Hi, many of you have responded to the negative comments we received in reaction to the Seattle Times article on Friday, October 30th. First of all, let me tell you, in the past 48 hours I have heard directly from several women who think this is a great idea and have been inspired by TGAAD, many have asked “how do I join.” Second, I don’t really care what people think about what we’re doing, that said, I know it’s a great experiment that has obviously pushed some buttons.
Below are a few things I would like to clarify about TGAAD.
1) This is not shopaholics anonymous! None of the women in this group were motivated to join because they were crazy, insane shoppers that needed to cut up all their credit cards. This is a group of women who are seriously interested in some introspection. We as a group are taking a sincere look at the role we play as individuals in the current consumer culture. Specifically we are reflecting on our relationships and attitudes toward clothing–in particular, new clothing.
2) This is a social experiment not a political movement.
3) This is a supportive, well educated and thoughtful group of women who want to share creative ideas, philosophies, humor and tips.
4) We are not a group of rich, white, up-tight women who are shallow, light or fluffy.
5) And for those who think not shopping is “Un-American,” that’s twisted.
6) Lastly, perhaps people should wag more and bark less.
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I did see the article and found your blog from it. Really what do you care what anyone thinks? The compact has been around for a few years now, so it’s not like this is exactly new.
I will say that doing this is much more difficult after about 4 months. I tried to do my own personal compact and not purchase anything new for a full year and only made it 7 months.
I was really glad that I tried to do it a full year.
I say BRAVO to all the women who are participating in this experiment!! I’ve tried versions of the “diet” myself and know that it isn’t all financial — and that it can be tough going. I’m so impressed with you all, I even blogged about the “diet” on my blog at http://toptightwadtips.blogspot.com/2009/11/great-american-apparel-diet.html