Every year I like to make a list to guide how I approach the next 12 months. In the past, I’ve done things like Lucky Girl Syndrome Affirmations, My Ins and Outs for 2025, 25 Ways to Glow Up in 2025, the 30 Wears Challenge, and 7 Travel Resolutions. This year I’m focusing on My Consumption Rules for 2026. The theme is simple: buy less and buy better. I am creating a traditional New Years Goal list but I always take some time at the beginning of the year to create it.
Clothes
Material matters more than ever. I’ve set a rule for myself to only purchase clothing made of at least 80% natural fibers, though I make exceptions for polyester when it comes to athleticwear because it doesn't show sweat stains. I also follow a “one in, one out” approach with seasonal purges, making sure items I bring in rotate out with things I no longer wear. So instead of an exact one in one out, each season I do a closet declutter.
I'm trying to do a low-buy as I have so many clothes and don't need more. I’m keeping the focus on thoughtful shopping rather than quantity. Not shopping for my fantasy self by not buying occasion dresses when I don't go to that many cocktail parties. Sweaters are off the list, I have drawers full of cozy knits that I don't have time to wear.
Labubus although I've never owned one, never want to, these little frightening creatures should be left in 2025.
Beauty
This year, it’s all about using up what I already have. I’m committed to finishing products before opening new ones, a rule that helps me avoid clutter and appreciate what I already own. I’ve gotten pretty good at Project Pan, especially with skincare, and I’m excited to continue working through my backlog.
Even though I enjoy shopping sales, I’m doing it strategically, only shopping at Sephora when there’s a sale. One rule I made is no more buying of press-on nails as I have a drawer full, so I’m keeping my collection manageable.
This is my backstock drawer under my sink of brand new, unopened, skincare products. When the tariffs were announced in March I panic bought Korean Sunscreen. I need to use them up before they expire. Then I stocked up on all my expensive skincare during Black Friday for the whole year. I'm officially doing a no-buy on skincare for 2026. I believe in using every product until the bottle is finished. Using products to completion feels better than having half-used items gathering dust.
Decor and Home Stuff
I love a home that feels cozy and curated, but I’m stepping back from buying more decor. In November I did some home updates (which is why you saw a few home decor posts on my blog) and I did a lot of decor shopping, but now that has come to an end. My focus now is on maintaining a clean, minimal, and functional space. This year, I’m aiming to donate one item per month, whether it’s books, sheets, kitchenware, or other things that don’t spark joy anymore. I'm in a Facebook buy-nothing group for my neighborhood which has been great for passing these along.
I realized I had been hoarding far more than I noticed. Stuff was hiding under my bed, in cabinets, drawers, and even under the bathroom sink. Reducing clutter not only makes my home feel calmer but also gives the items I truly love the attention they deserve.
Looking Ahead
My Consumption Rules for 2026 are not about restriction. They are about intention. Buying less and buying better across clothing, beauty, and home goods allows me to focus on quality, utility, and sustainability. It is about making mindful choices that feel good now and over time. Ultimately, I want to save money and travel more, so being intentional with what I buy is the first step toward making that goal a reality.
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