Some of you may remember I cleaned out my closet this winter. I had made a promise to myself to purchase only clothes/accessories that I loved. Somehow, this lasted only a month or two. Lately, I’ve been feeling like I’m not wearing clothes that make me happy. The fit is off, or I don’t like the color. Which has made me wonder why I’m holding on to things that in my mind, don’t work?

Now, some of this might seem like some sort of grand epiphany, but you should probably know that I typically go through a closet reorganization twice a year. Well, I’m glad I felt the urge to purge, because I couldn’t believe the things I found in there. For example, a dress two sizes too small was lurking in the back. How did that escape the first round of decluttering? This time, I was particularly ruthless and am now afraid I have no clothes.

There are a million ways to organize your closet, but here’s how I like to do it. Start by removing everything. Place each piece in one of two piles – Things You Love and Things You’re Unsure About. The “Things You Love” pile might be pretty small. Everything from that group goes back in the closet.

The next pile will take a little more time to sift through. Try everything on. Make sure you have the appropriate undergarments for each piece (slips, strapless bras, belts, etc.). You’re not at an actual store, so you shouldn’t have to picture how it could look if you had x, y or z. Then, take a look at yourself in a full length mirror. Go with your gut reaction. If you’re still not sure, put it in another maybe pile. Do your best to keep this one pretty small.

The final step is going through the last round of maybes. I tried on those pieces for a second time. Some of them stayed, and some of them went.

See? No clothes.* Who’s shopping with me?

*I took the clothes I didn’t want anymore to a consignment shop called Fashionista Exchange and made over $100!! The rest of the items will all be donated to Planet Aid, Goodwill or another charity. I typically donate, but Kim gave me the tip about Fashionista Exchange, so I had to give it a try.