The StyleRarebit guide to clearing out your wardrobe…

As we’re coming to that time of year when you start thinking about new starts and making changes, I thought I would do a little post on clearing out your wardrobe. What could be nicer than starting the new year with a wardrobe full of clothes that fit and that you actually want to wear. Definitely time better spent than signing up for a gym membership you know you’ll only use in January…

Pick out your favourite pieces (these must be items that you regularly wear) and set them aside. This is the core of your wardrobe and the starting point for everything else.

Pick out the pieces that you wear with them, these should be versatile and fit well. They don’t have to be plain but these should be pieces you wear often and that work well with the core items. This applies to accessories as well, so think about your everyday bag or scarf.

If there are any garments that have sentimental value that you don’t want to get rid of, put these in your keep pile now. Try to be selective though, it’s hard but your wardrobe is not a space for keepsakes.

Now look at what’s left. Anything that you haven’t worn in the last 6 months or that you know doesn’t fit needs to go. I don’t care if you eBay it, donate it to charity or give to friends but just let it go. This is taking up valuable space for things that will make you feel 100% better about yourself.

Anything that’s left is for trying on. You may have worn these pieces recently or are keeping them for an occasion but this is where you need to make informed choices. Does the colour and style flatter you? If not get rid and if your still holding on to something a size smaller really get rid.

Refill your wardrobe and organise. The best way is to start with your everyday pieces and graduate into evening wear that you know you won’t wear as often. It’s useful to group things together also, tops skirts etc as this will help you to build outfits quickly. Same goes for handbags and accessories, unless your wearing that feather boa to the office tomorrow?

Try on all the pieces you’ve got left in your wardrobe, mix and match them and take lots of pictures. Doing this means you’ll never be stuck for an outfit and you can flick through the camera roll on your phone for quick ideas and when your out shopping.

Keep it organised! Don’t rush to the sale to fill it up with more random pieces your never going to wear. Always focus on keeping the best of the best in your wardrobe and consider what you already have when buying new things.