The Great American Apparel Diet
no buying for one year

Amy Obonaga

My name is Amy Obonaga, and I live in New York City. Though I didn't realize it at the time, I began my diet a few months ago. I have known for some time that my 'spendy' ways were making troubles for both my wallet and the environment. I worked as a seamstress in high school and learned what quality clothing looks like--sure seams, linings, cloths not from blends but pure materials. Since then I am often disappointed by the quality and the lack of pride that clothing manufacturers display in their merchandise. Now, I am vigilant about imaging where this item fits in my closet, how long will it take to degrade in the Kill Van Kull garbage dump (this and the Great Wall of China are the only two man-made structures one can see from outer space), and what sort of thoughtfulness went into the design, construction, and resources to make this item. Clothing as a form of expression has been something I have enjoyed making and wearing for years. Now I spend maybe twenty dollars a month at the second-hand store buying quality clothing to wear and into remake into blankets and purses. I am a graduate student studying architecture and using my downtime to read, head to the museum, and search online for inspiration. I look forward to participating.