Why do we need to do a wardrobe edit? Statistics show we are only wearing 20% of what is in our wardrobe. That means that 80% of what is in our wardrobes is cluttering up our space, which makes it stressful and time consuming for us to get dressed every morning, and we end up reaching for the same pieces every time. We feel like we have nothing to wear (even though we have a wardrobe filled with clothes), so we end up shopping and buying more of the same pieces we already own, and the cycle continues. Sound familiar?
The end goal of a Wardrobe Edit? To have a wardrobe that is well- organised and functional in a way that works for you (no one size fits all) filled with pieces you love, that fit you well and flatters your shape, reflects your current personal style categories and how you want to be perceived, AND you know how to wear and style all pieces in many different ways. Boom! How good does that sound, right?
It can be a very overwhelming process, many call in the help of a professional stylist. I will be breaking it down for you and sharing my tips and tricks on a generalised, easy DIY Wardrobe Edit version.
How regular or when is a good time to do a Wardrobe Edit?
- Seasonally (Autumn/Winter & again in Spring/Summer)
- When you move home , the perfect time to declutter and not move pieces into your new space that do not reflect the best version of yourself!
- When you move interstate or somewhere that the climate is different to what you have are use to. Moving from Brisbane to Melbourne – you are going to need a completely different wardrobe!
- Change in body. Our bodies change regularly, as well as our skin tone (every 7 years due to hormonal factors) Maybe you have lost weight/gained weight/post baby – whatever the case may be. If your body has changed, you will need to edit your wardrobe accordingly.
- A change in career or lifestyle. Stay at home mum m returning to the office or going for a promotion? New to the single scene and starting to date again? You will need to adjust your wardrobe accordingly!
- Stuck in a style rut? Do you put your clothes on and you don’t feel like “you” anymore?
All great reasons to hire a Professional Stylist for their expertise, but for now perhaps try to start with a DIY Wardrobe Edit? Here are my top tips!
PREPARATION
What you will need to prepare:
- Velour Hangers. They look nicer, take up less space, they don’t damage your clothes and your garments won’t slip off!
- Timber hangers for heavier structured items ( jackets/ coats) & with clips for pants and skirts.
- Garbage bags, for items you remove and decide to donate/pass on to a friend or family member.
- Clear Plastic shoe boxes and garment bags to store items away safely.
- Plastic containers, if you choose to store away your seasonal pieces that won’t be needed for the next few months or sentimental pieces you would like to keep, but won’t be wearing.
*Important: Ensure you make some room / clear some pace! You are going to pull everything out of your wardrobe..yes, everything!
*Optional extras: I always have moth killer & wardrobe fragrance cassettes (replace every 3 months), tea tree spray (for my shoes & gym bag) & leather cleaning wipes for the leather shoes, belts and handbags.
WHAT TO REMOVE
Remove every piece of clothing from your wardrobe, and start with a clean, empty wardrobe.
Next, you are going to try on your clothes (every single piece) , and start putting them into 3 piles: Yes, Maybe & No.
All the “No” pieces – can either be donated or given to a friend/ family member. Whatever your preference is. Just commit to the process and eliminate them from your home as soon as possible, so they don’t sneak back into the wardrobe…
What needs to go:
- Anything that does not fit you right now, has to go! ( too big/ too small, aspirational sizes – it has to go!)
- Any piece that is poor quality and cant be repaired. (worn, faded, stained & holes)
- Pieces that don’t serve you anymore. Even if it fits, and its in great condition – ask yourself the following questions:
- Is it dated?
- Is it comfortable?
- Does it fit in with my current lifestyle?
- Does it achieve my style goals?
- How do I want to be perceived?
- If I turn up in this piece, am I the best version of myself?
Everything that was a “Yes” – goes back into your wardrobe in a tidy and organised manner. Some people arrange their clothing according to colour, others according to type. There is no right or wrong – it’s all about what works for you and your lifestyle.
WHAT TO KEEP
What to keep?
- Pieces you love and feel fab in and reflect your desired personal style & how you want to be perceived.
- Pieces that fit your body well, right now and compliments your shape!
- Pieces that you know how to wear and style in at least 3 different ways with other pieces in your wardrobe.
*Tip: Create a Pinterest board for outfit and style inspo!
The pieces that are left in your “Maybe” pile, try them all on as well! Trying on each piece should now give you more clarity, and help you to make that decision.
CREATE YOUR SHOPPING LIST
Now that you have eliminated the pieces that were not serving you, and you have reorganised your loved pieces in a way that works for you – now you are able to see where the gaps are and start creating your shopping list for spring!
What will you need for the new season? Had to eliminate something due to it being worn like your favourite pair of white sneakers? Found a hole in your staple white tee? Add those to your shopping list. Anything that was a wardrobe essential that must be replaced is a priority. Here are my top tips to plan a functional, well-organised wardrobe:
- Ensure you have sufficient good quality basics – the foundation of your wardrobe.! We use these to create endless outfit options.
- Ensure it is well balanced with both structured pieces (like a blazer) and flow pieces (like a midi skirt). This increases the versatility of each piece.
- Now start to add some fun with season-appropriate pieces. Always wanted a floral, everyday dress? Had your eye on a blazer in a bright colour? OR perhaps you could use a pair of shoes appropriate for both the office and drinks? Consider your lifestyle! This is your wardrobe, your style and your budget!
- Add some fun and colour by using accessories like scarves, bags and jewellery.
*TIP: Save your shopping list in the notes on your phone. Having a plan with a list – enables us to shop with intent and a strategy that will save you time & money!
*Please note: this is a general, simplified DIY wardrobe Edit process to help you get your wardrobe spring-ready. IF you seek a more in-depth and personalised service, please visit the link in my bio and view my “Wardrobe Edit & Refresh package”. All services can be delivered virtually.
