Closet Clean Out TIME

the Clampetts

I've always been a lover of shopping, but lately it's been really obvious that I don't wear about 80% of my closet. And since I am still in that awkward mid-20s never going to stay in a place over a year phase it seems silly that I keep carting this stuff around. I know what you are thinking: I spent so much money on that! I really loved it! I might wear it someday! 

I just love this picture.

While these are all really valid points they seem a little silly because you know that once you get paid on the first (ahem, ladies) you will head to the mall/outlets/Last Call (my personal fave - they just keep sending my 40% off coupons! it's not my fault & they are online now: trying to hop on the Gilt bandwagon...) and buy yourself a little something nice. Because that's what we do as a culture: we consume and it's ok, just as long as you don't end up like those sad folks on Hoarders who can't keep it in perspective. 

Before

They say your inner state of consciousness is indicated by your outer state, so let's get some closet harmony flowing folks! Here are my closet clean out tips:

1. A good rule of thumbs is if you buy something new you have to give something old away... I don't necessarily agree with this (especially in the world of accessories because those are investment pieces); I do agree with this in terms of more expendable items: jeans, t-shirts, anything that is ripped and or discolored from over wear and can't be salvaged. 

Get rid of wire hangers - they ruin your clothes!
Take them to your dry cleaners and donate them instead.

2. Tim Gunn says that if you haven't worn it in a year then give it to someone who needs it more... I think 1.5 to 2 years is more realistic. Especially in this world of revolving trends (and you know I lurve me some trends) what goes around comes around. Also, this tip is void if you are referring to a formal dress that still fits and you know that you will wear it again coming wedding season (hey, this is the South and the girls got the feva)... As long as it is in good condition and it fits then this is ok by me. 

3. If something doesn't fit, like really doesn't fit: get rid of it... I am guilty of holding onto skinny jeans, etc. And if these items are literally fitting but just a little snug (the key is a little snug) then I will keep them, but if you have to lay down to zip them up, then forgetaboutit. Donate them. Or, in the case of an item that's too big - get it altered. Make sure to price it out first and be sure it's worth it to you.

4. Organize the effort: have boxes/bags marked Goodwill, Trash, Resale, Alterations and Sentimental Value. Go with your gut here - if you agonize for 10 minutes you don't really want it. Worst case scenario put it in your Sentimental Value box and then revisit it in 2 days and see how you feel. 

5. Sell you stuff on Ebay or at Buffalo Exchange/Cupid's Closet... Making dough is good, but Ebay is not so simple. The folks that buy your bargain goods will not always be upstanding citizens and may complain or demand a refund (this happened to me over a $5 pair of shoes. The shipping cost more! I was like lady, they were $5, what did you expect?!). Unless you have nothing better to do than track down their payments and ship items, I wouldn't recommend it. It takes a lot of time. Do the consignment store road instead. You'll get less money but for a lot less hassle.

Figaro is super helpful.

After

6. Organize those accessories! It will make finding the right clutch or scarf so much easier. Donate those kitschy items from Forever21- you only bought them because they were $9.99 anyway.

7. Organize in terms of style and not color...That way if I want a sweater I can choose from that section and get more creative. It's easier for me then by color and it let's me express myself more.

Work shirts, blouses, sweaters, blazers, pants, and vests. 

Summer clothes in the coat closet to de-clutter
your fall/winter look.

As far as updating my look, I've decided to completely embrace the Annie Hall style that I love. That means: skinny jeans, high wasted belted trousers, vests, blazers, cardigans with my own flare. For now I'll be packing away my flowy tops and summer patterned items (That's what my coat closet is for anyways.) for a more sophisticated look that I can take from day to night with a swipe of red lipstick, quick change to heels and some sweet earrings/necklace to top it all off.