We all knew this day would come, when the pretty shiny things would start pulling at my heartstrings. I’m staying strong, but 68 days in it feels like the best thing I can do is to write about it, knowing I can revisit if these things are still objects of desire at the end of my no buy 365 challenge.
That’s actually been one of the best things about this challenge, is the fact that it creates time and space to wait it out, to see where my motivation is to own something and if the desire lasts. Removing the option to have it now, to scratch the itch so to speak, has made me a lot more aware of things that were exciting to lust after for a short time, but where and when the lust faded.
It makes it easier to recognise the things I genuinely want (& love) that aren’t decided on a whim, or driven by trends. I started making a moodboard of pieces that I’ve saved/added to my wishlist that i’m just ruminating on for now which you can see below.
Above Agmes Gabriela brooch - Kinn Hampshire house solid gold bracelet - Rag & Bone Miramar Denim Shorts - Jil Sander Slingbacks - Agmes Elvira brooch - Kinn Silver Puffed Mariner bracelet - Toteme fluid v neck black dress - Green blazer by Róhe - Agmes Vera Brooch - Lie Studio The Vera Earrings - Ezra Arthur Phoebe Bag soft nappa - The Row Idaho bag in chocolate brown
I always presumed it would be the bags that would be tempting me the most during this challenge, but if I had to choose one category that has tempted me the most it would have to be jewellry.
While I have a really good collection of forever pieces, jewelry is the ultimate shiny new thing that catches my eye and one of my most saved items in my Instagram saved styling references.
Above images from Agmes Instagram featuring the Gabriela brooch (right) and the large dali brooch (right)
Brooches - The unlikely styling hero
If there’s one item in particular that I have been repeatedly saving since starting this challenge its brooches, in particular pieces by Agmes. I’m already a huge fan of their earrings, but I think what they’ve done so brilliantly in their marketing is highlight how to use brooches to elevate a simple outfit.
It’s the one item I don’t really have in my collection that I can really see adding to my forever wardrobe. Both beautiful and practical, especially when it’s used as a focal point and a way to secure a scarf when draped around the shoulders, or to add interest to a collar (like in the images above). I also think it’s a nice detail with a monochromatic outfit or something that otherwise could appear quite plain.
The magic three
I’ve noticed three brands in particular that I find myself saving imagery from the most and lusting after certain pieces: Jil Sander, Toteme and The Row. For me Toteme always gets it right, and it won’t come as a surprise that the majority of the hardest working pieces in my forever wardrobe are Toteme. I’ve been thinking about doing a video on all the Toteme pieces I own to highlight the quality and versatility of these pieces and provide a more in depth review on the brand, so let me know in the comments below if you would like to see that on my YouTube channel.
Above Photos from Toteme website of outfits i’m loving
The Toteme Fluid V Neck A Line Maxi dress is *REALLY* calling me especially as the weather heats up in LA, so it’s being added to the wishlist. I could imagine this with a pair of Agmes earrings or even with one of their brooches would look incredible.
These Jil Sander slingbacks have been also speaking to me and i’m obsessed with the shape. I’d still love to find a pair of the vintage croc style leather that were backless and more of a mule that they made some seasons ago, but they are really hard to find.
I would love to own a Row coat or pieces of tailoring by them one day. Whenever I go into their stores i’m always blown away by the cuts, the fabrics and the timelessness of their pieces, especially the tailoring.
After trying on some of The Row bags in store I do have several bags on my wishlist right now but i’m definitely marinating on which ones I would buy at the end of my no buy challenge (if any). I love the small 90’s bag and the Idaho is such a beautiful shape. I love the shade of chocolate brown that The Row use for their leather bags and that’s one colour bag I would like to add into my collection one day, but it feels good not to be in a rush.
I have no doubt the lust list will grow, but i’m grateful for my 365 no buy challenge and the fact I have time to percolate on what is worth adding in the future to my forever wardrobe, and the reasons for doing so. For me the most important thing when adding anything new into my wardrobe is liking my reasons.
Thanks for reading, speak soon
Harry xo