Stories and reflections on my journey seeking a slow and simple life, sharing some of the things I’m learning and noticing along the way.
Just in case you missed last month’s, you can read it here.
I just asked my husband, David Barton, what his first thoughts were when he saw my old wardrobe for the very first time… “Chaos!”
It wasn’t just the wardrobe where my clothes were kept though. I had a chest of drawers that were practically overflowing. I had clothes piled on a stool and even a space in another room where some of them lived.
Again, in David’s own words… “You had enough clothes to wear each day of the year” and “most of them you probably didn’t wear!” I hate to admit it, but he’s right!
We live with my husband’s parents, so space is very limited. Our bedroom is small which means we have to be quite clever with where to put our belongings, particularly when it comes to clothes.
We have a little shared space in the corner of our bedroom which goes under some steps, it’s not ideal, but made sense for our wardrobe to fit into. It’s still a work in progress, but it OK. Improvement suggestions welcome…
Following the Marie Kondo folding method for drawers helps.
It’s also meant that I’ve had to downsize the amount of clothes I own. I’ve had to really simplify this area of my life and become much more conscious about what I purchase.
I love clothes! I’ve always loved clothes! But simplifying my wardrobe hasn’t been a bad thing. In fact, it’s been quite a wake-up call. I’ve had to think about how many clothes I actually need which has made me more aware of where I purchase my clothes, the material they’re made from, going for quality over quantity, and not buying an item of clothing just because I love it. This also saves money (always handy for when we’re on a budget) and is especially useful when there isn’t much room to store them.
Here’s a little look at how this journey is going…
I’ve become much more conscious about where I purchase my clothes from. I would much rather spend a little bit more, but have far less.
In the past, I was very much into fast fashion. As a birthday treat, I would go to Primark and fill up a basket full of clothes, just because they were cheap. Most only lasted a short time and they shrank in the wash.
I love Seasalt Cornwall and Fatface because they both continually improve and minimise their impact on the planet and promote sustainability - using organic and responsibly sourced materials that are kind to the skin - while ensuring high ethical standards and are B Corp certified.
I find their clothes to be really good quality, long-lasting and comfortable to wear.
Another one I love is The White Company. My pyjamas come from there. Again, they’re beautiful quality, are the best pyjamas I’ve ever owned, and they are B Corp certified.
Although these are more expensive - and some people would be horrified at the price - because they’re much better quality they last much longer. This means that I actually spend far less on clothes than I used to.
If it’s bringing a little calm, happiness, or inspiration to your day, you can support my creative work by gifting a virtual coffee from just £3. It helps to support all that I do so much!
I love using Vinted. I use it both for selling and buying. I love giving something that’s been used a new lease of life and reducing (if only a teeny tiny little bit) waste. It can be a great way to save money too.
There’s also tons of clothes on there from the brands I love. Some of my favourite purchases include a jumper that I tried on in Fatface and absolutely loved, and which I found on Vinted for more than half the price less. Recently I purchased a long Fatface cardigan on Vinted that cost me just a few pounds and is literally like new.
One of my favourite dresses got completely worn out and had to go, but I found the exact same one on Vinted to replace it. I’ve also been able to find my favourite dresses but in different designs. It’s also a good place to find slippers!
Seasalt Cornwall also have an outlet on eBay, which is definitely worth checking out. I was able to get a new second pair of my favourite jeans from there for a lot more than half the price less. I love a bargain!
This is still very much a work in progress, but simplifying my wardrobe has meant that I’m much more mindful as to which items of clothing I purchase.
I try to choose pieces that will go with other pieces, for example, I have two white t-shirts and two white blouses which both go with my jeans and skirts. I have one cardigan which goes with every item of clothing - the same with my jumper.
My shoes are included in the capsule wardrobe too. I have two pairs of trainers - one for best and one for walking long distances - which go with everything. My boots and sandals match with the colours of my clothes.
I love that doing all of the above has helped me to really appreciate the clothes I own, to only purchase what I need, to learn how to live more sustainably, to understand just how damaging fast-fashion is to the environment, and to learn more about how certain materials - particularly the chemicals used in them - can be harmful.
A great starting point for me was Jessica Rose Williams’ A Simplified Wardrobe eBook and her beautiful book, Enough: Learning to simplify life, let go and walk the path that’s truly ours.
My journey towards a slower and more mindful approach to fashion hasn’t always been a quick one - but those journeys are often the best, the most rewarding and the most fulfilling.
How has your approach to buying and wearing clothes changed over the years?
If you’ve enjoyed this journal entry, you can support my creative work with a virtual coffee from just £3, over on my Ko-fi page. Your support honestly means so much, and it really helps me A LOT!
Just in case you missed it…
Seasonal Moments in Nature | August 2026
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Aug 2
Welcome to my little seasonal diary. Here I share photos and notes from the natural world - the changing seasons, small details, and the beauty all around us. A space to slow down, notice what’s unfolding, and enjoy the rhythm of the seasons.
From the Book Corner | July 2026
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Jul 26
A monthly peek into the books I’m reading, the ones I’ve loved, and the next on my reading pile. A cosy corner for sharing stories, thoughts, and a few bookish ideas you might enjoy too.
Simple Joys & Inspirations | July 2026
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Jul 19
A collection of everyday pleasures and favourite finds. Here I share small moments and things that bring a smile, whether it’s something I’ve tried, enjoyed, or come across along the way. A gentle space to pause and enjoy the little joys in life.
If you’d love to learn more about me and my work, you can visit my website here. I’d also love to connect with you over on Instagram - you’ll find lots of beautiful blooms and nature-inspired posts, alongside gentle business musings, reflections, and more.
Until next time…
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