10 Kayla-Approved Tips to Declutter Your Closet for Seamless Seasonal Transitions
As the seasons change, so do our wardrobes. Transitioning from spring to winter can be an exciting opportunity to refresh your style and make space for cozy layers. However, it can also be overwhelming, especially if you're like me and your closet is overflowing with clothes you rarely wear. Fear not! In this guide, we'll explore 10 expert tips to help you declutter your closet seamlessly and prepare for the cooler months.
1. Assess Your Current Wardrobe:
Begin by taking stock of what you already own. Pull everything out of your closet and assess each item individually. Ask yourself: Have I worn this in the past year? Does it still fit me well? Is it in good condition? If the answer is no to any of these questions, consider letting go of the item. My favorite place to donate to locally is Hope House and Hillcrest Thrift Stores.
2. Create Three Piles:
This helps me a lot... Sort your clothes into three piles: keep, donate/sell, and toss. Be ruthless in your decision-making process. If you haven't worn something in over a year or if it no longer aligns with your personal style, it's time to part ways. I used to have a hard time with this but realized once I committed to getting rid of things, this task became MUCH less overwhelming.
3. Follow the One-Year Rule:
Another one I'd really recommend clinging to...If you're unsure whether to keep or discard an item, apply the one-year rule. If you haven't worn it in the past year, chances are you won't wear it in the upcoming season either. Trust your instincts and declutter accordingly.
4. Maximize Storage Space:
Make the most of your closet space by investing in storage solutions such as hanging organizers, shelf dividers, and under-bed storage bins. Utilize vertical space to store seasonal items like sweaters and jackets, freeing up prime real estate for your spring and summer essentials. My favorite hack for storing my winter gear is by using those big vacuum seal bags. I stuff my puffy coats and scarves, etc. and suck out all the air with my vacuum and store in the basement until next season!
5. Rotate Your Wardrobe:
To streamline your closet for seasonal transitions, consider implementing a rotation system. Store off-season clothing in vacuum-sealed bags or storage bins, keeping only the items you'll need for the current season readily accessible. This not only saves space but also makes it easier to find what you're looking for. I like to sort my out-of-season garments using color coordinated tote bins. I got them on a good deal awhile back and while this may not be needed for you, it helps me quickly identify what bins are for what season without the guess work - or pulling out too many garments when they aren't needed.
6. Invest in Quality Basics:
When curating your wardrobe for seasonal transitions, focus on investing in quality basics that can be mixed and matched year-round. Opt for versatile pieces like classic denim, neutral knits, and timeless outerwear that can effortlessly transition from spring to winter with the right layering. There are only a few things I splurge on, and basics wardrobe pieces take up about 85% of that budget. The other 15% has been reserved for cute baby things ;)
7. Consider Your Lifestyle:
Take into account your lifestyle and daily activities when decluttering your closet. Keep items that align with your current lifestyle and let go of anything that no longer serves a purpose or brings you joy. This ensures that your wardrobe is not only clutter-free but also functional and reflective of your personal style. While going through my clothes this past week, I discovered an old camp t-shirt from 2008 that a) certainly does not fit anymore b) was ratty and old c) clearly showed me I need to do a better job of completing my task to 100% completion because clearly a drawer in my dresser has gotten overlooked time and time again.
8. Get Creative with Styling:
Challenge yourself to get creative with styling by experimenting with different combinations and layering techniques. Mix and match pieces from your wardrobe to create fresh and unexpected looks that breathe new life into old favorites. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and embrace the art of reinvention! Not to mention, we all know fashion repeats itself...It might be time to experiment with that old, yet favorite, trend.
9. Maintain Regular Maintenance:
Maintain your clutter-free closet by adopting a habit of regular maintenance. Set aside time each season to reassess your wardrobe, declutter as needed, and organize your clothing for the upcoming months. By staying proactive and consistent, you'll ensure that your closet remains a curated collection of pieces you love. Once you do this more often, it won't be such a big task each and every season.
10. Have FUN!
It sounds like a silly thing to say, but this task can be daunting...Especially if decluttering for the first time in a long time. My favorite tips: Grab yourself your favorite drink (mine is a crisp Dr. Pepper) turn on your favorite play list, open the windows and get to work!
Decluttering your closet for seasonal transitions doesn't have to be a daunting task. With my tips, you can streamline your wardrobe, make space for new additions, and embrace the changing seasons with confidence. Remember to tailor your approach to suit your personal style and lifestyle, and enjoy the process of curating a closet that truly reflects who you are. Happy decluttering! XO, Kayla