I have definitely gotten better about not buying things that aren't quite right. (Of course there's nothing wrong with something being 'good enough' vs. perfect.) I still have a tendency though to want to plug holes immediately so I have to be careful that I don't settle. I think most of my place holders would be things that I've had for some time and might be a bit worn, or no longer a good fit, or the style is not as current as I would like. Right now I am holding on to some jeans that are a bit too big. I haven't found a replacement so I will wear them until I do. (That's what belts are for!)

Recently I was able to replace 2 placeholders with one right piece. I got a new raincoat that replaced an old, rather unstylish one and a gray long trench that I never really loved.

I do think it's fine to keep practical items as placeholders. For things like tops, I am less likely to keep placeholders as I would reach for other things instead.

Do panties count? I have a lot that are 8s and 9s but almost none that I'd consider to be *10*s. I think my shape has changed/drooped over the years so I may never find the coverage that I'd prefer. I'll live.

None of my shoes, sandals, or booties would qualify as 14 hour footwear, and most last on my feet a small fraction of that. In that sense, they are place holders. But I have feet that hurt even unshod, so I try to be realistic. I only wish that more were okay for longer than four or six hours.

As to the rest of my clothing? Nothing comes to mind. I definitely try not to buy place holders.

I've a few not perfect, good enough items. If and when I'm in mood to go and spend my time and money or if I serendipitously find something better I'll buy perfect version of those. But for now, they'll do.

Yes, it is almost inevitable when I have 1) high standards 2) a fairly modest budget and 2) not that much stamina for shopping

Like others I have several categories

1) things I bought that aren't exactly as I'd hoped. eg I wanted a short fitted black jacket. I found one, and it got good feedback and is useful - but it doesn't do up. If I ever found one that did, and that fit at my natural waist (almost impossible) I'd buy that.

2) things I'd do better next time. I replaced my leather black booties, a wardrobe staple, with a non- leather pair because they were cheaper. They aren't quite as comfortable, specially on my slightly larger foot. But they'll do, and I'll wear them til they wear out - but not mend them. I've had nearly 2 winters from them but for next winter's pair I'll splurge for leather

3) very limited purpose items - eg a short sleeved blouse bought for everyday wear in my first YLF wear nearly 9 years ago. So a bit dated, but just right for shoulder coverage on a really hot day. My budget doesn't really extend to puchasing something new just for a few days a year

4) Items that are a little more worn than perhaps ideal. I can't replace everything at once.

I hadn't responded earlier because I didn't want to admit the truth to myself .... that I have a quite a few place holders. My place holders were purchased for any number of reasons. They persist, but I am actively trying to remove them entirely.

Now that I finally admitted the truth, I can go back and read all the comments. I