Wardrobe Decluttering

We all have them, that pair of jeans you haven't been able to fit into for ten years but live in hope that some day you miraculously will. That horrific jumper your mother-in-law gave you for Christmas that you feel compelled to keep in case she pops round for tea. Our cupboards are full of secrets, past loves and past lives. Now's the time to move on and start living for the moment. Shedding the demons in your closet is never easy but you will feel liberated once you have. 

You need...a full-length mirror, natural light, bin liners

1. Set aside three hours, switch on the answering machine and turn off your mobile.
2. Put on your favourite CD; something upbeat and energising.
3. Label four bin liners: Charity, Alterations, Rubbish, Storage
4. Start by sorting all clothes, putting similar items (e.g. trousers or shirts) together. Work systematically through each section.
5. Try on each item and take a long, hard look at yourself in the mirror. Ask yourself the following questions:
   
   
   • Does it make you feel good? If No - put in Charity bag
   • Does it make you look good? If No - put in Charity bag.
   • Do you like it? If No - put in Charity bag.
   • Does it fit properly? If No - put in Charity bag.
   • Does it require altering to make it fit properly or to update it for this season? If Yes - put in Alterations bag.
   • How many times did you wear it last season? If it was less than 5 and it probably won't get an airing this season - put it in Charity bag.
   • Is it worn, torn or permanently stained? If Yes - put in Rubbish bag.
6. Only items that make you look and feel good should go back in your wardrobe. Anything you hesitate to get rid of should go into storage for six months. If, during that time, you don't think about it, give it to charity.
7. Go through shoes, coats, accessories and underwear, too.
8. Take the charity bags to your nearest charity shop, and the alterations bag to your nearest tailor.
9. Place the storage bag in a cupboard, attic or basement and come back to it in six months time. 
10. If you haven't needed anything in it in that time, bin it or give it to charity.

One of our experienced personal stylists can do this for you, as well as help you put outfits together and recommend items to fill in the gaps in your wardrobe, if you book a Wardrobe Warrior.