Have you ever searched endlessly for an item of clothing you eventually discovered flattened and dusty at the back of your closet? If your answer is yes, then you’re not alone. If your answer is no, then you’re one step closer to what may be the closet of your dreams – unless your fantasy wardrobe resembles that of Cher Horowitz from Clueless or Carrie Bradshaw from Sex and the City. Whether you consider yourself a pro or novice when it comes to decluttering, our DIY tips can help you whip your closet into shape just in time for spring, while giving you that much needed extra space for all the new-season styles you’ve been eyeing.
Closet Cleanse
The best way to begin cleaning out your closet is to remove its contents – yes, all of them! Don’t be surprised if your entire bedroom ends up looking like a disaster area. We promise the mess is only temporary. Next, pour yourself a cup of coffee, if you haven’t already. You’re officially in for the long haul.
Tip: Take the extra time to vacuum, scrub and dust. Your ultimate goal is to create a clean space for your newly organized wardrobe.
Divide and Conquer
As you scan the piles of clothing, shoes and accessories scattered throughout your bedroom, you may regret having started the cleanse altogether. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed at this point. Once you separate your belongings into neat stacks, the task will likely seem less daunting.
Tip: Group your belongings into four categories: keep, toss, donate and repair.
The 1-Year Rule
If you’re sentimental about certain belongings and can’t decide whether to keep that sparkly dress or floral blouse, try to remember when you last wore the article in question. Consider donating items you haven’t put on in over a year, so that someone else can enjoy them as much as you once did. You can toss the ones that are in bad shape, or even reuse them as rags.
Tip: Track your wardrobe by turning your hangers backwards and only placing them in the right direction once you wear an outfit.
Choose Your Organizers Wisely
Once you’ve edited your wardrobe by deciding what to keep and what to relinquish, it’s time to get creative and have a little organizational fun. Choose storage baskets and boxes that are functional and aesthetically pleasing. Remember that more surface area is better, so make sure to pick organizers that save space.
Tip: Ideally, all your hangers should match to make it easier to find your clothes.
Patience is Key
While you may initially feel the urge to start and finish your closet overhaul in just one afternoon, don’t be discouraged if you ultimately decide to tackle the project over the span of a few days or even a week. There’s no harm in giving yourself the luxury of time when it comes to matters of the wardrobe.
Tip: Stay motivated during your downtime by binging on episodes of Tidying Up With Marie Kondo on Netflix.
As we bid farewell to yet another frosty winter, there’s no better time than now to turn your closet around. Not only is it important to get rid of the clutter in order to know what new items to buy, your next fashion find will likely feel more justified if you’ve created a fresh space.
Thinking of tackling your own closet? Share your tips on how to achieve a wow-worthy wardrobe.
