Every few months, I find it extremely helpful to spend a day or two working on my closet. I take this time to declutter gently and rid my closet of irrevocably stained or worn items, and then put together a plan for the upcoming season. Here in the Southern United States, spring has sprung. There are a few cooler days, especially in the mornings and evenings. Since I know it will be far too hot later in the year for layers, I'm enjoying them whilst I can!
I've taken time to tuck aside my winter wardrobe of long sleeve tees, long warm skirts, and sweaters. I don't have a dedicated space to put them completely away, so they are delineated with different hangers and hung in the back of the closet space. I will eventually work out a system for putting these items in "time out" so that I can see them with fresh eyes the next season. But for now, my closet system works for me.
I spent time looking at what I already have for the upcoming season. I may ruffle some feathers with this, but I don't particularly like all the colors of "my season". After having color analysis done in 2020, I slowly bought "my colors". I bought a small navy capsule wardrobe, a navy bag, and pinks and purples to go with the navy. Trouble is, I also kept many pieces of my favorite color to wear, which is black. I kept my nice handbag in black, and several dresses, along with a funeral outfit.* The thing is, I'm giving myself permission to like wearing black, regardless of color analysis. It's a color I've always worn and felt polished and put together in, and many of my favorite silhouettes are just better in black! I do still own a capsule navy wardrobe which I may return to if the mood strikes. I kept the best pieces of navy this declutter, and many of the pink items to weave in with my black, white, and denim capsule for spring.
The next step, after a gentle decluttering, was to pull out things that go together and that I like. I found the majority of the items in my spring capsule already in my closet. The things that were missing were quite easy to see, once I gathered the core items. I really like the idea of the ten-item wardrobe made popular by Jennifer L. Scott. (Go check out her Ted Talk on the ten-item wardrobe! It's inspiring!) However, the times I've tried it, I found ten items to be too restrictive for me. About a month in, I found myself bored and wanting something new, even though there were perfectly good clothes in the rest of the closet. (To be fair, I was trying it with a navy base, so maybe that's why I felt bored?) Anyway, this is the season of permissions for me, so I gave myself permission to try again, but with a few more pieces. I am not, and never will be a minimalist, so I'm thinking this might work. I worked with what I had until I found 17 core items I like that match each other! Then I listed the items that round out my style, like a couple of handbags and shoes. Together they make up about 30 items and cover most scenarios!
After time spent in the closet and trying on items, I have to draw out my wardrobe to really "get it". I also have to spend a little time planning what actually looks decent together. For example, some skirts are high waisted, and some are not. Some tops are slim fit, and some are peplum. The dresses are the easy part, which is fun! Last count, I had something like a hundred different outfits that work well together. Some things need ironing, so I have a touch of housework to do, too!
This is also the time when I assess my haircare and cut, do a much-needed manicure and pedicure, and do an at home facial. Grooming is such an important part of feeling and looking our best. I want to be sure to assess whether it's time for a haircut. I prefer super long hair, but I also want it to look decent! While the wardrobe part of planning is a fun sort of game, grooming is what makes us shine. I also think it's good for a marriage to practice good grooming habits as well. I want to be my best self for my sweet Doc, and not just in my appearance.
You'll notice that most of the things I mentioned are free. This takes time and energy, so I get that it does cost me something. I didn't spend a mint buying an all-new wardrobe. I had to replace my black handbag, which I did secondhand. My grooming tasks only cost time and energy. I don't have my nails done at a salon, since there are wonderful YouTube videos available on how to do them at home! I do my own facial care, nails, and occasional hair masks. It has taken me a few days while I have other chores to do for the household, but I think this planning time is well worth the effort to look put together!
*Note-You need a funeral outfit. It's my opinion that everyone needs a funeral outfit. You may not like black, but it really is the only color appropriate for a funeral. And the chances of you going to one are actually rather high. Choose a basic shirt or sweater and skirt from the thrift shop but think classy, not flashy. Modestly cut, without sparkly trim and detail, or lace. Tuck it in the back of the closet. I hope you never need it. But you'll have it! Bonus points if you have a pair of flats that will match.
I really should get back to my spring cleaning! I hope this has been somewhat helpful to you. And I hope your week is wonderful!
Stacy
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