This is no secret if you regularly read my blog, but over the last few years it’s been a personal goal of mine to learn to live more simply. A large part of this has consisted of seriously editing and refining my closet. As someone who’s poured way too much time and money into shopping for much of my life, it was important to me to question why and to make some serious adjustments. It’s taken time, but the fruits of these changes have been incredible: in addition to decreased spending and causing less harm (both environmental and to those who make the clothing) through my clothing choices, it’s almost felt like I’ve been slowly stripping myself of excess to reveal my true personal style. High-waisted jeans, black booties, long sweaters, leather totes… themes have clearly emerged, and although there is considerably less in it, I’ve never been happier with my closet.
It will be a continued process, and I now feel like I’ll probably always be editing my wardrobe. Because it’s still occasionally a temptation to revert back to my former habits, here are a few principles that I’ve kept in mind to help me stay on track:
- Purge Relentlessly | I’ve learned to become pretty ruthless when I get rid of things. Unless it fits, is comfortable, I feel great in it, and it’s been worn in the last year or two, it either gets donated, sold, or thrown out if beyond repair. Some exceptions: highly sentimental pieces, “practical” clothing or accessories (like my winter snow boots), and classic garments that are made exceptionally well.
- Shop Wisely | After getting rid of things I don’t need, the last thing I want to do is fill up my closet again with shiny new things that will meet the same fate months down the road. I’ve learned to be very selective while shopping: I won’t purchase something unless I know it will be worn often and worn well – regardless of how great of a deal it is. In other words, a piece has to be near perfect to be brought home (unless it’s something like, you know, socks) – even if it’s 75% off. I’d also like to be increasingly mindful about where my clothes come from.
- Seek Inspiration | With all the talk of minimalism, capsule wardrobes, and Marie Kondo-esque ways of living over the last few years, there are plenty of great resources online to inspire and get you on your way. Whenever I feel stuck in a rut, reading about what the pros do is invaluable. This blog is my favourite!
I’ve also started putting together a list of helpful resources that expand on each of these ideas if you’re wanting to explore doing the same. I’ll keep updating it as I find new ones. I’d also love to hear any tips (or links) that you have to share!
Sweater Coat | Sanctuary Clothing (c/o)
Vest | Sanctuary Clothing (c/o)
Tunic | TOPSHOP
Jeans | Fidelity Denim
Booties | Dolce Vita
Hat | Little Burgundy
Bag | J.Crew (sold out, great options here and here)
Photos by Brian Chan
I love your coat, especially styled with a vest over it! Great look!
xx, Elise
http://www.sparkleandslippers.blogspot.com
I really like how you layer a vest over the checked coat, it looks pretty chic! And definitely a good idea to be more selective when shopping, it’s something I definitely need to learn!
Prudence
Giveaway Now On
http://www.prudencepetitestyle.com/index.php/2016/01/11/3718/
Great advice, great look, great photos! I’ve been ruthless in my closet editing the past year, but I actually found myself wondering why I said goodbye to a few pieces! I’ve decided to start tucking away a few things for a few months to see if I really want to get rid of them- only favorites, of course, not the stuff I know should go.
Kate
kateintheclassroom.com
Beautiful photos!
|| D I A N A ||
http://www.TheNeonFactor.com
Hi. I don’t know if I’ve ever commented on your blog maybe once (or it could be an email). Anyway, I’ve been really into reading about minimizing consumerism and purging and only keeping things that you like and enjoy. I’ve been enjoying into-mind and unfancy very much too. I’d like to recommend “be more with less” and “frock around the clock”. Very inspiring. Love this topic, please share more of your experience and thoughts. Cheers.
Thanks for your comment Tiffany! I’ll definitely check out your recommendations 🙂
Agreed to all! Be smart about investing in longgg peicesss. A few bad pieces could add to one awesome piece.
Joua To The Rescue
Amazing photos with your coat ! love the snowy background !
http://chicglamstyle.com
I love the sweater coat Jen! Beautiful pictures! Happy Belated New Year!
Anna|http://www.annawangillustration.com/
Thank you for sharing these tips and resources! I love Marie Kondo’s tips and am looking forward to looking through these links!
The Capsule Closet is one of my favourite notions – owning 37 pieces or less in your closet. It really makes you think twice – what is this piece adding to my wardrobe, really?
Thank you so much for your inspiration! I never really considered that I need to downsize/stop consuming so many clothes until you brought it up awhile ago. It’s very easy to want to buy something especially after seeing it on someone else/in a blog. But having a minimalist approach to fashion frees up space to focus on other more important things. 🙂