We've all heard the concept of "spring cleaning" for our homes. At YOD Style we consider the approaching new year an opportunity to purge clutter from the closet and decide which items we'll take with us into the next 365 days.
It can be challenging to figure out where to start when tackling a project like cleaning out your closet. Below we give you a list a questions to consider before deciding to donate or discard an item from your closet.
1. When was the last time I wore this piece?
A tell tell sign that it's time to let go of an item in your closet is when you never wear it. You know that dress you bought that's really not your style but you say to yourself, "one day I'm going to wear this!", and that day never comes? Get rid of that dress. If you haven't worn it within the last year, let it go.
Also the jumpsuit you find tucked in the back of your closet that you keep "forgetting you had", set that jumpsuit free. There may be someone searching for a jumpsuit just like that one who would put it to good use.
The Exception: If you have a dress you bought for when you reach your goal weight, by all means keep that dress. Also considering we've primarily been in sweatsuits during the pandemic, if you have an item you absolutely love but haven't wore this past year, keep it for next year. But if you have any hesitation on if you even like it anymore, let it go.
2. Can I think of 3 occasions to wear to this item?
Similar to our "can I think of three outfits to create" before making a purchase, this a great question to consider when you're clearing out your closet. If you can't think of an appropriate event or occasion to wear an item, then it's time to let it go.
You should have a general idea of the events you attend yearly, special occasions coming up, vacations, or music festivals planned. If you can think of at least three occasions you'd consider wearing the garment, it's worth keeping. You can reassess this decision later in the year when the appropriate season for the item passes if you don't end up using it.
3. Is this item still in good condition?
A lot of times we tend to wear our favorite closet items the most which in some cases leads to wearing them out. If this applies to your favorite outfit, sweater, or shoe, it's time to retire the item.
We see this happen most often with shoes. When a shoe is comfy and "goes with everything" you can start to ignore the signs that it's worn out. If you love a certain pair of shoes or item in your closet, that's great. Just be sure you're paying attention to when it's time to replace the item.
Consider purchasing the item in a different color or pattern next time. Even though you love it as is, a fresh look will give you a fresh perspective. Trust us on this one.
4. Is this an "era item"?
Was there a fashion style that you really connected with and felt represented your individuality in the early 2000's, 90's, or 80's? Well, times have changed and so have you. It's time to let these items go.
There's nothing new under the sun, so if you really connected to the hip hop vibe of the late 90's or grunge style of the early 90's, there are new fashion styles that express those same sentiments. We love trends and streetwear, but make sure when you're wearing era clothing, it's age appropriate and has a fresh approach to the style.
The Exception: You find an amazing vintage item (one item per era, is our rule) that you incorporate into your current modern wardrobe.
5. Can I transition this item to lounge wear?
Some of those worn out items from question three may work well for your home lounge wear. But choose wisely, if you already have a full array of clothing for chilling around the house don't hold on to item for the sake of it. Also, you never want to keep anything that's falling apart or has several holes. How you dress can really shift your mood so we don't suggest wearing low vibrational clothing ever, not even at home. But if you have a cozy sweater jacket that's a little too fuzzy for public, this could be converted into a good house sweater.
When you transition an item to lounge wear, remove it from the hanger and store it with the rest of your home wear. We believe these items should be kept separately. When your closet is clear of clutter you can see what you have and need easier. So if you're not going to wear it in public remove it from your wardrobe items.
We're wishing you a peaceful, love filled, and fashionable New Year!
Until next time,
YOD Style