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What I learned from re-arranging my closet

Helena

Veteran

Hi friends, in preparation for spring, I spent some time pulling things out of various bins and re-arranging my closet. I decided to use Angie's system of keeping everything visible, so I could really get a sense of my wardrobe. This was an interesting process, and I learned a few valuable things:

I really like what I have in my closet. I removed only about 3 items, and that was only because they are too small. I have lots of pieces I enjoy, which is great!
It's been a revelation for me to realize I've gained some weight the last few years! I think it didn't register because my current weight is what I consider my 'normal' weight; whereas, after my kids I got quite low-for-me-weight. I did realize recently that I need to size up, and now I get why - I've been buying for the size that was right a few years ago (or there were a few things that fit right a few years ago but don't now). Mystery solved.
Despite point #1, I can see very clearly how completely I've neglected my cold weather wardrobe. I sort of knew this, but it's been made stark by seeing everything together. Of the circa 70 pieces of clothing (not including outerwear, shoes & accessories, and loungewear/gear), I only have about 7 tops that stand alone for deep winter (and three of them are the exact same top in different colours)! Clearly this is ridiculous. I have attempted to crack this problem before but have not succeeded - or perhaps not followed through on the effort because I hate winter. I'd like to branch out from wool fine-knits and have a better crack at polished athleisure for this season (I know, sweats ... but they seem to have a magical property of being super-warm without making me overheat) - I'm a bit obsessed with how Canadian influencer Sasha Exeter can make a hoodie look unbelievably polished and need to channel this super-power somehow. (yes her being gorgeous helps of course!!)

Action Steps:

be very mindful about adding new transitional weather pieces as I have many of these that I like and not much season to wear them in!
invest a bigger proportion of my annual budget (I don't really budget per se as I'm pretty frugal but I know roughly what I am happy spending) into deep winter tops - seasonal versatility NOT required. If they are only good for January/February, that's fine - ideal in fact.
really be honest about how things fit and make sure I am not choosing a size out of habit. I'm not one that cares about size so much as lazy about shopping!
maintain my closet where I can see everything! so helpful.

Thanks for reading and, as always, I am open to feedback, critique, questions, etc. xx

General

28 replies

Latest reply was from

N

Have you heard of style essences? They seem to somewhat correlate with Kibbe but not completely I don't think. Anyway, perhaps Sasha Exeter is a Natural style essence. Maybe this is why she can make them look polished.

I think I'm Kibbe Flamboyant Natural, not completely sure, but I don't think my style essence is Natural, as lounge wear always looks sloppy on me

Perhaps you can determine your style essence.

https://theconceptwardrobe.com.....ces-guides

ChristelJ

Veteran

Congrats on liking what you see in your closet! It's satisfying reading your insights and so true about the value of being able to see everything at once. You sound incredibly organized and I admire your goals. I know what you mean about transitional season pieces being so tempting but not as useful. Mine take up more space than they earn, for sure.

Sal

Veteran

That sounds like a few hours very well spent. And yes it is easy to overbuy for seasons that you enjoy and underbuy for others. I used to think everything was either summer or winter and was either too cold or too hot for half the year!!

I watched a Busbee Style video this morning on youtube about wearing sneakers. Whilst some of her messages can be challenging to me (and her language) I did like the polished athleisure outfits that would suit you too. There can be so much crossover between sports gear, casual wear etc

slim cat

Veteran

Nice job on figuring out what needs to be added for the season - seeing all wardrobe pieces helps of course! Winter sales isn’t over yet- some things could be found .

Runcarla

Veteran

‘Everything out’ eliminates out of sight, out of mind, and can inspire you to mix things up in ways you might not normally. I wouldn’t have worn mesh tops in winter, but I layered them over a black tank style undershirt, and they were fine. A sleeveless button down can be worn under a sweater.

I like sweaters for the coldest days of winter, but I’ve always kept (just) ONE flannel shirt for when I want something different. I’m always happy to have that one shirt, and when it gets worn out, I replace it with a different flannel button down. I can remember the last 3 I’ve owned! Each lasted about 3 years.

unfrumped

Veteran

Good re- organizing and planning!
Closet and drawer change- ups are good for jogging the brain.
I also get some deep- winter weather (for me— but nothing like the really cold parts of US.!). I don’t like too many layers that feel constricting, though I love how fashion shoots use many layers, I can’t do it. Usually just 2. ( indoors).
So I have some faux- Sherpa lined shirts and sweatpants, and flannel- lined pants, and several different weights of fleece pullover tops and fleece snap/ button front shirts. Plus some footwear that I think is actually “ real” regular wear, but have fuzzy linings and I sized to wear as indoor shoes/ boots with cozier socks. Several things I added this year due to staying home.
It’s not a huge capsule but I wore everything frequently yet had variety. But I really needed this high- warmth quality to be comfortable indoors.
When it’s not quite as cold, I tend to wear different things which would NOT
cut it on the deepest winter days.
So this helped me see the usefulness of the true deep winter “ capsule, that it didn’t need to be too large but needed the right specific items for me- fits, fabrics, weights- and I would wear them happily in their season.

rachylou

Veteran

Ok. Have to admit I’m impressed you’ve been getting by with just 7 deep winter tops, lol

Echo

Veteran

Your insights are very helpful to me. I am going to strive to keep my wardrobe visible, too. I have a terrible memory, and will sometimes unintentionally forget about things for far too long.

And not shopping or having enough clothes for a season I'm not fond of dressing for? Guilty here, too, except for me it is summer. I dislike very warm weather, and would choose to stay in air conditioning, so I tend not to buy things to make me comfortable in the heat.

And being aware of sizing is a tough thing for a lot of people, I think. We buy a size out of habit or vanity or comfort or some other reason that may or may not correspond to our actual size. I am trying to be more aware of how things fit and feel and less concerned about the number or letter in the tag.

N

Echo, i'm the same. I much prefer winter and autumn dressing, maybe even spring but summer I hate. Its too humid here. I end up melted in a puddle the moment I step out the door. Plus with the sun so strong you need full coverage clothes to prevent burning...so the stuff I'd wear in Europe say won't cut it here.

I have nothing that is suitable for summer and I think I only have about 7 tops in my whole wardrobe for all the seasons (one of the many reasons I'm building it up)

cat2

Veteran

Helena: What about making a list of what you should want for Winter? Some of the purchases are dreary, but at least you could feel productive!

Anonymous

Sounds like a good plan! I found it also helps to keep everything in Finds- then you can create capsules (like deep winter) and find those wardrobe holes.

Zaeobi

(website)

Veteran

I need to do this too - thanks for the inspiration! I'd been putting off going to IKEA to get more closet storage solutions due to the pandemic situation but, now that Hong Kong is mostly back to normal, I have to admit that it's also partially due to laziness too lol - getting everything out at once will make it easier to visualise how much I need to buy for such a small closet, lol

I hear you on size fluctuations - I've become so used to me fitting into a 2XL (in HK's Asian sizing), that I end up subconsciously giving online fit guides the side eye when they suggest I need a size L (or even M). I've now started taking multiple sizes into the fitting room & not checking the tags before trying them on, just to bypass that mental block lol.

Jaime

(website)

Veteran

I hear you about hating winter, but alas, you do live in Canada . N makes an interesting point about sweatshirts and style type. Sweatshirts may not suit your polished and classic vibe. Maybe worth investing in two more expensive winter tops? You could spend lots of time planning and researching!

Bijou

Veteran

You do look polished and gorgeous in hoodies too, just like Sasha. There is so much luxe athleisure clothing, I can see that look working well for you. You really do need to embrace your winter, it is just so long!

Carla's strategy of having a few items that are different to mix things up is a good one even for a minimal and cohesive wardrobe.

Joy

Veteran

This was so inspiring. I have been editing out pieces that no longer fit or I am tired of as I go season by season. I like my closet arrangement but taking out everything would be a good idea. It took years to realize that transitional pieces got little or no wear. I my present climate transition weather is the predominate season. That has been a big change and my newer clothing fits in this category. I hope your new closet arrangement works out well for you.

Sisi

Veteran

I had the same lightbulbs a few years ago when I started lurking and reading Angies' posts. When I started to track my clothes I realized that I had 16 pairs of sandals, not even a pair of boots and very few sweaters. All of a sudden it was clear why I had so many difficulties in putting together a Winter outfit! Guess what, I love Summer and hate Winter. I finally learned not to overbuy for my favourite but non dominant Season.
For a while I also bought, out of habit, clothes in my previous size and then was disappointed at how badly they would fit.
Well, congratulations to you! And I am a bit jealous that you like what you have in your closet. I am not there yet. I mean, not completely.

Stagiaire Fash

Veteran

I can’t picture what a standalone top for deep winter would look like. In my mind, cold requires sweater/sweatshirt requires base layer which might or might now show at collar and cuffs.
Related to that, I’m wondering if/how you can wear some of those transitional items in deep winter—with warm base layers and a topper of some sort?

I use Zaeobi’s trick of not looking at size labels in the dressing room and letting myself be surprised by which one I’ve grabbed first.

As part of rearranging our whole cellar area to make room for finally emptying the US storage locker, I’ve been sorting through my summer clothes, separating by type. I haven’t finished or reached the clarity you have, but it’s an interesting exercise.

Staysfit

Veteran

Helena, I enjoyed reading your new insights from this project! I believe our local climates are similar, although I live slightly closer to Ottawa than Toronto, Our transitional seasons are short, almost non-existent, and we get large amounts of lake effect snow.

In deep winter, I wear layers. I almost never wear a stand-alone top unless it’s a cashmere turtleneck. Even then, I try to find a lightweight cotton turtleneck to wear underneath. My point is that pullovers look nice, but if you do not layer, can be difficult to manage when temperature varies room to room. I prefer layers that are easy to adjust. A zip cardigan or athletic jacket is classic, casual and polished and in my mind also has the ease that is part of your style. The neckline and shoulder fit of a hoodie can be tricky. Some lay bulkily around the neck and are loose in the shoulder and arm area. If you can find one where the hood lays flat, and does not form a lot of bulk, or with some structure in the shoulders or arms, I think it might feel more in keeping with your personal sense of style.

RobinF

Veteran

Great reading and insight. Regarding winter tops, what type of top would be a stand alone for deep winter? I struggle with that too and haven't found anything that works besides sweaters and I tend to layer them. So nice that you are happy with where you are at. From what I can tell in your posts, you make very mindful purchases and it pays off.

Helena

Veteran

tThanks so much everyone!

I hear you on the deep winter stand alone - it's a bit of a unicorn. I gave it some thought and realize I REALLY hate layering sleeves. I'd rather be cold. So I do wear some sort of tank as a base layer always in winter to add a bit of warmth, but the cardigan over long-sleeve formula gives me the heebie-jeebies. That said, I do have a 'house jacket' that I wear indoors when I'm really cold.

I do find a thick sweatshirt over a tank just right for deep winter (for me) as a stand alone - warm and cozy, but it breathes and moves, so I don't feel constrained or over-heated. To staysfit's point, they are also more comfortable (to me) over long sleeves than any other layering piece. The issue with sweatshirts is, of course, that they are sweatshirts But I do agree there are lots more polished versions available that I could consider. I do love Carla's idea of a flannel shirt as a layering piece too - I did get one last year that didn't work for me, but I suspect if I got a dark neutral version it *might* work better for me, so that's a consideration. I don't think I need to buy a ton, just a few extra pieces, that are different from what I have and from each other, to break up the boredom.

Shevia, the number of times I've asked my Dad what he was thinking when he chose Canada over New Zealand *sigh*

Zaeobi, that is GENIUS!

cat2

Veteran

Helena: This winter I tried flannel again; I bought a Madewell shirt that doesn’t look like my boyfriend is a lumberjack, in colors I like. It still takes an act of will to put it on. If you like sweatshirts, what about looking for elevated ones? I have one from Splendid with a dusting of star trim on the yoke that makes me far more happy than the flannel, and doesn’t make me feel too tacky. Also, what about trying an old school mariner tops? They were heavy knits for seagoing, and might fit your design sensibility.

Helena

Veteran

Cat2, great ideas and from before, thanks for the suggestion of using this as a fun planning project - I will, as well as making a checklist for all the stuff my kids should have seasonally (I have one who would bankrupt us at the mall if we let them, and the other who won't even replace too-short pants because "that's what socks are for" *eyeroll* - I need to reign these extremes in!!). I hear you on the flannel - I am curious but not convinced - I feel like if it got me through a few days when I just need something different, it might be worthwhile, but your warning is well-heeded!

unfrumped

Veteran

I SLP got a faux- Sherpa lined zip front hood jacket from TJMAXX that is low- hip length that I wore like a tunic-“top” with heavy fleece leggings or the Athleta Altitude pants, which are snug- fitting/ stretchy. I sized it roomy enough to not be fitted like a tight ski- jacket fit but to slide freely when raising arms, etc.
To the point of layering, which as I mentioned can be very constricting to me, I wore it over fitted stretchy underlayer like Heattech. Because it is very warm itself, the hood was not a problem ( per Staysfit’s good observation that hoodies can actually be rather hard to layer OVER, despite that popular fashion look). If I got a little too warm, as when moving about more, I could unzip it partially.
I mention this item because I am not a big tunic- leggings wearer ar all, but like the look occasionally, and it gave me a really different silhouette as a change from puffier pants. I got this idea from one of LaPed’s posts when she was looking for jackets, but I didn’t think I wanted to invest a lot in it as an indoor top. Then I just happened to come across it. And actually I can wear it going out as a jacket if I wanted to.

Janet

(website)

Veteran

Good organizing and thinking! Yes, sounds like you need some good cozy winter tops. I bought a few this winter so I didn't default to old hoodies every day, and was glad I did -- having some nice new knitwear made me actually get "dressed" (albeit casually in jeans and a sweater) on days when I otherwise might have defaulted to loungewear.

It would be nice to have all seasons of my wardrobe in one place, but that would require a larger closet or a smaller wardrobe!

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

These are SUCH good conclusions! You had me with accurate fit assessments, identifying wardrobe holes, and being happy with what you see. WELL DONE

There is no shortcut. When you’re organized and do the homework - you reap the reward.

Cardiff girl

Veteran

A job well done!Do you really only have 7 jumpers for a Canadian winter?I live in jumpers from October to April here and have considerably more!

Helena

Veteran

Yes CG - isn't that ridiculous. Now in fairness I did get rid of a few through the year due to the aforementioned fit issues, but I didn't replace them, hence the extremely low number, although it was not very high to start with.

I'm going to troll your WIWs to check out your sweaters now

Anonymous

I am completely on the same page re: deep winter, needing more tops, and hating deep winter! I really struggle to shop for my least favorite season. I tried this year but ultimately decided to put it off to next winter, when hopefully we will be recovering from the pandemic and able to venture out a lot more.