This Is A Con, Marie!

Five years ago, Marie Kondo introduced the world to her KonMari method of tidying and decluttering. She wasn't the first to try and get us to do this - I checked back and discovered I did someone else's declutter challenge more than 10 years ago.  
I admit that I'm still a work in progress, and admire my daughter's determination - she's way better than I am at this.
But what has really annoyed me this week is the news that Ms Kondo has opened her own shop. Having got rid of 95% of your stuff, you can buy other stuff to replace it.
Now I'm keen on good design, items that work well, and prefer to buy "things to last" rather than cheap plastic tat. 

But $65 for a brass bottle opener? No way would I spend that! Especially when the instructions warn you not to drop it, or hit it. My steel one is ancient and tough as old boots, and it cost next to nothing. Or $60 for a French Market tote? 

I made mine 5 years ago with £1 of jute string from Wilko. And it does the job and I love it. 
I'm bothered that the people who are following KonMari methods to get their homes in order will feel the need to spend a fortune on "authentic" homewards from the online shop. 

You can declutter, and work towards minimalism but keep the best of the stuff you already have. You shouldn't feel pressured into buying costly replacements. Credit card debts do not "spark joy" for anybody!