How to Edit Your Closet: The Complete Guide

When I recently asked my audience, “What’s your most burning question around your wardrobe?” the #1 response was how to edit your closet.

Editing closets, including my own, has become second nature to me now. But before I started my image consulting career, it never occurred to me to go through my closet. I had plenty of clothes, many I loved, but getting dressed was hard!

But enough about me...Let’s dive into how to effectively edit your closet so it works for you!

1. Get Clear on Your Personal Style

Before you even step foot into your closet, get super clear on your personal style. This was a foreign concept to me before I started my career—back in the days when Cosmo quizzes were all I had!

But personal style doesn't have to seem so nebulous, your style is simply your likes, dislikes, lifestyle, and how you want to feel in your clothes. And it can change! This is why a closet edit is so important.

Once you feel solid on your style, set a date to start your closet edit.

2. Set Aside Time

Editing your closet takes time. I recommend setting aside a full morning or afternoon, focusing on one season at a time—spring/summer or fall/winter.

3. Get Ready for the Process

On your closet edit day, get ready to make decisions! Do your hair and makeup, so you get a true sense of how your clothes look on you, and wear something easy to change in and out of.

Grab your water bottle. Put on your favorite playlist and let’s go!

4. Purge These Items Immediately

Start by trying on every garment to decide if it stays or goes. How else will you know if it’s worthy of its home in your closet?

Here’s a quick list of what to purge right away:

• Stained or worn-out items
• Clothes that don’t fit
• Things that just don't THRILL you anymore
• Outdated styles
• Items you never wear
• Uncomfortable clothes
• High-maintenance pieces-unless you become committed to their care.
• Pieces that don’t fit in with your current lifestyle

5. What About the “Maybe” Items?

No worries! You can set your undecideds aside, ask for feedback from a trusted friend, or store them away to see if you miss them.

6. Celebrate Your Success!

Once you’re done, pat yourself on the back! Heck, maybe even trade in your water bottle for a glass of wine! Your closet is now a space that serves you.

If you're feeling overwhelmed or still unsure where to start, let’s chat. I’m here to help make your closet edit a snap!

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If we haven't met yet...I'm Dana Lynch!

??I help accomplished, on-the-move career women, swap 'what to wear' dilemmas for 'wow' moments, so your wardrobe reflects your personality and supercharges ?? your momentum towards your goals. Boom! ??

I'm always here for any style related questions you have and would love to connect.