From Hyperfocus to Financial Wisdom: What Marie Antoinette Taught Me About Consumption.
- Rory
- Jan 20
- 2 min read
Once, while browsing YouTube, I came across a channel about the history of fashion, in which the author recounted how a foreign queen conquered an entire country with her beauty and sophistication.
I was very intrigued by the story of Marie Antoinette, a master at using her appearance as both a shield and a weapon in a hostile court.
The vast majority of us understand the impact of fashion and its benefits. However, without the proper balance, what should propel us forward can end up generating setbacks and unnecessary complications.
Visual impact as a strategy.
I'm sure many of us have tried, in some way, to use these tricks to convey a "message." Which is perfectly valid. But when we spend vast sums of money on impulsive purchases that either no longer serve us or don't match our personal collection at all, it becomes a pointless expense.
Purposeless and a huge waste of money. 🥲 Just as Marie Antoinette used her clothes as a political strategy, I've learned that managing my wardrobe is actually a strategic way to take care of my assets.
The turning point: Thrift Stores and Sustainability.
Like someone with ADHD , in 2024 I experienced an intense hyperfocus on fashion. This immersion introduced me to the world of secondhand clothing. Thrift stores ceased to be just "used clothes" and became a smart strategy: today I can rotate my collection frequently, investing in fine fabrics and classic cuts without paying the price of a new piece. It's the perfect balance between the desire for novelty and respecting my budget.
Practical Tip: The Reference Folder
To avoid the temptation of buying randomly, I created a visual filter: before the money leaves my account, the item needs to pass the test of my "Reference Folder." If it doesn't communicate who I am today, it doesn't deserve the investment. In it, I put all the photos of the pieces that have most inspired me and that relate to the message I want to convey at the moment. I believe that there isn't a fixed style for each person, but rather an evolving identity for each phase of life, because we have the need to express ourselves accordingly.
Another interesting thing I discovered over the months while creating this habit was acquiring a kind of "visual baggage"; by looking at the few pieces I have, I can quickly put together an outfit according to the occasion, and when walking through stores, I can identify the pieces that will make the most sense for my closet , helping me save money, time and avoiding many future frustrations.
When I was younger, I loved being different and, even without realizing it, I already used these tactics to connect with "social tribes".
The sad part is that, as we grow older, we gradually fade away, seeking invisibility. But this could be the year to bring back our authenticity, with wisdom and intention.
Reclaiming authenticity doesn't have to cost a fortune. In fact, true financial wisdom lies in the ability to say "no" to what is merely trendy and "yes" to what is essential to our story.
P.S.: I'm still passionate about the subject. 🫠
P.S.: If you also have ADHD and have a wardrobe organization technique, share it with me in the comments.
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