Fixing Your Wardrobe: Solutions for Every Type of Closet
In order to start dressing better, we must get comfortable with the idea of “out with the old in with the new.” What I mean by this is we need to get rid of those horrid items that are taking up space in our closets causing us to have a mental breakdown every time we decide to get up and get dressed. Before we go throwing away everything in our closets, we need to do some detective work. Go into your closet and begin looking at the clothing that you have, but you need to do so objectively. As you read through this post, identify which type of closet you have and consider the steps you can take to improve it. We’ll explore different closet types, and I’d be willing to bet that everyone reading this will see themselves in at least one or two of these categories. Let’s dive in!
The Mediocre Closet
I know we are starting off a little strong but stick with me here. If you have this type of closet, you have no clothing pieces that stand out or pop! Nothing bold, classy, or exquisite. Just basics. Everything looks pretty much the same because you hardly go out anyway, so why bother? Nothing is wrong with this type of closet per say, but it might be in your best interest to add a bit of color, pattern or texture to bring those basics to life. Here are some steps you can take to improve your wardrobe.
- Identify your personal style—create a mood board for inspiration.
- Invest in statement pieces (bold colors, prints, or unique cuts).
- Add accessories like scarves, jewelry, or structured handbags.
- Incorporate textures and layers to add depth.
- Try styling your basics in new ways (layering, mixing prints, tucking vs. untucking).
The Outdated Closet
If you are a 90’s baby like me, you love some acid-washed jeans, a tube top, and jelly sandals. Lol okay maybe we are not dressing that old school but if you fall into this category, you may have some clothing pieces that you have held onto for a while. You are typically a neat person, and your clothing is in pretty good condition, they just look old-fashioned. The solution?
- Do a purge—donate items that don’t fit or look dated.
- Keep classic pieces like blazers, denim, and neutral sweaters.
- Modernize with current silhouettes—swap bootcut jeans for straight-leg, or boxy blazers for fitted ones.
- Mix old with new—pair a vintage top with trendy high-waisted pants.
- Tailor items to update the fit (cropping jackets, tapering pants, adjusting sleeve lengths).
The Packed Closet
You sure do love a good deal. Don’t worry, so do I, however, it is time to declutter your space. You may have attempted to clean out your closet but found every reason to keep certain items. Some of your excuses may be: “It was a gift from a friend.” “The price tag is still on there.” “I never wore this one, but I plan to.” You get my point. You can never find anything you need because your closet is full to the brim! The solution?
- Do a wardrobe detox—if you haven’t worn it in a year, donate it.
- Categorize clothes by season and store out-of-season items elsewhere.
- Use the “hanger trick” (turn all hangers backward; after wearing something, turn the hanger forward—after six months, donate untouched items).
- Create go-to outfits for different occasions and take photos for easy reference.
- Consider a minimalist approach—curate a wardrobe with only essentials that mix and match well.
The Thrift Store Closet
If you have this type of closet, just about everything you bought was on sale at your local JC Penny or you found it at Goodwill or some other discount store. Now, you may have found some staples but none of the pieces go together so you are stuck with some nice, thrifted finds that you can’t wear. This is the category I fall into by the way, so I know it all too well. So, what can you do about your thrift store closet?
- Create a capsule wardrobe—stick to a defined color palette.
- Stop buying things just because they’re cheap—ask, “Would I pay full price for this?”
- Declutter by getting rid of items that don’t fit your style.
- Be intentional—only buy pieces that work with at least three outfits.
- Invest in key pieces instead of multiple “okay” ones.
The Trendy Closet
You fall into this category if you wear most of your clothing items once or twice and have a wide variety of colors, prints, and styles. Although you have nice clothes, you may find it hard to put many of your clothes together. Your solution?
- Identify core basics that work year-round (white button-ups, classic denim, neutral tops).
- Limit trend purchases—choose only 1-2 trendy pieces per season.
- Balance fast fashion with quality staples that last.
- Focus on timeless silhouettes rather than fleeting styles.
- Use accessories to add trendiness rather than replacing entire outfits.
Final Thoughts About Different Types of Closets
No matter what type of closet you have, the key to a great wardrobe is intentionality. Declutter, define your style, and invest in pieces that truly serve you. By making these small changes, you can turn your closet into a space filled with outfits you love—without the stress!
