I think using a holding zone is the best way to do it with items that pass the fit, style, color test. If it fits, is still in style, the color is okay, but you're not wearing it for some other reason, try to determine the reason. Too wrinkly and you don't want to iron? Too dressy for your usual needs? Not sure how to style it? Need different shoes? If it's the latter two, you could of course play with it for styling ideas and/or decide if there is a hole for a different pair of shoes (for me shoes has been a big one). If it's too dressy, just wear it already and stop "saving" it. Worst case you mess it up, right? Better than it just sitting there until it's out of style. If it's too wrinkly and you don't like to iron, pass it on.

Getting to the bottom of why you aren't wearing certain items will be very helpful for future purchases.