’m happy to tell them! But I don’t (personally) feel the need to enter every dialogue about my cause, because I don’t think it’s an effective way of having a productive conversation.
Don’t ever shy away from your passion, but enjoy the heck out of those special moments with friends–what a wonderful shift in focus 🙂
That’s a great connection Charlotte! I know some vegetarians that are a little more “liberal” with the information they share and it can be a little much. It’s great that you respect where people are at and that’s exactly what I was trying to say!
I agree with this! It is definitely important that you can stick to what you want to do regardless of going to the mall or not. 🙂
xoxo, Jenny
That takes a lot of will power and I am totally impressed by your ethical shopping principles! I wish I could be more like that. I am terrible when it come sot shopping, I end up with a dozen bags to carry home even when I go to the mall without any intention of buying anything. Love your look in these pics!
xx, Kusum | http://www.sveeteskapes.com