2009: The Year Of Living With Less

Let’s be honest, dear readers, it’s tough out there. Even if you have not yet personally been affected by the economy, you know someone who’s been laid off, foreclosed on, or forced to radically alter some aspect of their lifestyle due to financial misfortune. And I’m not talking about the jet-set engaging in “covert consumption,” to quote a phrase from today’s New York Times’ Style Section. These are hard times for many people who’ve never experienced them before.

All of this, however, does not mean the DCGF is giving up on fashion or shopping or furnishings or all those other sometimes frivolous, more-want-than-need items that make a little more fun. Quite the opposite.

In 2009, Goodwill of Greater Washington hopes to bring you even more trunk shows, an even better shopping experience in our retail stores, a greater selection of merchandise in our online stores, and more opportunities to experience the Fashion of Goodwill in new and exciting ways. A downturn in the economy isn’t going to affect our already low prices and great selection of merchandise.

But I am going to ask for one thing in return, dear readers. Especially for those of you in the DC-metro area, I want you to take a hard look at what you have and donate, donate, donate in 2009. And we’re going to make it as easy for you as possible. At every trunk show this year, we’re going simultaneously hold a donation drive. (Oh! That reminds me…keep January 17th in the afternoon open. Just sayin’.)

In companies across the DC area, we’re holding donation drives right in their break and copy rooms. We’re coming to you because we know that even in times like these, you will continue to support Goodwill’s mission with your donations. And who really needs more stuff?!

I am making a pledge to you today, dear readers, that the DCGF is going to get along with less next year. Although I’m not yet committin to a full-out shopping sabbatical, I’ve made a promise to myself to buy nothing new without getting rid of at least two pieces that I’ve never worn, outgrown, don’t like, etc. It’s what game theorists might call a non-zero-sum game. And I’m ready to play it in 2009.

So there you go! It’s easy, really. Don’t give up the fun stuff (trunk shows! eBay!) and get rid of some of the junk. See, dear readers, the DCGF always has your best interests at heart…

Any purchase made at a Goodwill Retail Store or on ebay.com funds Goodwill’s mission of training and employment programs for people with disadvantages or disabilities. Copyright Goodwill of Greater Washington, DC Goodwill Fashion Blog. All Rights Reserved.