First, go through every drawer and closet really quickly and make fast decisions on what you can purge without question. It is best to do this as fast as you can and not really think about it. Go with your gut instinct. Remove said items to the “ditch” pile. Remember these are items that are easy to let go, such as items that don’t fit, things you don’t wear, and things that you just don’t like anymore. It should be simple and fast, no hesitation.
Now that you’ve done the once over, it’s time to navigate what’s left in your closet, and this is where a friend comes in. You MUST try on everything else, with the exception of things you wear a lot that you obviously know fit well or you wouldn’t choose them over and over again right? It’s the other stuff that I’m talking about here. For example, sale items that you always thought you’d wear but haven’t. This should go on your “switch” list.That way when you are out shopping you have an idea of what you should look for to complement those items. Makes sense doesn’t it? You may also want to take a picture of those things that you still love but haven’t worn, for reference. Once you start this entire process you cannot quit. Fashion failure is not an option! Keep moving through all the items and ask for your friend’s HONEST feedback. Or just be honest with yourself about the reason for saving a piece of clothing or “ditching” it. Shoes, coats, accessories and the like should also be looked at with a critical eye. No one should “save” items for that perfect moment to wear them. Unless, you have a special occasion in the near future, that would be your only exception. Having a closet that is a museum for all the things you can’t wear, but can’t get rid of is not smart thinking. It uses up too much of our creative thought process. Keep ONLY the items that excite your senses and stimulate your fashion potential!
I just did this again, and it took an afternoon to get it done. Once I had my “ditch” items separated from my “switch” items, it was easy to see which gently used pieces could be donated to my local Goodwill Store & Donation Center. Then, with my “switch” list in hand, I felt confident going shopping for those pieces that had the potential to take my style in a new direction! Think about it, that is exactly what Goodwill’s mission is. To help those less fortunate take that step towards “ditching” their old life by gaining skills and experience through our programs to “switch” to a new, more promising future.