Well? How did you do? I hope I inspired you to take a look at your closet and create categories. If so, at this very moment, you could go to your closet and tell me how many t-shirts you own. That’s a great first step. Now its time to purge. Getting rid of clothes can be difficult for many people. So create rules before you do so and stick to them. If necessary, write them down and tape them to the mirror you are using… yes, you have to try them on!
Rule #1
If it doesn’t fit, you don’t need it.
Those are my skinny jeans, they will fit me again.” Maybe, but will you put your old jeans on or go buy new ones? Hanging on to clothes that define who you were does not allow you to be comfortable with who you are. This is where the trying on comes into play. Try your clothes on to make the decision. Do they make you feel good? Are they comfortable? If you answer “no” to these questions, don’t keep the clothes!
Rule #2
Haven’t worn it in X amount of months/years. You will be the best judge for what a good amount of time is for this rule. I like to go by seasons. If I didn’t wear something at all the previous winter, I get rid of it. I probably have something I like a lot more if I went that long without wearing it. If you don’t wear it, it likely doesn’t fit, you don’t like the color, it’s out of style, or you forgot about it. If you forgot about it, test it with rule one and three before keeping it. If it is any other excuse, let it go.
Rule #3
Just plain worn out.
I get it; it’s your favorite pair of slacks. But, when the hem is fraying and there are snags throughout the fabric, it’s time to let them go. Held together by staples, safety pins, glue… I’ve seen it all. If your clothes are worn past fixing, and I mean by a seamstress, let them go!
Exception to the rule, your saving grace…
It’s true; some articles of clothing have sentimental value. Like your favorite pair of slacks. Maybe they are your favorite because you were wearing them when you met your spouse. If an article of clothing doesn’t pass the first three rules, it can be saved. Use caution with your save though. Make sure not to use the exception for everything.
Taking on your entire closet at one time can be daunting. You can spread out the decision making by picking categories to go thru. For instance, just go thru all your pants this week. If that’s still too large a task, start with your jeans then do your slacks.
Make sure you take your “give away pile” to a local shelter or charity once you have finished. I find it is best to use boxes or black trash bags. This lessens the urge to pull something out of the pile in a last minute change of heart.
Good luck!