It is the time of year for changing your seasonal wardrobe. We put away our fall and winter clothing and say “Hello,” to our spring and summer attire. Did you know roughly 50% of Americans do not clear out their closet based on seasons? It might be because they find the process overwhelming. Whether you place your seasonal clothes in storage totes or move them to the back of the closet, Unclutter Me by Lisa Witzleben can provide some techniques and motivation so you can set up a system to simplify this semi-annual task.
“We need much less than we think we need.”
Maya Angelou
Review the Current Season’s Wardrobe
Before you put away your heavy winter coats, sweaters, and boots, review what you wore during the season. Place all items into categories. For example, put long sleeve shirts in one pile, sweaters in another, etc. Once you place everything in its designated group, review the items in each one and ask yourself the following questions:
- Have you outgrown the item? The item may be too large or too small. Unclutter Me Recommendation: Be realistic. If you need to lose or gain more than 10 lbs to fit into the item, let it go.
- Did you wear the item this past season? If the answer is “No,” Be intentional and ask yourself why you are holding onto it.
- Do you have too many of one style? For example, if you have ten black long-sleeved shirts, you should probably keep three that fit you best and let the rest go.
- Are any items worn out or damaged? If so, let them go if you can’t repair them.
- Do you like the item of clothing? If not, feel free to let it go. It’s tempting to hold onto an item because of sentimental value or fear of disappointing a loved one. If that is the case, take a photo of yourself wearing it and then let it go.
Tips for Changing Your Seasonal Wardrobe
Do yourself a favor and follow the Unclutter Me Essential Tips for putting your fall and winter wardrobe.
- Work during your best time of day.
- Do not tackle your entire closet at once. Instead, work section by section.
- Ideally, work only a maximum of three hours at one time.
- Be sure you are in the right frame of mind to work on this process. If not, reset your attitude, or reschedule for a different date.
- Set a timer for the last 20 minutes of the session to tidy up.
- Reduce distractions while working. Put your phone away or switch it to focus mode.
Simplifying what’s around you will help you simplify what’s within you.
Courtney Carver, Be More With Less
Create a System for Your Spring-Summer Wardrobe
According to a study by Trunk Club, 61% of Americans regularly find it difficult to decide what to wear, even though they have a closet full of clothing. As you unpack last season’s spring and summer clothes, you will likely find items that no longer apply to your current lifestyle. Here are Unclutter Me techniques to keep you on a realistic path with your clothing.
- Rotate your clothing: Do not keep placing your favorite t-shirt on the top of the pile. Rotate your clothes with the most recently worn piece on the bottom of the pile or back of the rod.
- Change the direction of the hanger: A popular technique used by many organizers to help you keep track of what you wear is to change the direction of the hanger after you wear the item. By the end of the season, if you have yet to reverse the hanger, it is time to ask yourself whether you need to keep it.
- Space Savers: Consider using organizational products to manage your clothing effectively. My favorite closet-organizing supplies are:
Reassess Before Donating
Although hard to accept, do not assume someone else will want your clothing. If the item is damaged or worn out, do not donate it. If you do not wear it due to damage, do not assume someone should be “so lucky” to have an item of clothing in poor condition.
Do not assume your friends or family will want your clothing. We all have different tastes and desires. Be mindful of others’ likes and dislikes. First and foremost, ask the friend or family if they have any interest. If the answer is no, this is okay. Never make anyone feel guilty for not taking the clothing you no longer want or need.
Let’s be honest. Changing your seasonal wardrobe can be a challenging process. Give yourself some grace and step through the process with understanding and patience. If you feel the task is too arduous, working with a professional organizer can provide clarity and keep you on track.
You can do this! Unclutter Me by Lisa Witzleben is here to assist you.
Refresh | Renew | Live Simply
Unclutter Me by Lisa Witzleben 