Getting dressed is one of the first tasks we do every morning, and selecting an outfit can set the tone for our entire day. As the seasons change and we head into summer, this is a perfect time to assess your wardrobe and purge the items that are no longer serving you. Here's how to do it:
1. Take everything out of your closet and dressers - This may seem overwhelming, but you want to assess your clothes all at once. By seeing exactly how many t-shirts, pairs of pants, and shoes you own, you'll be able to make a much more informed decision about what to keep and what to toss. Clear off the bed or make some space on the floor and pile everything up!
2. Divide clothes into categories - If you have a very large wardrobe this step can help make it easier to purge. You might separate tops from bottoms, or work clothes from casual wear. Create categories that make sense to you.
3. Consider each item individually - One by one, pick up each item and ask yourself a few questions:
Do I love this? If the answer is no, why keep it? Imagine wearing only the clothes you love, every day: that is your goal!
Do I feel good when I wear this? Do you really want to spend your life in clothes that are ill-fitting, faded, or in colors that don't flatter you? Say goodbye to the items that don't provide a confidence boost.
When is the last time I wore this? If its been a year or longer since you had it on, odds are you will never wear it again. Give it away or donate it to someone who can put it to use.
Does this make sense for my life right now? Maybe you have a collection of beautiful work clothes, but you are retired. Or, you have changed sizes but still hold on to things just in case they fit again. Let go of the past and resolve to keep only the clothes that serve you now.
4. Set some limits - I used to think having clothes in every color was the way to go, but it made getting dressed really difficult. Limit yourself to a color palette and a silhouette that is most flattering to you, and it will be much easier to shop and put outfits together. We tend to assume a bigger wardrobe is better, but having too many choices is overwhelming.
5. Keep a pen and paper handy - As you go through this process you will find holes in your wardrobe. You'll finally get rid of that threadbare jacket and need a replacement, or realize you don't have a single pair of shorts that fit properly. Keep a running list of these items to bring shopping, and it will help keep you focused on buying just what you need.
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Make it fab!
Carrie