Now that spring is officially upon us, it’s time to think about that annual clean-up ritual. If you’re like me, even the thoughtof it makes you go nuts… I must say though, that the warm sun we have had these past few days has given me a little more energy and especially a greater willingness to embark on this big cleanup.
To begin with, I got inspired by looks that I found on the internet or in magazines. I always have a folder where I save looks that inspire me. This allows me to find some creative ideas when I lack them, or when time is short.
The trends for spring / summer 2012 on the runways can also give an indication of what will be in fashion. You must therefore pay special attention to certain characteristics including color, cut and texture of the garment. All these features can help you make your choice whether or not you are keeping or throwing out garments at the moment you start cleaning. Here is a summary of overall trends for this season.
To begin with, remove everything from your closet and start sorting the clothes into three different piles: keep, give and throw away. Keep in mind, be honest with yourself! The items you have already kept in your wardrobe for a few seasons without wearing them, throw them out. All items that are torn, ripped, or stained to the point that they are irreparable should not go back in the closet either. It is sometimes difficult to let go of our clothes but if your clothes only accumulate dust, there is always someone else for whom they will bring joy by making a donation.
Sort your clothes the best way you can and if you ever have any doubts, trying them in front of a mirror will help clarify your decision. I would even suggest trying on all your clothes, but it depends on the quantity of items you have in your wardrobe as well as the time you have to devote to this activity.
I started with the largest items, the winter coats. You can leave one or more light coats for the evenings where it will still be a little chilly. As for the rest, place them in a locker if you have one or simply put them at the bottom of your wardrobe. Do not forget to check your coat pockets. The same goes for shoes and boots because they must also be stored to make room. Before putting them away, make sure to clean all that will be placed. White salt stains should never appear on your boots. I worked in a shoe store once and got used to maintaining my shoes and I must say that I’ve never lost this habit and that the difference is really visible. The life of your shoe will increase significantly if it is maintained regularly.
When you start putting the clothes you keep back in your in your closet, remember to place the items you use most often in an accessible and easy to see spot location and what you use less (eg. dresses) in a corner. Thereafter, you only have to decide if you want to put the clothes in sections (dresses, shirts, sweaters, etc..) or to coordinate them by color. By coordinating the clothes one way or another, it allows you to stay organized at all times. Moreover, color coordination can reveal what dominates in your closet. So you can consider this fact when you go shopping and you can try to add some variation to what you already own.
Do not forget, everything that is a bit heavy needs to be folded on a shelf to avoid being stretched at the shoulders.
With the pile you have decided to give away, you can try to organize a clothing swap party with your friends. Be sure to set the rules ahead of time because you do not want this game to become competitive; everyone must take turns. Baking some cupcakes and having a few snacks can be a way to a pleasant eveningwhere you will be returning home hands full of clothing without spending a penny.
One last thing, there are now applications for smart phones and tablets that help you stay organized. These applications allow you to compose looks from the photos you take of your own clothes and accessories. You can organize your sets according to different occasions. In this way, if you are ever late, you can choose a pre-made outfit from your virtual wardrobe.
Please note that putting all your items on your phone or tablet is an exercise which requires a great deal of time. It goes without saying that the best time to do this is at the same time as the wardrobe cleaning itself.
It is now time to take action and go shopping 