Glam Slam: Closet Cleanse

I am one of those people who is constantly cleaning out my closet, editing my wardrobe. That’s fashion speak for trimming the fat from my wardrobe.

But when the rod started to bend in the middle and an overloaded shoe shelf started to rip out of the wall, I realized that I need to do something more drastic.

In other words, I don’t need a little quickie diet to lose a couple of wardrobe pounds, I need a complete closet cleanse to get rid of all the stuff I truly don’t wear.

Time to face the music and REALLY go through things. Even the things that have sentimental value. Those are the hardest to part with….something I’ve written about several times, so I know firsthand how difficult it can be.

I was talking to Stacy London about this when she was here last week and she really inspired me. She stressed that it was better to streamline my wardrobe than to hold on to all of these old things I haven’t worn for years. That’s just closet clutter.

I wish she was in town longer… I really need someone with a critical eye to help me go through my closet. She volunteered to help me and told me to send her photos. She’s in the middle of criss-crossing the country for her book tour, so I wasn’t sure if or when I would hear back, but she responded immediately — just like she said she would.

I e-mailed her a photo of some shoes, including Christian Louboutin flats. (I have two identical pairs — one in black leather, the other in black suede!). I thought the toes were very pointy and asked if they would ever come back in style. She actually pointed out that the laces are what dated the shoe and suggested they go to the consignment store. The laces were something I never considered, but after she said that, I realized she was right.

I’m not sure how long we will be able to keep up this process, but I do know that it’s extremely helpful for another set of eyes and a fresh perspective to guide you. So find an honest friend to help you out.

Once you get started, shedding wardrobe weight feels good, really good.

— Ryan Patterson