There comes a time in every man’s life when he has to face the facts; and have a good think about what he really wants to do with his favourite t-shirt. Yes, the one he’s owned for the last 20 years, which disgusts his wife and no longer cuts it, even as a car drying rag.
This is where a wardrobe edit comes in handy, not just for saving your relationship, but also to help you save space, time and money. Times also change, as do body shapes and sizes, lifestyles and fashions, and knowing what you have – or don’t have – in your wardrobe can meant the difference between you looking fabulous or like an eighties tragic!
A wardrobe edit is fairly simple and straightforward and apply to the wardrobes of men and women both.
First and foremost, you go through and toss out those items that no longer fit. It may be due to increased weight gain, weight loss, or just that your body shape has changed. If it’s uncomfortable to wear, you will never wear it, so remove it from your wardrobe for good.
Next, find those things you haven’t worn in over two years. There will be some items in there that fit that description, so pull them out. There’s generally a good reason you haven’t worn the item in that long; maybe it no longer fits, or maybe it’s really more suited to someone younger (or older), in which case they can be relegated to the op shop box as well.
Something that tends to sneak up on us without realising it is a change in our lifestyle. Perhaps you’ve moved from a suit-wearing job to something more casual, or vice versa. Your social activities associated with the job, or your income, may also have changed significantly.
Or, you’ve just grown out of the weekends at the skate park and prefer something more sedate, or quite the opposite- more extreme.
Discard those items that are taking up space which just no longer suit you and the life you’re currently living; whether it is a suit just hanging around waiting to be worn, or the casual shirt and chinos for the barbeques you no longer attend. If they’re looking tired and worn, bin them straight away and if they’re still in good shape, consider dropping them off to your local op shop.
Avoid dwelling too much on items, or convincing yourself you’ll fit into them again one day, or that it’s your ‘favourite’ and you couldn’t possibly get rid of it. These pieces of clothing are not doing you any favours so you are better off without them.
Once you have edited your wardrobe you will know exactly what pieces you have and don’t have. With the clutter gone it will be much easier to select an outfit each day without having to dig through the unsuitable items.
Sally Mackinnon
