One of the greatest annoyances of my master bedroom is the ridiculously tiny size of my closet. However, I have come to realize that this is actually more of a blessing and than a curse. Of course, nobody likes to have to seasonally shift their clothes from storage crates to closet and back into crates again, but I have actually learned to enjoy this seasonal ritual. First of all, it is exciting for me when a new season begins. Although, those of us in Colorado know how tricky it can be to dress ourselves appropriately when all 4 seasons can happen over the span of several days. More importantly, it gives me a chance to really evaluate my wardrobe.
The average woman tends to keep roughly four to six different sizes of clothes to help compensate for that oh-so-fun yo-yo weight battle that many of us wage. I say, get rid of what you don't currently wear! Learn to love and accept your body where it is now and have clothes that make you feel fabulous NOW, not 5 or 10 pounds skinnier or just in case you add a little extra layer for winter warmth. Every time you get rid of something old, you make room for something new.
Now I am completely guilty of holding on those the skinny pre-pregnancy jeans that I just know I will get back into. But really, who am I kidding? It's kind of fun to have something as a weight-loss gauge, but just use a mirror or scale or measuring tape. When I actually got back into one of my one old pairs of my jeans, they were so outdated that they looked ridiculous. Plus body shapes change, even if you are one of the lucky ones to have made it back to your happy size.
But, I digress....Here are some tips to help decide what should stay and what should go.
1) Every time you buy something get rid of its equivalent. For example, if you buy three tee-shirts, find three old shirts to donate, or toss, if they are too worn out. I actually got rid of 6 pairs of shoes this summer. And, yes, I did buy 6 pairs to replace them before they were donated (gotta love DSW), but it really felt awesome to ditch the old pairs!
2) Go through your closet a minimum of twice a year; better yet four times. If you haven't worn something for a season or two, ditch it. If you still are unsure if you can part with your favorite sweater that Aunt Tilly knitted for you, wait one more winter, and if it never leaves the closet, it's time to say goodbye.
3) If you have so many clothes that you just can't remember what you have worn, flip your hangers backwards with the hook facing the opposite direction after you wear something. At the end of the season, the clothes on hangers that haven't been flipped are up for donation debate.
The truth is that although we have so many clothes, we tend to stick to the same several outfits. So, do a constant reality check. If that blouse that seemed like such a good buy at the time never seems to feel quite right when you put it on, then swallow your shopping pride and donate it. It is such a great feeling to purge. And if you do get to that goal weight that you were hoping for, you should treat yourself to something new. You deserve it! There are plenty of charities out there who would greatly appreciate your donation. I am on ARC's 6 week calling cycle and almost every time they call, I have at least one bag to give. I feel great to have cleaned my closet, help someone else in need, and now it's time to go shopping!
A few donation ideas:
Women's Alliance and Dress For Success take gently worn women's professional clothing
Glass Slipper Project collects and makes prom and formal dresses available.
Other charities such as Salvation Army and Goodwill generally have centers everywhere or will come to your home and pick up items.
Friday, July 10, 2009
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