Spring has sprung-
& it's time to spring clean your wardrobe. Here's why & how (from a personal stylist.)
Hey there,
Spring is finally here — and with it, the chance to reset. You’ve probably heard of spring cleaning, but what about spring cleaning for your wardrobe? Just like the rest of your home, your closet deserves a refresh.
A closet clean-out each spring isn’t just a good idea — it’s a must for anyone who wants to start the new season feeling clear, intentional, and inspired by what’s in their closet.
Here’s the truth: most of us hold onto clothes far too long. The average person keeps clothing for an average of 3.7 years before discarding it, and many of those clothes go unworn for over a year. The statistic is staggering — especially when you realize that the average person only wears about 20% of their wardrobe regularly. So, what's happening to the rest? It’s sitting, collecting dust, taking up valuable mental space, and subtly adding to our stress.
But the process of letting go isn’t always as easy as just tossing things in a bag. It can be emotionally taxing. Each item in our wardrobe is tied to memories, hopes, or old versions of ourselves. And sometimes, letting go of those things can feel like letting go of a piece of who we were.
Here are three questions you can ask yourself when considering each piece during your spring-closet clean out to determine if it’s a yay or nay.
1. “Would I reach for this if I were getting dressed today for my current life and style?”
This question helps ground you in the present. It’s easy to keep items that reflect a past version of yourself or an imagined future — a job you used to have, a size you used to be, or a lifestyle you no longer live. Asking if the piece serves your real life right now helps you evaluate its true value in your current wardrobe.
2. “Am I holding onto this because of guilt, nostalgia, or pressure — rather than genuine love or usefulness?”
Many of us keep clothing because it was expensive, a gift, or connected to a meaningful memory — even if we don’t wear it. This question gets honest about the emotional clutter we carry. If the piece brings you guilt or pressure every time you see it, that’s a sign it’s time to let go (with gratitude, not shame).
3. “If I saw this on a rack today, would I be excited to buy it again — in its current condition?”
This one removes the sentimentality and resets your perspective. Imagine walking into a store: would you genuinely be drawn to this item? Does it fit your current aesthetic, flatter your shape, and spark joy? If not, it’s probably no longer aligned with your style or needs.
Remember, a spring refresh is more than just a clean-out — it’s about giving your closet the space to breathe, aligning it with who you are today, and creating room for the pieces that truly represent your life and style right now.
Do you struggle with the emotional part of letting go?
Tune into this week’s podcast where I share how to navigate the emotional toll of letting go of some of your wardrobes most iconic pieces, plus tips to get through it with ease.
Until next week-
Stay Smiley,
The Simple Smiley