In this world, we have been urging to buy more and upgrade everything, easily caught by the whirlwind of consumerism. But lately, I’ve been exploring a different path inspired by a entitled “Reduce consumption core.” This trend is to make the most of what we already have, buy only what we really need, and find happiness from a simple perspective.
Discover “the core of insufficient”
Appearing on platforms like Tiktok, “the core of undersized” responds to the universal culture of overconsumption and waste. Rather than displaying a large number of shopping tugs, the creator emphasizes frugal discoveries that have stood the test of time, modest wardrobes and much-loved items. It celebrates Frugality, sustainability and intention, Challenging more people is always a better idea.
Capitalism, patriarchy and consumption cycles
Capitalism makes us feel like we are Never enough– We need to buy more, have more and keep striving for unrealized ideals. Who can benefit the most from it? patriarchy. Women, in particular, aims to be endless marketing, telling us that our value is related to what we look, wear, and what we have. The fast fashion, beauty products and household goods industries rely on this narrative that prompts us to spend money (and time) to pursue impossible standards. but We take back our power when we choose to reduce consumption, patch up what we have and choose endless cycles of buying and discarding. Rejecting consumerism is not just sustainability, but a quiet act of resistance.
My imperfect journey
I will be the first to admit it – I’m not perfect about it. Sometimes, the temptation of new products or fashionable clothing is hard to resist. But I am learning, questioning and working hard to do better. For me, embrace “Insufficient core” method:
- Frugality and exchange – Refresh my wardrobe sustainably by second-hand shopping and organizing clothing exchanges with friends.
- Template and upgrade – Instead of discarding items with a small number of defects, I learn to sew, patch and breathe new life.
- Pay attention to consumption – Before buying, I asked myself: Is this a real demand or is it just a momentary impulse?
Where to shop second-hand
If you want to hug “Insufficient core” Without sacrificing quality, please check the following online second-hand platforms:
🛍️ thredup – Affordable thrifty fashion with a wide range of options.
🛍️ Real – High-end, authenticated luxury used items.
🛍️ Vestiaire Collective – A selected pre-designer fashion market.
🛍️ depop – Retro, streetwear and stylish fashion for independent sellers.
🛍️ Poshmark – Buy and sell used clothing, accessories and household goods.
books
📚 pangobooks – Buy and sell used books directly from other readers.
📚 Better World Books – Used books, profit support literacy programs.
📚 programme – One of the largest online book resellers with affordable second-hand books.
📚 abebooks – Rare, retro and used books perfect for independent sellers.
Electronic Technology
💻 Aftermarket – Certified refurbished smartphones, laptops and tablets.
📱 Swappa – Buy and sell used technology directly from other users.
🎮 Dectruttr – Used electronics, DVDs, games, etc.
Home and furniture
🛋️ Facebook Marketplace – Local second-hand transactions for furniture, household goods, etc.
🛋️ Chair – High-end curated second-hand furniture and decorations.
🛋️ aptdeco – Used furniture with delivery options (US only).
Everything else
🔄 Free – Gift and find free second-hand projects online.
🔄 discount – Buy and sell second-hand goods locally.
🔄 ebay – The second-hand market of OG online market.
Challenge consumer culture
Embracing this lifestyle is a subtle and powerful Resist the system that equates value with wealth and property. It’s about restoring our power, prioritizing sustainability, and fostering communities over competition. Every time we choose repairs rather than replacements, exchanges rather than shops, and then buys used instead of new ones, We destroy the cycle of unconscious consumption.
Join the conversation
I want to hear from you! What project are you Repair, frugal or exchange Does that bring you happiness? Put your story in the comments and let us inspire each other to think more.
