https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/why-i-have-a-large-wardrobe-and-it-is-ok Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Sat, 25 Apr 2026 03:31:04 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/why-i-have-a-large-wardrobe-and-it-is-ok/page/2#post-493016 Thu, 22 Dec 2011 01:19:00 +0000 Sara L. 493016@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think my wardrobe is on the large side but I don't feel guilty about it because I wear almost everything I own and I have the room to store it. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/why-i-have-a-large-wardrobe-and-it-is-ok/page/2#post-492977 Thu, 22 Dec 2011 00:04:04 +0000 Mo 492977@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think mine is bordering on large at about 150 clothing pieces, coats and layer tanks included. Not counting shoes, belts, bags, etc, not that I have a large amount of those things anyway. Oh, also not counting loungewear and exercise gear. Merely clothing meant to wear out into the world in 'outfits' </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/why-i-have-a-large-wardrobe-and-it-is-ok/page/2#post-492938 Wed, 21 Dec 2011 23:18:57 +0000 HelenInCanada 492938@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I'm going to venture a guess, and say a large wardrobe has a varied and high number of choices for you, and perhaps multiples of similar pieces. Also, you'll find that you don't often have to repeat-wear any items if you choose not to. And laundry day is never a problem in terms of having things to wear! Lol. It also includes a large selection of bag and footwear styles. If you're fortunate to have a walk-in closet (or one of those amazing closet systems) a large wardrobe is a pleasure! If it's a challenge to fit it all into your living space, it can be overwhelming. But if you love everything in your wardrobe, you've got it made! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/why-i-have-a-large-wardrobe-and-it-is-ok/page/2#post-492901 Wed, 21 Dec 2011 22:46:40 +0000 Sara L. 492901@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Just out of curiosity - what do you consider a large wardrobe? To tell you the truth, I have no idea if mine is large or small. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/why-i-have-a-large-wardrobe-and-it-is-ok#post-492879 Wed, 21 Dec 2011 22:19:39 +0000 Aida 492879@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Great post, and great responses! I have (and enjoy) a medium-bordering-large wardrobe, for several reasons: variety (especially in silhouette), the need to layer 9 months of the year, the fact that I can wear much of the same stuff 9 months of the year, desire to find interesting color combinations and proportions... And happily I have the space for this. I'm also in the camp of fashion as a creative outlet (and hobby), so to severely limit the items in my wardrobe feels a bit stifling. My wardrobe still has several holes (especially in the "very dressy" department), and I have been wanting to slim it down recently but NOT because the size is unmanageable; I still have too many "not good enough" items that need purging or replacing </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/why-i-have-a-large-wardrobe-and-it-is-ok#post-492602 Wed, 21 Dec 2011 15:02:41 +0000 anne 492602@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Interesting thread. I tend towards team minimal, but this is mainly acheived through not buying very much, rather than rigorous purging. And being the same size approx as I was 15 odd years ago I end up keeping (and wearing) things that are quite old. I also have things (like Mo) that I might wear only 3 times a year - but I enjoy all those times. I also get clothes handed down to me, and this allows me to experiment a little since there has been no financial outlay.</p> <p>Sal at Already Pretty did a great post once ( which I have never been able to find again) on something like things she wouldn't buy again but isn't going to get rid of - I can really relate!</p> <p>And Jean, of course I think your large wardrobe is perfectly justified </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/why-i-have-a-large-wardrobe-and-it-is-ok#post-492590 Wed, 21 Dec 2011 14:39:42 +0000 Janet 492590@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Jean, I love this! </p> <p>Even though I have purged a great deal this year, I have also bought a lot, so my wardrobe is still decidedly on the large side. </p> <p>As much as I admire the concept, I can't imagine having one of those extremely lean wardrobes. I've never been that way, even as a child. My mom was a recreational shopper, and she kept everything, so she was quite a collector too. Even when she no longer wore something, I think she liked seeing the colors and prints and patterns in her "collection." She was an artist at heart and enjoyed things that captured her eye. </p> <p>As a fellow artist, I relate to the need and desire for a variety in wardrobe. I prefer variety and options, and I do get a bit bored with some pieces after a while. I also live in a climate with four very distinct seasons, which necessitates a greater number and variety of pieces. I can also relate to what Denise said about fashion and my wardrobe being a bit of a hobby -- it's another creative outlet for me.</p> <p>At the same time, I also love organization and hate clutter. I definitely like to practice techniques to manage my "collection" like the "one-in, one-out" rule, and organizing my closet in a way that makes sense.</p> <p>So, count me as another proud large wardrobe owner! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/why-i-have-a-large-wardrobe-and-it-is-ok#post-492588 Wed, 21 Dec 2011 14:37:58 +0000 MNsara 492588@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Aw, Jean, I could give you a big hug right now I love your logic and appreciate how well you've articulated your logic!</p> <p>I right there with you on the seasons, the thrifting, the wide variety of work situations, etc. I'd also add my need to satify mood swings in styles - sometimes classic, sometimes boho, sometimes bright, sometimes drab, sometimes tailored, other times volumiinous, etc.</p> <p>I wish I had your eye toward recognizing trendy, unique pieces that will please me for the long haul . . . I need to work on that one. Somehow combine the "would I wear it tonight?" with "will it make me smile next year too?". </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/why-i-have-a-large-wardrobe-and-it-is-ok#post-492580 Wed, 21 Dec 2011 14:20:17 +0000 Anonymous 492580@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I see nothing wrong with having a large wardrobe as long as you use all of it. What I don't like to see is stuff taking up valuable closet space that never or rarely gets worn. Your wardrobe, of course, will depend on where you live (climate) and your lifestyle. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/why-i-have-a-large-wardrobe-and-it-is-ok#post-492518 Wed, 21 Dec 2011 06:12:12 +0000 goldenpig 492518@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>You certainly have mastered your style and closet and should not have to make any apologies for the size of your wardrobe. If I had the room and everything in my closet was as fab as your stuff I'd keep it all too! I did do a purge but my wardrobe building has been so rapid that I'm pretty full now and running out of room. I don't separate clothes by season or capsule so it's all one big set of clothes. I just counted all my coats and jackets and I'm at 25, yikes! And I have at least that many skirts too! So I am joining you on the organized but large wardrobe team! I tend to keep and wear things for years/decades so that's my excuse! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/why-i-have-a-large-wardrobe-and-it-is-ok#post-492317 Wed, 21 Dec 2011 01:05:06 +0000 Jjsloane 492317@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>You are my wardrobe soulmate. I am always intrigued by the people with small and fabulous wardrobes, but I am on team "the more the merrier". I like options and variety, but also quality pieces. I am weeding it to all options I love so that should count. I spend a good deal of time keeping things rotated, cleaned, hung and available (luxury of multiple spacious closets). </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/why-i-have-a-large-wardrobe-and-it-is-ok#post-492313 Wed, 21 Dec 2011 01:02:27 +0000 Suz 492313@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Jean, I wanted to add that I had a very interesting conversation with an older writer friend a few months ago. This friend is an extremely well known and much loved Canadian poet; she just received one of our country's highest honours. She teaches, writes, and has many speaking engagements. </p> <p>She and I were agreeing that artists generally need at least TWO and possibly THREE major wardrobe capsules. There is the what-I-wear-at-home-while working capsule. For visual artists this would probably be a lot different than for writers, but as a writer, I need decent, but extremely comfortable clothes that let me lounge OR answer the door OR run to the corner store OR sit at my desk. Anything that binds, tugs, or requires hitching around is just no good. Yet loungewear won't do, either. At least not for me. </p> <p>Then there is the teaching wardrobe. Most of us teach; you teach at multiple locations. I sometimes do so, too, and agree that what works in one setting won't necessarily work in another. Some of my clothes overlap these two categories. But not all. </p> <p>And finally, there is the "performance" capsule. This has to include the kind of statement pieces that I certainly wouldn't wear in my at-home capsule. I still have virtually none of these clothes and really feel the lack whenever I'm called upon to be in the public eye. </p> <p>Multiply by our various seasons and you've got a lot of clothes! And that doesn't even count workout or sleep and loungewear. Or date wear (which might overlap with performance/ launch/opening wear, but might be slightly different). Or clothes to wear for occasional meetings with corporate types. Or your church wear. </p> <p>I still don't own all these clothes. So I consider my wardrobe too small, even though I PREFER small. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/why-i-have-a-large-wardrobe-and-it-is-ok#post-492310 Wed, 21 Dec 2011 00:58:18 +0000 Lantana 492310@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Interesting thread! You validate your large wardrobe with a fine analysis that belies your love of simplicity. I do so admire your style, especially the recent lace and midi outfit. Heavenly.<br /> I have divested myself of mountains of clothes over the years and do have a few regrets. I spent some years in the tropics and beforehand gave away all my cold climate clothes, including several sweaters I had hand knitted. I would love to have them now. As for those days in the tropics, not one item survived the heat, dirt and sweat. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/why-i-have-a-large-wardrobe-and-it-is-ok#post-492296 Wed, 21 Dec 2011 00:47:37 +0000 Barbara 492296@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Excellent post AND replies! I love clothes, footwear, bags and accessories. My wardrobe, while not huge is more than sufficient. The more hats you wear - style personalities your lifestyle requires - the larger your wardrobe may be. I do not attend as many gala events as I did when I lived in Europe, so that part of my closet is pared down to a minimum.<br /> I spend a lot of time outdoors and adore denim so I have plenty of jeans, tees and sturdy but stylish footwear. The life you live NOW is reflected in your fashion choices. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/why-i-have-a-large-wardrobe-and-it-is-ok#post-492274 Wed, 21 Dec 2011 00:24:01 +0000 Anonymous 492274@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>After having a college roomie who had zillions of outfits that she just dropped on a chair after wearing until the chair would fall over onto her bed, I've felt that a person needs great self disipline to manage a large wardrobe...something I don't think I have but wish I did. Your reasons make so much sense and work so well for you that you shouldn't change a thing. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/why-i-have-a-large-wardrobe-and-it-is-ok#post-492259 Wed, 21 Dec 2011 00:11:35 +0000 Anonymous 492259@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>It sounds like you have a wardrobe that is just right for you. I have been downsizing the past couple years because I HAD a large wardrobe but not much of it really was "working" for me. I never had anything to wear,despite the volume of clothing. So identifying the parts of your life that require different clothes, you can focus on making sure each of your life-components is appropriately attired. I think it was just last year when I realized that I honestly did NOT need an entire capsule of evening-wear....even when I go out somewhere festive, its still not very glitzy. That really opened up a lot of space in my closet! Being honest about your life and what you really need is the basis of a well-functioning wardrobe. And I think when you consider your clothes/shoes/bags as art that is worth collecting....I think that is something to be accepting of. Why not? So much of fashion is art. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/why-i-have-a-large-wardrobe-and-it-is-ok#post-492251 Wed, 21 Dec 2011 00:04:33 +0000 Angie 492251@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Just chiming in to say that your large wardrobe is warranted, Jean! I'll add that you probably have the space to store it :). </p> <p>I have many clients who prefer large wardrobes because that works for them. Just like this works for you. </p> <p>Although I prefer a small and pulled together wardrobe at any given time (I continually edit so that it stays small) - I have 41 bags. It is what it is. I LOVE MY WARDROBE PETS. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/why-i-have-a-large-wardrobe-and-it-is-ok#post-492250 Wed, 21 Dec 2011 00:04:23 +0000 Mochi 492250@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I think the key is organizing, and obviously having space. Beyond that, yeah, I could see how you get all that use out of the large assortment you have. </p> <p>In theory, I feel I'd like to have a smallish-medium sized wardrobe (which is such a subjective term, anyway). Right now it's bare-bones, even for someone who works from home and lives a very casual lifestyle. We shall see how it plays out, though--now that I'm starting to enjoy my clothes so much more! But I do feel that for me, I would need to really be AWARE of what I own at all times. Seems like a given, eh? But I get the sense from reading some blogs (not this one, but I won't name names) that there are women out there who have so much, they don't even know what they own. Not good from my standpoint. </p> <p>Also, I was thinking about whether that Parisian minimalism is really still in effect to that same degree? Now that internet shopping has exposed everyone to all different price points across national borders, would it still hold true that "clothes are really expensive, so buy few but well"? I am curious about this, now that H &amp; M and stores like that have proliferated. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/why-i-have-a-large-wardrobe-and-it-is-ok#post-492180 Tue, 20 Dec 2011 22:40:19 +0000 Laura 492180@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>This makes loads of sense, Jean. One person's large wardrobe is another's "just right." </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/why-i-have-a-large-wardrobe-and-it-is-ok#post-492175 Tue, 20 Dec 2011 22:33:47 +0000 CocoLion 492175@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Count me as another member of team large wardrobe. I completely support your large wardrobe logic and in fact I will enable maintenance and new additions to said wardrobe! </p> <p>Even though I purge a lot, I buy a lot. Fashion and shopping are hobbies of mine, and I enjoy it. I feel *a little* guilty about it, but not enough to go on SYC.</p> <p>I have identified 4 wardrobe capsules --<br /> -- Work (very casual, conservative, easily washable for restaurant work, a bit of a uniform of solid colored shirts or tees, and jeans). This very basic wardrobe also doubles for outdoor activities such as dog walking, light ranch work, and dirty work.<br /> -- Smart casual (I spend the most time and money on this capsule even though it is only 20-40% of my time -- this is where I express myself and this is what you see of me on YLF).<br /> -- Loungewear<br /> -- Going out (a very small capsule of dresses) formally.</p> <p>Multiply this by 3 different climates -- cold, warm and very hot -- and you've got a lot of clothes.</p> <p>I found I actually had fewer clothes when I lived in Southern CA because there were fewer extremes in climate. I didn't own many sweaters or coats, and now they are crucial for keeping warm in the mountain winters. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/why-i-have-a-large-wardrobe-and-it-is-ok#post-492151 Tue, 20 Dec 2011 22:03:37 +0000 mamaKate 492151@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks for initiating, Jean! Even though I am "guilty" of starting one of the purging threads, I am a loud and proud large-wardrobe compatriot, and I share very few of your "reasons" (I live in a temperate climate, have need for only a few capsules, etc.) I haven't counted, but I would guess that my wardrobe items number in the several-hundreds. </p> <p>Simply put, I am on Team Keep. In bizarre harmony with my frequent need for purging, I am also an unabashed collector. I still have a handful of items from over 20 years ago, a number from over 10 years ago. I still have all my high school prom dresses as well as the dresses my *bridesmaids* wore to my wedding.</p> <p>I have a need to organize and arrange things, and my wardrobe is the main target of this mild neurosis. Luckily it can't talk back! </p> <p>One of my first memories is from when I was about 5 years old, sitting for over an hour outside on a stool on the patio in freezing weather, happy as a clam with my collection of small treasures (buttons, figurines, etc.), arranging them in all manner of groupings. </p> <p>I'm never happier than when I have put a set of objects in order, and goodness knows that set of objects won't ever be the house as a whole! So at least it can be my wardrobe! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/why-i-have-a-large-wardrobe-and-it-is-ok#post-492144 Tue, 20 Dec 2011 21:42:23 +0000 cciele 492144@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>No need to feel guilty Jean! Your wardrobe definitely is right for you :)</p> <p>Una, can I join you on team medium and fab? Oh, except when it comes to boots -- definitely a collector there </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/why-i-have-a-large-wardrobe-and-it-is-ok#post-492122 Tue, 20 Dec 2011 21:17:11 +0000 rae 492122@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>While I do want a more streamlined work wardrobe and am actively purging that one, I feel a LOT like you do re: my "real" wardrobe full of my beloved casual clothes. Although I am in work wear 10 hours a day, 5 days a week, I can't see reducing my casual wardrobe because: </p> <p>- Yes, I do like variety, especially in the "mood" of the outfit. This is why I love having multiple colors, even in the same style.<br /> - In summer, I sweat. I'd stink if I didn't have another set of clothes ready in the wings.<br /> - SoCal necessitates layers year round. Whether it's a morning chill or A/C chill, I always need a topper.<br /> - There's a lot of different stuff to do on the weekends: down n' dirty swap meet hunting, trips to the beach, dinner parties, dancing... a girl needs to be ready!<br /> - Jean, I especially like your comment about being a collector. I was just talking to hubs about this: in a lot of ways, I treat my boots and bags as part of an art collection. It just makes me happy to see, use, and touch them. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/why-i-have-a-large-wardrobe-and-it-is-ok#post-492120 Tue, 20 Dec 2011 21:13:53 +0000 Transcona Shannon 492120@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Jean - based on your analysis/explanataion, your wardrobe sounds perfect for you. I think the size of a person's wardrobe and how they wear their clothes is very individual. What's works for one does not necessarily work for another. The recent posts of purging, for me at least, represent finding happiness with my wardrobe and no longer hanging on to items that I don't feel good in. But I agree that puging for the sake of purging makes no sense. I'm envious of your satisfaction with your wardrobe and all its functions - I can only hope to be that satisfied one day, whether my final wardrobe be big or small. No guilt needed! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/why-i-have-a-large-wardrobe-and-it-is-ok#post-492114 Tue, 20 Dec 2011 21:10:20 +0000 Parsley 492114@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>My goodness, no need for apologies or to justify yourself! If your wardrobe works for you, then it's the right size. (and so far, i sure haven't seen any pieces that I'd have you get rid of!)<br /> As Claire says, "Carry on!" You seem to be doing just fine! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/why-i-have-a-large-wardrobe-and-it-is-ok#post-492113 Tue, 20 Dec 2011 21:07:38 +0000 catgirl 492113@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I love that you have a large wardrobe, and we all benefit from it directly by seeing it in action!</p> <p>I am aiming for medium and fab. Right now, mine is pretty much medium but also somewhat mediocre - making progress, though! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/why-i-have-a-large-wardrobe-and-it-is-ok#post-492110 Tue, 20 Dec 2011 21:04:07 +0000 Suz 492110@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I am a member of team lean (at least ideally) but in reality, I live in a climate like yours, Jean, so my closet may LOOK lean but it's only because I only see half of it at any given time. </p> <p>It sounds as if you have just the right number of clothes for your various roles. I think it is perfectly fine to have a large wardrobe! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/why-i-have-a-large-wardrobe-and-it-is-ok#post-492089 Tue, 20 Dec 2011 20:50:31 +0000 rosee 492089@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>With all the closet purging threads lately, I wondered when the large-but-proud contingent would speak up. No need for any guilt!</p> <p>I have just over 300 pieces at the moment (including accessories) but I ideally want to get it down to at least half that. I do have many sizes represented right now but a smaller current size wardrobe.</p> <p>Large or small -- it doesn't matter, as long as it works for you and the stuff doesn't just lie around collecting dust. I plan on keeping some vintage and thrift items I don't wear often but love to wear when I do. Vive le difference!!!</p> <p>(edited for clarity) </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/why-i-have-a-large-wardrobe-and-it-is-ok#post-492087 Tue, 20 Dec 2011 20:47:53 +0000 Anonymous 492087@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Jean, it sounds like your wardrobe is "right sized" for your life, and what a rich life you have! There is no reason to purge just for the sake of having a small wardrobe. Purging is just for things that are no longer right for you. Carry on! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/why-i-have-a-large-wardrobe-and-it-is-ok#post-492082 Tue, 20 Dec 2011 20:43:19 +0000 greenglove 492082@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks for the responses so far. One thing to add- I review my wardrobe twice a year and do purge what does not get worn. I am very disciplined about this. Sometimes something does not get worn a whole season but I am so grateful that I held on to it because a perfect opportunity always arises if I love it! </p>