The Clotheshound

Even though Mother Nature seems to be teasing most geographical locations with only a hint of spring, it truly is that time of year again. For most of us spring means many things; daffodils in bloom, open windows and cool breezes, the smell of freshly cut grass, dining alfresco…and of course, cleaning out our closets.

Many of us put off the task because it seems so monumental or wonder why we should bother. It’s much more frightening in our minds than in reality. Finding the time and energy in our hectic lives to accomplish this task will save time and energy on a daily basis. Facing the closet every morning is much worse when you can’t find what you are looking for because it’s squeezed between obsolete clothing in an unorganized, jam packed closet.

We at The Clotheshound understand the terror that can accompany what may seem like such a daunting task and are here to help.

• Devote a set time to face your closet. Give yourself a 2 hour time limit. If the job is not completed within 2 hours then either push on, or set another 2 hour block of time within a week of your first pass at it.
• Wear something comfortable and easy to take on and off. You may need to try on several items during this exercise.
• Start by understanding what size you are. If you, like many of us, have several items in your wardrobe that no longer fit, either because you have gained or lost weight, it is time to let them go. Start left to right looking at the tags on each item. Every time you come across the wrong size, pull it out of your closet once and for all. If you are unsure of fit then try it on.
• Understand your current style. If you no longer appreciate wide leg pants, or short skirts, or a certain color, then it’s time to remove those items from your wardrobe. Start left to right again and LOOK at each item. Does it fit with your current style? Do you like the color? Have you worn it in the past year? If the answer is “no” then let it go.
• Now that you have removed all articles of clothing that you no longer need or want, it’s time to look at your accessories. Start with shoes, then move on to belts, and scarves, and ladies, don’t forget your purses. You probably have several piled up that you no longer use.
• Once you are down to ONLY the items you want to keep sort and hang your clothes into categories; casual, dress/business casual, business and evening wear.
• Do the same with your shoes.
• Hang accessories that can be hung; belts, ties and scarves. there are several different hangar options for accessories. If you do not have enough hanging space to display all of your accessories, then put them in clear plastic bins (with covers so they can be stacked). Each accessory type should have it’s own bin; belts, scarves, ties, purses)

You’ve done it! Now assess your wardrobe. Do you have a skirt you purchased but never wear because there is no coordinating top? Is there a shirt and tie to match that sport coat? Do you have shoes to fit every outfit?

Celebrate your success with a shopping trip to fill in your wardrobe blanks.

What to do with everything you don’t want? Donate it. There are several charitable organizations for donating clothing. Dress for Success provides women with business clothes for job interviews and beginning a career, empowering them to create a positive life for themselves and their families. Goodwill resells clothing and other household items at their retail locations for a nominal price to sponsor family, education and job training programs. Last year 80,000 people in the US were assisted by Goodwill.