Last week, I discussed how to let go of clothes gently. This week, I am providing you with a Seven-Day plan to put this into practice.
Day 1: Set Your Intention & Prepare
- Write down why you want to let go of clothes (space, clarity, style reset, etc.).
- Gather supplies: boxes or bags labelled “Donate,” “Sell,” “Recycle,” and “Maybe.”
- Take “before” photos of your closet so you can see your progress.
Day 2: The Easy Wins
- Start with categories that are less emotional (socks, underwear, worn-out basics).
- Toss or recycle anything with holes, stains, or stretched elastic.
- Celebrate — you’ve already lightened your load.
Day 3: Tops & Shirts
- Take out all the tops and lay them on your bed.
- For each piece, ask:
- Do I love how I feel in this?
- Have I worn it in the last year?
- Place immediate “yeses” back in the closet, sort the rest into your labelled boxes.
- Move uncertain pieces into the Maybe pile — you’ll revisit them later.
Day 4: Bottoms (Pants, Skirts, Shorts)
- Repeat the same process with the bottoms.
- Pay close attention to fit — do they pinch, sag, or require adjusting all day?
- Release the pieces that no longer serve your comfort.
Day 5: Dresses, Outerwear & Special Items
- Look at dresses, suits, jackets, and other formal wear.
- Ask yourself: Do I wear this or am I keeping it “just in case”?
- For sentimental formalwear (like a wedding guest dress), consider moving it into a memory box if you won’t wear it again.
Day 6: Shoes & Accessories
- Line up all your shoes. Try each pair on. If they hurt, slip, or don’t go with anything you own, it’s time to let them go.
- Do the same with belts, bags, scarves, and hats.
- These can be easier to release because they’re less tied to body image.
Day 7: Revisit the Maybe Pile & Final Touches
- Take a fresh look at your Maybe pile.
- Ask: If I had to pay full price for this today, would I buy it?
- Decide: Keep, Donate, or Box for Later Review.
- Bag up donations and schedule a drop‑off.
- Take “after” photos of your closet — notice the calm, organised space you created.
trabantbettina
Bettina Anna Trabant, Founder of Life Organised, your professional organising and decluttering service in East London. Eco-conscious minimalist and avid tea drinker,