By now everyone has seen the disaster that was my closet and learned about items I love to hoard.  If you happened to miss it, among other things, I counted 67 scarves…a revelation, even to me! But I have never had so much feedback from a blog post.  It seems everyone can relate to the Dead Sea Syndrome.

In Q Style, Janna writes,

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

We all know we have much too much stuff, but what criteria should we use when figuring out what can stay and what must go?  Here are some guidelines to help determine when to hang on to something.  Keep a garment or accessory if it is:

– Classic                                                     – Comfortable and flattering

– Fine quality                                           – Not “tired” looking (faded, pilled, stained, etc.)

– A complementary color

– Great fitting

In addition to these standards.  Ask yourself this:  Where would I wear this?  Do I have something better? Does this item bring me joy when I wear it?

Janna finds that many of her clients need positive affirmation to let go of past purchases or sentimental garments.  Many women feel guilty because they paid too much for an item or they haven’t worn it enough to have gotten their value out of it. She gives them permission to “release their clothing.”

If you are donating your clothing, imagine the joy you could be giving to someone who receives it.

Years ago,when my mother died and we were going through her home, my daughter discovered this quote her grandmother had written down on a simple note card.  I brought it home and framed it.

Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful.

My mother probably never knew the origin of this quote, from English writer, artist, and designer William Morris (1834-96) whose fabulous wallpaper patterns are still in production today.  For her, it was just a lovely reminder to live simply and surround yourself with beauty.

Soon to come — photos of my revamped closet….