The weather in VA is finally warming up which means I can put away my heavy sweaters and boots and pull out the shorts and sandals! I have a list of trends and items that I can't wait to add to my closet this season, but before I can do that I have to make room for them. I try to pack away my winter clothes and throw away or donate any items I know I won't wear next year. It's so much easier to shove those parkas and duck boots in the back of my closet and forget about them until next winter. "Spring cleaning" your closet can be a daunting task and it's an important part of updating your wardrobe that most of us dread. How do you know what to donate, what to keep, and what to throw away? Have no fear my friends, I'm here to help you figure it all out! Keep reading to see my 5 tips for preparing your closet for spring and summer!
Donate anything that no longer fits.
This tip is the most common for cleaning out your closet. Take time to try on everything in your closet and donate anything that doesn't fit or instill confidence. It's a great way to give back to those in need! If you have a piece that you really love, but it doesn't fit find a tailor or seamstress who can help make the item fit. Don't forget to sort through your shoes and jewelry too!Toss anything that's too damaged for wear.
I know those holey t-shirts are just perfect for lounging or doing chores around the house, but they're taking up valuable space! Ditch the rags and invest in a couple high quality items made for relaxing instead. For this time of year I love comfy t-shirt dresses from BooHoo and basic t-shirts from Splendid; they can easily be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.It's a perfect time to clean out your underwear drawer as well.
Don't give your closet all the attention! Make sure you take the time to throw away any single socks or old underwear. Upgrade from your thick, wool socks and buy several pairs of no-show socks - they're perfect for wearing with Converse! Switch out any flannel PJs you still have lying around and upgrade to a comfy short set or a super cute silk nightie.
Got fall or winter items with the tags still on? Sell them and make some quick cash!
Sites like eBay, Poshmark, Vinted, and newcomer ThredUp are filled with buyers looking for new or like new items from last season. Just because you're experiencing spring or summer doesn't mean somebody else is too. So model those sweaters, take some great photos, and start selling! Bonus tip: Use the money to buy a piece you really love and will wear a lot this season such as these Jeffrey Campbell Rodillo wedges. They seriously go with EVERYTHING so they're a great investment pieces.
Sort out your guy's closet too.
If you live with your boyfriend or significant other help them clean their closet out too. Help them make room for all of the new items they'll be buying this season (or maybe make a little more room for yourself). Go through his drawers as well and toss anything he hasn't worn in a while or has worn too much. Help him pick out a few capsule pieces, such as shorts and shirts in neutral colors, to help him get dressed faster in the mornings.
What are some of your favorite tips for cleaning out your closet when a new season rolls around? Let me know in the comments below!