Cluttered Closets? Get Organized This Spring!

March 12, 2010

Marie Green is a fashion stylist and writer from San Diego California. She is the former Fashion Editor of FINE Homes and Living Magazine and her column, “Fashion Focus” has appeared in FINE Magazine as well as LaJolla Light, The Del Mar Times, Del Mar Ink, The Carmel Valley Leader, Rancho Santa Fe Record, and The Solana Beach Sun. Marie is also the co-founder of SheWants.com.

Spring has sprung, and there’s no better time to do a little cleaning. When it comes to fashion and wardrobe choices, ask yourself: Does it take you longer than five minutes to get dressed in the morning? If so, it’s time for a closet edit. But for many, this is easier said than done. If the thought of tackling your closet makes you queasy, don’t fret. Spring cleaning can be fashionable and fun with these tips!

Get Started

When doing a closet edit, separate all of your apparel into one of four categories:

1. DONATE clothing you don’t want to charity. If you haven’t worn something in over a year, consider donating it. Goodwill drop-off centers on Carmel Valley Road at Hwy. 5 in Del Mar and La Costa Blvd. off the 5 fwy., as well as the Salvation Army on Sports Arena Blvd. in San Diego make it quick and easy to donate your used goods.

2. CONSIGN designer clothes no longer “for you.” Designer Consigner of La Jolla is a great place to consign perfect condition designer label apparel, as is Carolyn’s designer resale in Del Mar. For the rest of your apparel and accessories, consider Flashbacks in downtown San Diego and Encinitas, Buffalo Exhange in Pacific Beach, or one of any three Double Take resale shops along the coast. You can earn money on things you no longer want to wear.

3. TAILOR clothing so it’s flattering and up-to-date. Elegance Tailors in Del Mar does an excellent job on alterations.

4. KEEP and organize the remaining pieces by color, function or season. Purchase quality storage containers, hangers and hooks to keep your closet organized and functional. Products from the Container Store at Fashion Valley Mall can help even the most cluttered closet look like a boutique! During these crazy times, it’s more important than ever to start your day by getting ready in a nicely done closet that you’re happy in.

Classic Keeps

Not sure what to keep? Here are some guidelines:

• Classic Designer Pieces: Louis Vuitton, St. John, Chanel, etc. are a beautiful investment.
• Patent leather: It’s always fashionable.
• Leopard Print: Which is cyclical because it always comes back.
• Peep Toed Shoes: Are always stylish, even if the current emphasis is on a different shape.
• Quality Leather Goods: Like belts, handbags, and jackets, as long as they’re in good condition.
• Items with Sentimental Value: Label and place these items in storage containers out of the way.

Add List

After editing and organizing your closet, look at the season’s trends and shop with a list based on what you need to complete your wardrobe.

This spring, the hottest trends are:

• Safari Jackets
• Denim
• Any shade of Blue
• Neutral Colors
• Tailored looks
• Hemlines are Creeping Up

And remember, if you need help, shop with someone who can be objective, or consult a fashion stylist (they’re not just for celebrities!).

Most importantly, know what looks good on you and feel great about your own personal style. The most important fashion accessory you can possess is confidence and good posture makes any outfit look better.

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Inside Scoop: Make a complimentary wish list for your favorite fashionable items at www.SheWants.com.

...Fashion Focus, Fashion Forward, Fashion Fun

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Marie Green is a stylist and fashion column writer living in the Del Mar Area. She welcomes your fashion questions and comments at fashionfocuswithmarie@yahoo.com and twitter.com/SheWantsdotcom.