Closet Clothes-Out
Text by Tina Bowen | Photo by Jesse Martinez
Did you know that we only wear 30% of what’s in our closet? As that sobering fact sinks in, think about what remains in the 70% that’s just taking up valuable space in your closet. It’s time to purge! Although it can seem overwhelming, here are some helpful hints about downsizing. The first step is to separate your closet into 3 categories: keep, toss, and donate. Since we are entering the spring season, the best place to start is with the seasonal clothing you just finished wearing. The fact that some of the winter clothes didn’t even make it off the shelf is a good clue that it could be in the toss or donate pile.
To help sort the remaining items in your closet into one of the 3 categories you can ask yourself these six questions.
1. Does it fit?
2. Have I worn this in the last 12 months?
3. Is it likely I will ever wear this again?
4. Is this currently in style or does this accurately represent my style?
5. If this is damaged in any way, will I make the effort to have it repaired?
6. Do I feel confident when I wear this?
If you answered “no” to any of these questions, then it’s time to let that item go. The idea of someone else finding value and enjoyment in your donated item should make you feel good about this decision. Remember, the goal is to have your “keep” pile be the smallest one when you’re done.
Downsizing and organizing your closet doesn’t have to break the bank either. Simple containers like a lined wicker basket can be found at places like Home Depot in the closet organizing section. These baskets can be used to hold items that can be folded easily like pajamas, scarves, and workout clothes. They present a clean and organized look to any shelf. If you don’t need all of the hanging space in your closet, try substituting a rod that used to hold clothes for a shelf that gives you more versatility. Clothing items like jeans, gym shorts, capris, and other stackable items can be stored on these shelves.
As you put your clothes back into the closet, make sure you group like items (long sleeves, short sleeves) together so they can be easily found. For those of you who want to take it to the next level, you can even use all the same hangers to provide a uniformed look. The key to organizing not just your closet but other areas of your house is, “just get started!” Don’t get hung up on having to do it “the right way,” but rather customize it to fit your style. So, let’s get going and turn your clutter into clarity!
~ Tina Bowen, as a native of Great Falls Tina finds joy in helping others organize and simplify their lives. She is an organizing specialist that can bring direction to your home or office. Proven effectiveness in estate sales and helping in life’s transitions.
