Over 28 days, I tracked what I wore recording where each item was from along with what colour, pattern or material it was made out of. In addition to this, I recorded how many t-shirts, vest tops, shirts, jumpers, dresses, trousers, shorts and gym wear I own in both my wardrobe at University and at home. When tallying these items I also categorised them into second hand and high street to determine where I get the majority of my clothes from. 

 

My findings showed that in total, I own 235 pieces of clothing with 99 of these items being second hand and 136 from the high street. Out of the 235 items, 48 are t-shirts becoming my most owned type of apparel, followed by 29 shirts. In the 28 days, I wore denim 20 times and Topshop 11 times. 

 

Tracking and collecting data of my clothing habits made me think about the way I purchase and distribute clothing - not seeing it as a commodity but as a way I can express who am I, showing off my personality and increasing my confidence. Reflecting back at my wardrobes, both at home and at University, I have realised that I own more clothes than I will ever need at one time, including repeated style clothes and many items that are not even practical for most of the year or day-to-day life. I tend to blame my excessive amount of clothes on my love for vintage and second hand clothing which comes at such a cheap price that I can’t refuse to buy. I would like to change the way I purchase however by restricting myself to only buying things I really need but realistically with the fashion industry forever producing new trends I think it will be difficult to ever feel fulfilled with what I own in my wardrobe. 

 

Below are four of my favourite outfits I wore during my month of clothes-tracking: