Moonstruck in Jersey's Blog

When we moved into our home, which was a little over five years ago, I went from a closet that was the size of a small room and completely built out to a very small walk-in with wire shelving.  It was very difficult trying to organize everything.  I so wanted to get someone in to build it out because so much of it was wasted space.  However, there were so many other priorities that it just could not happen and then the recession hit and it really could not happen.

I didn’t know how I was going to get everything into that small space and give it some sort of organization. Have you ever done this?  I would purchase something, put it in the closet and then find it, tags still on, six months later – it would literally get lost in the closet.  Or, do any of you do this?  You find this great deal and purchase and wear and then realize that you absolutely hate it?  How about this one – do you have a collection of tops,  plain T’s to embellished pieces, that have been completely out of style for years?  Have you ever purchased the same exact item because you have lost it in that closet, including handbags and shoes?!!

Obviously, I am all of the above and I needed to do something about the craziness.  Oh, did I mention that I almost always (I do have a very few pieces w color.) wear the NYC uniform?  Black, black and more black – I love it and it has been my style for over 30 years.  Timeless, but oh so difficult to differentiate between pieces of clothing.

After we were all moved in I emptied the closet again and I tried on every piece of clothing, every pair of shoes and boots and pulled out every handbag.  Shoes and handbags are my vices!  I donated bags of outdated clothing and shoes, handbags I no longer liked, clothes that I actually did not like and were just taking up space and duplicates, to one of the veteran’s organizations.  Everything that was left I liked and enjoyed wearing, but I had a third of my wardrobe left – it was a little unnerving.  In the end I put into practice the European idea of a few good pieces of clothing and a lot of great accessories.  It is amazing how an outfit can be changed with jewelry, scarfs, hats, etc.

Another thing that has become my religion and I never not do it is this, if I buy a new article of clothing, no matter what it is, I donate one article of clothing.  I have even gotten my husband into this very good habit.

We recently had my closet built out and I went through everything again and donated the last hold outs and I now have a lot more space available.  I think I have formed some really good habits and I hope never to lose anything in my closet again. I hope to never purchase just because, but because I truly have to have. I can actually shop my private little boutique.

Peace