the dark side of no buy 2025

The new year has officially arrived, which kicks off another season of new years resolutions. From month-long commitments like Dry January and Veganuary, to long-term challenges like paying off debts, the new year can be just the kick some folks need to get past the starting line.

One trend I’ve been excited to see more and more on social media lately is the #NoBuy2025 trend. Following the current state of the economy, the release of Netflix’s Buy Now: The Shopping Conspiracy, and the various boycotts being waged against huge corporations who refuse to let their workers unionize, it’s understandable that people want to regain a sense of control amidst the mindless consumption cycle.

As we know, overconsumption is a huge driver of the climate crisis. Given America’s obsession with buying cheap polyester clothing and products, it’s no wonder that a staggering 600,000 packages arrive in the US daily from Shein and Temu, according to a June 2023 US Congressional report.

Clearly something’s got to give, and with the tipping point we’re currently at with our planet, it’s great to see individuals feel empowered to take action against this new “normal”. However…

While I’ve been seeing people online excited to start their #NoBuy2025, I’ve also seen a number of individuals asking people to shift their focus away from buying nothing at all, to not buying from huge corporations like Amazon, Shein, and H&M.

Last year we saw a devastating number of small businesses close their doors. From beloved sustainable fashion brands suddenly shuttering, to local businesses no longer being able to compete with huge corporation pricing, it’s been rough seeing late stage capitalism drive these important mom-and-pop shops out of business. Small businesses support local communities, provide spaces for community building, and make up the fabric of this country.

So if you, dearest gentle reader, are considering a No Buy year, I respectfully ask you to reconsider.

Instead of buying nothing, buy mindfully and intentionally wherever you can. Please buy less, but when you do make sure it’s from a business owner who’ll be able to pay their rent with support from customers like you. You think Jeff Bezos does a little happy dance anytime someone buys from Amazon? Absolutely not. But a small business owner might 😘

As for myself, I’ve officially decided to repeat my sustainable fashion challenge from 2024, which means only buying five new items of clothing over the course of the year. I hope you’ll join me while I explore new crafty opportunities (think: clothing upcycling), more community moments, and learning from local sustainable fashion brands. Happy new year bbs!