Nothing like a closet cleanout
New Years has a tendency to remind us that we can always begin again. And what better place to start than your closet! I’m as guilty as anyone when it comes to keeping clothing that I no longer use sitting in my closet because maybe one day I will need it. I’m not sure how we were all brainwashed to think that hanging on to unused items would comfort us, but clearly this is a trend.
In my case, I will admit that I go through phases with my wardrobe. One season I will be very into the cardigans in my closet and the next I’m all about the pullovers. So, I’m slow to do a full closet clean out because I suspect that while there are items I haven’t used in a while that doesn’t mean that I won’t. That doesn’t mean that I can’t benefit from a closet cleanout. I just need to look at it from a different perspective.
If you’re hesitant to go all out when it comes to cleaning out your wardrobe, it’s ok to take it slow. I find it easier to take out pieces a little at a time. I have a dedicated bin where I put items I am ready to part with as I come across them. And every change of season I try to look at my wardrobe with a critical eye to scope out items that I know no longer serve me.
So you might be wondering how to best make decisions about what should stay and what should go. There are a few different criteria to consider. The most obvious is fit. If something no longer fits you, it’s time to let it go. Use good judgement and let go of items that don’t fit and you can reasonable assume they won’t fit in the near future. Next, let go of items that are worn, stained, ripped, or damaged in any capacity. Now consider the last time you actually wore the item. If it’s not in your regular rotation think about why. If it’s a question of being on trend, consider whether it’s worth holding on it. If you’re on the fence, put the item on. If you haven’t worn it in a while, do you even know how it looks on you? Does the style still flatter your body type? Do you have other items that will easily pair with the item in question to make an outfit? How does it look? Be critical. If you’re not loving it, let it go!
My classic gray crewneck merino wool sweater has been a go to in my closet for years.
Be sure to try on clothes that you haven’t worn in awhile to help you decide if they are worth keeping in your closet.
Trying on your clothes is key to making the best decisions about your wardrobe. And if you want to be critical you need to make sure you can see how the whole outfit looks. This means having a full length mirror. I’m always surprised to find that a client doesn’t have a full-length mirror. If you want to be able to make informed decisions about how to style your outfit, a full length mirror is absolutely necessary. Look at the whole picture. Take in the accessories along with everything else. A difference in a shoe choice can completely change an out. It’s important to try your clothes on.
A closet full of items that don’t serve you is not helping you. A closet that is full of strategically picked items, that fit and flatter you, will leave you feeling good about your wardrobe choices. As with so many things, quality wins over quantity in this space. Don’t be afraid to make the hard choices that will ultimately benefit you.