17 Fashion Journal readers share what they’ve given up in the cost-of-living crisis

“Definitely no more manicures or pedicures, less spontaneous dinner out with friends.”

As the cost-of-living crisis rages on, many of us have been forced to reconsider what we’re saving (and splurging on). With our bank accounts significantly less abundant, it’s important to use the dollars we do have carefully. But what may be important to some might be the first to go for others – like daily takeaway coffees, concert tickets, regular blowouts or fresh fruit.

Looking for more thought-provoking lifestyle content? Head to our Life section.

Maybe you’re DIY-ing manicures, forgoing the Ssense sale or choosing to cook more at home. Below, 17 Fashion Journal readers share what they’ve given up in the cost-of-living crisis.

Ruby*, 28, she/her

Socialising in places that cost money [that] I can’t afford… [and] going out for dinners or drinks with friends in bars or restaurants. It’s just a luxury that I can’t afford in my life for the time being. It’s either give up outings in places that require paying for food and drinks or give up paying rent or other bills. It’s sad but this is what life is right now.

Faye*, 23, she/her

I have given up hope of financial well-being or security. After running short-term contract to contract, as my rent and grocery bills climb, I’ve slowly developed a bigger ‘fuck-it’ mentality. I mean, I had to wait three months to get my glasses updated to my current prescription because, on my average fortnightly wage, it was pay for my groceries or get glasses.

Could I give up my daily cafe coffee or eating out with friends? Yes, but Jesus – do I want to suck the last bit of joy out of my life? Not really. To our dear old politicians: congrats on the wage raise bestie but can you pretty please actually tax the rich/corporations (why the hell do I owe the ATO?) and put on some damn rent caps? Please and thank you.

Tom*, 21, he/him

I am a 21-year-old queer man from a migrant African family. Moving from Adelaide to Melbourne during this cost-of-living crisis, I have had to give up on the most valuable thing to me which is my time. Those extra hours or days that are spent working or thinking about living expenses are the main cause of this crisis. Instead of fully engaging in the Melbourne culture, I have a sense of security but I have had to sacrifice internships and my goals.

Asim*, 27, he/him

I’ve given up on gigs and food that I would regularly buy last year like yogurt and cereal… [now I] buy things only on special. [I am buying] only what I need to survive the week. Inflation is due to corporate greed!

Posie*, 24, she/her

[I have given up on] buying new clothes and accessories. I can only really afford to thrift, which is fine by me. My beauty and skincare routine is based on using what I have and only replacing things that run out. I don’t go out to eat and drink as much, as it’s way cheaper to do that at home or outside on a picnic or something like that.

Mariana*, 26, she/her

Definitely no more manicures or pedicures, less spontaneous dinner out with friends [and] not turning on our ducted heating, I’m still getting takeaway coffees but reducing the snacks purchased while out getting a coffee or at the supermarket. I triple check I have a bag for my groceries before leaving the house, I go to the gym and a walk or run when catching up with friends instead of brunch, and don’t purchase household decor items. I shop at Aldi first!

Vy*, 39, she/they

Coffee, new clothing [and] meals out. My rent has increased to $500 per month and it’s hard! And I make good money, really.

Briony*, 35, she/her

I’ve given up dermaplaning and eating out regularly. I won’t give up expensive cleanser and professional eyebrow appointments.

Sam*, 23, they/them

I haven’t given up adding to my super for the government bonus because in the long run, super is important, especially for AFAB [people]. I haven’t given up stealing from grocery stores – I’m just doing it more. I have given up groceries, transport, working so much (life feels so heavy), going out, buying things when I need them, paying my bills on time and buying new socks!

Gabi*, 24, she/her

I’ve given up Pilates, even though it’s the only kind of exercise I find myself enjoying. The idea of putting on cute Pilates outfits and going to the studio always excites me, along with shopping. Sadly, all those are luxuries right now when keeping a roof under our heads and putting food on the table is harder than ever. The only thing me and my boyfriend haven’t given up are weekend dates (on a budget of course), because they seem to be the only bright thing to look forward to during this dreary financial situation we’re all stuck in.

Fiona*, 25, she/her

I’ve given up eating out/eating expensive foods for foods that are cheap and easy to make at home. I’ve also given up traditional grocery shopping due to the cost of groceries. I prefer to get my ingredients from local farmers’ markets or grow my own. I will often only eat out on special occasions now, for friends’ birthdays, events and celebrations.

Mya*, 26, she/her

Despite getting a decent raise in income this year, the rising cost of living has seriously made me reconsider where my money is going. I’ve stopped buying certain items of clothing (like bags, shoes, pants, tops or jackets – so everything?) if I already have something that does the job.

The items I have purchased have been versatile, higher-quality prices that I won’t need to replace after a few months. I’ve also stopped dying my hair blonde and did it brown now, as it’s cheaper! I’m also feeling more reluctant to spend big on nights out or events. I know I can fill my cup socially in much cheaper ways, like having friends over for dinner or catching up over a walk. I try to cook at home with minimal ingredients while still focusing on nutrition.

Laura*, 27, she/her

Skincare, new clothes, nice things, eating out.

Vikki*, 26, she/her

Weekly takeout on Friday night. Going out to dinner much less. Cooking more budget-conscious meals.

Adele*, 24, she/her

I’ve not really given up [much] but have resorted to stealing groceries and menstrual items – but the latter is more a political opinion And not even the fancy stuff!! Literally just thieving tuna and rice.

Indigo*, 24, she/her

I’ve given up some of my streaming services, and have started growing out my hair to avoid regular maintenance haircuts. Basically, most of my beauty services have gotten the boot but I refuse to give up my Pilates membership.

Rylan*, 23, she/her

I’ve given up on buying cheap products that are low quality – I’m now in the market for things that are of better quality to last me a longer time.

For more on navigating the cost-of-living crisis, head here.