Making Sense of Closet Spring Cleaning

Making piles and knowing what you need to keep and get rid of will merit some space for you to appreciate what you do have.

It comes around every year, yet I still find myself exasperated by the thought of it: spring cleaning. The washing, the drying – it all seems mundane to me – until I get to my absolute favorite part: my closet.

Spring cleaning for my closet is like getting a haircut, manicure and pedicure, dinner date and job promotion all in one day. It’s a face-lift for the most creative part of my life: my clothes.

I realize for some it’s a little more complicated, which is why I compiled a list of ways to help you de-clutter your wardrobe and get your style back on track for the new season.

1. Rip everything out

I mean it. Take everything out of your closet. Starting with a clean slate and open concept will help you realize just how much you have and don’t need.

2. Try things on

It sounds daunting and stupid, but try everything on. Look at the fit, the color, the condition – every little detail. Do you need it? Do you want it? Does it work with your style?

Seeing it on your actual body instead of a hanger or mannequin may help make your decision quicker than you think.

3. Be a realist

This one’s hard, especially for me. I am constantly thinking that I will lose weight or need a piece for a largely-too specific event, but I never end up wearing it while it sits sorrowfully in my closet.

Know what you will and won’t wear and be realistic with yourself.

4. Make three piles

Keep, donate and toss. The keep pile is pretty simple, but most think that’s just for things they’ve been wearing the most lately.

Donating can be cool, depending on the method you use. Plus, plenty of consignment shops in the area pay top dollar for designer and name brand items.

Don’t forget about thrift stores that give back to the community through programs and organizations like Goodwill and the Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch.

Tossing things must be done carefully; you don’t want to be wasteful. Things like underwear, socks and other intimates or delicates may just be better off in the trash.

5. Organize

I color code my closet and keep things organized by length as well. I start with my tops and keep them separated by respected colors and sleeve length, continuing on with my dresses, skirts, bottoms, pants and jackets.

My shoes are separated by season. My handbags are stuffed to ensure no excessive wrinkling, and other accessories are stored in a bin.

I invest a lot of time and money in my clothes, so I consider simply storing them properly as another  investment. If you take care of the pieces you love the most, they will last longer so you can enjoy them.