Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear— but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious.
-1 Peter 3:3-4
I have always loved shopping. Especially for clothes. Then, when I adopted a minimalist lifestyle, I reflected on my choices, which conflicted with my need to be fashionable.
One selling point aligned with my faith. I realized several things when I updated my wardrobe, all in respect to my relationship with God:
1. I focused less on my appearance. Instead of feeling insecure as well as vain, I viewed clothes as functional. I did not want them to define whether or not I was someone who could hold a conversation.
2. I wasted less money. I realized I could survive on fewer materials, which is what God intended for me all along.
3. I wasted less time. I found myself spending more time in prayer and reflection instead of shopping or stressing about what to wear to work the next day.
4. I prayed with a more grateful heart. Lots of reflection came naturally with my lifestyle change. I started praying more, either for strength in this endeavor or in gratitude for a clear mind and an open heart.
5. I donated to those in need. I realized that I had many usable items that another person could use, so I happily gave them away.
6. I cursed less. There was less crap all over the floor and my car keys were easier to find. This significantly lowered my negativity.
7. I leaned toward modesty. As a children’s librarian, I couldn’t minimize my wardrobe to crop tops and denim shorts. I wanted my closet to be versatile, featuring items that made me look professional at work, but could also be worn leisurely and comfortably on my days off. I realized that my clothes were more modest and did not expose lots of skin. It made me feel beautiful! Everything I wore was safe for Church.
8. I wasn’t as impressed by high maintenance beauty and expensive fashion. I started to notice simpler beauty and style, which enamored me. Instead of false eyelashes and fancy dresses, I quickly became impressed by top-knot buns, simple makeup, and chambray shirts. These women radiated beauty with their style and their under-accesorizing, which is how I believed God called them to be.
9. I cared more about quality over quantity. My clothes were a metaphor for other areas of my life, like friendships and relationships. I would rather have a lasting garment that made me feel good and confident over something trendy that would only last one season.
I learned many things and I am continuing to grow with this adventure. Other minimalists… how have you grown through your experiences? SHARE!
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