Organize Your Closet for the New You This Year with Shari Braendel (Ep 204)
Hello hello, Happy New Year everybody! Welcome back to the Make Room Show. I’m so happy you’re here, and I am super excited to kick off a brand new year. This is my favorite time of year because I love setting goals, everything to do with time management, and of course, organization. There’s just something about a fresh clean slate at the beginning of a new year that feels invigorating. It reminds me of when I help a client move into a new home—everything from the past doesn’t matter anymore, and we can create whatever we want to create!
This year, if you feel like you want to leave the past behind, you’re not alone. Many people were eager to see 2024 end and embrace 2025. I personally find the number 2025 exciting, and I’m thrilled to see what this year has in store.
Today, I have a special guest joining me, Shari Brandell from Style by Color. Shari is back after a successful episode where we discussed creating a functional closet and wardrobe. Welcome back, Shari!
In today’s episode, we’ll dive deeper into how to decide which pieces should stay in your closet and which should go. This is a great time for some tough love as we prepare for a fresh start.
Who Do You Want to Become?
As we step into this new year, I encourage you to ask yourself: who do I want to become? This isn’t about changing your entire personality or lifestyle but rather about developing new habits and stepping stones for your personal growth. Your clothes play a significant role in how you feel about yourself. Feeling confident and empowered starts with what you wear.
One of the first steps is to evaluate your wardrobe. Are there clothes that no longer serve you? For example, let’s talk about clothes that might have been your go-to last year but just don’t fit your current self. This is a chance to make wise wardrobe choices.
Decluttering Your Closet
Statistics show that 84% of Americans feel stressed when they are surrounded by clutter. When you step into your closet and feel overwhelmed by choices, it’s easy to declare, “I have nothing to wear!” despite a full wardrobe. This is where being intentional is crucial.
At the end of 2025, if you want to be that empowered, confident person, you need to make wise choices now. During a recent workshop I attended, we discussed the importance of defining who we want to be and choosing words that resonate with us. My words for the year were “worshipful” and “wise.” This means making wise decisions about my wardrobe and letting go of items that don’t serve me anymore.
Letting Go of the Past
It’s time for some tough love. If you have clothes in your closet that you are saving for when you “get back to that size,” it’s time to pack them up. Dress the body you have today, not the one you hope to return to. The truth is, squeezing into clothes that don’t fit well only makes you feel worse. You deserve to wear clothes that make you feel good!
Many women struggle with emotional attachments to their clothes. I’ve worked with clients who have kept items for over a decade, holding onto them for sentimental reasons or the money spent. But remember, if you haven’t worn it in years, it’s time to let it go. Pack it up, donate it, or sell it. You’ll feel lighter and more liberated.
Investing in Quality
Let’s talk about investing in your wardrobe. It’s better to spend money on quality pieces that you’ll wear often than to fill your closet with cheap, trendy items that fall apart after a few washes. Think about the cost-per-wear of your items; investing in quality clothing pays off in the long run.
For example, during the holiday season, I invested in a comfortable yet stylish two-piece set. It’s versatile for hosting and traveling, and it makes me feel put together. Focus on finding fabrics that look good and feel good on your body. Scuba fabric is a great option right now; it’s stylish and comfortable.
Key Investment Pieces
- Invest in a good bathing suit that fits well and makes you feel confident.
- Consider your outerwear; a good coat can last you for years and is worth the investment.
- Quality basics like layering pieces and versatile tops are essential for a functional wardrobe.
Creating a Capsule Wardrobe
Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of decluttering your closet. Start by making five feet of space in your closet—push everything out if you have to. Once you’ve done that, it’s time to determine your wardrobe essentials.
I recommend a 27-piece capsule wardrobe for a three-month period. This isn’t about limiting yourself forever; it’s about curating what you truly love and wear. The goal is to have a mix-and-match wardrobe that allows you to create multiple outfits from a few select pieces.
Guidelines for Your Capsule Wardrobe
- Six bottoms
- Twelve tops
- Four layering pieces
- Three dresses
- Four jumpsuits
- Two seasonal pieces (like a coat or bathing suit)
When you hang your clothes back in your closet, consider using matching hangers for a streamlined look. This not only makes your closet visually appealing but also helps keep everything organized.
Tracking What You Wear
After you’ve organized your 27 pieces, a great tip is to hang your hangers backward. This way, after a few weeks, you can see which items you’re not wearing. It’s a great way to identify what might need to be packed up or donated.
Remember, having a plan is key. Think about what you need and want from your wardrobe. This process might feel overwhelming at first, but you’ll feel liberated once you start.
Join the 27 Hanger Course
If you’re ready to take the plunge, consider signing up for the 27 Hanger Course. It’s only $27 and will guide you through the process step-by-step. You’ll feel empowered and in control of your wardrobe choices.
Thank you for joining us today! If you found this episode helpful, let us know in the comments or reviews. We’d love to hear your thoughts, and we can have Shari back on again in the future. Happy New Year, everyone!
