My 2009 aspirations are currently still a work-in-progress. I've decided that 2009 is going to be a big year, so serious thought and planning are going in to what I hope to accomplish. However, I am prepared to discuss my style resolutions for 2009. These were a lot easier (and fun!) to make.
- Increase productivity of my wardrobe. I will find creative ways to wear everything in my wardrobe. I will not let items sit unused for months at a time. If I cannot find a way to wear something, I will: (Read #2)
- Donate unused clothes to charities. My sister-in-law recently brought to my naive attention that many of the used clothing bins found in parking lots are not necessarily placed there by charities. Some are owned by organizations that re-sell the clothes to vintage shops for profit. I will donate continue to donate my casual clothes to the Salvation Army, but will direct my more professional items to Beauty Night, a (Canadian) non-profit organization that helps disadvantaged women improve their self-image and increase their self-esteem. Another great organization with chapters around North America is Dress for Success, an organization that provides women with career counselling and interview clothes to help them get back on their feet.
- Leverage my accessories. The other day, my husband pointed out to me that I have 14 scarves in the front closet alone. In 2009, I will make the most of my accessories by working them into my outfits on a daily basis!
- Find a favourite boutique and become a regular. In 2009 I will actively visit small boutiques in my area (Toronto) with the intention of finding a shop that could be my second home. I will develop a relationship with the staff ("Kena, the new collection just arrived and you are going to love it!") and feel great about supporting another small business. Any suggestions on where to start?
- Invest in pieces that really mean something. An investment piece is an item that you would never mindlessly give to charity or sell to a resale shop. It is something you would might eventually pass to a sister, daughter or beloved friend only with careful thought. The Alexander Wang blazer above is definitely worthy!
- Seek out and support smaller labels and designers. As the economy takes a hit, the small players feel it the most. In 2009 I will seek out small designers and support them in their endeavours to share their passions with the world. Do you have a favourite designer or label I should check out?
- Explore the world of vintage. I have never been a big vintage shopper. Something about the musty smell of most vintage shops kept me away. However, after a recent visit to a great vintage shop here in Toronto (Miss You Vintage) (not your typical vintage store), where I purchased a pair of short suede boots and a perfect brown leather belt, I have changed my ways. In 2009 I will read great blogs like The Coveted, Debutante Clothing, and Mademoiselle Robot for inspiration and practical tips on vintage shopping.

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{ 16 comments… read them below or add one }
Great style resolutions! I especially love #4 and of course #7! Thanks for reading!!
Don't worry about the musty smell. If you fall in love with something, I can show you ways to get musty smells out. Plus, one of your regular boutiques from resolution #7 could be a trusted vintage boutique, virtual or in person. Good sellers will clean their good vintage.
These are great resolutions! All things that I would love to do more of as well. Great blog and thanks for the comment!
Thanks for your note Sandra! These are great tips. Perhaps a guest post on vintage shopping is in order....
Hi, Thanks for your note. Love your blog!
what a great post! i agree that each point is really important to carry out. with the boutiques, you reminded me of my life back in san francisco, i would go to the boutiques on polk street once a week, usually when i was out running errands. and over the years, i really developed great relationships with the boutique owners... i miss those ladies.
and thanks for reading the coveted! i'll promise to stop by more often.
xx
j.
good resolutions
Hi Kena,
You should check out Shernett Swaby on Queen Street E. http://www.shernettswaby.com She offers really personalized service and has amazing tailoring.
--A
Great tips! I think we should definitely be more thrifty and creative with our wardrobe this year! Love your site!
Hey Kena!
I am a huge fan of Beestung Lingerie at Y&E! Everytime I go in there, they know my name, my size and exactly what kind of lingerie I like! You need to check it out!
Hi Jennine,
I used to live in San Francisco! Just moved back a year ago. I miss it too.
Now I must find my favourite boutiques here in Toronto....
Thanks! Do you have any not on this list?
Kena
Hi Amrita,
I definitely will! Thanks for the comment. We have to make plans soon. When you are back on the mainland. haha
Happy new year!
Kena
Thanks for your comment Anna! I recently wrote a "shop your own closet" post that should help with the creativity part.
http://lifeinfashion.typepad.com/life_in_style/2008/10/shop-from-your-closet.html
Thanks for your comment Anna! I wrote another post recently about "shopping your own closet". Hopefully it will help with the creative part!
http://lifeinfashion.typepad.com/life_in_style/2008/10/shop-from-your-closet.html
Thanks Mish! I will definitely check it out!
Every couple months or so get your friends together
and have a swap party,swap clothes and whatever your not using for items you adore.
Anything left over please donate.