When it comes to wardrobe editing, there are two types of people: the purger and the saver. Maybe you are the  type of person who keeps their closet functional and, at the core, you are a true minimalist that only keeps the items you really need.

Or maybe you are that other person with tons of stuff, who fears giving things away because you think you might have use for it in the future. Your closet could not be any more stuffed than it currently is and you know you’re one outfit away until you’ve reached “Hoarder” subject status, worthy of your own one-hour reality show.

Whichever type of girl you might be, there is no denying that we all get indecisive when cleaning out our closets.

If you’re not sure where to begin, fret no more, we’re here to give you a few tips on deciding what to keep, what to give away, and what to trash.

First things first: there are some classic pieces that you should never give away. These can include, but are not limited to: blazers, pencil skirts, button downs, shift dresses, and cardigans.

However, when it comes to the rest of our wardrobes, other items simply must go.

Follow the One Year Rule

If you have not worn an item at all in the past year, and it has no sentimental value to you, then you should toss it.

If you forgot about it in the course of a year, chances are you will not miss it.

Once Loved, But Feelings Have Changed

If you come across an item you once loved, but no longer like, the line becomes blurry. If you can find other ways to wear this piece and adapt it to your current style, then you should keep it. However, if you are just sick of it and have no intentions of wearing it again, then it has run its course and you should get rid of it.

Love it, but Can’t Fit it

Let’s be honest here, we all have that one item that we purchased because we loved it, even though it was 4 sizes too small.  There was only one size left and you convinced yourself that you would finally lose that extra 15 lbs so that you could wear this number. Fast forward to 2 years later  when the once-loved but never worn item is still hanging in your closet –and you still haven’t lost that 15 lbs.

Truth is,  nothing is more torturous than owning clothing you can’t fit into.  Why do this to yourself? Toss it and when you finally do lose the weight, buy yourself something fabulous.

When in Doubt…

If you can’t decide whether to keep or toss an item, create  a “maybe”  pile of all the things you can’t decide on. Once you’ve finished sorting through everything, make a commitment to keep only 50% of your “maybe” pile. This forces you to make a decision and  by keeping 50%, you might just find a new way to wear your on-the-fence items over time as other new pieces are introduced in your wardrobe.

Something OId, Something New

Lastly, if you find something buried in your closet, but you still like it, then you should most definitely keep it. Some of the best sartorial surprises can be found when shopping your closet.

Bottom Line

Clearly, every situation is different, but hopefully these tips can help you sort out your closet, without feeling guilt or remorse for the items you decide to give away and the ones you decide to keep. Ask yourself some of these questions when shopping and you can also become a more mindful consumer.