I went to the store yesterday and completely hit sensory overload
By Eli Mercer on
First of all, sizing makes absolutely no sense. I picked up three pairs of jeans all the “same” size and every single one fit differently. One wouldn’t go past my thighs. One technically fit but felt tight in a way that made me hyper-aware of my body. The third was loose in the waist but tight in the calves. How is this real?
For me, clothes have to feel right. Not just look cute. If the fabric is too stiff, too clingy, too heavy, too scratchy, or sits weird on my shoulders, I can’t ignore it. I will think about it all day. I tried on a sweater that looked amazing on the hanger, but the second I put it on, I could feel every seam. I couldn’t focus on anything else.
And then there’s the fitting room pressure. Trying to change quickly. Keeping track of your own clothes. Deciding fast. I don’t decide fast. I need a minute to stand there and figure out if something feels okay long-term. But I always feel rushed, like I’m taking too long.
Another thing I don’t think people talk about enough is how clothes shopping can mess with body awareness. I already struggle with knowing how I look versus how I think I look. Mirrors in stores are harsh and confusing. I can’t tell if something genuinely fits well or if I’m just overanalyzing.
I ended up leaving with one pair of jeans that are “fine.” Not amazing. Not perfect. Just fine. And I was exhausted.
It’s frustrating because so many people treat shopping like it’s fun or relaxing. For me, it feels like a full-on mental workout sensory, decision-making, and self-esteem all wrapped into one trip to the mall.