How To Do Closet Clean Out The Proper Way

What is the proper way to clean out a closet?

Go through each item in your closet and try each piece on. (Minus the styles you hate and never wear –those get immediately tossed into a donate or recycle pile). Don’t skip this step! If you do, you will most likely put things back into your closet that you won’t wear. Grab trash bags for each of the following categories:

Keep
These are the pieces you LOVE that go back into your closet. Hang them on uniform hangers. It makes a difference

Tailor
Make an item look like it was made for you “couture” with simple tailoring. Not only that but you can re-create pieces i.e. turn a dress into a skirt or a skirt into a scarf! The possibilities are endless when you see your clothes in a new light. Grab my Tailoring Tips Sheet Guide for Petites HERE.

Extend the life of an item if it can be mended!

Consign/Sell
If you have pieces with tags on them, items in excellent condition, designer styles, etc. You might cash in more than you thought!

Recycle/Trash
If something is super out of date, or worn out try to find a textile recycling program before you trash it.

How can I declutter my closet fast?

When it comes to cleaning out your closet, do the pre-work of eliminating what you hate or don’t wear Items that are stained, ripped or need to be replaced immediately can be deleted. This will give you a quick win and get you into action.

Next, I recommend asking these essential questions to make sure you keep the right pieces and part with those that don’t serve you. Walking through these questions will help you ditch any emotional bagging you might have that’s got you hanging on to pieces you don’t need and an overstuffed closet that’s hard to manage!

Asking these questions will keep you from hesitating on keeping or releasing an item making the process more streamlined.

1. Does this piece align with my 3 words and my vision for who I’m becoming?
2. Does it have a stain or rip beyond repair?
3. Does it fit?
4. If not can it be tailored? (See my Tailoring Guide for Petites )
5. Do you like how it looks on you, do you feel confident in it?
6. Is it comfortable enough I could wear it all day
7. Does this have sentimental value? Enough to keep and take up real estate place in your closet. (For example, a piece from your mother that has special memory and meaning and seeing it brings comfort and calm is valuable and should be kept. OR Can I keep it in a memory box?
8. When was the last time I wore this? Why has it been so long?
9. Can I wear this at least 3 ways or with 3 different outfits?

WHAT IS THE FASTEST WAY TO CLEAN OUT A CLOSET?

Working with an expert or professional is the fastest way to do a proper closet cleanse. A wardrobe stylist can help you determine which pieces fit correctly, which styles suit your shape best and what looks are current or out of date. A stylist can also show you new ways of wearing your favorite pieces and recommend tailoring you might not think of.

Want to take this a step further and work with me to take your style to the next level? Apply for a Style Clarity & Confidence Strategy Session HERE to learn about how I work with my private clients to create a personal style and closet they love.

Due to a high volume of calls requested I can only take a limited number per week. If I am not able to meet with you, I do my best to send you a free resource via email.