Less is More
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There’s a lot to be said about the simplicity movement that’s recently been entering blog discussions, but today’s post is all about a campaign that started a few days ago–one that really challenges our definition of who we are, what we use, and the issue we can have with “stuff.”
Think about your closet. Is it pretty full? Are there items that just sit there waiting to be worn again but probably won’t pass the 12 month test? Now think about the idea of going for a month wearing no more than six items. Six Items or Less is a global experiment examining the power of what we don’t wear. The campaign is based on going for 30 days with only six items of clothing. People are blogging about it and following the movement on twitter. I ran across this story in GOOD magazine, a challenging, motivating, and intelligent look at what people are doing collectively to make a positive difference for our environment. The story caught my eye because there is so much validity to the challenge..and because I’m not sure I could do it. How’s that for admitting my big ol’ bite of humble pie?
Here are some of the bennies:
- Simplifies the day–less hassle. I mean really, it’s liberating to think about not thinking about what to wear.
- Challenges us to appreciate what we have as well as what others don’t.
- Is a bit “in your face” to the fashion industry. Can’t we define ourselves by who we are?
- Gives us an opportunity to evaluate our “stuff” and give away what we don’t really use.
At edot, we’re big supporters of giving back and donating. Since I’ve admitted that I’m not sure I can do it..I’m going to give it a try. We love this concept because Six Items or Less challenges you to think beyond what we currently consider important to what really is important. Even if you didn’t sign up in time to join this round, you can still try the idea and blog about it. You could even encourage a group of friends to give it a try and donate clothes that you don’t really need to a local shelter or Goodwill. And during the process you will be earning more dots for your edot account by donating items, so there’s even more of a reason to go for it!
What’s (your thing) not to wear?
every day one thing 
thanks for much for the blog post and please let us know how it goes for your group. this idea started as a simple conversation between two friends about two weeks ago and has since been embraced by a lot of people – we’re still blown away when we see another post about the experiment making people think. so glad that you’re getting a group going as well.
in the meantime, check out this post from a participant today that I think you’d appreciate – inspired by her participation she cleaned out her closet and gave 323 items to goodwill today! really inspiring.
http://sixitemsorless.com/2010/06/28/the-first-act-of-killing-dead-weight/
all the best…
Heidi,
It’s an amazing concept. Let me know the next time you start a 30 day cycle because we will definitely help spread the word. Love it–great job getting a new initiative out there!!
EDOT Founder – this is an inspired and thought provoking concept. Thanks for sharing, and sparking the conversation. This will be a TableTopic at the West Seattle Earlybirds in the coming month. I look forward to fueling the conversation, listening to it buzz and listening and learning how others would respond to the concept and possible self-challenge. I’ll be looking forward to your status report on your personal experience!
One suggestion – add the “FaceBook” or “Tweet” this blog entry – so those of us inspired could click a button on your blog entry and share its contents with our social networks. You rock – bravo!
Hi Peter–thanks for the comments! I’ve added the FB and Twitter share buttons to this post and will add them to previous posts as well.
I’m going to try this for the month of July. I checked the official webpage for the “rules” and they are as follows:
“There are exceptions that don’t count towards the six: undergarments, swim wear, work-out clothes, work uniforms, outer jackets (rain slicker, outdoor jacket), shoes and accessories. ”
You in? Anyone else?