A few years ago, I wrote a rather popular blog about eating “calorie-worthy foods.” Currently I’m trying to clear out my closet for an upcoming charity sale, and I now find myself asking the question: “Is this garment “WORTHY OF WEARING?”

I recently read a brilliant post by one of my favorite style bloggers, Susan Street (Susanafter60.com).

In her blog titled “Style 101,” Susan says:

“The key to looking your best all the time is to only own clothing that looks good on you. Your fashions should serve you; they should be easy and comfortable. When items aren’t suitable for you, they never will be, no matter how hard you try to style them.”

Susan goes on to explain why she never wears pants with pleats, dirndl skirts, or cable-knit sweaters. She discovered, long ago, that those styles were simply not flattering for her body type.

Basically, Susan says what we say in Quintessential Style (Chapter 6). When it comes to your wardrobe.

“It’s not quantity that counts, it’s workability.”

So, back to the main question:

“What’s in YOUR CLOSET?” (Is it worthy of taking up space?)

What’s in your closet, and how do you decide what to keep and what to take to the rummage sale? Choose a garment in question and ask yourself a few questions:

• Is this clothing practical for the lifestyle I’m living TODAY?
• Where would I wear this?
• Does this garment fit me NOW?
• Is this item still in fashion?
• Is it comfortable?
• Is it tired looking? (even if it is one of your favorites)
• DO I REALLY FEEL GREAT WHEN I WEAR THIS?

Further questioning — “What should I Keep?”

Keep a garment or accessory if it is:

• Flattering
• A complementary color for you NOW
• Great fitting
• Timeless (classic/fine quality)

Yes, I know that’s a lot of questioning, but the job of your closet is to cater to your dressing needs daily. If it’s crammed with clothing you hardly ever wear, isn’t it simply acting as a storage shed? Plus, you may not even be able to find those fabulous pieces that really look amazing on you if they’re hidden amongst all the mediocre stuff.

And, the Golden Rule my co-author, Janna Beatty, gives her clients is: Have nothing in your closet that you cannot put on and wear right now. (If you’re planning to lose weight, move garments that don’t fit to another location.)

Maybe a more important question than are your clothes worthy of wearing is: “Are your clothes serving you and the life you are living today–and do you feel great when you wear them?”

Something to ponder for sure. I leave you with one more glorious quote from Susan Street:

“Part of the magic of fashion is its ability to make us feel like the best version of ourselves; if the garment fails in its job, it isn’t your fault. In truth, the style isn’t suitable for you.” …Susan Street

Check out her website at Susanafter60.com.