Now that you’ve created a style board to give yourself an idea of the look that you want during Fall, the really hard part begins: you have to edit out your closet. I know, I know, you don’t dislike everything in your wardrobe, but because you’re trying to rework your look, this is the easiest way to do it seamlessly.  So grab your style board, SATC DVDs and your favorite beverage, and get to work!

First things first, invest in some new hangers and storage supplies. A lot of people love the velvet huggable hangers, but I personally prefer clear plastic hangers with swivel hooks. If you have the budget to splurge, get the wooden ones. For your extras like scarves + belts,  you can showcase them on wall hooks, or store them in bunches in containers, like these cute storage containers from Orlanda:

You want to make getting dressed feel like you’re shopping every day so make your closet pretty!

Completely clear out your closet.
Take everything out. Shoes, belts, everything, Clear it out. Doing this will allow you to truly see the space that you’re working with and reorganize things the way that you want.

Try everything on, editing by category.
Editing by category will allow things to flow smoothly and quickly. It use to be if you hadn’t worn something in a year, you should discard it, but being that we sometimes purchase amazing, classic items over the years, it makes more sense to try on an item and ask yourself “would I buy this today?” If yes, keep it. If no, toss it. It doesn’t matter if it fits well or you found it on a great deal, if you couldn’t imagine yourself purchasing it now, let it go.

Compile your piles.
Once you’ve tried on everything, you should have  4 piles: what to keep, what to donate, what to toss, and what to sell.

Keep
This is everything that’s going back into your closet. At this point you can separate them into categories, colors, or outfits before you hang them back up. Within this pile, if you have anything that needs to be repaired or dry cleaned, pack it up now so that you can send it all off at the same time.

Donate
These are items that are still in good condition, but you wouldn’t be able to sell. Take these to Goodwill or Salvation Army. If you have work apparel, consider donating it to your local cocktail Dress for Success.

Toss
Anything that is torn, has stains, or is seriously out of style.

Sell
Any designer or higher-end mass retailer items (J. Crew, Topshop, Gap, Ann Taylor, etc.) or vintage pieces that are in great condition or only a few seasons old.  You can take these to a consignment shop; if you’re a style blogger, consider starting your own shop on your page or using apps like Poshmark. 

Now that you’ve edited down what you already own, you have an even clearer idea of what items you will need this upcoming season. Stay tuned for part 3. In the meantime, here are a few gorgeous closets to give you some organizing inspiration:

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Have you started editing your closet yet?

carrie bradshaw Fashion style tips what to wear