Recently, life has looked like a busy blur of travel. And while I loved making memories, connecting with friends and diving into new experiences, perhaps the most unexpected outcome of life on the go was motivation to clean out the closet. Let me explain. For the past two months, I have travelled at least every other week and lived from my suitcase. That is, I’m 1) fit on a carry-on, and 2) spinning between the easiest and most versatile outfits that take me effortlessly from day to night.
Those unicorn works include my favorites Freda Salvador Slip-on Sneakersthis Cozy Frank & Irene travel set For flights, Old Don Dress It has become easy to make my most worn (and complimentary) dresses, leather jackets, some training outfits, and whether it’s a wedding or a work trip, to something unique to this occasion.
Grabing these staples every week has illuminated the fact that a small portion of my closet is for my proven staples and I have drawn some special pieces. You may feel similar about the closet. It appears that nothing is worn and most of the items take up too much space. Clearly, the clean-out in the closet is calling our name.
Features images from an interview with Claire V by Michelle Nash.
5 Tips for Effective Closet Clean-out
You can’t just find out how many times you stroll around the closet and find yourself filled with impulsive shopping, talented items and pieces. Wish I was wearing it, but never did. And honestly, a few things continue just because (it hurts) I spent on them.
Every time I open it, I feel like I creep up the overwhelming thing: I’m too many.
But it’s here. Clean-out doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing event all day. If you are intentionally approached and patient with yourself, small, intentional steps can create permanent changes. If your closet is going to refresh as well, here is how I’m approaching my approach.
Step 1: Start with the easiest piece
If I haven’t worn it in years, it’s a simple goodbye. Suitable Case: My Cycling Gear Hidden from 2015 to 2017. The last time I jumped on a road bike was in 2017.. Needless to say, it’s time to let go.
Not everything has to be apart – I hold two sets of gear Just in case– But the rest is heading for resale (cycling kits retain their value!). The same applies to other things that collect dust. If it hasn’t seen the light of years of day, it will never do so.
Step 2: Minimize replication
If you have your favorite sweatshirt, raise your hand everytime Reach out your hand. If you have 17 people sitting in your closet, raise your hands if they are stiff, unused, or not correct at all. Yes, the same.
reality? No more – it just takes up space. The goal here is Curate, It’s not beautiful. I only protect what I actually wear. (Exception: White Tea. If you’re a fellow Spirar, you know that backup is essential.)
Step 3: Be honest about “a day”
The huge chunks of my closet consist of clothes that I reach probably once or twice a year. They don’t fit properly at all, feel uncomfortable, or simply not myself already. Still… I’m having a hard time letting them go.
I am reconstructing the way I think about these works. If I could change it to fit, and I actually Wear it – so I’ll hold it. Otherwise, it’s out. The truth is, style has evolved and it’s not that I benefited myself (or my space) to be clung to the past. Give yourself permission to remember the same thing.
Step 4: Donations, Sales, Gifts
The final step is to find a new home with pieces I don’t need anymore. Whether it’s a local nonprofit like Thread Up, Poshmark, eBay, or Dress for Success, I’m committed to getting these items Outside My space and the hands of those who love them.
It’s easy to postpone this part as you can take and list photos processbut I only have a few hours on the weekend until it’s finished. I know I’ll feel better once.
Step 5: Set up your future basic rules
My sister has a friend who embodies a true minimalist attitude. When she buys something new, she removes the same number of items from her closet. She also won’t buy anything unless she can wear it. I love this approach. It will recognize what is actually in your wardrobe and prevent the moment of “I even forgot I owned this.”
This not only approach is the closet. Recently I have noticed that the pantry and fridge can probably use deep and clean and better tissue.
This process may seem daunting right now, but know that there is no more groundwork than stepping into a space where you feel organized and organized. intentional and intentional. Think of this as your sign: start small, go step by step, and trust that every time you let go, you’re making room for more of what you love.
This post was last updated on March 10th, 2025 to include new insights.
Source: Camille Styles – camillestyles.com