Purge and Shop Your Closet

Full Disclosure:

1. I am NOT a minimalist (I like stuff)
2. While I do purge often, I still have a connection to certain items in my closet or home, therefore;
3. I am always finding ways to hang onto things and use them

The key here is useful -- if something isn't useful or purposeful, it's probably best to get rid of it. 

Donny and I have been working on a new full wall closet for a while now -- I'm taking my time with filling it because I want to be deliberate and selective with what I put in: items I love, items I need and items that not only fit me but look good on me.

There are many ways to do this: you can make piles, you can thank all your clothing a la Marie Kondo, I personally try everything on. Every. Single. Thing.

I turn my bedroom into a clothing store and I go shopping. And then I sort into piles:

1. Put into Closet
2. Keep for Future
3. Offer to Family/Friends
4. Donate

Here's what I look for while I'm trying on:

• Quality of Items: If there's a stain, a tear, a funky seam -- this instantly goes into the donation pile. If it looks old or ratty, you'll feel that way every time you put it on. Donate.
• Does it fit? This is pretty obvious, but does it fit the way it's supposed to? If it's too tight or too loose, will I still wear it? I've heard many people say to toss items you haven't worn in 6 months. I don't necessarily do this. Here's the thing: I've been many different sizes in the last 4-5 years and it would pain me to get rid of my closet every year. My rule is: if it's just slightly too big or slightly too small, I'll hold onto the item. If I can barely squeeze into it, it gets offered to family/friends before being donated.
• Is it in style? So, depending on how old it is, it may not be in style anymore. But could it be worn again? I look for classic pieces, like crisp white shirts and denim, but also items like flowy pants, which are in style EVERY SINGLE SUMMER. This outfit here? The pants are at least 2 summers old, and the top, maybe 3 or 4. They weren't purchased together or at the same store, but they still work. 
• Do I love it? I know you're not supposed to fall in love with objects but certain outfits or dresses bring back memories. So I keep them. I keep items that I wore on special occasions, like my bridal shower or my honeymoon, or items that may have cost me a lot of money. These items go into clear totes, out of the closet. One day, I'll be able to show them to the girls and they can shop my old clothing, which, by then, will be vintage!

I completely respect people who can live with 10 items of clothing. But I also think there's a way you can give your clothing and your closet new life by adding and removing pieces so you're left with items that make you look and feel your best. 

Shop your closet -- you never know what treasures you'll discover!