In getting ready for summer, we are switching over from the long-sleeved winter outfits to the short or sleeveless outfits for summer.

Purging our closets of out-grown or unused items saves us time in picking outfits for the day.

With all the clothes weather-appropriate and the correct size, we can make a choice, dress, and set off for our day.

In purging my closet, I have chosen the following criteria to determine whether or not to keep items:

Have I worn it in the past year?

If not and I do not have a plan for the item, then I let it go. If the outfit is for a special occasion, then I keep it away from my regular everyday clothing.

Do I like the item?

If I do not care for the item, then I let it go. No sense in passing over that item every time I am looking for something to wear. If I only wore it because it was the only item that matched another item, then I begin looking at sales for a fitting replacement that I want to wear.

Does the item fit?

If the item is too big, too tight, too short, etc., then I donate it. By keeping it in the closet, I am reminded each time I wear the item of why I do not care for it. To prevent wasting time fixing a loose strap, readjusting, uncomfortable, or miserable, I get rid of the item.

After going through my entire closet answering these questions honestly, I am left with a workable wardrobe. I place the donation items into bags and put them in the van for the next trip by the donation center.

As I was organizing the master closet, I purged two piles of clothing to pass along to others. The next step I took in organizing my master closet was straightening.

Beware, I am very particular about the order and the sections of my closet. I will share my extreme organization next week, but you have been warned. 😉  Happy organizing!

Question: How do you determine what to keep and what to donate?