Confessions of an Over-Consumer (and My 2026 Reset)

Starting a new year is always a good time for reflection. I’m generally not one to make New Year’s resolutions, but after moving and unpacking this house it was apparent to me — I NEED A RESOLUTION.

I am an OVER-CONSUMER.

We are a family of 5 so we have a lot of stuff in general, but I myself could run a store with all my beauty products and clothes. After unpacking the million bags of clothes, I said to myself, “this is really insane and unnecessary.”

It was time for change.

The 2026 Rule

In the year 2026, my goal is to not buy any clothes from a commercial store.

If I feel like I need to buy something, it will come from a thrift or consignment shop. If a “new to me” piece comes into my closet, something from my closet will get donated.

That’s it. That’s the rule.

Oftentimes, when I am stressed or in need of real therapy, I would find myself wandering the aisles of T.J. Maxx. The dopamine rush of retail therapy is real, but temporary. It is not real therapy.

Rediscovering ThredUp

Here’s where we clean it up and make the brand reference look professional:

During the pandemic, when shopping in stores wasn’t an option, I discovered ThredUp.

It’s an online thrift store for women’s and children’s clothing. I was able to buy Nike, Gap, J.Crew and other name brands at incredible prices, often in like-new condition.

When life returned to normal, I forgot about it.

Until my birthday.

What I Found (Retail vs. What I Paid)

Diane von Furstenberg Dress
Retail: $385
I Paid: $21.90

Celia B. Black Sequin Dress
Retail: $325
I Paid: $87.98

Kenneth Cole Salt Lug Chelsea Boot
Retail: $119
I Paid: $26.99

MINKPINK Blue Floral Dress
Retail: $198
I Paid: $15

Anthropologie Puff Sleeve Organza Dress
Retail: $260
I Paid: $26.50

Why Secondhand Just Makes Sense

Even though my goal is to consume less overall, there are so many additional benefits to buying secondhand:

• Cost savings
• Sustainability and reduced waste
• One-of-a-kind style
• The treasure hunt experience
• Supporting charitable causes

The same goes for furniture, home decor, and even home repair items.

Like they say, one person’s trash is another person’s treasure.

Happy thrifting 😉