Optimizing Your Closet
Email this article to a friend 
Print this Article
It is 8:30am on a Thursday morning and I am staring blankly at my closet, dissatisfied with the sea of options. Even though the closet is packed, nothing is jumping out at me, unless of course you count the two boot boxes that cascade down from the top shelf, the minute the door is opened. I make a mental note to stop at Bloomingdales on the way home, because once again, I have nothing to wear! This everyday lament is common among professionals who have hundreds of style choices including outfits for the gym, for the big date and for casual Friday. Somewhere in between, our everyday work clothing, albeit a more casual look for some, leaves us with no choices.
I reminisce fondly, about my early work days in the 90s donning a boxy corporate pants suit, a uniform that made morning dressing blissfully easy, if not slightly boring. With fewer choices, decisions were easier. But we can learn something from the fashions of the 90s, shoulder pads aside. It is time to take back our mornings by giving our closets a “makeover” instead of ourselves. Follow these tips to ensure a stress free and stylish morning:
Know Thy Closet
Take inventory of what you have, even make a list if that helps. Take everything out of the closet and group together by skirts, dresses, pants and tops. Knowing what you have, what fits and what needs updating will help you to put outfits together better and faster.
Classic-Proof Your Wardrobe
Investing in quality pieces over quantity is essential. Having clothes you can depend on rather than trendier styles will save you time coordinating all the pieces. Interspersing reliable neutrals with rich saturated colors will create many mix and match looks.
Dress Up
It is always better to be overdressed than underdressed. The old adage of dressing for the job you want, rather than the job you have is still true. Plus, when you do get the promotion, you already have the wardrobe!
Location, Location, Location
If you can’t find what you need, when you need it, it is time to relocate. Treat your closet like prime real estate by putting the things you use everyday within reach. If possible, move out of season, coats and formal wear to another closet, to make room.
Comfort is King
Resist buying things that are uncomfortable, unpredictable or are not multi-use. Those 4-inch purple suede boots are truly beautiful, but highly uncomfortable and not likely to be worn enough to justify their hefty price tag.
Purging is Good
Take a weekend morning a month to take stock of what you have and note what you are wearing. Staying on top of what you use. Eliminate what you do not, to keep your closet clutter free all year long.
The “To Buy” List
Make a shopping list before going to the store. Knowing what you need will prevent you from scooping up what you think you want. Having your fashion priorities straight will ensure smarter choices and prevent buyer’s remorse.