Closet Clarity: A Streamlined Storage Solution
Over the past few years, I’ve really focused on refining my personal style. I’m drawn to neutral tones—my home is calming, streamlined, and filled with a serene, neutral palette. Recently, I had a thought: what if I could bring that same sense of peace into my wardrobe? Inspired by the tranquility my home brings me, I set out on a mission to create a simplified, neutral wardrobe that mirrors that same sense of calm.
The first step was to completely empty my closet. I laid everything out on my bed, sorted into categories, and began the process of purging. As I went through each piece, I asked myself three key questions:
- Do I love it?
- Do I wear it?
- Can I live without it?
Because my goal was to build a simpler and more neutral wardrobe, I added two additional questions to the mix:
- Does the piece fit within my neutral color palette?
- How much of each clothing type do I actually need?
With these questions in mind, I purged over 50% of my closet. I went through every box, basket, container, shelf, and drawer. I even parted with luxury handbags (which I sold) and other items that had just been collecting dust. The price tag didn’t matter; if I wasn’t using it, I let it go. It felt like a huge weight was lifted, and I instantly felt a sense of relief. I was holding onto things I didn’t even wear or need. I came across a quote that really resonated with me: “If you don’t love it or use it… it’s clutter.” ~ Cozy Minimalism. That’s exactly what it was—clutter!
To simplify, it’s important to define your own ‘magic numbers.’ These will differ based on your lifestyle. How many pairs of jeans do you need? How many jackets will you actually wear in a season? Do you even wear dresses, and if so, how many are necessary? Get real with yourself as you go through your items. If something no longer serves your needs, let it go. Don’t hold on to things that don’t fit or no longer resonate with you. Don’t keep something just because it was expensive. Your home isn’t a storage unit. Let it go.
Once you’ve purged, you’ll immediately notice how much cleaner and more simplified the space looks. The visual clutter is reduced, which helps create a calm and organized environment. To maintain this simplicity, I’ve adopted the “one in, one out” rule. If I buy something new, it has to replace something old. For example, if I buy a new pair of shoes, I donate an old pair. This approach helps prevent unnecessary accumulation. There’s nothing wrong with shopping for new pieces now and then—it’s the build-up of excess that we’re trying to avoid. When you embrace this one-in, one-out method, you’ll start to see a shift.
A simple way to keep your donations organized is by designating a laundry bin for them. I call mine my “donation basket.” I’ve used one for years, and it works wonders. Once the basket is full, or at the beginning of each month, I donate everything that’s in there.
As I went through my closet, I couldn’t help but think of all the money I spent on an expensive wardrobe that I barely wore. I realized how much I had wasted on impulse purchases—clothes that looked cute in the store but didn’t actually make me happy. It was more about the rush of shopping than needing the items.
Now, I’m much more mindful and intentional about my purchases. It’s an ongoing effort, but one that I’m enjoying. As I discover my authentic style, I find myself passing on items that I would have previously bought without thinking twice. This new approach has become part of my daily routine, and while it’s a challenge, it’s one I’m embracing.
To maintain a simplified wardrobe, you need to shift your mindset and shop with intention. If you don’t, you’ll end up back where you started.
I now know my style. I love neutrals, I love timeless classics, and I love simplicity. This trifecta is my sweet spot, and I’m building a wardrobe that reflects it. Whether you’re drawn to bold colors or prefer a more neutral aesthetic, I hope this journey has provided you with inspiration and tips to create a wardrobe that makes you feel content and at peace.
