If I told you that you could have a closet full of clothes that made you look fabulous, would you believe me?
Two and a half years ago, I worked with a stylist who helped me to figure out what styles of clothing looked good on me and what didn’t. After reviewing my existing wardrobe and purging half of what I owned, we went shopping and purchased additional items that were stylish and flattering. (I wrote about this experience in Getting Help When You Need It.)
In my subsequent shopping, I’ve tried to maintain this standard. It’s true that sometimes I opt for comfort over style, especially when I’m just working from home. But on most days, I am wearing the clothes that help me to look my best, and any item that doesn’t consistently do that gets purged and donated.
As a result, my wardrobe is relatively small. I actually have empty space in my drawers. And I have room in my closet for all of my clothes all year round, regardless of season.
To my surprise, many of my clients don’t hold themselves to this same standard. When I’ve worked on closet cleanouts, I see that many people are willing to settle for items that no longer serve them well, simply because there is still some wear left in them.
I don’t think it’s necessary to sell yourself short. Most people have too many clothes. We wear 20% of our clothes 80% of the time. (See my earlier post Do You Have Too Many Clothes?) If everyone got rid of the clothes that don’t make them look fabulous, then they would be much happier. There would still be plenty to wear.
Next time you put on an outfit that doesn’t make you feel like a million bucks, take it off and put it in your donate bag. Pick out something else that will lift your spirits and send you out into the world with more confidence. You deserve it!
