How to Get Your Closet Ready for Spring

This is when I try to do things that I don’t have time for once spring rolls around.  One important thing I try to do is go through my closet. I have made it a tradition for the past two years to bring you my closet cleaning post in January.  Just seemed fitting to keep that tradition alive so here ya go!  Check out all the details on How to Get Your Closet Ready for Spring.

1. Contemplate Each Spring Item

First, you will need to evaluate each piece for the spring season.  This is very important to do before any spring shopping so you will not make any unneeded purchases. If your spring clothing is packed away then this is the perfect time to pull it out.  You will need to look at each piece and ask yourself these 7 questions to help you determine if you need to keep, donate or throw away the item. I also recommend trying things on during this evaluation process to see if things still fit the same. (I know, this is work!)

Here are some questions to ask about each piece that you evaluate to determine whether to keep or to not keep.

1. Is the item in good condition? This is the first question you need to ask for each item. It is the most important one that may eliminate the need to ask any other questions!  If the answer is no then consider repurposing, donating or throwing it away. Of course it depends on how worn the item is as to what you should do with it. Note: To repurpose is to take an item like a t-shirt you use to wear and make it a workout top or for around the house cleaning.
2. How long have I had this item?  If the item is from last year the odds are it is still okay to keep.  If it is older than that you will need to consider if it is in good enough condition. If you purchased it last year and did not wear it you may want to consider selling it or giving it away.
3. How long has it been since I have worn the item?  If it has been 2 or more years since you have worn the item than you need to think seriously about repurposing or donating it.  Another option is to sell it to a resale shop but remember it has to be “lightly worn” and currently in style.
4. Is the item still in style?  You will end up buying some trendy things that will go out of style in a couple of years. If it is not in style again than I recommend donating it.
5. Is the item the right size? We have a tendency to hang on to things thinking we will be able to get back into them.  If they are only a year or two old you could sell them in a resale shop and use that money to buy things that fit! (This is a subject for a whole other blog post!)
6. How many other things do I have that are like this item?  We all have a tendency to like and buy the same stuff. For example, if you like black cami’s you may have 5 of them.  And yes we all do this!  We are creatures of habit. Keep your favorites and make someone else happy by donating or selling the rest. If you just can’t than that’s okay too.
7. Does it have any sentimental value?  I have clients that will not get rid of something that is from their honeymoon or wedding etc.  This is okay.  We all have things like this. Just store these pieces in a special safe place and not with your current wardrobe choices.  You don’t want to keep evaluating pieces like this each season.

Style Tip: I do want to give some other advice that I have had a couple of clients do.  I would have never thought of this but this may make sense for you.  If you are a big Halloween party person there may be some pieces you could keep around and re-purpose for this.  Store them in a closet or attic where all your costumes are and you will have lots of options. Things like flare jeans/pants, bell sleeve tops, heavy floral tops, and anything else super trendy are great pieces to put together fun looks for Halloween.

2. Make an Essentials List 

Second, evaluate what you just decided to keep and make a list of what you will need. If you got rid of any essential pieces these will definitely need to be replaced with an updated version.  For example, a white button down, plain t-shirts, jeans, etc. Also, try to remember if there was anything you thought you were missing from the previous (same) season and make a note of that as well.  Hopefully you will remember.  If you think about it, make a list as you go through the season so it is already done when the next one rolls around.

3. What Stylish Additions Will You Add?

Third, make a list of the things you would like to have that are new styles for the season.  There are always new and fun things that can be added to your wardrobe that are more trendy and fun.  These pieces are what will make an essential wardrobe one that reflects YOUR own personal style, which is the ultimate goal.  You can start this list now but continue to add to it throughout the season.  This will give you something to work with when another shopping trip calls your name!  I love a good list and it keeps my focus because I love to mark things off!! You with me??!

4. Evaluate Your Shoes, Handbags, Scarves and Jewelry

Remember to go through everything, not just your clothing.  If they are not seasonal go through them once a year and you should be good. All the above questions will apply to these categories as well!

These simple tips are to help you get your closet moving in the right direction. It may take you a couple of seasons to see progress but if you keep it up each season gets better and easier!   Also,  it is not easy doing it  by yourself so, if you can’t afford to pay someone to help, ask a good friend.  It is always better to have another perspective on your wardrobe. Just make sure it is an honest friend! If that is not an option for you than don’t hesitate to contact me and I can definitely help! Heck, I would even do it remotely with you!

THE END!

In the end, you will be prepared for what purchases you need to make and will hopefully eliminate any unnecessary or duplicate purchases. You should also feel relief to have accomplished this task because it is not a fun one! If you have any questions or want to share how you get your closet ready for spring I would love for you to comment below!  Please also let me know if you would like more posts like this! Thanks a million for reading and we’ll talk next time!

Happy Closet Cleaning!