Is your wardrobe overflowing? Do you even know what’s in there? Are there some items that went out of fashion in 1994 and have no chance of coming back? And what about those trousers you’ve been hoping you’ll fit back into?
Now the seasons are changing, it’s a great opportunity to do a stocktake of your wardrobe. The idea is to get rid of all the unworn items that are taking up space and replace them with hard-working, never-out-of-style clothes that you can wear for multiple occasions. We call it a smart wardrobe.
Tips for clearing out your wardrobe
The first step of the wardrobe edit is to make some cuts. Follow the one-year rule: if you haven’t worn something for a year, then it’s unlikely you’ll wear it in the future. The same goes for things that no longer fit.
Next up is to replace your cuts with some multitasking items. Here we identify the five prime suspects of a cluttered wardrobe and reveal the clever clothing swaps that will work much harder for you.
Give away: Too-high heels
As we get older, the more we realise that comfort is key. Yes, you might feel fabulous at first in a pair of sky-high heels, but you know in a few hours you’ll be cursing your decision to wear them. If you’ve been holding on to a pair of once-loved stilettos, do yourself a favour and pass them on to someone who doesn’t know better.
Replace with: A classic heel that will go with anything. Killer heels don’t have to kill you − these elegant mid-heel court shoes will be your go-to for years to come and can be dressed up or down. Wear them for work with a skirt or ankle-length trousers or take them on your evening out with a chic black dress. They’ll even look great paired with slim-fit jeans – just make sure there’s a gap between the shoe and the hemline. They’re a classic style that will never go out of fashion.
Give away: Cheap summer dresses
Are you guilty of buying flimsy summer dresses every season? If you only wear them a couple of times a year, why not replace them with something that works much harder.
Replace with: A classic wrap or shirt dress that you can wear all year round. This printed shirt dress is perfect for dressing up or down and it’s flattering on all body shapes. Its relaxed fit will keep you cool when the temperatures rise, and you can wear it with opaque tights, ankle boots and a cardie in autumn. Or pair it with a tailored jacket to give you a smart, yet relaxed work look.
Give away: Unflattering trousers
Do you have trousers that just don’t fit the way you want them to? It’s time to say goodbye.
Replace with: A good pair of well-cut trousers. Get the basics right and it can elevate your whole outfit. These classic trousers will never go out of style and can be worn lots of ways – with ankle boots and a sparkly top for a night out, with court shoes and a crisp shirt for work, or trainers and a white tee for a funky weekend look.
Give away: Flimsy jackets
You don’t need a different jacket for every outfit. You just need the right jacket.
Replace with: Free up premium wardrobe space by giving away your unworn jackets and investing in a classic blazer that will literally go with anything. Wear with a white tee, smart jeans and flats for a chic weekend look, with heels and a jumpsuit for a cool evening outfit or throw over a floral dress for a cute daytime look. The options are endless.
Give away: The wrong length skirts
If you have skirts that make you feel self-conscious because they’re slightly too short, replace them with a more flattering length.
Replace with: A midi skirt is super-stylish and works for all heights. If you’re on the shorter side, opt for one that sits either just above or below your mid-calf. This pleated midi skirt is flattering on every body shape – it skims over larger thighs and creates curves on petite figures. It’s a great transitional piece too − team with a fitted jumper and ankle boots for autumn, heels and a plain t-shirt for a cool evening look or with sandals when it’s warm outside.
What should you do with your old clothes?
When it comes to getting rid of your clothes, you can pass them on to friends, family or a charity shop. If you have any high-end pieces that are no longer suitable, consider selling them on a resale fashion site or through a clothing agency. If they’re dirty or beyond repair, don’t throw them away. Check your local council’s website − many councils will accept unwearable textiles and they’ll be turned into car seat padding, mattress linings and underlay.
Damart has lots of classic looks to explore. Shop the collection now at www.damart.co.uk.