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Closing the horrendous panic-attack-filled chapter commonly known as 2020, I was trying to wrap my mind around some positive moments: lessons learned, things to feel thankful for, resolutions to be made, new unhealthy habits to kick and healthy habits to keep. In this first post of 2021, I wanted to share my entire shopping recap from the last 12 months – what clothing I bought throughout the entire year, how much I spent and why. With my commitment to sustainability and ethical fashion, I don’t turn to retail therapy as a way to lighten the mood, so my list is going to be very small and I’m hopeful to inspire healthy shopping habits (this is one of those I’m definitely keeping around in 21).
With running a blog around sustainable fashion and minimal shopping – the love for fashion and new things in my closet isn’t gone – but I learned to control impulse buys and make true serious investments into clothing that I save for and know will last. I analyze all my purchases based on 5 factors: need or understanding whether I need the item or just want it, quality or how well the item was made, longevity or how long the item will serve, personal style or how the item fits into my existing wardrobe and brand ethics or the values and practices the brand engages in. The “need” portion of those 5 was emphasized last year more than ever before in my life because lets face it – with the lockdowns and quarantine, I didn’t need any new clothes AT ALL. Even things to wear around the house – I didn’t need new comfy pants or new leggings or new t-shirts – I already had all that and purchasing new stuff would’ve just been that retail therapy I avoid. So every fashion purchasing decision I made in 2020 was based on about 90% need and 10% want.
2 tops – by Keepsake, for $170 and $190
1 sweater – by C/MEO Collective, for $170
1 pair of pants – by DL1961, for $199
1 pair of jeans – by DL1961, for $199
1 pair of shorts – by DL1961, for $149
2 pairs of boots – by Vagabond, for $135 and $180
1 pair of sneakers – by Vagabond, for $140
0 dresses
0 blazers
0 pjs
0 outerwear pieces
4 rings – by Mejuri, for $570
2 pairs of earrings – by Mejuri, for $145
0 accessories and bags
Total: 15 items for $2,247
Tops
I invested in 1 new winter sweater last year in December that I’ve been thinking about for months and finally saw on sale – sweaters are a staple in my wardrobe and perfect for freezing NYC weather, so I knew this item would serve me for a long time (and I own some sweaters that I’ve worn for 5+ years). Another investment was 2 formal tops, with a similar situation – I saw them and knew I wanted to purchase since they appeared in the “New” section of Keepsake’s collections, so they joined my closet as a result of an end-of-year sale. I previously didn’t own any formal tops and constantly found myself getting creative with outfits for non-casual events, so in making this purchase I knew I would the most of it and made sure to select very classic textures and colors that would fit my style as well (peach and black).
Bottoms
The 3 bottoms I purchased last year were all from DL1961 known for amazing quality denim and all 3 are a major staple of my personal style: black pants, black denim shorts and light distressed jeans. Each of these is versatile for different weathers and occasions and done in excellent quality made to last.
Shoes
The 3 pairs of shoes I purchased last year were from Vagabond – a European brand that isn’t 100% ethical due to the use of leather in some produces – but known for the longevity of their products. I read many reviews of their quality and the majority were positive around how well the footwear fits and how long it lasts without even getting damaged. Each pair of shoes was a unique item for me (not like a second pair of the same kind of sneaker), so I knew I was going to wear it all for a long time. Also, the colors I chose were neutral and non-trendy – black and white.
Jewelry
This was a major investment for me last year that I knew I needed for years. I wear rings and small stud earrings every single day and the ones Ive been wearing were cheap plastic H&M ones I’ve had since about 2012 (that somehow didn’t break). So this purchase was an upgrade to an item I already wore and knew 1000% I wouldn’t stop wearing.
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I approach this blog as a diary – taking you on my honest sustainable fashion & lifestyle journey, with sustainability aspects I slowly adopt, struggle with and feel passionate about. I’m building INNABOSE.COM to be an informative, visual & creative resource inspiring even the smallest changes in the world.
GENERAL BLOGGING TOPICS YOU’LL FIND HERE INCLUDE
#sustainablefashion
I’m also a Ukrainian New Yorker – having strong pride and patriotism for both: my homeland 
and my current home 
. For years, I’ve been on a side mission to capture my stunning NYC and elevate the depth and beauty of my Ukrainian culture, fashion and language (some of my posts are in Ukrainian!)
February 24, 2022 – my digital space shifted to include information about russia’s war on Ukraine, the devastation and destruction my home country is dealing with and the bravery, strength and inspiring spirit they are facing it with. A large portion of my posts today highlight Ukrainian brands, fashion, culture & the strong, incredible Ukrainians making gorgeous clothes you can buy & support local businesses, economy & people fighting for freedom every day. We are also a community who donates to Ukrainian organizations found in any of my recent posts!
#standwithukraine
Inna Bose
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