Closet Cleanout: Curating a Closet that Sparks Joy
When you look at your closet, do you feel like you have nothing to wear even though every shelf is stuffed and every drawer is overflowing with sweaters, pants, and shoes? It may be time to embark on your closet cleanout journey in an attempt to create a wardrobe that is intentional and curated to your taste. Trends come and go, but it is time to make your style and closet your own, so you have clothes that you feel good in and will last for seasons to come.
###Set the Mood
The first step in your decluttering process is setting a positive and energizing atmosphere. Put on your favorite record, light some candles, and pour your favorite drink. Taking these actions will set you up for success as you take on your closet cleanout. It is also recommended that you set aside a few hours of your day before you begin. Leaving yourself ample time will help you avoid quitting your project halfway through and making your room a bigger mess than when you started.
###Clear out and Clean up
After the mood is set, empty your closet and lay every item in plain sight. It may seem odd, but a thorough cleanout requires you to be able to see each item you currently own. While your closet is empty, take this time to wipe down your shelves, vacuum the floors, and dust those hard to reach crevices because your clothes will stay in better shape if they have a fresh environment.
###Assess Your Wardrobe
Once you have a fresh canvas of a closet, it is time to decide what you are going to fill it with. When determining which items to keep, ask yourself the important questions:
- Does it fit well?
- Have I worn it in the last year?
- Does it bring me joy or serve a purpose?
If the answer to any of these questions is no, it may be time to say goodbye. Note that an item you love but doesn’t fit may be worth taking to the tailor. It is usually cheaper to get clothes tailored than buying a new item all together, and you can guarantee it will fit perfectly moving forward.
Whether you watched the Netflix show Tidying Up with Marie Kondo or read about her in Time Magazine, we definitely are all familiar with Marie Kondo’s KonMarie Method, especially after the cleanout craze that took place during the Covid-19 lock in of 2020. This method requires you to hold each item and assess whether or not it sparks joy in you. If it does not, you can express your gratitude for the time you spent with it and part ways. Implementing this method leads to quick decision making but also fosters a deeper connection with your belongings.
###Categorize and Organize
Once you have determined the items you plan on keeping, organize your curated wardrobe into categories such as tops, bottoms, dresses, and accessories. Filling your closet in a methodical fashion makes your closet more visually appealing. To take it a step further, consider color-coding so you can easily find “that one blazer” you need for a big interview or your favorite pair of jeans in a moment's notice. Investing in quality hangers, shelves, and shoe racks is also essential for maintaining a tidy closet.
###Donate or Sell
With your chosen items neatly sorted, what should you do with the clothing pieces that no longer have a space in your life or closet? Instead of discarding these items, contribute to local charities or sell them 2nd hand to a consignment store or online on sites like Poshmark and Depop. Your pre-loved pieces might bring joy to someone else while reducing waste and making you a few bucks in the process.
###More Than a Closet Cleanout
Taking the time to clean out your closet can do more than create physician space; it can help clear your mental space, as well, by decluttering unnecessary items from your mind. After completing this project, you can be confident that each item sitting in your closet is going to fit you right and bring you joy each time you put it on. It’s time to let go of fast-fashion trends and find a style that works for you. So, take a breath, let go of the excess, and step into your capsule wardrobe. Happy cleaning!