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HOW TO MANAGE AN OVERFLOWING WARDROBE

Ever found yourself staring at an overflowing closet, thinking, “I have way too many clothes!” but then not knowing where to start? You’re not alone! As a former shopaholic, I completely understand the struggle. At one point, I owned over a hundred pairs of shoes and even converted my spare room into a makeshift closet. I had stacks of clothes I never wore—many still with the tags on!

But now, I’ve shifted to a minimalist wardrobe, and I can confidently say that sometimes less really is more. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by your clothes and want to make a change, here are some tips to help you get started.

How Many Clothes Is Too Many?

As a minimalist, I know many people assume I’d say something like, “You should only own 30 pieces of clothing”—but that couldn’t be further from the truth.

The reality is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to “How many clothes are too many?” Everyone’s needs are different, based on lifestyle, environment, values, and priorities.

For instance, as a mom of young, messy kids, I need more clothes on hand for frequent changes and washes. Owning less right now would mean constantly stressing over laundry or running out of clean clothes.

Rewind a few years, though—when I was living solo in a studio apartment with no kids, I needed far fewer clothes. More items would’ve just taken up space, and I could wear things multiple times before washing (no sticky hands or spills in sight!).

The bottom line? What’s enough for you might be too much for someone else, or not enough for another. So don’t stress about finding a magic number. Just focus on what truly serves your lifestyle right now.

Signs You Have Too Many Clothes

A more helpful question to ask is: “Is the cost of keeping all these clothes greater than the value they bring to my life?”

Consider the impact your wardrobe has on you:

  • Does an overflowing closet cause you stress?
  • Do you have trouble finding what you need?
  • Do you feel sad or guilty about items you never wear?
  • Does getting dressed take longer than it should?

If you’re nodding along, these may be signs that it’s time to let go of some items and create a wardrobe that truly supports you.

How To Decide What Clothes to Keep?

So, once you’ve decided to pare down your clothes, how do you choose what to keep?

Start by clearing out the easy stuff: damaged or worn-out pieces. Many areas offer textile recycling options, so consider recycling rather than donating items a thrift store might not be able to use.

Next, focus on identifying your personal style. There’s no need to label it or hunt through Pinterest for ideas. Instead, get curious about what you already own. What do you love wearing? What rarely sees the light of day? Notice patterns in fit, fabric, colors, and shapes. These choices reflect your style—even if it doesn’t fit neatly into a category or trendy term.

Embrace these insights to guide your decisions. Instead of haphazardly tossing items, be intentional about curating a wardrobe that truly resonates with you.

“I Have Too Many Clothes But I Like Them All!”

This is a question I hear a lot—many people struggle with having too many clothes yet feel stuck because they like everything they own.

If that sounds familiar, start by asking yourself an honest question: Are you actually wearing all of your clothes?

If the answer is no, here’s a tough truth: you might not love them all—at least, not on you. It’s a lesson that took me a while to grasp. You can admire a style on others or pin it on Pinterest, but that doesn’t mean it suits you or feels right when you wear it.

Your clothes spending most of their time hidden in the back of your closet is telling. Maybe the fit isn’t flattering, the color doesn’t complement your complexion, or the hemline isn’t comfortable. Deep down, you might already know this, but it can feel easier to say “I love all my clothes” than to admit they don’t work for you or that tastes and needs have shifted. Facing these truths is the first step toward letting go.

But what if you do love and wear everything?

In that case, consider why you want to downsize. Are you short on closet space? Feeling overwhelmed by too many options? Pinpointing your motivation will help guide your decisions.

Then, compare the satisfaction of achieving these goals with the discomfort of parting with a few special pieces. While it’s not always easy, sometimes letting go of a few items can help you create the space, simplicity, and joy you’re truly after.

“I Keep Buying Too Many Clothes…”

Decluttering is a great first step, but the real solution is to manage what’s coming in. If shopping is part of the issue, then focusing on your buying habits can make a lasting difference.

If this resonates, here are some blog posts that might help:

  • 4 Reasons Why You Can’t Stop Shopping + What To Do About It — Do you find yourself always buying new clothes or unable to resist a deal? This post dives into the reasons behind impulsive shopping and offers tips for changing your habits.
  • How to Stop Online Shopping (Tips From a Former Shopaholic) — Is your closet overflowing because of online shopping? Check out this post before clicking “add to cart” again.
  • How to Stop Buying Clothes You Never Wear — The average person wears only 20% of their closet. If you’ve got plenty of unworn items, this post offers strategies to break the cycle.
  • 7 Signs You Have a Shopping Problem + What To Do About It — Frequent buyer’s remorse is just one sign of a shopping habit. Read about six more signs and actionable steps to take control.

Other Ways to Reduce Your Number of Clothes

Decluttering is a fantastic way to make space in your closet, but you can also ease into owning fewer clothes and simplifying your wardrobe with a few fun approaches:

  • Project 333 — This minimalist fashion experiment involves dressing with 33 items for 3 months. It’s a great way to “test drive” a pared-down wardrobe without committing to a full overhaul.
  • Try a Minimalist Capsule Wardrobe — Instead of simply decluttering, create a capsule wardrobe, a streamlined collection of items that mix and match easily. This step-by-step guide helps you build a versatile wardrobe you’ll love.
  • Experiment with a Personal Uniform — If you’re overwhelmed by choices, a personal uniform can simplify getting dressed. For anyone who feels pressured to constantly change outfits, this approach can bring ease and consistency.

Do you feel like you have too many clothes? What’s the hardest part about letting go?

conclusion

In the end, simplifying your wardrobe is about finding what works best for you. Decluttering, experimenting with capsule wardrobes, or trying a minimalist project can all help you build a collection of clothing that truly adds value to your life. Remember, there’s no “one-size-fits-all” approach—just a journey to creating a wardrobe that reflects your style, supports your lifestyle, and brings you joy without overwhelming you. Embrace the process, and you’ll find yourself with a closet that feels lighter, more intentional, and easier to manage.

WHAT TO WEAR TO A 90S PARTY

The 90s stand out as one of the most iconic decades in fashion, leaving an indelible mark on our collective memory. No matter how much time passes, we continually draw inspiration from 90s styles, fueled by nostalgia. It’s fascinating to see how 90s-themed parties are now a popular trend in major cities worldwide, sparking the question of what to wear to these events.

These gatherings celebrate not only the music of the 90s but also the vibrant fashion that defined the era. According to Google Trends, searches for “90s Fashion” have steadily increased from 2008 to the present, showing that our fascination with this decade remains strong.

To help you stand out at your next 90s party, we’ve compiled a list of essential garments that embody the spirit of the decade. Best of all, our guide features unisex options, ensuring that everyone can find something perfect to rock at the celebration!

CARDIGAN + HIGH-WAIST JEANS

A quintessential 90s outfit features a cardigan paired with high-waisted jeans. Opt for a cardigan in a soft pastel hue for a fresh vibe or a darker shade for a grunge aesthetic. You can choose to button it up or leave it open for a relaxed feel. High-waisted jeans are versatile, suitable for both casual and dressed-up occasions. Complete the look with sneakers for a laid-back touch or boots for added edge, and don’t forget to accessorize with a stylish belt.

SLIP DRESS + CHUNKY SHOES

Slip dresses, a major trend of the 90s, are making a comeback! These dresses are typically silky with thin straps, embodying a chic, feminine style. To channel your inner Posh Spice from the Spice Girls, pair a slip dress with chunky shoes, such as sturdy boots or platform sneakers, to create a striking contrast with the dress’s delicate fabric. This ensemble is ideal for achieving a polished look while staying comfortable and relaxed.

BOLD BUCKET HATS

Bucket hats, a cherished accessory from the 90s, capture the essence of that era’s youthful style. With their unique shape and often vibrant patterns, they effortlessly introduce a laid-back, playful vibe to any outfit. Whether featuring a trendy logo or a striking floral design, these hats add a touch of personal flair to your look.

SCRUNCHIES

Scrunchies are iconic accessories from the 1990s that offer versatility and style. Not only do they keep your high ponytail secure, but they also make a fun wrist accessory, adding a pop of color and texture to your look. Available in materials like velvet and satin, scrunchies are an effortless way to infuse a retro vibe into any outfit, complementing every color of the rainbow.

BACKPACKS

In this decade, mini backpacks became the perfect fusion of function and fashion. Often seen in vibrant colors or made from clear plastic, these compact bags were ideal for carrying essentials while adding a playful flair to any outfit.

TINY SUNGLASSES

A signature accessory from the early Y2K era, tiny sunglasses boast a retro-futuristic charm that injects an edgy vibe into any outfit, reminiscent of Matrix aesthetics. Available in various shapes, from slim rectangles to sleek ovals, they often feature colorful or mirrored lenses. These compact shades are not just for sun protection; they’re a bold style statement.

COLORFUL WINDBREAKER

Windbreakers were a staple of the 90s, frequently showcasing bold and vibrant colors. When paired with bike shorts, they create a sporty and fun look that’s perfect for a 90s-themed party. The windbreaker adds a nostalgic touch, while the resurgence of bike shorts in modern fashion creates a harmonious blend of past and present styles.

DOUBLE DENIM

Double denim, famously known as the ‘Canadian Tuxedo,’ was a hallmark trend of the 90s. This style combines a denim top, such as a jacket or shirt, with denim bottoms. You can create an exciting contrast by mixing different shades of denim or opt for a monochromatic look for a sleek effect. Complete the outfit with a simple white tee underneath and a pair of stylish sneakers. The secret to rocking double denim is to wear it with confidence and a laid-back, casual attitude.

CASUAL OVERALLS

Overalls are a quintessential staple from the era, seamlessly blending practicality and style. This casual look is versatile and easy to wear. Stick with a classic combination of a plain white tee under blue denim overalls, or add flair with a colorful, patterned shirt.

Depending on the weather, complete the outfit with sneakers or sandals, and don’t forget to let one strap hang loose for that authentic 90s vibe! To finish off the look, consider adding a bucket hat or a small backpack for an extra touch of charm.

GRAPHIC TEE + HIP-HOP STYLE BAGGY JEANS

Baggy jeans, particularly those from JNCO, were a key element of the 90s hip-hop aesthetic, embodying comfort and coolness. To achieve this iconic look, pair your oversized jeans with a graphic tee or a vibrant, oversized sweatshirt.

Complete the outfit with chunky sneakers or boots to enhance the style. For an authentic 90s hip-hop vibe, consider adding a bucket hat or a bandana. This ensemble is all about showcasing your personality and celebrating the art of relaxed dressing.

ANIMAL PRINT FUN

Embrace the 90s passion for bold patterns with an eye-catching animal print outfit. This daring choice, whether in the form of a leopard print dress, a stylish cheetah-patterned blouse, or adventurous pants, infuses energy into any ensemble. To let the print take center stage, pair it with simple black accessories, or go all-in with bold, chunky jewelry for a true 90s vibe. The secret to pulling off this look is confidence—wear it with pride!

CLUELESS INSPIRED CHECKERED OUTFIT

Clueless is one of the decade’s most iconic films, known for its memorable checkered outfits. To channel that preppy “Clueless” vibe, try wearing checkered skirts or blazers. Pair them with knee-high socks and classic Mary Jane shoes for a polished look. Don’t forget to accessorize with a headband to complete the full Cher Horowitz ensemble!

CONCLUSION

So, there you have it! With these 90s-inspired outfit ideas, you’re ready to step back in time and own the dance floor. Whether you’re channeling your inner grunge goddess, embracing neon brights, or rocking a classic denim look, remember to have fun and let your personality shine through. After all, the 90s were all about individuality and self-expression. So, get creative, embrace the nostalgia, and get ready to turn heads at your next 90s party!