Underconsumption core, or the idea of under-consuming as a way of life, isn’t particularly new to anyone living a minimalist lifestyle already. But it’s exciting to see it being embraced by influences on platforms like TikTok, which has a reputation for celebrating the #haul culture of Temu and Shein. It can be confusing for people who like the idea of a more sustainable lifestyle but are afraid that it means throwing out all their books or dedicating themselves from Day 1 to zero waste. No worries! It’s not extreme, and implementing the underconsumption core trend is easy. Read on for our tips on how to get started.
Start by Decluttering
The first step toward embracing the underconsumption core as your fall aesthetic (or 365-day aesthetic, if you will) is to start decluttering. Whether you love Marie Kondo’s approach or opt for a 20/10 home organizing method, taking stock of what you already own before making significant changes to your home is essential. You might be amazed at how many things you had in drawers that you would actually love to have a more prominent place in your home’s design. And, of course, if there are things in good condition hidden in your closet and never used, donate them or sell them on second-hand shops/apps.
Assess How You Would Like to Live in Your Home
Part of any bedroom refresh, kitchen redo, or living room re-arranging is honestly assessing how you use the space. We moved into the Venice Cottage more than a year ago and didn’t decorate immediately. In fact, we’ve only added two uber-comfortable swivel club chairs to the living room. Why? We are taking the time to understand how we live and what we genuinely need in this 900-square-foot space.
For us, assessment also means moving things around. We have cabinets and desks that we inherited. They hold a special place in our hearts, but not everything fits into the places we had in our minds for them when they arrived. Now, we know that the short cabinet would be better in the living room to house our games and media rather than holding our baking supplies. A narrow, short bookcase from my childhood playroom works well as additional shelving in our galley kitchen. The learning curve has been extended, but we want to bring in pieces that serve us rather than ones that happen to catch our eyes when passing a vintage/thrift store.
Go Vintage If You Are Going to Buy
Underconsumption core practices don’t necessarily preach no purchasing. It’s more about mindful purchasing as opposed to grabbing whatever pieces might shoot off endorphins when you see them. And, believe me, there is so much out there that seems like a great idea for about 20 minutes to me.
Instead, if you need storage, choose the highest quality pieces your budget allows. If you can, choose real wood over particle board. It will last longer, age more gracefully, and ultimately save you money. If you have access to great vintage shops or thrift stores, take advantage of them. I’m always more inclined toward furnishings with a history, be it our families or others. Also, these pieces are wonderfully flexible, whether we’re going with a Mid-Century Modern vibe or something Dark Academia (a look I love and write about here).
Choose Sustainability in Small Ways
Along the same lines as buying vintage, if you need to buy, purchase with an eye towards sustainability. Instead of plastic containers, pick up vintage Pyrex or Corning Ware at your local thrift store. Need elegant glassware, china for mix-and-match dinner parties, or serving platters? Thrift stores often are recipients of estate items that are the answer to your hosting prayers.
Swap plastic bags for hemp mesh/string bags to pick up vegetables or fruits at supermarkets or farmers’ markets. Reusable bags are the rule in Los Angeles, but if they aren’t where you live, consider taking reusable bags to your next grocery shop. We are also leaving behind the thin film plastic at the market in favor of just putting vegetables and fruits directly into the cart. There’s no reason an avocado must be placed in plastic before bringing it home.
Underconsumption Core Celebrates Slow Change
One of the best things about choosing an underconsumption core approach to decorating your apartments, condos, houses, or studios is that you don’t feel pressured to decorate every space immediately. We certainly embraced this idea, given that we are a year in and haven’t even committed to a paint color yet. But, seriously, slowing down and considering what feels best for your life removes a ton of purchasing pressure and will save you money. Also, it can stop you from making “this is good enough for now” purchases that will just end up in a landfill once you come across something you love or the cheap item falls apart.
Conclusion
These are all the ways that we are incorporating our minimalist goals. Whether you are merely flirting with the underconsumption core trend or starting down a minimalist path, we hope these tips are helpful. And if you are embracing the underconsumption core, how are you doing it? I’ll leave comments open for this one unless I get spammed again. We’d love to hear your ideas!