[Embed YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/Kzz69WVV3Fo] 

Hi, I’m Rita Wilkins, the Downsizing Designer, and welcome to the extended companion blog to my “Five in Five” video series. In this blog, we’ll dive deeper into five essential questions to help you edit your closet effectively and build a wardrobe that makes you feel amazing. It’s September, which is a popular time to refresh our wardrobes, so if you’re ready to start, let’s go through each question to decide what to keep and what to let go. 

Remember, the goal here isn’t to throw everything out; it’s to curate a closet filled with clothes that serve you and make you feel confident every day. 

1. Is the Item in Good Condition? 

The first question is simple but important: Is the item in good condition? Take a close look at each piece and inspect for holes, stains, missing buttons, or broken zippers. Consider that sweater with a small hole that you’ve been meaning to repair for months—if you haven’t fixed it yet, chances are you probably won’t. 

If an item is damaged or too worn, it might be time to say goodbye. This step allows you to make room for clothes that are in good repair, clean, and ready to wear, ensuring that everything in your closet is something you’d feel comfortable putting on right now. 

2. Does It Fit Properly? 

We all have that pair of jeans we hope will fit one day, but realistically, your closet should reflect the current you. If a piece of clothing doesn’t fit right now, whether it’s too tight or too loose, it’s not serving you. Try on those “aspirational” clothes and ask yourself if keeping them is worth it. 

Filling your closet with clothes that fit and flatter your body as it is today is empowering. You deserve a wardrobe that feels good to wear, no matter your size, so focus on what fits now rather than keeping items “just in case.” 

3. Is It Comfortable to Wear? 

If you have an itchy sweater or a blouse that you’re constantly tugging at, it may be time to let it go. Clothes should make you feel as good as they look, both in style and comfort. For example, if you own a top you love the look of but hate the feel of, it’s time to move on. 

Keep only the items that are comfortable and practical for everyday wear. When your closet is filled with pieces that feel good to wear, you’ll look forward to getting dressed each day instead of dreading it. 

4. Does It Match Other Items in Your Wardrobe? 

One of the simplest ways to keep a versatile and functional closet is to ask: Does this item match other pieces I own? That bold-patterned top you bought on sale but never wore because it doesn’t match anything is taking up valuable space. 

When you focus on keeping versatile items that can mix and match with each other, you’re building a wardrobe that’s easy to navigate and practical. Think of it as creating your own capsule wardrobe, a collection of clothes that can be combined in multiple ways for various outfits. 

5. Do You Feel Confident When Wearing It? 

Finally, this might be the most important question of all: Do you feel confident in this piece of clothing? Clothes should make you feel great about yourself. If you put on something and don’t feel like the best version of yourself, it might be time to let it go. 

Confidence is key in every outfit you wear. When you only keep items that make you feel amazing, you’re not just curating a wardrobe—you’re building a collection of clothes that empower you each day. 

Declutter with Confidence and Create a Wardrobe That Serves You 

Decluttering your closet is about more than just reducing what you own; it’s about creating a space that reflects and supports you. By asking these five questions—Is it in good condition? Does it fit? Is it comfortable? Does it match other items? Does it make you feel confident?—you’ll be well on your way to curating a wardrobe that brings you joy and confidence. 

If you’re looking for more help on decluttering, download my “Essentials Checklist” for only $2.99. It’s packed with room-by-room checklists, not just for your closet but for every area of your home. Purchase Rita’s Decluttering Workbook today and start decluttering with confidence. 

Got 5 minutes? Check out Rita’s 5 in 5 weekly series, where I share five quick tips in just five minutes on decluttering and simplifying your life.