Snow Day Image Help

It’s a snow day! Actually, it’s snow on top of ice with prospects of a couple of days stuck at home. Perfect time for a wardrobe audit and closet cleanout! I know, the allure of the TV and internet provide formidable competition to the seemingly “blah” task of tackling the closet, but believe me – the sense of accomplishment plus image improvement will make it soooo worthwhile.
So follow along because this is exactly what I’m doing today:
First 20 minutes: Taking everything out of my side of the walk-in closet I share with my husband (he can do his side later!) Wow, even though I do this regularly I’ve collected a lot more stuff. Gotta get out the shoes, the paperwork I’ve shoved in here, the tennis racket I never use. Hey, I found a necklace in the corner that I thought I’d lost.
Next 20 minutes: With my side of the closet absolutely empty, start deep cleaning. Wipe down the shelves, the rod (it’s particularly dusty), vacuum the carpet, clean the baseboard, and spot treat some carpet stains. Hmm… maybe a little air freshener wouldn’t hurt.
Next hour (it may take you more or less time depending on how much stuff you have): Consider each garment one at a time. Each piece I pick up must pass all of the following tests to “earn” its way back into the closet.
1. Does it fit? This means trying things on. Ugh! Reality bites. I’ve found 5 pairs of pants that don’t fit – even if I lose 10 pounds, forget it. These go in the giveaway pile.
2. Is it a good color for me? No items allowed that make me look washed out or pale. If it’s a print, does it overwhelm me or relate to my body scale?
3. Is it still in style? I usually buy “classic” items that don’t go out of style too quickly, but even subtle fashion changes can doom our look to “out of date.”
4. Is it in good shape? We all have our favorite pieces that we “wear to death.” I’ve discovered a favorite shirt that must be discarded because it’s faded and has a coffee stain.
5. Does it need an alteration or repair? A missing button has prevented me from wearing a favorite jacket this winter. Sewing it on and it’s back into rotation! A couple of sweaters needed “shaving” for pilling. Now they look great. Sending my leather jacket to Arrow Fabricare in Kansas City for cleaning. You can download a free shipping ticket at www.arrowfabricare.com.

6. Do I love it? This is the final test – I won’t put anything back into the closet unless it makes me feel good about wearing it. No need to sabotage my image by feeling too guilty to discard a gift or keep a pair of uncomfortable shoes.
Whew! Only the good stuff passed the test. Everything in my closet works for me! Clutter banished! Time for lunch!

Watch out for the next posting on how to make $$ with your giveaway pile, plus easy closet ideas for organization and garment care.