While we are all starting to get back to some sort of normal, summer 2020 will definitely leave fewer activity options than we’re used to. We’re all looking for things to do in our extended time at home, and learning to make the best of extra free time. My guess is you have watched way too much Netflix or coordinated one too many TikTok dances with your family and friends.
Here’s another suggestion for a worthy way to spend your time: Organizing your closet.
Taking time to clean out and organize your closet is a great way to enhance your wardrobe. You will likely find pieces you forgot about and discover gaps in your collection that need to be filled. These finds offer great insights for becoming a better-dressed man.
Ready to head into your jungle of a closet and turn it into something more manageable? Here are some tips:
Get rid of items you don’t wear.
The most daunting task of cleaning out a closet is getting rid of the things you don’t use. This can be difficult. We all have items we never wear but aren’t ready to give away, and it can be hard to know what you do need to get rid of. But this step is rewarding because it creates space for better organization, as well as a more accessible wardrobe.
Start by eliminating the easy articles — items that you don’t like anymore or haven’t worn in over a year. Special occasion items like a tuxedo or nice suit are exempt from removal, as these are valuable to have even if we don’t wear them often.
Next, consider items you have trouble letting go of. Do they have sentimental value? It isn’t bad to hold onto one or two pieces that have special meaning, but if this becomes a habit you are on the verge of becoming a hoarder.
Are there items that you want to fit into eventually? In my experience, aspiring to a certain piece of clothing for weight loss doesn’t usually go well. Instead, invest in good clothes that fit you well now and reward yourself with new pieces when you do size down.
Organize by item, then color.
Not all of us are gifted with an organizational forte. However, following some simple guidelines can lead us to a neater closet space. I recommend you first divide and organize your closet by item type. Keep pants with pants, dress shirts with dress shirts and so on.
Next, organize items by color. Hang or stack pieces in order from lightest color to darkest. This will help you to easily find items, and also proves helpful for coordinating colors when creating an outfit.
Have the proper equipment.
Organizing your closest means you need the proper setup. Use shelves for items that will be folded; make sure you have enough space for the items that you will hang; get a belt and tie organizer so that they can be easy to find.
Additionally, make sure you have multiple types of hangers for different items. There are ones made specifically for pants that will keep them from wrinkling. Suits can be hung on hangers made specifically for pants and jackets. It is also worth investing in hangers that are high-quality and long-lasting, as these will keep your clothes ready-to-wear and wrinkle-free in your closet.
Take inventory.
Once you have organized your closet, you will be able to take stock of what you have and don’t have. Make a list of the items you would like to include, compare your closet to your list and begin to fill in the missing pieces. You will soon be on your way to a closet fit for wardrobe success.
One last tip: take before and after pictures. Cleaning and organizing your closet can be a big undertaking, and seeing your progress will help you celebrate your success.
Let’s use the extra time we have to improve our closets and our wardrobe inventory, so we can emerge from this pandemic as better-dressed gentlemen. Questions? Let me know.
Judah Estreicher is the CEO of JBD Clothiers in Baltimore. Reach him at [email protected].