Today's Everyday Fashion: What to Keep, What to Toss

/







































By now you guys know that I tend to hold onto items for a really long time. In fact, I have a whole collection of blazers from 5+ years ago that I'm still rocking today. Take this jacket from H&M - I bought it in 2006, haven't worn it in ages, but decided to bust it out of the closet today! How did I know I would wear this again? Check out my tips below for cleaning out your closet and what to keep/what to toss. But first...

Why this works: This jacket can be very costume-y. I didn't want to look like I was headed to a costume party, so I was very careful about what I paired the jacket with. Flares look really modern, and in the Victorian era they weren't around. I mixed my styles (Victorian and 70's) to create a funky, modern look!

Jacket: H&M
Shirt: Forever 21, $8
Jeans: Gap, $15
Shoes: Restricted/Endless.com, $39

What to toss: When making a toss/maybes pile, don't listen to experts that tell you to throw something out if you haven't worn it for 6 months to a year. I have held onto tops for a full 5 years before they came back in style, and every time I am really thankful that I held onto them. When to toss:
  • If something is ripped, stained or worn out.
  • If you are only holding onto it for sentimental reasons.
  • If something doesn't fit you size-wise. (one exception: if it can be used for maternity wear later on) 
  • If something doesn't fit you style-wise. Pants often don't keep well, because the styles change (skinny, flare, etc.) so I don't generally hold onto them for very long.
  • If you don't love it anymore. (we all grow out of our younger styles eventually!)
What to keep:  In general, these are the principles I follow in deciding what to keep:
  • If you still really love it, the fit is great, it just feels out of date. Keep it - it will probably come back into style!
  • If it's a high quality item such as a blazer, coat or shoes (only keep the shoes if they are in excellent condition though!).
  • If it's a unique item such as a beaded top or special occasion dress.
How do you decide what to keep?