Love Your Wardrobe: The Clothes Purge

We all do it. We hold on to clothes that end up crowding our closets and making organizing impossible. This is why we so often see women standing in front of a packed closet saying, “I have nothing to wear.” We have tons of clothes, but very few that actually fit us, and even less that are still in style. In order to begin the relatively daunting process of cleaning out our closets, we have to get real with ourselves and put in some serious work. Begin by asking yourself these questions to help you decide if you really need that piece or not.

PURGE:

1. When was the last time I wore this? If it was over a year ago, or you struggle to even remember the last time you wore it, then it’s probably time for it to go. You’re not reaching for this article of clothing for a reason: you’re just not in love with it anymore. It’s OK. Styles change, and so do you. You don’t have to hold on to everything that you once loved. It sounds simple enough, but it’s going to require some discipline on your part. The trick is to be completely honest with yourself.
2. Does it still fit? Put it on. Take a good look in the mirror and see if it still fits like a dream—if not, then out it goes. Don’t hold onto clothes that you want to fit into. There’s no use in browsing through a closet of clothes that you can’t wear. Instead, look great in the clothes that you have by replacing those old ones with newer, better-fitting options.
3. Is this the right style for me? Different stages of life often means a different style of clothing. College students likely won’t wear the same clothes as a working professional, and businesspeople won’t usually wear the same things as a retired or elderly person. Maybe it’s time to set aside the shorter dresses, and get a few more pencil skirts. Whatever the change may be, focus on your lifestyle and the types of functions you will be attending. Upgrading your wardrobe doesn’t have to be boring. Work wear can be equally as attractive as summer dresses. It’s all in the cut!

UPGRADE: Styles can change dramatically from year to year. If you’re still holding on to your shoulder pads and bejeweled jackets, it may be time for a wardrobe upgrade.

As with anything, there are a few exceptions to the rules.

1. Special occasion attire. You won’t wear these as often as your everyday clothes, but it’s still important to have a few fancier pieces on hand. You should still try these on to make sure they fit well and that you enjoy the style.
2. Sentimental pieces. Maybe it’s dated and it doesn’t fit like it should, but every time you look at it you remember your grandmother. That’s ok. Those are fine to keep for sentimental reasons only. Don’t let yourself get caught up in remembering everyone and every experience in all of your clothing. Try to stay around 3-4 sentimental pieces if you have them.

After you’ve created your “Keep” and “Get Rid Of” piles, find a local donation center. Hang or wash what you’re keeping, and pack the rest in a bag to take and donate. The non-profit location will give you a receipt so you can claim these donated items on your tax returns. Plus, your clothes can have a second life and can be enjoyed by someone new!