So, you're ready for a change. Maybe it's something about the New Year, or perhaps you're just tired of never being able to find anything to wear. And as much as you want to throw everything out in exchange for something new, you may not be ready, financially or emotionally, for a total wardrobe overhaul. What's a girl to do?
Give your closet a makeover. It can be as simple as it sounds, I promise. Here are five easy and inexpensive ways to transform your closet into one that's Instagram-worthy and, hopefully, full of new and exciting outfit opportunities in 2014.
PURGE
If you're still holding on to sweatshirts and shoes you wore in high school or even college, it's time to let them go. They had a good run. They served you well, but face it: they deserve a rest. Go through your entire closet and make a pile of things you can toss and things you can donate. Here's a good rule of thumb: if you didn't wear the item at all in 2013, the chances of you putting it back into action this year are slim. "But, I plan on losing 10 pounds so I can fit into it in 2014" and "Maybe this style will come back this year" are honorable attempts at excuses, but... nope.
MAXIMIZE YOUR SPACE
If your closet is sort of a black hole for your clothes, it's time to take a trip to Target or The Container Store for some helpful organizational tools. Splurge on nice hangers (they'll last longer), clear bins (so you can see everything) and vertical closet organizers (so you can fit everything). This is especially crucial for those who have small closet spaces. By maximizing the area, you'll not only be able to see everything in your closet, but you'll have easier access to everything, too.
ORGANIZE
Whether it be by style, color or season, rearrange your closet into a way that works best for you. If you're the kind of person who styles an outfit by picking one piece and working around it, organizing your closet by style is a good idea. You should have a designated area for handbags, shoes and accessories in your closet, too. I prefer having my handbags at the top and my shoes lined up at the bottom. A fun way to display your accessories and jewelry in your closet could be by installing a peg board to hang necklaces or buying an organizer hanger for your scarves.
KEEP IT FRESH
Keeping your clothes smelling fresh and clean will not only encourage you to stay organized, but will also make you excited to open up your closet doors. These cedar and lavender-infused sachets will do just that. If you like the smell of detergent, you can simply stick dryer sheets in the corners of your closet for that fresh laundry smell.
DIGITIZE
You're lying to me if you say you didn't want Cher Horowitz's technologically-advanced closet. Thankfully, there are apps for that! Take your wardrobe to the next level in 2014 by downloading a closet-organizing app like Closet+ or Stylebook. These handheld stylists will help you keep a log of every single item in your wardrobe, even remembering when you wore it last. It's a great way to rediscover pieces that you haven't seen in a while by simply swiping through your digital closet from the comfort of your bed.
P.S. When you're done with this, consider making some fashion resolutions for 2014, too.
Image: Fotolia
