On Clearance

A new decade is upon us, and with it comes the chance to embrace change, make (and follow through with) resolutions and look toward a new year of possibilities.

A great way to start off is with a cathartic closet purge. By ridding your wardrobe of all the clothing weighing you down – those outdated trend pieces, impulse buys and worn-once items – you can start fresh. We spoke to Laetitia Laurent, lead interior designer of Laure Nell Interiors in Boca Raton, for her advice on conducting a successful closet sweep. 

Remember the Classics

“If I were to conduct a purge, I would [keep] classic pieces that you can get multiple and various wears out of,” says Laurent. A silk blouse can be styled in many ways, for example, whether with denim shorts or black slacks. Get rid of trendy, seasonal items you wear once a year since they take up space and aren’t used as often. 

Be Honest

Don’t get rid of things simply to get rid of them. Only you know when you last wore something, if it truly fits you and if it works in your wardrobe. “Any pieces that are extravagant are welcome if they truly reflect your style and if they fit you really, really well,” she says. Ditch anything that fits poorly, unless it can be tailored. Also, if you haven’t worn something in six months and don’t anticipate wearing it soon, consider bidding it adieu.

Get Organized

To get the most out of your closet after your purge, make sure you can see everything and that it’s arranged in an accessible way. “You can have a closet full of great stuff, but, if it’s all mushed together or not folded right or not visually appealing, you’re never going to reach for it,” Laurent says. “You’re never going to wear it.” She organizes closets for clients by color and also by type of wear, from vacation to formal. She also recommends lighting your closet well, ensuring breathing room for clothes and putting everything at eye level, if possible. If you see it, you’re more likely to wear it. O