Come out of the Closet
I came across the most revolutionary technique for eliminating closet clutter forever. It takes a bit of work initially, but the system for keeping clothes clutter in check is ingenious. STEP ONE: Take everything out of the closet. STEP TWO: Separate by Stay, Toss, Donate. STEP THREE: Group like items together - shoes, purses, scarves, ties, belts, shirts, pants, etc.  Items are to be hung BACKWARDS with the hanger opening facing forward (the opposite as you normally place the hanger on the rod.)
Now this is where it gets good.  When you wear something, return it to the hanger and hang the NORMAL WAY with the hanger opening facing back. And then in six months look at all the BACKWARD hanging items. Since these have not been worn in six months, get rid of them.Â
This is the best way to stay on top of clothes and accessories that you don’t like, don’t fit, require too much maintenance, or do not make a complete outfit. After all, that’s why you haven’t worn them in six months.Â
Rachel is working on this system and loves it. I’m next.
July 29th, 2007 at 10:34 pm
I just did the backwards hanger trick and skipped the rest since I had recently gone through and organized my closet. I do love this tip. I need the visual impact for discipline, otherwise I’ll hang onto my unworn shirts forever! Now time will tell…
August 17th, 2007 at 1:17 pm
Oh my gosh! I love this! A simle idea that makes such a visual imact - no way to fool yourself with this one.
August 17th, 2007 at 3:49 pm
I have a friend who is on month five of this, and she is loving it! I’m going to try it next month. I’m also going to switch my shoes around on the shoe rack to see which pairs I never wear. I have a feeling that there are quite a few…
August 23rd, 2007 at 10:30 am
Eva - I loved the backward hanger idea to keep me from “cheating.” I think it’s revolutionary!
Marie - I never thought about turning the shoes backwards as well! What a great idea! Thanks. I tend to use the excuse that I will come up with an outfit that the shoes will compliment. Guess what, I just bought five pairs of shoes over the weekend. I know I should throw out 5 old ones . . .
Rachel - I just heard that you bought 10 pairs of shoes within the last month! You need to do the backward shoe trick - and stop shopping girl!