Closet Chaos

Do you rule your wardrobe or does your wardrobe rule you?
 
As a personal stylist I have seen every type of wardrobe you can imagine. Over the years I noticed a familiar pattern with all of them. I discovered there are three main types of wardrobes. The size has no effect and some people's wardrobes can be in between. Which one are you?

Empty Nest ​

I also call this The Steve Jobs Wardrobe, it consists of multiples of the same item. Often featuring neutral colours such as black, white or beige. This closet type prefers space and therefore purges on a regular basis, however it tends to replace itself with similar pieces. This is a highly repetitive wardrobe and often leaves the owner to wear the same things, leaving them in a style rut.

​The remedy
If you have a wardrobe like this, you can end up feeling bored with your look. No-one needs 10 black shirts (unless you're Steve). Each week aim to introduce a new piece that has some colour or a pattern. Slowly add some different styles and shapes, for example. Try a cowl neck or round neck if you always wear V’s. It can be scary wearing something new but remember variety is the spice of life!

​Packed to the Rafters

This closet type loves clothes and despises throwing anything out. It tells you that one day you will wear your 80's prom dress again. This wardrobe enjoys reaching out and taking over other wardrobes including your husbands, the kids and even spare rooms. It has no clue what’s in there and it's often impossible to find anything because the wardrobe basically swallowed it! 

The remedy
This is one of the toughest wardrobes and you’ll have to be strong to fight it. To tackle your wardrobe/s you will need to put aside at least 3 hours. Alternatively you can break the time up and focus on a different section each day for 30 minutes. For example start by going through your tops one day and dresses another. If you’re a busy mum, get the kids involved turn it into a game. They will find it fun putting the items into the right boxes, for a little while at least!
 
Sort through everything, including clothing, shoes and accessories.

1. Start with a bin pile, these are the items that are damaged beyond repair. Worn, torn, holey, overly pilled, these must go!
2. Donate pile, you can also create a give to friends or family pile. If you are really organised you can also sell them on ebay or at a local market.
3. Repair/alter pile, this is for only things that you know you will repair once it’s mended. It might be a broken zip, pulled seam, or things that need hemming.
4. Keep, these are the items that match your lifestyle and can remain in your wardrobe. If you have any unworn sentimental pieces of clothing from a holiday or loved one, remove them and add these to a memento box. 

​Home Harmony

​This is the Mary Poppins of wardrobes. Practically perfect in every way. The hangers match, everything is folded and in its place. It has a detox every few months and ensures any alterations are done before the piece enters/re-enters the wardrobe. All the items are loved and worn frequently. Congratulations on creating a dream wardrobe like this! 

For more organising tips please check out my how to videos!