Organize Your Wardrobe Like a Pro!
Lisa LeBlancOrganizing isn't as bad as you think if you have a plan and know where to start! Is your closet overflowing with clothes, yet you feel like you have nothing to wear? Do you dread opening those doors each morning to be met with a chaotic jumble of fabrics and forgotten treasures? Well, fear not!
Whether it's compact or expansive, a well-organized closet is a game-changer. It reflects your personality, fashion sense, and lifestyle. Organizing it effectively can save you time, reduce stress, and help you make the most of your fashion choices. So, say goodbye to wardrobe woes and hello to an organized, inspiring space. Delve into the best strategies and tips for organizing your wardrobe like a pro!
Prepare Your Space
Before diving headfirst into the abyss of your wardrobe, take a moment to prepare your space and equip yourself for success. Instead of just throwing things around, envision creating a functional system efficiently.
TOOLS & SUPPLIES
To ensure a smooth organizing process, gather what you need and put them all together in a spot where they’re handy but won't get lost in the mix:
- Garbage bags: for donations, items to sell, and things beyond repair.
- Storage bins or boxes: for off-season clothes, smaller items, or sentimental items.
- Labeling materials: labels, paper, tape & scissors, markers, or a label maker.
- Matching hangers: Recommended: Slim velvet hangers. They hold clothes on better.
- Cleaning supplies: rags, pail of soapy water, vacuum/broom
- Measuring tape: to assess shelf space and plan your layout.
- Full-length mirror: for trying on and evaluating outfits.
- Motivational music: because cleaning and organizing is 10x better with music.
- Garment bags (optional): for seasonal items.
CLEAN YOUR SPACE
A clean slate will make it easier to visualize your neat and tidy wardrobe before organizing.
- Start by clearing out any clutter around your closet so you have room.
- Empty your closet in an orderly manner so that everything isn't tossed everywhere.
- Dust off shelves, wipe down rods and closet doors, and vacuum/sweep the floor.
- Remove your clothes from your dresser drawers as well.
Assess Your Wardrobe
It’s time to face the reality of your wardrobe. After everything is out of your closet and drawers, assess each item of clothing and your accessories. Identify your style preferences, go-to pieces, and the areas that need improvement. You can write it down as well to help put it all together. This self-awareness will guide you in creating an organized wardrobe that truly resonates with you.
Declutter Mindfully
Decluttering is the first step toward organizing a functional closet. Be mindful and ruthless. This is arguably the most crucial step. It's time to be honest with ourselves about what we truly wear and love. Don't just think about what you might wear someday; focus on what brings you joy and serves your current lifestyle now. Discard the items that you no longer need, don't fit, or are full of holes.
Here are a few tried-and-true decluttering methods:
STYLE SESSION
Try everything on! How long has it been since you wore each item? If you have the time, experiment with different combinations. Create new outfits to spark creativity and rediscover forgotten pieces.
As you go through your clothing, ask yourself questions like:
- Does it fit well?
- Does it make me feel confident and comfortable?
- Can I see myself wearing this again?
If the answer to any of these questions is "no," it's time to let it go.
THE FOUR-BOX METHOD
Utilize the four-box method, literally, to simplify decision-making for optimizing your closet organizing.
Label four boxes:
- Keep: Keep items you wear often.
- Donate/Sell: Others could benefit more from items that no longer fit or match your style
- Repair/Mend: Items that need a minor fix, but you still love.
- Store: Off-season clothing or special occasion outfits.
As you go through your clothes, place each item in a box. Be logical and honest with yourself.
THE KONMARI METHOD
Embrace the principles of the KonMari method by Japanese organizing expert Marie Kondo. Kondo's theory is that getting rid of more stuff makes it easier to keep things clean, as you’ll have less to tidy and organize. Only keep purposeful and meaningful items that 'spark joy'.
Hold each item in your hands and ask yourself:
- Does this make me happy?
- Does this serve a purpose?
- Is this meaningful to me?
If the answer is yes, keep it. If not, thank it for its service and let it go.
Apparel Clean & Care
Now is also the perfect time to care for the clothes you are keeping. Mend any ripped seams, replace missing buttons, and spot clean any stains. Make sure to wash, dry clean, or steam items that are wrinkled or dirty. Pay special attention to shoes and accessories. Wipe them down and ensure everything is in good condition before returning them to the closet.
Sorting & Organizing
The fun part! Creating a system that makes sense to you is crucial. Try organizing your wardrobe by category, color, and season. A unified look is where it's at!
BY TYPE / CATEGORY
Sorting your clothing by type is a classic method. Group similar items together.
- Shirts
- Pants
- Dresses
- Outerwear
- Accessories
- Shoes
COLOR COORDINATE
Once you're done organizing by category, consider color-coding your items. This creates a visually appealing and calming effect. It also makes it easier to find what you're looking for and assemble outfits quickly.
SEASONAL ITEMS
If you have limited closet space, it may help to rotate your wardrobe items based on the season to maximize the usability of your clothes. Free up space for current-season clothes to keep at eye level, and store off-season items in vacuum-sealed bags, bins, or garment bags. Rotate them as the seasons change.
Utilize Vertical Space
Don’t forget about vertical space! Maximize your storage potential by using vertical space as a home for your wardrobe essentials:
- Shelving (install some if needed)
- Hanging organizers, such as shoe organizers.
- Tiered hangers for scarves or accessories.
- Hooks inside your closet door can be handy for bags, belts, or jewelry.
This will increase storage ability and enhance accessibility.
Folding
Mastering the art of folding can save you a ton of space and maximize visibility. Look up Marie Kondo's folding techniques for inspiration. Optimized folding helps you fit more clothes into your drawers and closets, making the most of your available space. It keeps your garments organized and easy to find, saving you time when you’re getting dressed. Proper folding techniques can also reduce wrinkles, keeping your clothes neat and well-maintained.
Set Up a Styling Station
If you have the space, create a small area near or within your closet. Dedicate this area to trying on different outfits and accessories without cluttering your entire room. This allows you to streamline your morning routine, making getting ready more enjoyable. You could include a full-length mirror, a small stool, and a spot for jewelry. Keep your most-used accessories within easy reach using a small drawer organizer or tray. Use a small shelf or cart to store styling tools such as hairbrushes, combs, and hair products.
If you are often in a rush, have a designated spot, hook, or hanger where you can quickly place your rejected items together. Then you can come back for a quick reorganization when you have time.
Regular Maintenance
Organizing your closet is not a one-time event; it's an ongoing process. Keep your closet tidy and prevent clutter from building up. Make it a habit to declutter regularly, even if it's just for 15 minutes a week. This will prevent your closet from becoming overwhelmed again and ensure that it is still a source of inspiration rather than stress.
Consistent maintenance is key to sustaining an organized closet.
PUT THINGS BACK
- If you change your mind on something, take a few seconds to put it back in its rightful place as you go. Hang it back up. Refold it. Taking the minuscule amount of time will ultimately save you time!
- Future organizing is a snap when you are already organized!
REASSESS YOUR WARDROBE
- Monthly: donate items you haven’t worn and ensure everything is in good condition.
- Seasonally: at the start and end of each season, evaluate your wardrobe to make necessary updates.
And, Done!
You did it! Your closet is now officially amazing. Organizing your wardrobe like a pro is an investment in yourself. It’s your space, your style. No more digging through piles of clothes like you're searching for buried treasure. No more standing in your underwear, wondering why you own seventeen black shirts but none of them feel right. You can actually see your clothes! What a concept, right?
And a well-structured space fosters creativity and efficiency, making it easier to express your unique style. Sure, it took some work. You had to make tough decisions and maybe said goodbye to that sweater you wore exactly once in 2019. But look at you now – living your best organized life!
So crank up your favorite playlist and do a victory dance and fall in love with your clothes all over again! You've got this!
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