How To Fall In Love With Your Closet And Wardrobe Again

Do you have a closet full of clothes; yet feel like you have nothing to wear? Is your current clothing closet more of a museum of past lifestyles or sizes? Reclaim the space! Your closet is for current clothing, shoes and accessories only! It is not a storage space for linens, board games, old VHS tapes, or even your luggage. Here are a few tips to rekindle the love for your closet and wardrobe.

·         Start by hauling everything out of your closet, right to the bare walls. When emptying your closet, it is natural to come across those articles of clothing, shoes or accessories that have overstayed their welcome. Thank them for their service, then banish them from your closet. Donate, throw-out, or consign anything that hasn’t fit in over a year. Do not be tempted to keep ‘skinny’ or ‘fat’ clothes. Only keep what you love and fits you and your lifestyle now. While culling, you may find a favorite classic or a brand new piece you totally forgot you purchased.

·         This is a great time to add a fresh coat of paint to your closet walls. Color is up to you, but remember whatever color you choose will cast a slight glow over everything. White, cream, or blush are some safe palettes to consider. Black, blue, or green may skew the true color of your clothes and make it harder to find complementary pieces when creating outfits.

·         If you are fortunate enough to have a walk-in closet with a window, it is a great source of natural light, but use a shade or an opaque film on the glass to protect your clothing from fading in direct sunlight exposure.

·         Update your lighting with a small chandelier. It’s functional and adds a bit of charm. Choose warm soft light bulbs to showcase your wardrobe. Use the same tones throughout the closet to so there won’t be any color confusion when pulling together outfits. Add small track lighting that can be focused on the dark corners of your closet. If you are not able to add hardwired lighting, use magnetic or peel-and stick light bars or puck lighting that lights up when pressed. There are inexpensive battery-operated lighting choices that are motion activated, so they turn on when you step into the dark recesses of your closet.

·         If possible, install a retractable valet rod. It creates invaluable space for hanging the next day’s outfit, or weekend getaway wardrobe. They are inexpensive, easy to install and so useable.

·         A full-length mirror is a must. Hang it on the wall or door of the closet. It’s essential for helping you see the overall effect of your ensemble. They are inexpensive, can create the optical illusion of a larger space, and reflect light into the room.

·         Add fresh organizational tools. This is the year you get your shoes off of the floor and into clear plastic shoeboxes that will display them and keep them dust free. Treat your tall boots to the same service. They will last longer and be ready for you when the cold arrives again. Create eye-pleasing continuity by using matching clothes hangers. Plastic tube hangers are great for hanging pants and jeans. Clear plastic hangers with metal swivel heads are sturdy and will not stretch out your sweaters, tees, or dresses. Wooden hangers are great for men’s heavier clothing.

Once the closet has been updated. Turn your attention to the clothing, shoes and accessories that remain. Hang them in order of category (tops, bottoms, dresses, etc.). Then organize each category according to color. This is a great way to know if you have an overabundance of something such as black tee shirts. If you have room in your closet, hang the current season’s clothing closer to the front of the closet. Store off-season clothing in tubs, or in another closet in the house. Store them with cedar to keep the bugs at bay.

Create ‘new’ outfits by shopping in your clothes with these tips:

·         Look for secondary colors in prints that can be paired with solids in that same color. For example, a navy blouse with a floral pattern of burgundy, orange and red can be paired with bottoms or jackets in those secondary colors.

·         Black and white patterned fabric and animal prints are considered neutrals and can be paired with bright or rich solid colors. For example, a black and white pencil skirt would look great with a bright pink sweater. A cheetah patterned blouse pair well with burgundy pants.  

·         The secret of three’s. Adding a third piece to an outfit creates cohesion. Add a jacket, scarf, or statement necklace gives new life to jeans and a tee shirt. Or wear three of something in the same color to pull an outfit together. For example, flats, scarf and bangle in the same color add cohesion to a simple sheath dress.

Final tip: It’s OK to have some empty hangers or space on the rod. Having fewer clothes makes dressing every morning less stressful. It’s one less decision you will have to make. Knowing that you look good in every piece gives you confidence.