The thought process of slow fashion shopping

A glimpse into my inner monologue before I buy something

To shop slowly means to carefully consider each purchase. In this post, I’m sharing what that looks like in my mind.

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I should get some boots.

Do I really need them though? I know I can get by without a new pair. I’ve got my heeled boots for special occasions, my sneakers and combat boots for everyday, and my Timberlands for hikes and harsh weather. I’ve made it work so far.

But last winter kinda sucked when I didn’t have an option for non-bulky water-resistant boots on the gloomy days. There were a lot of times I wasn’t feeling myself because I was compromising. Plus, I deserve it. They’ll be a birthday self-present. You’ve worked hard this year. Go on, treat yourself.

… orrrr I could put that money towards an experience. But I’ve technically been thinking about them for about a year now. It’s not an impulse purchase. You’ll get wear out them. Just do it.

It’s decided. Stop second-guessing. You’re allowed a little mostly-practical treat.

Ok, so do I buy second hand? Or do I support a sustainable brand I’ve been following for a while? Let me open up Poshmark and see what’s available.

Ugh, nothing I love in my size … you know what, it’s been a while since I’ve bought new. It’s ok to buy shoes new. Plus, smaller brands really need support during the holiday season.

The brand I like has a good score on Good On You! Yay! Let me just double check their website too, I need a refresh on their sustainability mission.

Alright, what have they got in my size? Dammit! The colour I want it is sold out. Should I forget about it?

Well, I’m here already. Might as well see what else they have.

Hmm. Do I go for black again? I already have my black suede boots, so I don’t really need another pair. But these are different enough and would be more practical. Maybe I could do a swap and try to sell the suede ones? But I do love their shape and material …

Actually, these grey ones are kind of cute. I don’t mind the olive either, but I wonder just *how* olive it is? I feel like they wouldn’t be as versatile.

Remember those grey ankle boots from a few years ago? Those were pretty easy to style. If the heels weren’t so high, I’d probably have worn them a lot more. Yeah, you know what? I feel like grey would actually go with a lot in my wardrobe. I think these are the ones.

Ok, am I adding to cart? Do I really want to do this? Do I need more shoes? Do I need to be spending this much? I think I’m going to sleep on it.

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Oh shit, they’re still there. And J did tell me to treat myself because I’ve been working so hard.

Do itttttt. They’re cute. They’re like a hybrid of the cream and the grey boots you used to have and love, but more practical. You’ll wear them. You’re allowed to have a little selection — you really did scale back your shoe collection since moving.

Ahhh I’m doing it. I hope they fit. I hope they’re as cute IRL as they are in the photos. Those reviews I saw looked on point. I hope they’re comfortable! That cushy sole looks promising.

It’s done. What a relief.

The boots in question, because you’re obviously curious.

They’re the Vivaia Melissa boots, and they did live up to my expectations. I haven’t tested them in the rain yet, but they fit true to size, the mesh material (which is made from recycled bottles) is really cool and conforms to your foot, and they’re actually comfortable to walk in. Oh — and they do match with most of my wardrobe, so all in all I think this purchase was worth it. I look forward to trying them out more this season!

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Hope you enjoyed this format! It was different but fun to write, and it really does reflect how much I think about my purchases. I’d love to know if your thought process is similar, or if there’s anything else you like to ask yourself before shopping. Let me know in the comments!

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