Tough love for your closet

Although the New Year is well under way, it is not too late to turn over a new leaf.

In 2010, achieve all of your style goals. Get rid your wardrobe woes — start with a fashion resolution.

Clean, sort, organize:

In order to accurately determine the contents of your closet, sift through each and every item. But don’t just redo the look of your closet. Although re-folding, re-hanging and color-coordinating are all great ideas, ask yourself questions along the way.

  • When was the last time I wore this?
  • Does it still fit me?
  • Do I still like it?
  • Is it stained, ripped or damaged (if so, is it worth repairing)?

Separately bag or box up items that you no longer want — divide clothing into categories, for example, “donation,” “sell/trade” and “trash.” If you can’t decide whether to keep a certain piece or not, simply set it aside in a separate box. Store the box for a month or so out of plain sight (but don’t forget about it). If you find yourself wanting what is inside — or forgetting about it entirely — you will know what to do.

After you have thoroughly sorted your clothing, perhaps downsizing a bit in the process, there is still much to be done.

Seasonal vs. all-weather wear:

Proper cleaning and storing of your clothing is essential if you want it to last. When winter is through, be sure to wash and store your wool items, sweaters and cashmeres. Nothing is worse than pulling out an expensive sweater with a mothhole. Avoid hanging knits, as pointy hangers can be damaging and misshaping. Additionally, protect your coats and jackets by placing them toward the back of your closet in plastic garment bags. Rearrange your drawers so that thick jeans and long sleeves are out of the way during time periods of less frequent use.

Resolution suggestions and questions:

An organized closet is refreshing. Now is the time to create your resolution.

After sorting through all of your things, think about what you kept and what you discarded. Are there any trends? For example …

  • Do you buy wild colors but never wear them?
  • Are damaged items of a similar fabric?
  • Do you find particular shapes intriguing while shopping, only later to recognize you never wear them or they are unflattering?
  • Were most of your unwanted items impulse buys or sale items?
  • What types of things do you have most or least (perhaps, tons of pants, few cardigans, no camisoles …)?
  • What is it about your personal style that you want to change?
  • What do you love about yourself and your sense of style as an individual?
  • What types of clothing do you wear most frequently?
  • What types of clothing do you want to wear more often?

… you get the idea.

Whether or not you are a list person, I hope these questions get you thinking. I hope you have in mind what to look for and what to avoid on your next shopping trip.

Before you jet down to Mass Street, keep in mind a few last tips:

  1. Only purchase items that you need or love and items that FIT you.

  2. Purchase pieces with durability and timelessness — one long-lasting item at a higher price is often better than three, four or five cheap items for the same price.

  3. Hand wash! Hang dry! Save your clothes!

  4. Always put some personality into your outfit. Above all, wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident.