weddings are a time for extravagance especially when youre the bride six years ago madhushri mudke found herself overwhelmed by her wedding not because of hectic planning or family drama but the maximalism of it all i was stunned by the number of clothes ordered bought gifted and exchanged i decided then that i wouldnt be buying any ethnic clothes and would only be recycling clothes that were passed down to me says the academic who is completing her doctoral research in conservation science and sustainability studies at atree bengalurumudke is one of a growing tribe of women turning a more critical eye towards shopping practices while some practice minimalism others rely on barter and handmedowns whatsapp forwards that position women as shoppingobsessed zombies be damned these women are embracing minimalism as a lifestyle choice one rooted in growing awareness and conversation about sustainability and the role individual action playsfor mudke its not as if she doesnt shop at all but she takes a more intentional view on it she adheres to the principles of aparigraha or modernday minimalism she became acquainted with the philosophy of nonpossessiveness nongreed and nonattachment and hasnt looked back i buy cotton slowmade clothes and organic dyes like indigo she says i avoid polyester or other artificially dyed or polymercontaining fabrics i usually end up buying clothes from smaller vendors i like to explore old established markets where i can meet the artisans who made my clothesawareness about the environmental impact of various products has been the reason for the change in shopping habits for some back in 2015 himangi kanodia had just learnt that palmoil plantations were destroying rainforests and displacing baby orangutans from their homes leading her to bin her palm oilbased toiletries kanodia even left her corporate career after watching documentaries on the consequences of extractive human activities i was inspired to choose responsibly what i buy based on need or utility rather than wants or desires says kanodia a consultant helping nonprofits and conscious brands communicate their message to their audiences this change in mindset influenced everything i consumed including clothes a minimalist lifestyle became a priority for me this lifestyle includes everything from diying clothes she recently converted an old ethnic cotton skirt into an anarkali kurta and an old western lace dress into a saree blouse to taking up sewing during the lockdown her mother taught her to use a sewing machine and together they worked on some mini projects repurposing old fabrics into new designs she adds i only buy essential accessories like bags and sandals in neutral colours rarely buy or wear jewellery i change up my hair and makeup instead my wardrobe only has 30 items i donate unusable clothesthere is a larger cultural trend at play here just look at the rise of instagram thrift stores in india people are opting for a preworn piece that may be more unique andreflective of their personal style rather than buying the