New Refashionista on Board

Hello, everyone!

When I saw this challenge about a month ago, I knew I wanted to join. In the past, I have flirted with shopaholic tendencies (okay, so I did more than flirt, really; I used to spend loads of money I couldn't afford on clothing that I just didn't need). I've managed to kick this habit over the past few years, but I can still get sucked in to making foolish purchases when I'm not paying attention. Not anymore, now that I'm a refashionista. :) I haven't bought anything since I first found out about this challenge almost a month ago, so I feel like I'm off to a good start.

I do sew, and have made quite a few items of clothing for myself in the past, but right now, I'm not in a position to do loads of this. (I'm living in Pennsylvania at the moment, but my good sewing machine is in California). I did pick up a little Euro-pro Shark, though, so I'll be able to do a bit of remodeling. I think my first project is a tapestry handbag; I bought a kit for it ages ago but haven't taken the time to put it together. I think my little machine will handle it. I also crochet, so there will probably be some new yarn projects in my future.

I've already had to take a stand on something in regards to this challenge. Yesterday, I got an invitation for the first "Ladies' Night Out" at my son's school. This is supposed to be a chance for the moms to get together and socialize outside of PTA meetings, etc. Well, the event is being held at a local clothing boutique (one I've not been to before, but it sounds VERY expensive) and the idea is that 10% of all purchases get donated to the school. HUH? I don't want to be conned into spending WAY too much money on clothes on what is supposed to be a fun social night. So, I'm not going to the event, and I also intend to bring up the subject at the next PTA meeting. After I brainstorm a bit to suggest some alternate activities for future "Ladies' Nights Out."

Anyhow, I'm glad to be here, and look forward to seeing everyone's projects, and posting about my own.

Thanks, Nikki, for hosting this great challenge! :)

Comments

[Elizabeth]

Good for you for taking a stand on the "Ladies Night Out." Guilting moms into paying loads of money for clothes is so not what a school should be doing.

[Wendy]

Thanks! And I agree - especially since we're currently in the middle of the horrible Innisbrook Fundraiser, where we're being guilt-tripped into paying loads of money for ugly wrapping paper. Ugh.

[tasloi]

So glad to hear that you're standing up against this sort of financial pressure. I don't know the economic makeup of your school, but can you image a working mom, happy to finally be able to make a PTA event only to find out that the first get-together subtly sends the message she's not welcome? It astounds me the carelessness of whoever came up with that idea!

Perhaps you can suggest a dessert potluck or trip to a homeless kitchen for two very different types of activities!

[Ruth]

Good on you! hope you can come up with some exciting alternatives.