At the tail end of winter, every Westchester County mom is battered and bruised from the brittle air and biting wind. Miraculously, the first fifty-degree day appears, and the sun’s rays cut through the gray skies, enveloping us in a warm hug. What is this feeling that is surging through our beings? It’s hope, Ladies!
With warmer weather comes the hope that we can get out of the door just a little faster. We won’t have to worry if our kids’ winter boots will fit one more time, frantically search for a lost mitten, or wonder, “Why, oh, why?!” when our middle schoolers refuse to wear jackets.
I welcome spring with a thorough review of my winter closet when what I wore and did not wear is fresh in my mind. I resist the urge to hastily pack away the evidence of these dreary days for sunnier ones ahead. Now is the time to weed out those undesirable, itchy wool sweaters or those pants that never quite fit right. If I didn’t wear them this year, I will probably not wear them next year, either. The time has come to break the cycle!
Starting with my closet, I have a pair of heavy-duty snow boots older than my seventh grader. I reasoned they would save me money if I didn’t have to replace them for that hypothetical blizzard I held onto them for. That day came and went, and I chose a different pair for many reasons: they slip on, are easier to drive in, are less bulky, and look more stylish. The unworn boots are taking up valuable space and can be easily rehomed.
Holding onto these boots does not live rent-free in my head or my closet. They are weighing me down and, literally and figuratively, cramping my style. They symbolize that I can’t let go, even when I know it’s best for me and could benefit someone else. Like any relationship, sometimes you outgrow it, get stuck in a rut (like those eight black tank tops, but you only wear two), or change your mind. As the saying goes, if it is not helping, it’s hurting.
I continue this process with everything in my present wardrobe: shoes, sweaters, jeans, winter accessories, layering basics, and even socks. I aim to free myself of the extra load of “things I do not wear” while it is at the top of my mind. I carefully inspect for stains and flaws. Now is the time to tackle them, not next fall.
I then sort through my children’s clothes. This process is usually easier because there are clear reasons why they are no longer useful, such as outgrowing them or simply due to wear and tear.
My husband’s closet remains untouched. His business attire is seasonless. He rotates his work shirts and is good to go. I have also found that it is best for our relationship as we disagree on the number of t-shirts and baseball hats a person should own.
Of course, as a mom and professional fashion stylist, I know how difficult it is for busy households to find the time to get organized. Here are my tips for making the process easier and more manageable following the five Rs.
1. Reuse:
If they still fit or if you know someone in the household will use them, put them away for next season. Storage containers can be purchased to keep everything organized and help make space. Don’t forget the cedar chips to keep the moths away!
2. Rehome
Donate or give away items so that they will be worn again. There are several great organizations that are always looking for donations.
- Lifting Up Westchester
- The Sharing Shelf
- Goodwill
- Big Brothers & Big Sisters of Westchester
- Zara
- Pick Up Please
- Vietnam Veterans
3. Resell
Depending on the item, you can resell it. Brand, condition, demand, effort, and commission should be considered
4. Repair
The item may need a little extra love to be worn, such as a stitch or a patch. Michael’s or a craft store can be helpful. Ask for recommendations for a good local tailor, shoemaker, or knit repair person.
5. Recycle
If you have items that are no longer wearable, they can be recycled to have a new life.
Just think of all the extra space in your closets and drawers! You will sigh with relief when you can see clearly what you own and wear. Simply closing a drawer without squeezing another item in is a moment of zen.
