Fara Haine

Making a list and sticking to it!!

2009-05-04T08:18:00.000-07:00

After a year off I finally did it and went shopping this weekend! It was very exciting but like going to the grocery store I had a list of items to replace...

1. Pair of Hudson Jeans
2. High-end White Tank Top

I went to two stores, Nordstroms and Elisa B., both stores have excellent customer service even the boutique in addition to quality merchandise. I felt great in Elisa B., a free standing store in Pasadena. It was also calm and relaxed in Nordstroms.
I found the items on my list + 3 extra tops! Ooops! All the tops are USA made and pre-shrunk, I'm buying these to last another year plus! The denim should be around for several years to come :)

Overall it was a pleasant reintroduction to shopping. I think Fara Haine has taught me that less is more, being creative with what you have is much more rewarding then running out to the store to buy the latest trend! Before doing this mission I felt like I really knew my style but now more than ever I really know what works and doesn't work for me. It's a lifestyle thing and no sales person can tell me different!

And to keep things rolling I have given up plastic bags completely (zilch) and take out cups!! Oh and the boutique I shopped at gave me a custom reusable bag, so cool and symbolic!

OMG...1 more day!!

2009-04-30T09:59:00.001-07:00

HOly moley! We did it!!

We need to decide what to do for next year, it starts tomorrow May 1st...should we go on a 'packaging' fast? Like no plastic bags, wrappings, take-away containers, etc. Thoughts?

Un Ano!

2009-04-24T12:53:00.001-07:00

I can't believe the end is in sight! Wow! We did it!

Now...what shall we give up next??

Americans are SaViNg More...pros & cons

2009-03-12T07:49:00.000-07:00

I was just listening to a very interesting segment on NPR. The topic: Americans are saving more than ever and the pros/cons of the same.

Upside:
We (FH)are doing our part to save $$$ and probably started well ahead of most people! Probably ahead of a so called and unemployed 'fashionista' they interviewed today. A LA chick who had to drastically cut back on her spending, no hair color, no mani/pedi's (even for $10!), no Starbucks, no spendy dinners, no unnecessary clothing shopping etc. I mean if this is reaching these how do you say?...high maintenance women then it's gone full bore!

Personally I think this help people re-connect. For instance some people will have to learn how to cook and will consequently spend more time with their friends and family while cooking. Or maybe people will take a hike or walk around the neighborhood and be more aware of their community. Maybe even some extreme people will pick up a piece of trash here or there.

Optimistically speaking there are some arguments that suggest a down-turned economy makes communities stronger at a local level :)

Downside:
Unfortunately this saving trend will hurt the economy in the short run but will be positive in the long run. If people don't spend then the recession will deepen.

I don't feel qualified to talk to much about the downside and if the government spends then they will take up for the people not spending, etc. It's just too complex!

T.'s outlook (glass 1/2 FULL):
From the product standpoint this recession will push manufactures to lower there cost and maybe, just maybe go back to making the higher quality, long lasting products our grandparents and parents were used too. Products may be more eco-friendly and smaller. Or maybe they will just make them cheaper but at the end of the day it's up to us the consumer to decide?! Quality or Quantity? I think it's obvious what we (FH peeps) will do but what will the masses do?

On the community front there may be less Starbucks and shopping malls popping up everywhere, more open land? Again this is all very wishful and would be a turbulent process of change but are we already seeing 'change' (should I do an Obama TM symbol at the end of that?).

Only time will tell!

We are super stars!

2009-03-06T12:17:00.000-08:00

I have to admit...I'm getting excited to buy a couple of new summer outfits! And, man, I can't WAIT to buy a new pair of shoes...I love shoes!!!
BUT, I will also add that this year has really helped me be more conscious of what I truly need in my wardrobe, what I can afford, and what items are QUALITY! I think that I will be a slower consumer of clothing now...meaning, I will sleep on things before I buy them and will always double check whether or not I desperately need each new item.

59 DAYS TO GO.....

2009-03-02T14:11:00.000-08:00

I hope my calculations are correct!
Can you believe it?!! It feels like only yesterday we were mumbling about how difficult this would be and now look at where we are, under 2 months away!

Quote of the Week

2009-02-28T12:42:00.001-08:00

"When I saw your blog, I thought, 'You guys are amateurs. I haven't bought new clothes in way longer than a yea...'"
Dennis Lane

The Global Garage

2009-02-08T09:49:00.000-08:00

http://www.globalgarage.org/

There is a sweet, semi-new consignment shop in Buena Vista. I have started an account there, selling some nice, used items that I don't want anymore. They have a great website which allows you to log in to your personal account, see your items, and track what you've sold and for how much! If you make over $20, they write you a check at the end of the month. You can choose to donate or pick up those items that you don't sell. They also have a cute cafe and live music! Great business to support!

Michelle Obama

2009-02-06T11:44:00.001-08:00

I have been really inspired by Michelle Obama's style lately and have started following her fashion avidly. One really cool thing is she recycles clothes, which I think is a great message for these economic times and also shows that you can recycle and look very classy. This is a great round-up of her looks:
http://www.nydailynews.com/lifestyle/gallerie s/the_first_lady_michelle_obama/the_first_lad y_michelle_obama.html
I was thinking about something Samantha was saying about using a hankey as well--I have never really understood how not to be disgusting and do this, but I blow my nose so much that it would be a very good thing to learn. Samantha, thoughts?

Quote of the Week - See Link Below

2009-02-03T07:24:00.001-08:00

http://kalman.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/01/29/the-inauguration-at-last/?th&emc=th

Too Many Bangles?

2009-01-15T08:04:00.001-08:00

...try putting them on a necklace......www.driesvannoten.com

How many times will you wear it?

2009-01-09T09:05:00.000-08:00

WJS addresses 'repeat' dressing....

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123136599812462171.html

How many times do you repeat a garment and what features, qualities, etc. determine the same?

Share Your Happiness with Others

2009-01-06T14:38:00.000-08:00

Cheers to 2009!

http://www.webmd.com/balance/features/why-youre-not-happy

Think you can give up your favorite 'take out' caffeine?

2008-12-23T15:28:00.001-08:00

Yes? Then try giving it up for the month of January! No take out coffee for one month this includes chai tea, herbal teas, and even hot chocolate. Note: This is an optional challenge for anyone interested! Save money, less paper trash, etc.

Good luck! :)

Additional Challenge for the month of January?

2008-12-19T10:42:00.000-08:00

Any one interested in adding on a additional challenge for January? Samantha has mentioned giving up all 'take out' coffee/tea/drinks/etc. or not using any paper towels? I think we should throw some ideas out there. It's voluntary so don't stress over it! ;)

Oniomania to be acknowledged by the American Psychiatric Association by 2011

2008-12-15T16:57:00.000-08:00

I came across a great article in the Wall Street Journal and I would LOVE to hear some feedback!

F.Y.I. Oniomania - passion or insane desire to buy things.

Okay now read this article.....

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB122930336551605629.html

The List: Top Activites Consumers Plan to Increase

2008-12-11T09:16:00.000-08:00

The List: Top Activites Consumers Plan to Increase
by Cecily Hall
Posted Thursday December 11, 2008
From WWD Issue 12/11/2008

With the economy in upheaval, people are reexamining their priorities. A recent study by the National Association of Television Program Executives and E-Poll Market Research sought to find out the activities consumers were increasing and decreasing. “They seem to be hibernating a bit, but people are still very social,” noted Gerry Philpott, president and chief executive officer of E-Poll. “But even if people do go to the movies, they’ll eat dinner at home first, for example.” He also pointed out, “During the Great Depression and World War II, there were financial hardships, and entertainment still boomed. It’s the last industry to go.” E-Poll found that those who say they are most “in control” of their lives are 55 or older. Thirty-five to 54-year-olds appear to be squeezed the hardest.

Below: The Top Activities Consumers Have Increased

1. STAYING LOCAL (BIKING, WALKING, ENTERTAINING AT HOME)
Consumers who said they increased this activity 32 %

2. READING BOOKS, MAGAZINES, NEWSPAPERS
Consumers who said they increased this activity 27 %

3. WATCHING PROGRAMS ON TELEVISION
Consumers who said they increased this activity 25 %

4. VISITING A SOCIAL NETWORKING SITE
Consumers who said they increased this activity 20 %

5. WATCHING DVDs OR BLU-RAY
Consumers who said they increased this activity 19 %

Quote of the Week

2008-12-07T09:24:00.000-08:00

Beware of all enterprises that require new clothes.: HENRY DAVID THOREAU

Just in case you didn't know already.....

2008-12-05T15:18:00.000-08:00

Fără Haine contributors make FRONT PAGE!!

2008-11-20T08:55:00.000-08:00

The Things You Own Begin to Own You.

2008-11-07T14:44:00.000-08:00

This being my first post I will have to say I've stayed strong and not purchased any new clothes. Although I have recently moved to one of the coldest places in the country and I still do not plan on buying any new clothes. In reality I've too many clothes. I'll just layer. I have also received a large amount of clothes for free from friends, family and total strangers throughout the past 6 months. I will make a list of these in my next post. Lastly, I have been putting off buying a new backpack and using my old one. The zipper on it failed the other day resulting in the death of my laptop. I now will have to get a new one.

"Elegance does not consist in putting on a new dress' - Coco Chanel

2008-10-23T07:45:00.000-07:00

Or in this case putting on a new necklace! You see I bought these clip on (or 'screw on') earrings a while back at my favorite, local vintage store. The seed beads take me back to my childhood summer days but of course this is a much more sophisticated version to the classic ankle bracelet with safety pin closure! In any case they hurt my ears too much and hung awkwardly so they were merely collecting dust on my shelf.
Until today when I was getting ready for work. I was wearing a simple, v-neck, yellow shirt that needed some color. I was thinking these earrings would look nice if I could only wear them.... but wait...why not wear them on the neck instead of the ears?! I grabbed a plain silver necklace, screwed on those babies and had a new accessory! This is a great trick to change the way you look at your jewelry case especially if you have some crazy old clip on earrings passed down from your mother, grandmother, etc. or maybe just some fabulous costume jewelry clips that you don't wear as often as you like. You could even use bangle bracelets as a necklace add on, the possibilities are endless, enjoy!

Pondering Spray Painting

2008-10-17T08:53:00.000-07:00

Okay...so I called my cobbler who recommended another local cobbler/luggage repair guy who specializes in coloring (dying) shoes. I called them up to get a little more information, basically they can dye leather very easily but vinyl is 'at your own risk'. It's best to go from a light color to darker color and a shoe costs $25. I would really like to go metallic with some shoes and I'm not sure if it is possible? I figure it's best to stop in next week and see if Vogue Shoe Repair & Luggage is up to the task?

Bringing back the headband!

2008-10-17T08:32:00.002-07:00

Well, I'm in the confessional booth again! I'm not even sure if this is worthy? In any case I felt it was better to fess up! I bought some Goody's headbands last night, the patent leather two pack (one black and one metallic gold). I have been in a very big headband phase, but I have only had the elastic variety (see below) until now. It's been a long time since I have had a traditional headband, probably not since my catholic school days?! However I found that headbands are great for work especially if you like to keep your hair out of your face! It also can doll up your outfit. Like wearing bell bottom jeans, elastic headband (or scarf) w/ pony tail and large hoops is totally 70's. Or you can go with a skirt, button up, gold headband and nice stud earrings for a preppy look! Remember we still have 6 months left so keep the ideas coming!! NO NEW CLOTHES = INNOVATION :)

Another one bites the dust...indubitably!

2008-10-06T19:39:00.000-07:00

OK, I have to admit it. In accordance with the rules of our little party here, I have ordered new workout/yoga/running pants from athleta.com.

Here's my story and I'm sticking to it:
Three weeks ago I was running on the "other side" of the river in Salida, as I do most afternoons, and I tripped on something unearthed from the damn railroad remnants. I cut my knee so deeply that it ripped my pants and am currently forming a massive scar.

Now, let's focus on the important word: pants. Mind you, the pants that I was (and currently am!) wearing are from The Limited circa 1999. I bought them while going to Georgetown. They were my "going out" pants then; they've become my workout pants now, thanks to my brilliant Hoya friend Nora, also a loyal The Limited '90s shopper, who dug them out of her storage unit and told me she'd been reusing them to do yoga! So, she and I have been rewearing these cheap pants for almost 10 years!

The fall disturbed me, but I ended up taking 2nd place in the 5k I ran the next weekend...and I decided that it is indeed time for new workout pants.

Another idea: As part of our underground, go-green movement, we should tack on some other challenges. For example, no coffee from a coffee shop for a month? No paper towels for a month? No eating out for a week? Ideas? Thoughts? Hate mail?

I am going to purchase a new snowboard from www.venturesnowboards.com this weekend - check it out! They're an awesome company!

Cheers to fall!!

New Uses for Old Things

2008-09-15T15:35:00.000-07:00

One thing I have really been liking about this experiment is being forced to find new ways of wearing my same old clothes. One great idea I tried today (found in Lucky mag) is to wear a mini dress over a skirt--especially if going to work or school, you can't really wear a mini but it is still super hot on the east coast, so I want to wear something short. So I put a slightly longer skirt underneath, put a belt over the dress, and new outfit.
So far that's definitely been my favorite part of not shopping. Stress is not good for not shopping, I have found also, anyone else?

"Constant use had not run ragged the fabric of their friendship." DOROTHY PARKER

2008-09-02T20:04:00.000-07:00

The stress of school starting and major changes in my life have really given me the urge to go shopping. So, instead of clothes, I bought some gifts and a new tablecloth. The Labor Day Sales were tough to avoid, but I actually looked thru the merchandise and realized that there truly wasn't a single thing I needed. Cheers to entering our fifth month without new clothes!! It feels good.

Technical Gear Debate: The Hiking Shirt

2008-08-27T07:03:00.000-07:00

Official Rule 6b states that technical gear can be bought if one is in dire need of warm layer or a new leak proof jacket.
This weekend I'm going backpacking in an undisclosed location of the MIGHTY Sierra's!! :) [or some sort of mountain range] I had to take a good long look at my gear, was I ready for my first real backpacking trip? I mean you want the most comfortable and functional clothing for several days on the trail. After deliberation I decided to use Rule 6b...rules are there for a reason and I already know that I'm probably the most upfront about my purchases or lack there of but I have not heard from many others? Especially ones that get Pro-Deals as a job perk...
Anyway, I really needed a good hiking shirt and an old co-worker from REI said I couldn't beat wearing a Smart Wool crew neck on the trail. Wool has a natural body temperature regulating characteristic, will stay warm when wet and does not retain smell like synthetics. I was sold and so I purchased the layer!
I'm also proud to say I didn't succumb to rule 6b for a light button down hiking shirt! I listened to Samantha and bought a plaid button down thrift shirt. A shirt that is not breathable, vented or has any SPF woven technology but still worked on a 16 mile hike over the weekend. I think it's kind of stylish too!
At the end of the day I feel good about these purchases...if anyone wants to discuss the smart wool purchase they can meet me at the trail head! I mean the thrift shirt got me through my rafting days because I had PLENTY of gear on the boat but backpacking is like a totally different animal. Light weight and practicality are the keys to success!! I hope I made the right backpack choices? Will let you know after the weekend..

An experiment in simple packing

2008-08-12T09:39:00.000-07:00

I just returned to the wild west from a wild road trip to the east coast. I traveled eastbound with my mom, grandfather, aunt and corgi dog, Wynnie in a minivan. Space was tight - so I knew I needed to pack efficiently. With the fara haine spirit I decided to see just how lightly I could travel for three weeks...

I took my trusty wheelie regulation size carry on bag and this is what clothing it held:

6 pairs of underwear
2 bras
1 sports bra
2 bikinis
1 pair board shorts
2 skirts
2 dresses
1 pair jeans
1 pair quick dry pants
1 pair long lounge-y pants
1 pair sleeping shorts
3 ss shirts
2 ls shirt
2 tank tops

1 pair flip flops
1 pair sneakers (actually these were loose, not in the bag)
2 pair socks

3 pair earrings
1 necklace

The activities I participated in while east included: beach lounging, kayaking, swimming, running, horseback riding, horse show judging, mowing, cleaning horse stalls, cooking, and an occasional nice dinner out...

I found that they only day I was searching for something to wear was when I went riding (I needed boots, chaps and helmet).

I think all and all it went well, I felt nicely dressed and prepared for nearly anything. Actually looking at the list it seems like a lot, so maybe this is a jumping off point to even more efficiency...

Historically I am a moderate overpacker and I found this experiment enlightening (as well as lightening) and I will do it again.

Eco Friendly Fashion less than 1% of industry sales?

2008-07-30T13:40:00.001-07:00

I just read an article titled 'Sense & Sensibility' http://www.newsweek.com/id/130627 . While most of the article was positive it did end on this following note:

"Some analysts are less sure. Statistically, green fashion occupies a tiny sliver of the apparel market. Marshal Cohen, chief industry analyst at market-research firm NPD Group, says it represents less than 1 percent of industry sales. Among consumers, only 18 percent are even aware that ecofashion exists, up from 6 percent four years ago. Natalie Hormilla, who writes for the blog Fashionista.com, is an example of the unconverted consumer. When asked if she owned any sustainable clothes, she replied: "Not that I'm aware of." Like most consumers, she finds little time to shop, and when she does, she's on the hunt for "cute stuff that isn't too expensive." By her own admission, green just isn't yet on her mind. But—thanks to the combined efforts of designers, retailers and suppliers—one day it will be." unquote

Fashionista.com is a big time blog and it's scary that one of the authors is unaware and/or unconcerned about Eco-fashion or ultimately the environment but rather how 'cute' an outfit she will find. Don't get me wrong I love 'cute' too but I think it's important to be an educated shopper. I think there is some sort of age cut off where as after you past that mark you have to become more socially responsible person! Granted we all can not be educated on every product and we (myself) included are guilty of buying 'trendy' items but perhaps if we just think about our purchases a little more than there will be less waste? For instance I would like some maroon pumps for the fall (Sam: I will not buy these till Fall 09), I could go out and buy a cheap pair at Forever 21 or Payless but I could also do my online research and seek out a nice well made pair. Maybe they will cost more but they will last longer! I may also decide I didn't want them after all and not make the mistake of a 'impulse purchase'. I think I was pretty good at this before but after Fara Haine I'm positive it will be even easier.

In any case I thought I would share this article, being that I work in the fashion industry I'm really appalled by people who just don't care! I guess it's just another reality check, that is why it's important to keep spreading the message. I don't believe in shoveling environmentalism down peoples throats but more or less nudging them in the right direction through facts, stories or even example. I just get so frustrated sometimes like they will never get it but I will keep truckin.....thanks for listening. - T.

Things to do instead of shopping:

2008-07-29T08:36:00.000-07:00

1. Take a hike. This doesn’t mean you have to scale Everest but research your neck of the woods to find a cool spot to check out. If you don’t want to drive anywhere take a walk around your neighborhood. I actually read about a lady who did some research in her own neighborhood and found an overgrown path, she trimmed it up and now people take hikes up it!
2. Read a book. Feed the brain not your closet.
3. Go for a swim.
4. Cook. There is nothing better than a home cooked meal, add your friends and it becomes an adventure!
5. Take up a hobby like gardening, sewing, crocheting, knitting, scrap book, etc. Almost everyone did these things when we were young but somehow we ‘forgot’ about them when we got older or were ‘too busy’! Doing these things will awaken your creativity and create a positive domino effect for all aspects of your routine life!
6. Ride a bike.
7. Play board games.

This is a starting point…please add suggestions!!

Food for thought....

2008-07-22T10:01:00.000-07:00

This article is about Marketing, Psychology, Shopping by Betsy Teutsch, who writes about socially responsible investing, savvy consuming, and sustainable living at Money Changes Things. I found it on http://www.getrichslowly.org a blog about saving money.

Quote
"Short-term happinessShopping can temporarily fill psychological needs. We are continually told we “deserve” cashmere sweaters, fine cigars, etc. We begin to believe that these things will make us happy. If we are bored or depressed, the novelty of acquiring something new provides a pick-me-up. Shopping is considered by many in our culture a perfectly respectable recreational activity; for some, it is actually a hobby.
Shopping is stimulating to the senses. If we’re feeling lonely in a culture ever more privatized, going shopping is a way to connect to the outside world. Advertisers may convince us to treat ourselves to luxuries, but we are the ones who pay! (And if you’re paying off credit card debt, you’re paying twice…)
Seeking styleMany of us feel a need to be in style, although we might differ on which style we embrace. Our professional image may require it, but just as often it is our own insecurity that fuels shopping.
Alan Durning, author of 'This Place on Earth' writes, “Fashion is an insidious form of planned obsolescence: things become useless long before they wear out.” Branding is more and more a strategy of marketing. We are all suckers together. My husband always wonders why consumers pay for logo clothing; the designers should be paying the customers to walk around looking like billboards.
Getting a gripFor those trying to cut back on shopping, consider the following strategies:
Restructure your life with fewer shopping opportunities, and voila! less stuff finds its way through your threshold.
Keep a budget.
Cancel all the mail-order catalogs which flood your house.
Cultivate new interests and hobbies to supplant recreational shopping trips.
Try borrowing things you need, or find them used through freecycle or Craig’s List.
Postpone purchases.
If you’re on the fence, give yourself a day or a week to decide. Often the craving will have passed.
Shopper, know thyself!" -unquote

To read the article in it's entirety please click on the following:
http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2008/03/14/why-we-shop-getting-a-grip-on-consumerism/

Summertime...and the livin' is easy...

2008-07-17T16:10:00.000-07:00

Love the new design - you go girl!

Professionalism got the better of me....

2008-07-08T08:01:00.000-07:00

I have a confession to make...I made a purchase! It wasn't like it was clothing but I still feel like I broke the rules when I bought two pairs of sandals (pictured below). I know two? ...seems excessive however it came down to my professional appearance. I work in the laid back world of surf where basically your jandals are your heels but even around surfers a pair of year old, smelly and stained Raindows just don't cut it.

I had to do what I had to do...I just wanted to come clean!! I hope I did the right thing :)

Lead Me Not Into Temptation, I Can Find the Way Myself

2008-06-26T08:33:00.001-07:00

If you're looking for a situation that will tempt you into buying clothes, look no further than the Telluride Bluegrass Festival. This festival not only has some of the best music of the day, but it also attracts the most posh music festival crowd I've ever seen. Women are dressed in long, flowing sundresses and cowboy boots. Guys are adorned with sweet t-shirts and amazing bodies...wow...
I did receive a gift at the festival of a pair of capri pants. I couldn't say no, as they were a gift, and they quenched my thirst for buying anything made of cotton!! I left with just a poster and felt sad...but now that I'm home, I couldn't care less, and I feel proud!

T.'s Tip of the Week: Use a Tailor

2008-06-12T07:48:00.001-07:00

Jeans are a staple. We American women generally have 7 pairs at any given time however do those 7 pairs work for you? This week I want everyone to really examine the jeans category in your closet. Why do you or don't you wear these jeans? I would suggest creating three categories:

Top Tier: The 'go too' jean.

Jeans in this category should fit the best and have classic washes, they will never let you, your boss or your date down. There appropriate in countless situations and look good with any top.

Mid Tier: Every pair of denim has it's place.

Jeans in this category may have a bit more attitude in there styling or detailing, maybe some whip stitches creating a bold look or eye catching embroidery on your back pockets. Perhaps these used to be on the top tier and have worn themselves out too much. These cannot be worn to every function or with just any top.

Bottom Tier: The forgotten blues.

These jeans typically are in a unusual color or have a improper fit. Colors like orange, turquoise, stone wash, etc.fall into this category. You may have only worn once and might wear again around Halloween! The other ones may have a nice wash but the fit is off. Maybe you lost weight, they stretch to much or someone gave them too you. In any case you rarely wear them and if you do it's laundry time.

I want to mainly focus on the bottom tier however some of these suggestions may apply to your mid tier jeans. Also, this is a great exercise for anything like your other pants (non-denim), skirts, dresses, etc.

As I have suggested before the simplest alterations can be down using scissors, easy and quick. Like the jeans I'm wearing right now, I bought them last year but wasn't getting as much use out of them because the length only looked good with a heel and I didn't want to wear heels all the time! So, after some deliberation (they were pricey) I cut about 1 1/2" off the length and now I wear them with my flops all the time! I have cut down my blue jeans to become clam diggers, daisy dukes and the occasional skirt. Just be careful to square and measure your cut lines before you break out the scissors.

Now if the denim color/style is nice but has a fit problem at the waist, seat, hip areas etc. then you should seek professional help. Call up your local tailor! I did and I was quoted about $18-22 per pant however prices can vary depending on how elaborate the style i.e. fancy stitching. Using a tailor will enable you to selvage a pair of jeans right out of your closet! It also fulfills the money saving, Eco-friendly and closet minimizing (kind of) goals of this mission. Like a primitive woman..using the resources around you to survive!

After these steps if you still find yourself with a garment that you are not at all interested in anymore than give it to Goodwill. Isn't it the 1 year rule or maybe 2 year rule, if you have not worn it in the past two years then toss it? Before you do... think about why you bought it and how much wear you got out of it? Was it worth it???

Horray for saving money!! :)

2008-06-10T08:21:00.001-07:00

We are now over a month into this journey and I'm feeling pretty good! I mean the news is depressing concerning our economy or maybe just eye opening to the American public that we need to change our ways (depending on your point of view!). In any case I'm pretty stoked we are on this mission....

No purchases on ANY/NEW clothing = $$$$$ in the BANK!!

[Yehaaa...round of applause for us !!! :)]

Men...Well, Let's Be Honest: Boys

2008-05-30T08:47:00.000-07:00

In response to Alex's comments about wearing the same clothes everyday, I think taking a look at the "boys" in your life helps on this one. More than likely, with the LA boys being a slight exception, most boys wear the same clothes A LOT! Why is it different for girls? Think of that silly song "Wild Night" by John Meloncamp (Sp?)..."all the girls walk by, dressed up for each other..." It's true! Yes, boys do notice what we wear, but they notice what is revealed and not revealed, rather than the pattern or style. I think we can all admit that we want other ladies to make a comment about our outfit, or at least to be noticed. Do our clothes truly define who we are, or who we are projecting ourselves to be? Why isn't this true for men? Is it true in LA?
Food for thought.

TIP OF THE WEEK: the reality of Fără Haine

2008-05-28T09:33:00.000-07:00

Reality sets in.....
Tuesday while sitting cross legged in my office chair I noticed a sizable rip in my Hudson jeans and knew it was over (I also uncrossed my legs :) Granted I saw this coming (see 5/1 post) but with this rip on the butt it only solidified the fact that they were no longer my 'Go To' jeans.

If it were not for this challenge I would have gone out and bought another pair, probably the exact same style. Living in LA you can actual shop for apparel the same way you go to McDonald's to get food and the more expensive the better service. Just call a Nordstroms and have them pull aside a pair, maybe even pay on the phone with credit, swing by and not even have to walk 20 steps before you are holding a brand new pair. It's amazing that so many people can fit into their designer jeans? (I guess that is an entirely different subject). In any case it is not so easy now and my instant gratification days are gone, well for a year at least! I guess I have to work with my remaining 5 or 6 pairs, poor me! That makes me cringe being that some people in the world only have 1 pair or none. These remaining jeans are all really great in their own way but they are not my favorite pair. I guess it's off with the old on with the new. I have decided the Hudson's will get what is like a badge of honor in my closet, a flower patch sewn on the right back pocket and move on to the 'play' category. Maybe next year I will spend a lot more time shopping for my 'go to' jeans thus eliminating the need to buy many 'wanna be go to' jeans that will sit and ultimately collect dust.

With reality came this weeks tip:
So there I was Wednesday morning standing in my closet thinking of what to wear for the day like Alex L. said for some reason we feel the need or pressure to wear something different everyday. [ Note I can wear a wife beater and flops every day but I like to jazz it up every now and then] My challenge that morning was to wear something different and start lovin a new pair of blues. Geeze a girls got a lot of pressure. I mean there are some pants that look good with everything and some that require a certain silhouette on top. I was sizing up a pair that require a particular look basically a long shirt is necessary to avoid a plumbers crack while measuring wetsuits at work! In the spirit of wearing different jeans I wanted to wear a different top thus I looked in the upper reaches of my closet and spotted an old Ralph Lauren polo shirt dress. I was thinking about why I did not wear it? Frankly it's too short (cheeks are right on the line) and I think the A-line is a bit dull over jeans. So that is when the light shown on me or perhaps glared off my shiny scissors sitting on my desk. BINGO....a few minutes later I was off to work wearing my dress sans 4" off the hem. Chick and smart! I highly recommend a bit of snipping before you totally write off your garments of the past!

This week I gave out the honorary flower patch and passed the baton to another. I can only wonder what will happen next week!

Almost a Month Down...

2008-05-28T08:01:00.001-07:00

I am leaving for India on Friday, so this will probably be my last post for a month, but I do have to say I think this is getting slightly easier. A couple of times I have online shopped, put things in the cart and gotten to check out and then said, what am I doing? And closed everything out. I think Samantha is right that there is some pride in being able to say to people I am challenging myself to do this. And I think it has made me more inventive with outfits (belts are definitely my biggest ally right now). I am curious to see what my reaction is to all of this after being in India and probably seeing some pretty extreme poverty. I will say, though, I will probably buy some Indian clothes while there because it is a once in a lifetime opportunity and it will be so hot that I will have to! I have also been thinking about why I feel the need to wear different clothes every day and whether it is because I care or I think other people care. I would love to know what you guys think about that one.

Quote of the Week

2008-05-27T16:50:00.000-07:00

Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.
ALBERT EINSTEIN

FINALMENTE!

2008-05-27T16:44:00.000-07:00

I finally figured it out...I had to log in through an invitation, not just by looking at the blog. Right, and I'm a teacher in the 21st century. Good Samantha.

Anyway...I did comment on Sarah's latest posting about people here in Colorado. I think there should be a disclaimer that Sarah is referring only to the town, the very small town, of Salida. People here are different and take pride in not having bought new clothes in ages. I think if you walk around the campus of CU, things would look VERY different, as it is one of the wealthiest and trendiest campuses in the country.

I have found this idea to be challening. It's hard, especially at the beginning of a new season, to see everyone walking around in their new outdoor gear, and to see all of the shops with new stuff in the windows. However, we all have to admit that it's pretty cool to be able to smuggly say, "Oh, well, actually, I am not buying any new clothes for a year." You gotta admit that feels GOOD, if a bit snobby!!

Alright, I am on...finalmente!

Philosophizing on guidelines on consumption

2008-05-26T13:09:00.001-07:00

Yo Farra Haine hommies!

Just checking in to see if we have established a limit on thrift shopping...

Did Zelinda manage an interview suit? I would highly reccomend trousers, suit coat and skirt. This would open up innumerable possiblities with mixing and matching.
Entire suit on the first interview.
Skirt and suit coat on second.
Suit coat and dress pants (or denim if appropriate) on third
And on and on...

Is there a limit on new underwear, boxers, etc. financial or quantity wise?

What difference do our limited purchases make if they´re consumption corroborates 15,000 airmiles as pointed out in Tara´s excellent, previous post?

For example, I wonder if these airline miles might be nullified if the purchase of the garment helps to keep a sole proprieter in business?

Further, how do we know if the clothes we are buying are environmentally friendly?

How do we compromise between our need to lower our expenditure of the almighty dollar and the need to shop in an eco-friendly manner?

And finally in this rant, I have a proposal to the amendment of rule 6c. No Pro Deals.

I propose that we allow pro deals so long as the market price of the item is assessed and the remaining amount is given to a charity voted on by the participants of Fara Haine.

NGC SPECIAL : Human Footprint

2008-05-23T08:45:00.000-07:00

"Human Footprint - Our Clothing Footprint

We have clothes for every occasion — from formal dinner parties to Saturday hiking trips, each event in our lives has corresponding attire. Party dresses, shoes, handbags, suits, jackets, blouses and jeans; conservative, formal, casual or trendy — we’ve got them all. But imagine all of the clothes you will wear in your lifetime hung on one 30-foot-high wall. Human Footprint does just that.

What does our lifetime closet hold?-
On average, Americans buy 48 new pieces of clothing a year. - On average, each garment lasts three years.- Our need for the latest fashion has produced a $345 billion clothing business in the United States. - This means that every man, woman and child in the country spends an average of $1,000 a year on new clothes, and likely throws away 68 pounds of clothing each year.- At any given time, a man will have seven pairs of jeans — and an average of more than 25 T-shirts. - Over a lifetime a man spends $52,972 on his wardrobe. - American women own an average of 19 pairs of shoes at any one time.

Washing our clothes:
The average American generates 500 pounds of laundry every year, adding up to a colossal 35 billion loads across the country. - That’s 1,100 loads every second. - All that laundry adds up to 560 billion gallons of wash water — equal to what flows over Niagara Falls in just over 11 days.
What does the footprint look like for one simple white T-shirt?- It takes 528 gallons of water to make one shirt.- One-third of a pound of chemicals is also used to produce one T-shirt.- And whether you take it on vacation or not, that T-shirt has already logged some serious air miles just during production. From the United States, where the cotton is often grown, to China, where the T-shirt is often manufactured, and then back to your local store, for instance, is 14,625 miles — before you even put it on for the first time!

What is the footprint of an average pair of sneakers?-
Sneakers are a compilation of different natural and synthetic compounds and will have travelled farther than we will walk in them before we ever take them home.- The leather comes from Texas — but it may be tanned in South Korea and then stitched together in Indonesia. - Before they’re even out of the box, they’re likely to have travelled 20,000 miles.

***All calculations for the film use the following assumptions: An average lifetime is 77.75 years or 28,379 days. The U.S. population is rounded to 301,000,000."

No New Clothes in Colorado

2008-05-18T16:45:00.000-07:00

I have talked to quite a few people here in Colorado about the no new clothes mission. I would venture to guess that the general reaction here is vastly different that in Southern Cali...

At least three people have told me that they either can't remember the last time they purchased clothes, or only buy clothes once a year anyway. Additionally, if you excluded gear type clothing (fleece, long johns, fishing waders or anything else technical) many haven't bought anything for years.

So many people here wear their "gear" clothes as street clothes that it becomes hard to differentiate.

But there are two camps when it comes to that as well. The people who get cool new gear each year and those that are wearing shells that have more duct tape on them than gore Tex at this point. Tara and I have a friend, Aaron, who actually made a pair of shorts out of duct tape once... When Tara picked him up from the airport after his three month stay in New Zealand he was wearing a pair of kakhi cut off's that he had neglected to wash the entire trip... (side note: Aaron is from Tennessee, but exemplifies the attitude many people in Colorado have about clothes).

For score and many years ago when Tara and I ventured to this mountainous state we brought our east coast beach style with us (and lets be honest Tara has a lot more style than I). We wore bikini tops under our life jackets to go rafting! Oh the shock and horror of it! And board shorts... this was before everyone wore boardies. River people didn't really know what to think... Style and muscles too!! Nearly every female guide you saw had a sports bra or tank top on, and baggy shorts.

Now the ladies are looking cool and the most of the guys would fit in at the beach, you can pick out the old timers by thier clothes usually.

Anyway the summation is generally in Colorado the style is gear or sports based clothes.

Ps- I'm about to get my guide technical T for the summer, but its a job perk so I'm taking it.

Notes on abandoning consumer culture and keeping a wardrobe in Central America

2008-05-15T11:09:00.000-07:00

Where to start...

When T came up with this idea to boycott the purchase of new clothing for a year I was more than excited to hurl myself onto the bandwagon. Working at Lisakline.com I got a pretty in depth look at fashion whore fetishism.

The funny thing about my employment at Lisa Kline was that I am not and have never been a trendy dresser. I like my clothes funky, bohemian, avant garde.

Arm warmers? Yes, please. Sun dresses and leather boots... still not out of style in my book.

I´ve always thought that there is something intrisically wrong with the conspicuous consumption of overpriced low quality celebrity brands. The main point of error in this trajectory of ¨style¨ is the utter lack of style.

The greatest secret in the world of women´s contemporary retail is that you have to buy new and name brand to keep up with style. The truth is that it does not take money to foster personal style. Some people can´t even buy it (e.g. Britney Spears)

For example, take any magazine, find a new trend or style and with a little creativity, I bet you could recreate the look with clothing you already have. If anyone has witnessed Tara Hammond in action, you´ll know what I´m talking about.

I´ve now gotten terribly off subject, so I´ll steer back to the task at hand: keeping the same wardrobe for a year in Costa Rica.

I´m sure some of you are reading this and thinking that it must be easier to dress in an environment where you don´t have to go into the office or keep up with American materialism. To some extent this is very true. However, my quest is not without obsticles.

This is what I´m up against...

Humidty. My clothes are practically rotting off of my body. Jungle funk will grab ahold of your fabrics if you so much as leave them unsupervised for a couple hours. I´ve definitely had to step up my garment care.

Laundry. I will never again take for granted a laundromat. My first week here I had to do our laundry by hand... I definitely don´t reccomend it. See below...

I´ve since upgraded to my neighbors Tico washer (more on that next time...)

Red Dirt. It´s everywhere, it´s in everything, and it discolors clothing immedietely. I´ve actually thought about dying my clothing with the red dirt and using vinegar to lock it in just so I don´t have to keep scrubbing it out.

Culture. Although I´ve definitely been known to run around like a wild indian, nudity is definitely not an option in the Tico neighborhood I live in. I really can´t even just run around in a swimsuit. So yes, I do have to wear clothes in Costa Rica.

Economy. I am regularly fighting off the urge to buy things from Ticos. I almost feel that it is my duty as a foreigner to spend my money here. I am diverting this impulse by investing in local culture instead and spending the money on taking horseback rides with my neighbors or making dinner for their families.

I´m not a hippie. Somehow I must find a way to keep my wardrobe somewhat modern less I begin to look like a hippie and run the chance of constant harrasement from my anti hippie husband.

In light of all this, I give mad props to anyone undertaking this challenge in Los Angeles.

And I have one confession... I let my husband buy me a pair of new boardies for my birthday on Tuesday. I only have one excuse, my tan line. My swim bottoms kept falling down while I was surfing and my other shorts were just too long. So, there I go rationalizing....

Lots of love to all my girls. Jana

Controversy Erupts Over Thrift Shopping Rule

2008-05-05T14:27:00.001-07:00

2. Thrift shopping allowed. You can buy vintage clothing BUT do not go HOG WILD! You know what I mean, you better love it or be able to manipulate it to love it but it cannot sit in your closet.

I have received some comments about the above clause by some 'outside' people who feel it is too loose?! Like it will be too easy to go a year if you allow vintage shopping. Any thoughts? Perhaps we should put a limit? Or cost limits?

T.'s Tip of the Week - Temptation via Mail

2008-05-05T08:23:00.000-07:00

I came home to a Garnet Hill catalog on Friday and started thumbing through it? Why????!! Can I shop? ...no, not so much, then why even look? Thankfully it was not a JCrew? Which would be even worse. My suggestion...if you haven't already....cancel your mail order catalogs! And if you really want to take a gander it's just a click away on your PC.

Official Guidelines - SUGGESTIONS WELCOMED/WANTED!!!

2008-05-01T20:56:00.000-07:00

Here is the FIRST draft.....these were supposed to be completed before May 1st! But I think we can clean them up by the end of the weekend? 1-7 are pretty much good to go but I still would love to hear some feed back?

1. You may shop for undies, bras, boxers, boxer briefs, etc., we actually encourage you to buy as many as possible!
2. Thrift shopping allowed. You can buy vintage clothing BUT do not go HOG WILD! You know what I mean, you better love it or be able to manipulate it to love it but it cannot sit in your closet.
3. 2 Tee shirts & tanks are allowed.

4. 1 Swimsuit is allowed.

5. Beanies, reef booties, harnesses, ect. are not included. (Jana's suggestion)

6. Technical gear
a.Due to the amount of outdoorsy junkies making this journey technical clothing (i.e. jackets, shells, thermals, fleece, wetsuits, etc.) are allowed as long as you follow point b.
b. Technical gear shall only be bought if ones comfort is being compromised. For instance a tear is causing you to be rained on or an old thin thermal can no longer keep you warm.
c. No pro-deals - If your gear completely malfunctions and is totally useless, then you can get something new...but no pro-deals just b/c you can get em!! [- Samantha]
7. Sewing is allowed.
a. No new fabric can be bought unless it falls under point b.
b. New fabric is only allowed if you need it for business purposes, like purses.
c. Vintage fabric can be bought from places like goodwill, thrift, etc.

Group effort required on the following points:

.
Shoes - hmmm...I mean we shouldn't be buying too much but I'm not making the final call. I mean we are professionals and a nice pair of shoes can really clean up an outfit but at the same time you only need a few if you shop carefully :)

. Socks - Sarah was concerned about this point being that she lives in Colorado. I think they are completely allowed unless someone has a sock addiction? I've known a few.

My last purchase.....

2008-05-01T18:44:00.000-07:00

Speaking of jeans I too regret not buying a new pair of designer ass hugging jeans before today. My favorite pair of jeans, Hudsons, are on there last legs (no pun intended) and I could have used a nice pair of dark wash jeans!

Or maybe not? I just counted 6 pairs in my closet not including the laundry!! Some are really old but fo real? I guess I need to put myself in check over the next 12 months.....

Here was my last purchase.....lil sun dress...

Note: I didn't really do any prep shopping!! Geeeeze this is going to be an adventure :)

It's Only the First Day...

2008-05-01T18:26:00.000-07:00

I think I didn't acknowledge that this is going to be hard. I had bid on a pair of jeans I really wanted from EBay yesterday but the closing was today and I just found out I didn't win them, and now I realize how much I wanted them. Now I can't get them for a whole year. As Samantha would say, annoying. Although I guess that is the point. I will check in and we can see how many days it takes me to get over these jeans. And now don't know what I will wear to celebrate my last day of classes. Also, I got my new Lucky Magazine today so it was a double whammy...And I just realized I am shallow.

fără haine

2008-04-30T20:51:00.000-07:00

Romanian for 'Without Clothing'

....'Without NEW clothing for a Year' to be more specific!! :)