Some time ago, I read an article (a rebuttal to a NYT piece whose author extolled the virtues of minimalism) suggesting that minimalism is really a rich man's game. I can't find the link to the article (and I'm sure plenty of people have written with a similar thesis), but it generally pointed out that, if you are rich enough to afford an iphone and a macbook, then sure, owning minimal pieces of technology is a great thing. But most of the world simply doesn't have the luxury to buy the one expensive reliable thing to meet all of their technology needs. I found the point of view interesting, but didn't really apply it to my own life until recently.
As we prepare for an upcoming move (and as I settle into a new clothing size after 2 pregnancies, a new decade of life, and a major career shift), I've been doing some serious wardrobe purging. I've given away and donated many many bags of clothes, and am delighted for the breathing room that this has introduced into my closet and life. But the process definitely called to mind that article - I found myself holding up shirts, knowing that I hadn't worn them in years and that they are currently way too tight. Old me would have kept them because "it's still a really good shirt. And maybe I'll wear it again someday!", but new me was able to say "I haven't worn this in years, it doesn't fit me, it may never fit again, and if I do find myself needing it, I can buy a new one."
This acknowledgement that I will be able to replace whatever cheap knit shirt I may happen to need is new in my life. We are in a financially more secure place than we were as 2 graduate students, and generally able to do a bit of clothes shopping without major impact on our budget. I appreciate this comfort, but it struck me that my ability to purge my wardrobe is directly traceable to our financial wellbeing.
It was also freeing to get rid of many of the clothes that I wore frequently as a graduate student. As a 30-something, a professional, and a mother, my clothing needs (and desires!) have drastically changed, and it is liberating to acknowledge that and move on, unfettered by the weight of a dozen knit shirts.
