Let's Talk Closets!

So, you’ve decided to tackle your clothes, huh?  Would you like a few tips?  Here’s the exact process I use when working with clients and their clothes.

And by the way, this is how we tackled a client’s closet last Friday.
We go through her closet yearly so now it’s a breeze...so easy, in fact, that we had time to GO SHOPPING!

First, start with the dresser. I would recommend going one drawer at a time so that the job does not become overwhelming! Or pick a category like shoes, sweaters, workout gear. Remember start small and manageable, build your editing muscle without overwhelming yourself.

Take everything out (of the drawer, shelf, or section of closet) and give the drawer or shelf a cleaning. (I LOVE Thieves Cleaner, smells like cinnamon and cloves. I’m looking forward to a scratch/sniff app someday, then you can smell for yourself).

Then the FUN begins...EDITING!
This is where you sort out what to keep, donate, or mend.

Some things to keep in mind when working on EDITING
For each item:

• Does it fit? Really?
• Does it represent who you want to be now? 6 months from now? 1 year from now? 
  
• Do you CHOOSE it? (Because if it is just hangin’ on a hanger or sittin’ on the shoe rack, it’s taking up valuable real estate!
  
• When you wear it does it lift your spirits? Make your heart sing?
  
• Is it in good shape (not torn, faded or stained)?
  
• Does it need to be tailored, dry cleaned, or mended in some way?

This step may involve trying on and taking a very objective look in the mirror, it may also involve support from someone who knows you well and can be honest :)

Be RUTHLESS!!! Someone would LOVE to find this stuff at the Goodwill OR take it to a consignment shop (if you have time) and get back some cash $$$ for your cast-offs.

During this process, it can be helpful to make a list of items to buy…Do you need to replace the jeans, sweaters, or shoes you just bagged up for donation?
Are you starting a new phase of life, do you need a wardrobe upgrade?
What staples are missing from your closet?
Are you in need of neutrals? Color? Texture?  
Lots to consider!
Psssst...you might even want new hangers, all the same, beautiful, luxurious!

Putting things away should be no sweat now that there’s plenty of space!
Ahhhhhh, space for a couple of new things maybe, but just SPACE so that the drawer shuts and the clothes aren’t jammed into the closet and feels really, really good! It makes getting dressed and finding outfits a cinch! Maybe in the try-on phase, you have even discovered a few NEW combinations!

Now, CELEBRATE! Sit down with a cup of tea, a piece of dark chocolate, talk a walk in the sun, or (my favorite) do a happy dance...enjoy your success and PLEEEEEEEASE send me a picture or video…

(I am starting a collection of happy dance videos.  Wouldn’t you love to share?)

Good luck and let me know how it goes for you in the comments section below!

XOXO
Jane