When organizing and planning a wardrobe, there are many things to consider. If you are ready to create a wardrobe that is right for you at this time in your life, consider these tips:
Declutter the Old
Remove any old or excess clothing that is worn, out of style, does not fit, is uncomfortable, or does not match what you want or need to wear. Tossing, donating or selling these items will open up the space that is needed for your current wardrobe.
Sort Clothing by Use
Next, to determine what you already own, sort clothing by use: business clothes, casual clothes, workout clothing, clothing for sleeping or lounging, etc.
Sort Clothing by Type
Gathering all business pants together, all casual pants together, all formal dresses, all belts, etc. will help you to see how much you own of each type of clothing.
Determine What Coordinating Pieces You Already Own
See if there are neutral colors or coordinating colors and fabrics that you can already mix and match to turn into a variety of outfits.
Decide How Much of Each Type of Clothing You Need
(Hint: this is often based on the seasons where you live, and your laundry schedule).
Do you need just 2 weeks of business outfits (10 total) for your regular business wear, but for all seasons? Do you only do laundry monthly, and need more clothing? Think about your life and how frequently you change seasons, wash clothing, and how much variety you personally want in your wardrobe.
Make a Shopping List
At this point, make a shopping list of exactly what you need. For example, “I need 2 white casual sweaters and 2 pairs of black business pants.” Be as specific as possible by size, brand, and the retailers where you may find these pieces, both online or in person.
Shop with the List, but Ask for Help
Shopping alone is not always fun. If you have a friend or family member who can join you, and help you stick to your shopping list, ask for their help. If you want further professional assistance, reach out to a stylist or personal shopper.
Put Items Away as Soon as They Arrive
Whether you’re bringing in shopping bags or opening a box from an online order, immediately open the items, and then hang them up or fold them away with other clothing of the same category. As a professional organizer, I frequently see shopping bags and shipping boxes cluttering up bedrooms and closets, and making it difficult to find things.
Follow the One In, One Out Rule Going Forward
Once your ideal wardrobe is purchased and organized in your bedroom and closet, stop shopping, unless you need to replace something. You can also use the one in, one out rule to cull clutter. For example, if you buy one new t-shirt, find one old t-shirt that you no longer want, and immediately remove that from your space.
If you need help decluttering or organizing your wardrobe, and you live in the Raleigh, North Carolina area, I’d love to help you! If you live elsewhere, I offer virtual organizing services via FaceTime and Skype to help you with any size organizing project. Please contact me for a free phone consultation to get started.
I like that you’ve made shopping part of this process. I often go through my wardrobe and get rid of things that I no longer wear, knowing that doing so frees up space for new items, but I don’t specifically go out to buy them unless something is needed for a particular event. Your way is more fun!
Thanks, Janet! Shopping with a plan and a list, so that you have all of the key pieces you need in your wardrobe can be fun!
Amazing tips!True if things are not well organized it is hard to find things when you need them.
Thank you for commenting! I am glad you like my tips!
Great article, it is so easy to read and follow. I have trouble explaining about the type of clothes by use and by type. I like the way you did it so easily. I am going to put your article on my downsizing resource list for my clients to refer to.
Thank you, Julie! Also, thanks for sharing my article on your downsizing resource list!
I am currently culling my wardrobe. Just as you said. I had things that went with nothing else. I have created a pile of things that I will offer my sisters. I found that whats left in my closet is a certain color palate. Now I am focusing on purchasing only items that work with that palate.
That’s wonderful, Janet! Thanks for commenting.