Can’t Live Without It

I’m a list maker. I glean tremendous satisfaction from conceptualizing, writing, and completing lists of nearly all types.* At any given moment, I am likely to have at least one short-term and three long-term lists going. And although I adore them for the structure that they provide, they do occasionally get me in trouble.

One of my ongoing lists is the Ultimate Wish List. A Word doc on my home computer, this little number comprises a constantly morphing group of items that I would like to acquire at some point as part of my quest to assemble a complete and perfect wardrobe. (Oh yes, I’m well aware that this is a laughable goal. But it’s one many of us share, isn’t it?) Although I am generally able to work my way slowly through the list as my finances allow, staring it down week after week prompts the occasional imprudent purchase.

Additionally, the Ultimate Wish List never goes away because although I am it’s sole author, it is constantly being fed by outside sources. Seeing women with my body type wearing flattering pieces that I’ve never considered for myself. Learning about the thoughts, purchases, creations, and explorations of my amazing fellow style bloggers. And, of course, reading seasonal must-have lists generated by fashion mags. Items drop off the list as priorities change and trends shift, new items are added as they pop onto my radar. The list is in a constant state of editing.

I’ve been chipping away at the current iteration of the Ultimate Wish List a little quicker than might be considered prudent. And while this should feel exciting and rewarding, instead it feels a little like feeding the hole. I open my overstuffed closet to hang up an newly-acquired wishlist item, and feel … almost depressed. SO much STUFF. I love it all, but there sure is a lot of it.

I’m not sure that a giant purge and simplification of my wardrobe is pending. Knowing that I have options is extremely important to my sanity – in closet and in life. But I have been thinking about the lists. It’s in the best interests of a magazine to make its readers feel incomplete, and prompt them to shop. But there’s no reason I can’t turn that on it’s head. Maybe what I need to do to stem the spending is find a way to remain grateful for my current bounty.

Black cuffed widelegs

Brown leather strappy sandals

White American Apparel cap sleeve tee AND long brushed silver necklace

Raspberry leather booties

Khaki pencil skirt

Black leather knee-high boots

Dusty red three-quarter sleeved tee

Hot pink boat neck cashmere sweater

Black sweater tank

If the rest of my wardrobe evaporated tomorrow and I was left with these ten, I could totally make it. (OK, these ten plus some undies.) As you can see, I was able to forage photos of myself wearing most of these items. They are staples and favorites, and I feel awesome every time I put them on, which is quite frequently.

I’m going to put this list at the TOP of my Ultimate Wishlist. And every time I open that document to contemplate and edit the items I’m coveting, I’ll give my Top Ten a gander. Because assembling this list was a lot more challenging and fun than I’d expected. And perhaps a simultaneous reminder of the gorgeous, flattering, and beloved items I already have at my disposal will keep the desire to acquire in check. Hey, it’s worth a try, right?

What would be on YOUR list? Care to share?

Image courtesy Swiv.

*Husband Mike has two list making quirks that I love, but have somehow never adopted for myself. One is that he doesn’t make to-do lists, he makes ta da lists. Because when he’s done, then he can say “ta da!” He also makes sure that the very first item on his lists is always, “make list,” because that way, he can cross something off right away. You see why I love this man, don’t you?