how to declutter your wardrobe for a seasonal reset

It’s so easy to collect a wardrobe full of “stuff”, but when it comes to sorting through it and letting go of what no longer serves you, it can feel like a real challenge. Let’s reframe it! Think of it as a creative space for the real authentic you - curating a collection of pieces that truly reflect your style, your lifestyle, and your joy.

Approaching your wardrobe reset is best done with a plan in mind, lots of time and an open mind. This will help towards reducing the overwhelm.

There are lots of ways of approaching decluttering, but the one I find helpful is the 12-12-12 rule.

What is the 12-12-12 decluttering rule?

The 12-12-12 rule is a decluttering strategy that involves three simple steps: finding just 12 items to throw away, 12 items to donate and 12 items to return to their rightful place in your wardrobe.

It will help to break down the often overwhelming task of decluttering into manageable steps that make the process less intimidating. You can even use it room by room – but for this blog, it will be focused on your wardrobe.

For example, you could recycle those well-loved pieces with holes, donate the winter coat that’s been sitting unworn but still has so much to give, and finally gather up those stray hairbands and bits of jewellery, returning them to their rightful place. It’s all about creating a wardrobe that works for you, not against you.

Another useful approach is - Sorting items into piles is very useful in breaking down the task of decluttering. The 4 categories I recommend are:

1) Items to bin or recycle e.g. anything with holes, worn, torn

2) Donate or sell- items in good condition, brand new, but you have not worn in 6 months

3) Items to keep- What you gravitate to that has made you feel great, put together and stylish. You want more of those pieces because they will boost your confidence!

4) The maybe pile- those items that you love, but don't know how to style or could wear with a little know-how. This pile is not forever, if you haven't felt the need to gravitate to anything there, then they can be donated/sold. Anything you do gravitate to and wear can indeed go back to your wardrobe space.

Let me help!

Focusing on just one category at a time and tackling it systematically helps us not to feel overwhelmed. Remember, it is your wardrobe space, your sanctuary so decluttter seasonally to limit the sense of overwhelm when getting dressed everyday.

Send me your wardrobe decluttering questions and challenges and I will provide easy to action guidance for an effortless declutter.