Taming the Clothing Beast

Of all the clients I’ve worked with over the years almost every single one had an issue with clothing on some level. It’s that time of year where we’re straddling some warm days with the cool fall temps. For most of us this means keeping two seasons of clothing at the ready which adds volume to everyone’s closet. So how best to deal?

Get Your Closet Naked: That’s right, totally bare! Ideally do this by season but get it all out of the closet, bins dressers, etc. Pile on a bed by item, dresses piled, shirts, pants, etc. This is the only way to see what you have. Make sure you have laundry done so you have as many items in your view.

Decisions, Decisions: Do some soul searching on each item. Do you love it? Do you feel fabulous wearing it? Is it comfortable? We all have certain outfits and colors that we love and feel great wearing. Why not have that be the case for EVERY outfit you wear? If you don’t feel great wearing it then it’s time to let it go regardless of how new it is or how much money you spent on it. What matters is how it makes you feel.

Three Pieces Worn 20 Ways: That’s a bit of a stretch but you’ve seen it in catalogs and online, a few standard, classic pieces of clothing worn a number of different ways by only changing accessories. Search online and see what some of the major retailers are showing for outfits or window shop at the mall. Neutral and solid colors are always winners as you can easily switch out accessories but keep the base pieces the same.

Purging: Clothing evokes a lot of emotion for people. I’ve held onto certain pieces for emotional reasons especially with my kids clothing. It’s OK to keep a few special items but if it’s becoming an issue maybe take a photo of the item or of you wearing the item and then let it go. It’s a win/win, you simplify your life and lessen your laundry while someone is able to use what you’ve donated.

Consignment: This is a dicey subject for many who have issues with organizing. I’m guilty of this myself, “Gee I spent so much on that Jack and Janie outfit for my son I’d like to recoup some of the money I spent.” You can try to sell clothing on Craigslist and Facebook has some online yard sale groups but put a time limit on it. If there are no buyers then donate it. Traditional consigners want what is in season now. Have a Rubbermaid bin specifically for consigned items and make a date on your calendar to do it. If a month has passed and you haven’t gotten to it it’s time to donate. A bag of clothing sitting around is just more clutter in your life. Who needs an extra errand anyways?

Laura Richards has 15 years of professional organizing experience and is a member of the National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO). She trained under and was Lead Organizer for Standolyn Robertson, past president of NAPO and cast member of the A&E hit show “Hoarders.” She has client experience ranging from business executives to moms and kids. Please visit her website at http://www.OrganizationWorks.biz