From Cluttered to Curated—The right way to Really Obtain That Closet Clear Out

Currently, life has appeared like a busy blur of journey. And whereas I’ve beloved making reminiscences, connecting with mates, and leaping into new experiences, maybe probably the most sudden results of life on the go has been the way it’s motivated me to do a closet clear out. Let me clarify. Over the previous two months, I’ve been touring no less than each different week and dwelling out of a suitcase. Which means I’m rotating between the best and most versatile outfits that 1) slot in my carry-on and a couple of) effortlessly take me from day to nighttime.

These unicorn items embrace my favourite Freda Salvador slip-on sneakers, this cozy Frank & Eileen journey set for the flight, an outdated DOEN gown that has simply turn into my most-worn (and complimented) gown, a leather-based jacket, just a few exercise outfits, and something that is likely to be particular to the event, whether or not a marriage or work journey.

Grabbing these staples weekly has illuminated the truth that a small portion of my closet is for my tried-and-true staples, minus just a few particular items. Perhaps you’re feeling related about your closet: that nothing appears to be getting worn and a majority of things take up an excessive amount of house. Clearly, a closet clear out is asking our names.

Function picture from our interview with Clare V by Michelle Nash.

5 Ideas for an Efficient Closet Clear Out

I can’t let you know what number of occasions I’ve decluttered my closet solely to search out it stuffed up once more with impulse buys, gifted gadgets, and items I want I wore however by no means do. And let’s be sincere—some issues stick round merely due to how a lot I spent on them (ouch).

Each time I open it up, I really feel the overwhelm creeping in: I’ve an excessive amount of.

However right here’s the factor—closet clean-outs don’t must be an all-day, all-or-nothing occasion. Small, intentional steps can create lasting change in case you strategy them deliberately and are affected person with your self. In case your closet is likewise due for a refresh, right here’s how I’m approaching mine, one step at a time.

Step 1: Begin With the Best Items

If I haven’t worn it in years, then it’s a straightforward goodbye. Living proof: my stash of biking gear from 2015-2017. The final time I hopped on my street bike was in 2017. Secure to say, it’s time to let go.

Not all the pieces has to depart—I’ll preserve two units of substances simply in case—however the remainder is heading to resale (biking kits maintain their worth!). The identical applies to anything that’s been amassing mud. If it hasn’t seen the sunshine of day in ages, chances are high it by no means will.

Step 2: Reduce Duplicates

Increase your hand when you’ve got a favourite sweatshirt you at all times attain for. Now elevate your hand when you’ve got 17 extra sitting in your closet which might be stiff, unworn, or simply not fairly proper. Yep, identical.

The fact? Extra isn’t extra—it’s simply taking on house. The objective right here is to curate, not simply clear. I’m preserving solely the issues I really put on and love. (The exception: white tees. If you happen to’re a fellow spiller, then you realize backups are important.)

Step 3: Get Trustworthy About “One Day”

An enormous chunk of my closet is made up of garments I attain for perhaps a couple of times a 12 months. They both don’t match fairly proper, really feel uncomfortable, or simply aren’t me anymore. And but… I wrestle to half with them.

I’m reframing the best way I take into consideration these items. If I can alter it to suit—and I’d really put on it—then I’ll preserve it. In any other case, it’s out. As a result of the reality is, types evolve and clinging to the previous isn’t doing me (or my house) any favors. Give your self permission to recollect the identical.

Step 4: Donate, Promote, Reward

The ultimate step is to discover a new dwelling for the items I not want. Whether or not it’s ThredUp, Poshmark, eBay, or an area nonprofit like Gown for Success, I’m committing to getting these things out of my house and into the palms of somebody who’ll love them.

It’s simple to procrastinate on this half as a result of taking photographs and itemizing gadgets will be a course of, however I’m tackling it in small increments—only a few hours on the weekend till it’s finished. I do know it’s going to really feel so good as soon as it’s.

Step 5: Set Future Floor Guidelines

My sister has a pal who embodies a real minimalist’s angle. If she buys one thing new, then she removes the identical variety of gadgets from her closet. She additionally by no means buys one thing except she will be able to put on it proper then. I like this strategy. It creates an consciousness of what’s really in your wardrobe and prevents the “I forgot I even owned this” second—of which I’ve many.

This mindset isn’t only for closets, both. Currently, I’ve realized my pantry and fridge might in all probability use a deep clear and higher group too.

Whereas the method could seem daunting proper now, know there’s nothing extra grounding than moving into an area that feels mild, organized, and aligned with who you’re. Purposeful and intentional. Contemplate this your signal: Begin small, go step-by-step, and belief that with each bit you let go of, you’re making room for extra of what you like.

This publish was final up to date on March 10, 2025 to incorporate new insights.