At this time of year, I’m typically in clients’ homes helping them move out the Fall/Winter and bring in the Spring/Summer pieces to their closets. Since we’re in a new normal, I want to share some practical steps for you to take on your own. Over the years, many women have told me that having an organized closet makes them feel more in control and less anxious despite what’s going on in other areas of their lives—feeling a bit of calm and control right now can only be a good thing.
Step One: Colors and Fabrics
Pull out the dark colors and heavy fabrics. We’re still in that transitional period of the calendar so leave a few long-sleeves and lightweight cashmeres in there for now. Again, think COLOR—if it’s burgundy, rust, bright red, anything that feels Autumnal or Holiday, then it’s time to go on Summer Break. Do this for all sections of your closet (tops, dresses, pants, shoes and handbags, too).
Step Two: Categorize
Make piles for 1) Dry Cleaning 2) Launder at Home 3) Straight to Storage and 4) Give Away. Put your give away pieces into shopping bags or clear plastic garbage bags to donate at a later date (when local places are open again) or if you have consignment-worthy pieces, then arrange a pick up from The Real Real. Here’s the list of what they accept.
Step Three: Move It Out
After pieces are washed/cleaned, you should ideally put the Fall/Winter items into a separate closet. Those of you who’ve worked with me know that I love my rolling racks for moving from one room to another. If that’s not an option, then use clear storage bins in another room—the (dry) attic or basement, or under the bed. If that’s not an option, then move the Fall/Winter items to the back of your closet. The goal is to have current season pieces front and center when you open that closet door.
Step Four: Move It In
Move your Spring/Summer pieces into all that beautiful space in your closet! If these have been stored well, they should be able to move right in. If you want to do a quick edit, this is a good time: anything you really don’t feel you’ll wear, pull it out now and put it into the Give Away pile as described above.
Step Five: Enjoy!
This is definitely work, both physical and mental. I’ve always found hard work very gratifying—I hope this project makes you feel good, too!
Below are some of my favorite tools of the trade 😊 if they can be helpful to you:
Click here to link to all of the above.