Around 2015, I had a massive weight gain due to a myriad of issues but kept my "skinny" clothes in the closet. Finally, I decided to donate the clothes so that at least somebody could use them. Lo and behold my weight-loss efforts (calorie-counting) started to make a difference and I am so happy and grateful! Now my closet is pretty bare but I love it that way and will be very deliberate about any new pieces.
Thank you for sharing your story! It just bums me out when my favorite jeans and shorts still don’t fit me despite trying to eat healthier and exercise again. I was foolish to think that I could still live the active lifestyle I lived before becoming a dad of 2. I will try what you did and hopefully 🤞 it works out.
Something similar for me, and its happened a couple times when my weight has gone up, tying in with the change in my regular activity levels during the day, for work primarily, (and going through it now, again): I felt so uncomfortable squeezing into my ill fitting clothes that I sucked it up, accepted I put on weight, so I bought a few pieces in my current size. I felt better in my clothes, instead of constrained. Which I guess tricked my mind; I more often made better choices with my food, then starting noticing my newer clothes were getting too loose, to the point of looking schlumpy... ultimately going back down a size. Feeling more positive about how I looked and felt was probably the best "diet" assistance.
Right on. Everything hanging in the closet should fit. I find that 10# change is a size. Luckily if a worthy piece, bit tight or too big & good fabric, it gets stored in the attic along with out of season clothes which are also annually reviewed to keep or donate.
Special occasion outfits and emotionally charged clothes are my nemesis. The candystripe uniform and handmade Trinidadian mother of the bride outfit will stay with me until I die. Let's just call them 'collectibles'. I get a warm, loving feeling every time I see and touch them, a photo would not have the same affect.
I recently purged my clothes that I used to wear to the office. I’ve been doing telehealth since March 2020 and realized if I ever do have to stop working from home, I’ll get clothes for that then. And I also finally got rid of my “cancer clothes” - scarves and caps I wore in chemo, and post-surgery compression items. If my cancer does come back I’ll re-buy that stuff, but seeing it on my shelf just made me feel sad and scared.
Good for you! I was especially touched by what you said about cancer items making you feel sad and fearful. I'm sure that was a big and very important decision. What a revelation...I'm glad you did it. That was a positive move and a sign of power and strength, not to mention a sign of faith. 😊
@@josefinacervera8229 Thank you. And while I appreciate the point I think you are trying to make, I would say cancer is a very personal experience and each person gets to choose the language they use to cope. For me, it was happening to MY body and thus is MY cancer. If in your own journey with cancer it makes you more comfortable to say THE cancer, I absolutely support that choice for you. But not for me.
I used to buy a band t-shirt after every gig/show I went to back in the 90s and early 2000s. I had bags of them in the attic, and they were all too big for me (as was the style at the time). When I discovered minimalism a few years ago I photographed them and sold them on ebay. I made £££s and it completely funded a holiday to Vietnam.
The only thing I disagree with in part is clothes you haven't worn in over a year. I have a couple of outfits that I wear for special occasions, like weddings. I'm retired and my daily clothes are very casual. So that is what I mainly have. But occasionally I get invited to something where my daily casual clothes aren't appropriate. So I keep 1 or 2 outfits for those rare times. Better than having to go out and buy something.
Yes - I haven't needed a 'dress up' outfit since pre Covid, but I'm not getting rid of it. The last thing I need is the stress of trying to find something that fits and is within my price range the next time I get invited to a wedding or special event.
While working in a professional vocation I cycled my clothes. Meaning I wore items I really liked & fit well & remained stylish. Then I packed those aside & brought out items from the bin I kept of well fitting & stylish clothes. When I did this coworkers would comment that I must’ve just had a nice shopping spree. Unlike we think people had forgotten that they were items I’d previously worn. Felt great & saves a ton of money. Yet you still have a great wardrobe you like & fit well. Just remember to keep it down to items you love & that fit you well. Get rid of worn out, ripped clothes & you will feel great about it. Great video & ideas for serious purgers wanting to simplify their lives.
I declutter my clothing occasionally, but the one piece I will never throw out is a top my late mum bought me, before her cancer diagnosis.. it’s been nearly 15 years and I still cherish it..
I still can’t part with a shirt (I don’t really like) from my mom who passed over 25 years ago. I wear it occasionally and someday may just put in the memory box instead.
I have a beautiful dress with a swirly grey/ pink pattern, flare from the tiny waist and belt that belonged to my mother. It is absolutely beautiful and I will never give it away. The rest of the clothes - no attachment whatsoever so any can be dumped if they don't meet my clothing guidelines. 😂
I watched , hit liked, ran to my wardrobe and spent a super productive hour or two going through everything with all your tips in mind, trying on clothes I hadn’t worn in ages, looking carefully at the fit, quality, usefulness etc… wow! 3 bags later I feel sooo much lighter. Thank you!
I have a different take on this. I have half my closet full of things I bought but never wear. This is a constant reminder of my past overspending and I use it in a positive way to remind myself why I shouldn’t buy more. The scarcity mindset that I feel when I over-purge my space doesn’t work for me. I need to have all my extra books, kitchen stuff, makeup, etc, etc around me to feel like I am satisfied and don’t need more. Whatever works for the individual to minimize the pull of consumerism is the best choice.
I’ve been decluttering for about 3 years now and I’m finally starting to let go of the things that I’ve passed over many times before. I’m getting brutal with my own honesty. And once you give yourself permission…it’s truly liberating. Loved this topic Joshua. Clothes are so personal and easy to unintentionally hoard.
Same here. I have been decluttering since the global lockdown in year 2020. Surprisingly, there are still many that are in my closet. I just discarded them yesterday and will give them away.
Soon after my beloved ❤ husband passed away, I tried to donate his clothing: suits, jackets, coats, etc . . . but psychologically I was not ready. I would break out in tears every time I tried to do it because I felt like I was trying to erase his memory. I must admit it took me years to finally get around to doing it even though the clothes were taking space in the closet. The clothes were in good condition and was happy to know someone would benefit from my donation. Others might disagree but that’s just me, a sentimental woman.
This may seem weird,but I have some items of my Dad,Mom,Nana,Papa,and I wear them once and it makes me feel HAPPY and close to them- as I remember them wearing them.❤❤❤ It is like a 🤗HUG from each of them!!😊
I found that decluttering my clothes has also significantly reduced my laundry chore. I can't wait as long to do laundry, so I end up with much less to do. Great ideas in this video!
I have always been slim, although I always ate a lot and always loved eating. But when Menopause came along I gained a lot of weight, althogh I haven't changed anything in my diet. Then at one point I realised that I will never be able to loose the weight, so I gave away all my slim (and very nice) clothes. Short time later my love passed away and through grief I lost so much weight (without wanting to) that I ended up totally skinny (My weight at that time was 50kg). So I regret that I had given away all those clothes because they might have fit me then - even though they might have been a bit too big. So I had to buy a lot of stuff.......But because I had less money I started buying most everything second hand, so it was affordable at least....Nowadays my weight is pretty normal again- thanks to the Lord🙏Greetings from Germany 😊
when I was younger and made more money I used to clear out my closet once and year and live pretty minimalist, but at this point I know if I got rid of something nice I would never be able to afford to replace it - so I do hang on to some skinny clothes, some special event clothes but not damaged clothes
Damaged clothes - I keep them in a separate bag that I dig into before going on trips. You can get one more wear out of them before discarding while on the road. It saves travelling around with dirty laundry and frees up space for things you might pick up on the way.
I’m not getting rid of clothes I love unless I absolutely know I will never fit into them. I buy nice clothes and only what I love. I’m fitting back into clothes since I lost weight and I’m so glad I kept them!
I agree with you Daisy! I have lost close to ten pounds and I started to give away some of my clothes that I love. A lot of my clothes can be paired with something else in my closet! It has saved me from buying new clothes! Great 👍🏽 comment! 😎❤️
Joshua, I usually agree with your guidance. But I have to say, the feeling I got when I could put on a thirty year old shirt, after losing 100 pounds, was absolute astonishment and delight. That response was a reward in itself and I’m glad I kept that shirt.
Same. I have a few items I loved that I got too big for. I’m losing weight and it’s so nice to be fitting back into them one at a time allowing me to get rid of bigger items without spending money right away as I lose.
I thought about that too. The pandemic did me no favors, but our whole family has had one upheaval after another since 2019 really. My cortisol is already high and just has been bad since then. I have all this stuff from when I was thinner, but it’s prob hurting me to keep all of it. I may just keep one or 2 absolute favs and try and let go of the rest. I wish I could let go of my “what if” mentality. This gets me stuck to often.
@@JoshuaBecker To clarify, I donated my extensive professional wardrobe from that era, because I knew that part of my life was over. I kept two blouses that I still get a kick out of to this day. Thank you for your part in forming my view of minimalism, Joshua.
My Life is much improved since I found your site and I have great satisfaction knowing people are benefitting from my donations, so it's a Win-Win situation! I was a poor kid who needed more clothes and now I am very comfortable and like my mother said "Share the wealth!" It makes me very, very Happy to do so!!! Thank you Joshua!!♥️♥️♥️♥️
My Hubby & I recently cleaned out our garage & got rid of several huge garbage bags full of clothes. It felt good to get rid of them & gain back the space in our garage. Great video. 😊
I had a lot of somber clothing items from my years as a hospice worker. I kept them for years after retiring thinking I could use them as wardrobe stretchers. Wrong! I always felt like I was going to a funeral! I felt so much better just donating all of them!
Clothes are the hardest thing for me to get rid of. My excess pieces are stored neatly, awaiting the day that one of my current pieces wears out. They are like money in the bank, and I never buy anything new since I retired a few years ago. Part of me says to get rid of them. The other part says I'm saving myself the time, inconvenience, and cost of eventually having to replace them. Sigh... The struggle is real.
I know this runs counter of what is preached (rightly so), but I do the same and sometimes I indeed look into the boxes and get stuff out and I am happy to wear it again. But I never was a mindless shopper before, so I really only have clothes I like(d).
Clothing and shoes will certainly not get cheaper, especially when living on retirement income. If you have duplicates of your favorite timeless pieces and the storage space, it's probably worthwhile to keep them. Consider it similar to an emergency food supply, except you don't have to rotate stock.
It's always wise to keep those good quality pieces that you may fit again if you can keep it to 1 suitcase. I've kicked myself for thrifting classic items and then gaining or losing that weight again. Much as I tell myself, this is it, invariably I fluctuate.
"money in the bank" .. So true. And the clothes that are most commonly accessible (affordable) these days are poor quality compared to clothes around 30 years ago & prior (better quality the older they are 😊)
I must admit after I joined this channel 8 months ago. I start keeping a donation bag in my closet whenever I see something that is no longer in use. I tosh in it. Believe me, my closet is 40% clean. My house is lot declutter then before. Cleaning is easy. Tidying is easy. Thanks Josh
My closet is filled with clothes and has been for years. It doesn't stress me the least bit. The things that are worn out or just don't fit right because the sleeves may be too long or it hangs over my shoulders I get rid of. There are many things that are over 20 years old that I still wear. I have at least 15 sweatshirts that I wore constantly years ago. For the last 2 or 3 years I didn't wear them because I got too hot. Now that it is cold I wear them everyday. I don't need 15 but it gives me variety. 10 years ago I bought dozens of my favorite jeans and slacks when I could pick them up for $10. I have had no need to buy any clothes since. The same goes for shoes and sandals. I was paying $25-35. Now they want over $100. I have no need to buy them either. I really don't care what the latest fashions are.
@@melliecrann-gaoth4789 I do organize, but no one would call me tidy. I try to have a place for everything. My issue is using something and then not returning it to its place. I am getting better. I would never be a minimalist because it makes no sense to me to get rid of perfectly good things, just because you haven't used or worn it for awhile. Putting things used regularly in a cabinet like a toaster or coffee maker makes no sense either. It is just more work having to take it out and put away all the time.
Five years before I retired, I stopped buying business clothing. I wanted to wear out what I had. Some of the clothing were business casual and others were suits. I have since decluttered more. I kept a couple of suits for special occasions. It really helped me to move on from my past career and to live in the moment.
I was amazed by how few pieces of clothing Courtney had. I finally got down to 40 items of shirts, slacks, sweaters, jackets, and sleepwear because I'm retired and no longer to out dancing. It's so freeing to live with so few items, almost all of them were bought secondhand. Even my three pairs of athletic shoes were bought used. I learned early in life from my dad that used things are just as good and useful. Most of what I have at home was found at house sales.
I'm in process of cross-country moving with everything in one jeep load. Majority of clothes are in same suitcase I left home for college with 50 years ago. Been my biggest purge yet 😊
There are piles of clothes filling up landfills all over. I grew up in sight of a landfill and saw it fill up as Mt. Trashmore. It messes with your perspective on all purchases as you know it all has to end up somewhere. After you've purged, choose carefully.
I am in the minimalism journey and Thank you again for the great video and the reminders! I struggled with memorable clothing, but have been very blessed by being able to change my mindset to bless others in my church, and community with items that my adult children didn’t want. I Select organizations that are purposeful. For example, senior centers often need craft scrabbooking stuff, china set can be donated to church groups that entertain often, etc. Don’t let items sit in your closet that others can be blessed by and appreciated today 😊
PRACTICAL VIDEO I did this three years ago, when I moved from California to Colorado. Having an empty and organized closet was freeing and very rewarding. It’s time to go through my closet again, and let go of the unused items I am not regularly wearing.
Definitely a good list - time for another round. Right now a little at a time does the trick for me; working 10-15 min in here and there can make a big 'dent' my collection of clothing. It is silly to think I need anymore than a few articles of clothing. After all, I am just one body and there are only 7 days in the week if I consider a weekly laundry routine and the possibility of wearing something more than once in those 7 days.
My wardrobe used to stress me out every. single. morning. Memory-laden clothing items were always my biggest issue. I'm so thankful for Minimalism and not feeling that twinge of stress every time I open my wardrobe anymore :) Thanks for your wonderful videos Joshua :)
Funny thing about clothes. One ends up reaching for that same pair of jeans, footwear and top nine times out of ten! The rest is hanging there just in case.
My justification for holding on to some dressy and business casual clothes, even if I haven't worn them in a year, is with the expectation that a special and/or sad occasion will come up and I'll need something to wear. I work from home and I live in a very casual place, and my day to day uniform is hoodies, t-shirts, jeans, Vans, Patagonia, and a few button-up shirts.
This is great advice. I read Courtney's book Project 333 a few years ago, and I went from two double wardrobes to 25 pieces of clothing. They are all my favourites, I feel great wearing them, and getting ready in the morning is so quick and easy. Thanks for another great video 😊
Don’t laugh, but I’ve been decluttering my closet for the past three years. I was a school counselor, making a good salary, and I loved shopping! I had SO MUCH that in my previous home I had a special closet built for all my clothes, shoes and designer purses. Over the top idea but that closet helped sell my house in one day. Anyway, I am retired now, and my intention is to have a basic capsule wardrobe. I said all that to say this was an excellent video! Very good suggestions!
@@angelirohival6270 that bambina (just like its name) is a childish thing trolling you for a response in order to get attention. ... what a sad existence
Great advice as always. Having read comments here about not agreeing with some things, I would say that the advice is not prescriptive. Having ‘best’ outfits that do not see regular wear is a good example from one comment. If they fit and are still what you enjoy wearing for a special occasion then yes, keep it. You still have to use your judgement and common sense in applying any advice given; these points are a starting point for when you are overwhelmed. As Marie Kondo would say, if it gives you joy, keep it. I myself have a habit of hanging onto clothes I either a) bought on a whim (sale tags still on!) or b) I wore when younger/slimmer. It’s realising that if every time you see these things it triggers guilt or regret or similar, then maybe it’s time to pass them on to someone who will experience joy in receiving them. Keep the faith peoples ❤
I only started donating a few years ago. I wish I could get rid of my 30 yr old wedding dress (still happily married! Daughter didn't want it. No christening outfits for our faith). Why did I get so attached to something I would never wear in public again? The pearls , beads & lace are still so pretty. If I donate it to the Salvation Army, it might very well end up in the big semi-truck parked out back. (Going to be shredded for insulation). I've seen videos of updated vintage gowns (cut off those puffy sleeves, etc). I've heard of organizations that make burial outfits for precious infants. Military Brides charity wants only recent gowns. I'm supposed to be downsizing & I'm not much of a seamstress. Sorry for the long post. Maybe future brides should rent like the grooms rent a tux!
@CH-1984 I've been looking into Unbox the Dress...they create items out of wedding dresses for you. Also, looking into donating my dress to be made into infant gowns that are given to parents when their child passes away. I'm hoping it can be recycled and bring some joy.
You can get a dress made into something else, or, as PP commented, give to one of the charities that make gowns for stillborn babies. I deliberately chose my wedding dress material and style so that I could dye it and turn it into a formal dress for future occasions!
If you adore it and the detailing then keep it. It was literally a once in a lifetime dress. I think that’s ok. My wedding dress was made from a hundred year old one. You could always put it on marketplace if you want to give it a chance to be remade and worn by another bride.
I had my wedding dress in a box for 30 years that I never opened. Finally opened it and had pillow made from some of the material from a shop on Etsy. I also had a locket made with a little piece of the fabric. I took a piece of the train and put it in a picture frame which sits on my dresser. Much better than being boxed up in the basement.
For my wedding in '77 I bought my dress at a regular dress shop. Nothing fancy. I usually wore jeans so it was hard picking out a dress. I only wore it once, don't know what happened to it later. We invited our 30 or so friends, one of whom could perform weddings. I made a big carrot cake. A friend played guitar. It was fun. For honeymoon we went camping and fishing. That marriage lasted 11 years so, not bad. We had two kids and grandchildren so the whole thing did feel like a success. Ok, the divorce was hard but I got over it.
Just returned from a 3-months journey with only a small set of garments and it was enough clothes. Having only few clothes that I really enjoyed wearing made me reconsider my whole wardrobe. Obviously for alpine winters a few more layers will be required but all in all, I will try the next season with only limited clothes again because it was so soothing nit having to stress about what to wear. Also, I only buy clothes from two brands, therefore everything fits the same style.
I declutter on a seasonal basis. For example, I will donate spring clothes in early March and summer clothes in early May. And fall clothes in early Sept, winter clothes in November and December. This way, the thrift store can actually sell them.
1) no fitting clothes 2) clothes untouched for 1 year (not sure I agree) 3) damaged clothes 4) special occasions outfits untouched (everyone needs a special occasion outfit) 5) special memory clothes 6) unwanted gifts 7 uncomfortable shoes 8) clothes that doesn’t fit 9) emotionally charged (I included all items not only clothes)
#2 I’m going to a family wedding in 2 weeks. Wearing a dress that I haven’t worn in 2 years. So I too disagree with getting rid of things we haven’t touched in 1 year
I think it is easier for men to declutter clothes than for women. It is also easier if you are retired or not expected to wear business appropriate clothing. That said I am in process of decluttering. It is taking longer than I anticipated.
I don't think the actual act of decluttering is any easier for men, but women are far more likely to experience judgement for having a minimal wardrobe. For example, when I was in my 20s, I would get invited to maybe 6-7 weddings a year and I wore the same dress to each one. I often received negative comments/criticism for wearing the same thing all the time - yet none of the men in my peer group were judged for wearing the exact same suit to every wedding!!!
@@pippas5808 yes this is so true. I wear the same four things to church all the time and I’m sure everyone’s sick of looking at these items but I hate trying to find clothes that I really like so if I really like something you’re gonna see it over and over, LOL!
One thing is to not have to know “why” we avoid wearing certain clothing items. Sometimes you just have to trust your gut on it and be ok with not needing to know exactly why you should get rid of it. Our heads go into all manner of questioning and reasoning but our guts only know two words. “Yes or no.” Seems like it makes life simpler to not always need to know why a yes is a yes and a no is a no. It just is…and that’s ok too. Perhaps a great plan for a perfectionist or an over thinker or if you have obsessive inclinations or are just extra curious about a lot of “why” things. I think I might be all of the above lol).
I love this comment bc I'm an overthinker / overanalyzer and you're so right about the "why" thing... Sometimes we overcomplicate the answer when our gut had it at hello..
I love this video! And I love your delivery❤ since I have retired I have decluttered many items from years of working that said, I have kept a special place in my closet for these classic pieces. I don't feel encumbered by them I feel empowered that I have an easy reach and not have to spend three times as much as they would cost today❤❤
I’ve lost a lot of weight but did keep some old pants instead of donating. Well I shopped my closet and have some pants fit me now. They are getting looser but in one or two months I can fit into the next shopping size. Lol
My current frustration with clothing is that I am eight months postpartum, and while I do fit back into my pre-pregnancy clothes, I’m exclusively breast-feeding, and hope to for quite a while. Because of this, nearly my entire wardrobe, is not easily nursed in, and therefore useless to me, but it won’t be once I’m done. Meanwhile, I still have to have nursing friendly items. I have boxes up my non nursing friendly clothes that I know I will wear again, and my closet is full of things I can nurse in, which then will get boxed up since we’ll likely have another little one. I’m trying to be as intentional as possible, but I miss my old clothes and don’t love spending this extra money!
I completely understand this. Women in their childbearing years need clothes in several sizes (plus clothes you can nurse in, if breastfeeding). You can still weed out the stained and worn out clothes though, and those you don’t feel good in.
Nursing tops that you actually want to wear are so hard to find. I ended up just using tee shirts that were a size up. I just made sure they were super soft fabric with a good drape. Heavy cotton made me look swallowed up.
Anyone have way too many clothes but they fit into all of them and like all of them? I'm overwhelmed by the amount of clothes I have but I like all of them. I honestly don't shop much, but my size never changes and I always buy very high-quality items that will last a long time. There are just too many, but I love every piece.
I have way too many clothes and shoes! I find this my hardest area to declutter!!! My latest strategy is to ask myself why don't I wear this, and that is making it easier. I also ask myself do I love this more than I hate ironing it😂
I’ve stopped buying anything that must be dry cleaned. I’ve kept some professional clothing that I do still take in, but I usually use the at-home dry cleaning cloths first to get a wear or two more from them. I also found a much more affordable dry cleaner.
I found thread up online recently and it’s been so easy to get rid of clothes I don’t use. I am now secure knowing that even on my min budget I can afford things I need in the future and am not inclined to hoard “just in case”. Find a sweet resale outlet of your own and let the old clothes go!
Thank you! Also, I have been clearing out clothes that are over 50% plastic, made of polyester, nylon or other plastic based material & opting for more natural fibers like cotton or linen especially undergarments. Studies are showing that “plastic “ clothes can even aid in causing cancer.
One thing that helps is for me to actually put the clothes on when deciding. Because when i put it on I remember that it itches or the shoulders are too tight or some other reason I don't wear it that I don't notice while it hangs on a hanger!!!
I repurposed my torn worn out clothes into cleaning rags. I don’t have to purchase paper towels in bulk anymore, so I’m saving money. I put my savings in a high yield savings account.
Interesting about the negative memories of some clothes. I had a beautiful silk shirt which I never wore and couldnt understand why, till I realised the o nly time I had worn it someone was really nasty to me. Donated now. More closet space Yippee!!
I think it depends on your budget. Do I have special occasion clothes that I only wear once in awhile? Yes, and I'm keeping them because I can't afford to buy them if I gave them away. I only wear my Christmas clothes once a year, but I'm keeping them because I love them! Stuff that doesn't fit, needs fixing, or you never actually liked, sure donate it! But if you want to keep it, then keep it! You don't have to follow everything people say, you can pick what works for you. Years ago I was following someone on a decluttering thing on FB and she literally said (when we got to the kitchen) that WE HAD TO declutter everything and only keep one plate, bowl, cup, spoon, etc. per person in the house!! 😅😅😅😅 Seriously! So many people told her off and unfollowed her (I was one of them). So this way make work for some people and not others. Or some of it does and some of it doesn't. Do what works best for you! 😊
My one disagreement is about getting rid of clothes not worn in 12 months. I have some clothes I don't wear in a year because the weather may not be right for them that year. E.g. winters can range from mild/wet one year to dry and cold the next. Or an item that I love but no longer have something that currently goes with it, and I have to wait to find the right pairing/colour. Usually I do finally.
When my family moved out of a home that had been occupied by four generations of our family and with items going back even further, there was a LOT to go through. Something that turned up in an old wardrobe trunk (steamer trunk is actually an incorrect term) was one of those fur boars that had the fox's head and feet and probably tail also on it. That boa went into the garbage where it should have gone decades earlier.
If you find more fur items, they can be donated to wildlife rehab or rescue groups - they give them to the orphaned babies to sleep on, as they feel like their mother's fur and provide comfort.
Your post reminded me of my step-grandmother's fur stole. As a child in the 1950s I was fascinated by this garment that included the little mink heads in its construction. (Yikes!)
The "not fitting clothes" is an exception if you're actively in process of losing or gaining weight. I know someone who was obese and now weigh less than half of what they did back then
The most important thing I did was to stop shopping. And I'm constantly picking up things that I let go of, I have a big garbage bag in my garage, I keep on adding stuff to it and when it's full it gets taken to goodwill
It should not be necessary to say, but some people need to be reminded. Donated clothing should not just be dumped into a bag, creating a wrinkled mess of everything. We need to be respectful of the people sorting the clothing, and those who will be recipients, by making sure they are washed and folded nicely. Let's not make them have to do our sorting, by having to look for stains, tears, holes, threadbare areas. Thank you...
Thank you for your comment. I used to work for a Salvation Army charity shop and people might be surprised to know how carelessly some people donate - as you say, clothes are often stuffed into garbage bags unwashed and crushed by books, pots and pans and whatever else is being donated! At the end of my shift, I used to take home a bag of clothes to be washed and ironed, so that they were in a fit state to be sold!
@@susannegiesen2114my daughter volunteered in a charity shop when in secondary school. She told me they received bags with disgusting things like dirty clothes. Worn out clothing is not fit for donation, cotton things maybe could be cut up for reuse as painting or cleaning cloths.
@@RS-gl9ht I send the stuff in divided up, sorted and ready for display. I’m very far from on top of jobs at home- I just can’t imagine doing it any other way- it seems like an insult to me. I
I gained weight slowly ore 1990s. Then research proved the low fat model was wrong (even dangerous) so I went low carb & lost a lot of weight. Now, even tho I do have carbs, Im still losing about 5 lbs per year, since long term low carb permanently changed my hormone profile. Im so glad I saved my favorite clothes from before weight gain. I love them & enjoy wearing them again so much.
Point 9 is huge. Just got rid of clothes associated with three extremely stressful years. So nice not seeing these things and immediately being taken back in time constantly.
I've stopped listening to music that have -too much words in-, and this have improved my life fr. Ppl don't think twice about how much music actually impact our thoughts, like majority of the lyrics are negative and toxic
I can’t believe the number of T-shirts college students are given for free by clubs/organizations/departments/welcome events. Insane how many of them end up in parents’ homes
I'm definitely guilty of keeping clothes for 'when I lose weight'. Yea, it's been over 2 years and I'm still fat! Going to be going through my whole wardrobe (actually, the entire house) very soon for a garage sale in August.
One thing I did was get rid of graphic t-shirts (except for a very few that especially seemed to be "me") -- I stick with just solid colors. I try to go with basic classic styles.
Every so often I pull an item from my closet I haven't worn in ages and put it on. If it's tight, it goes. If it fits and I like it, I wear it that day.
Nope I'm not giving up my costumes that I wear only when working at faires and I'm not tossing clothes I can mend and wear another year. I'm not buying new clothes this year other then one secondhand long wool coat I got last week.
Around 2015, I had a massive weight gain due to a myriad of issues but kept my "skinny" clothes in the closet. Finally, I decided to donate the clothes so that at least somebody could use them. Lo and behold my weight-loss efforts (calorie-counting) started to make a difference and I am so happy and grateful! Now my closet is pretty bare but I love it that way and will be very deliberate about any new pieces.
Thank you for sharing your story! It just bums me out when my favorite jeans and shorts still don’t fit me despite trying to eat healthier and exercise again. I was foolish to think that I could still live the active lifestyle I lived before becoming a dad of 2. I will try what you did and hopefully 🤞 it works out.
I thought you were going to say you regretted getting rid of your skinny clothes 😂
Something similar for me, and its happened a couple times when my weight has gone up, tying in with the change in my regular activity levels during the day, for work primarily, (and going through it now, again): I felt so uncomfortable squeezing into my ill fitting clothes that I sucked it up, accepted I put on weight, so I bought a few pieces in my current size. I felt better in my clothes, instead of constrained. Which I guess tricked my mind; I more often made better choices with my food, then starting noticing my newer clothes were getting too loose, to the point of looking schlumpy... ultimately going back down a size. Feeling more positive about how I looked and felt was probably the best "diet" assistance.
Right on. Everything hanging in the closet should fit. I find that 10# change is a size. Luckily if a worthy piece, bit tight or too big & good fabric, it gets stored in the attic along with out of season clothes which are also annually reviewed to keep or donate.
Special occasion outfits and emotionally charged clothes are my nemesis. The candystripe uniform and handmade Trinidadian mother of the bride outfit will stay with me until I die. Let's just call them 'collectibles'. I get a warm, loving feeling every time I see and touch them, a photo would not have the same affect.
I recently purged my clothes that I used to wear to the office. I’ve been doing telehealth since March 2020 and realized if I ever do have to stop working from home, I’ll get clothes for that then. And I also finally got rid of my “cancer clothes” - scarves and caps I wore in chemo, and post-surgery compression items. If my cancer does come back I’ll re-buy that stuff, but seeing it on my shelf just made me feel sad and scared.
Good for you! I was especially touched by what you said about cancer items making you feel sad and fearful. I'm sure that was a big and very important decision. What a revelation...I'm glad you did it. That was a positive move and a sign of power and strength, not to mention a sign of faith. 😊
@@JLR4244 Thank you!
Congratulations don’t say MY cancer please call it THE cancer.dont make it yours
@@josefinacervera8229 Thank you. And while I appreciate the point I think you are trying to make, I would say cancer is a very personal experience and each person gets to choose the language they use to cope. For me, it was happening to MY body and thus is MY cancer. If in your own journey with cancer it makes you more comfortable to say THE cancer, I absolutely support that choice for you. But not for me.
I also got rid of things that I wore during my illness as well. They only brought back bad memories.
I used to buy a band t-shirt after every gig/show I went to back in the 90s and early 2000s. I had bags of them in the attic, and they were all too big for me (as was the style at the time). When I discovered minimalism a few years ago I photographed them and sold them on ebay. I made £££s and it completely funded a holiday to Vietnam.
Wow, that's so cool!!
Bet you had some cool stuff
You can also have t-shirts like made into a quilt. I've made a couple for people.
💡That’s a darn good idea!
You look like Rob Kardashian, Sr.
That’s a compliment btw❤
The only thing I disagree with in part is clothes you haven't worn in over a year. I have a couple of outfits that I wear for special occasions, like weddings. I'm retired and my daily clothes are very casual. So that is what I mainly have. But occasionally I get invited to something where my daily casual clothes aren't appropriate. So I keep 1 or 2 outfits for those rare times. Better than having to go out and buy something.
Yes - I haven't needed a 'dress up' outfit since pre Covid, but I'm not getting rid of it. The last thing I need is the stress of trying to find something that fits and is within my price range the next time I get invited to a wedding or special event.
Yep, keep it. Follow what you want, not some dude on social media.
@@maryl234 these are just guidelines. Take from it what is useful to you.
I have a winter coat for that, it's classic.
While working in a professional vocation I cycled my clothes. Meaning I wore items I really liked & fit well & remained stylish. Then I packed those aside & brought out items from the bin I kept of well fitting & stylish clothes. When I did this coworkers would comment that I must’ve just had a nice shopping spree. Unlike we think people had forgotten that they were items I’d previously worn. Felt great & saves a ton of money. Yet you still have a great wardrobe you like & fit well. Just remember to keep it down to items you love & that fit you well. Get rid of worn out, ripped clothes & you will feel great about it. Great video & ideas for serious purgers wanting to simplify their lives.
I declutter my clothing occasionally, but the one piece I will never throw out is a top my late mum bought me, before her cancer diagnosis.. it’s been nearly 15 years and I still cherish it..
I still can’t part with a shirt (I don’t really like) from my mom who passed over 25 years ago. I wear it occasionally and someday may just put in the memory box instead.
I have a beautiful dress with a swirly grey/ pink pattern, flare from the tiny waist and belt that belonged to my mother. It is absolutely beautiful and I will never give it away. The rest of the clothes - no attachment whatsoever so any can be dumped if they don't meet my clothing guidelines. 😂
I watched , hit liked, ran to my wardrobe and spent a super productive hour or two going through everything with all your tips in mind, trying on clothes I hadn’t worn in ages, looking carefully at the fit, quality, usefulness etc… wow! 3 bags later I feel sooo much lighter. Thank you!
❤❤❤
I’m about to do the same today. Thanks Joshua!
I have a different take on this. I have half my closet full of things I bought but never wear. This is a constant reminder of my past overspending and I use it in a positive way to remind myself why I shouldn’t buy more. The scarcity mindset that I feel when I over-purge my space doesn’t work for me. I need to have all my extra books, kitchen stuff, makeup, etc, etc around me to feel like I am satisfied and don’t need more. Whatever works for the individual to minimize the pull of consumerism is the best choice.
I’ve been decluttering for about 3 years now and I’m finally starting to let go of the things that I’ve passed over many times before. I’m getting brutal with my own honesty.
And once you give yourself permission…it’s truly liberating.
Loved this topic Joshua.
Clothes are so personal and easy to unintentionally hoard.
Feels amazing!
Same here. I have been decluttering since the global lockdown in year 2020. Surprisingly, there are still many that are in my closet. I just discarded them yesterday and will give them away.
Yes!!!
VC bills@@catherinemacapagal1640
I kept waiting until I retired to start this journey. I am now here, so now begins the decluttering phase. So excited. Thanks for the video.
Soon after my beloved ❤ husband passed away, I tried to donate his clothing: suits, jackets, coats, etc . . . but psychologically I was not ready. I would break out in tears every time I tried to do it because I felt like I was trying to erase his memory. I must admit it took me years to finally get around to doing it even though the clothes were taking space in the closet. The clothes were in good condition and was happy to know someone would benefit from my donation. Others might disagree but that’s just me, a sentimental woman.
This may seem weird,but I have some items of my Dad,Mom,Nana,Papa,and I wear them once and it makes me feel HAPPY and close to them- as I remember them wearing them.❤❤❤ It is like a 🤗HUG from each of them!!😊
Once in a while I meant- not once.😁
I lost my husband 5 years ago and I still have all of his clothes in my closet! Don’t feel bad it took you time to process. ❤
I found that decluttering my clothes has also significantly reduced my laundry chore. I can't wait as long to do laundry, so I end up with much less to do. Great ideas in this video!
I have always been slim, although I always ate a lot and always loved eating. But when Menopause came along I gained a lot of weight, althogh I haven't changed anything in my diet. Then at one point I realised that I will never be able to loose the weight, so I gave away all my slim (and very nice) clothes. Short time later my love passed away and through grief I lost so much weight (without wanting to) that I ended up totally skinny (My weight at that time was 50kg). So I regret that I had given away all those clothes because they might have fit me then - even though they might have been a bit too big. So I had to buy a lot of stuff.......But because I had less money I started buying most everything second hand, so it was affordable at least....Nowadays my weight is pretty normal again- thanks to the Lord🙏Greetings from Germany 😊
when I was younger and made more money I used to clear out my closet once and year and live pretty minimalist, but at this point I know if I got rid of something nice I would never be able to afford to replace it - so I do hang on to some skinny clothes, some special event clothes but not damaged clothes
Damaged clothes - I keep them in a separate bag that I dig into before going on trips. You can get one more wear out of them before discarding while on the road. It saves travelling around with dirty laundry and frees up space for things you might pick up on the way.
I do this with underwear! Take traveling, wear once and toss. It’s a really great way to have less dirty laundry in your bags on the way home!
Such a good idea
i am impressed with this idea!!! Good thinking 99!...(hope you are old enough to get the reference LOL).
Interesting idea! Never heard of this one!🤷🏼♂️
This video is a breath of fresh perfection. Duration, pacing, lighting, music choice, narration and practical, doable content.
I’m not getting rid of clothes I love unless I absolutely know I will never fit into them. I buy nice clothes and only what I love. I’m fitting back into clothes since I lost weight and I’m so glad I kept them!
I agree with you Daisy! I have lost close to ten pounds and I started to give away some of my clothes that I love. A lot of my clothes can be paired with something else in my closet! It has saved me from buying new clothes! Great 👍🏽 comment! 😎❤️
Joshua, I usually agree with your guidance. But I have to say, the feeling I got when I could put on a thirty year old shirt, after losing 100 pounds, was absolute astonishment and delight. That response was a reward in itself and I’m glad I kept that shirt.
Same. I have a few items I loved that I got too big for. I’m losing weight and it’s so nice to be fitting back into them one at a time allowing me to get rid of bigger items without spending money right away as I lose.
How many 30-year old shirts did you keep?
More importantly, of course, congratulations on losing 100 lbs! That is a wonderful accomplishment.
@@JoshuaBeckerI was wondering the same thing.
I thought about that too. The pandemic did me no favors, but our whole family has had one upheaval after another since 2019 really. My cortisol is already high and just has been bad since then. I have all this stuff from when I was thinner, but it’s prob hurting me to keep all of it. I may just keep one or 2 absolute favs and try and let go of the rest. I wish I could let go of my “what if” mentality. This gets me stuck to often.
@@JoshuaBecker To clarify, I donated my extensive professional wardrobe from that era, because I knew that part of my life was over. I kept two blouses that I still get a kick out of to this day. Thank you for your part in forming my view of minimalism, Joshua.
My Life is much improved since I found your site and I have great satisfaction knowing people are benefitting from my donations, so it's a Win-Win situation! I was a poor kid who needed more clothes and now I am very comfortable and like my mother said "Share the wealth!" It makes me very, very Happy to do so!!! Thank you Joshua!!♥️♥️♥️♥️
My Hubby & I recently cleaned out our garage & got rid of several huge garbage bags full of clothes. It felt good to get rid of them & gain back the space in our garage. Great video. 😊
Love that it was straight forward, short and informative. I have no time to listen for long intro as other content creators videos
I find he talks too slow for me so I increase speed by one notch. Lol
I had a lot of somber clothing items from my years as a hospice worker. I kept them for years after retiring thinking I could use them as wardrobe stretchers. Wrong! I always felt like I was going to a funeral! I felt so much better just donating all of them!
Thank you so much for all you did for those people, and their family and friends, in incredibly difficult times.
Clothes are the hardest thing for me to get rid of. My excess pieces are stored neatly, awaiting the day that one of my current pieces wears out. They are like money in the bank, and I never buy anything new since I retired a few years ago. Part of me says to get rid of them. The other part says I'm saving myself the time, inconvenience, and cost of eventually having to replace them. Sigh... The struggle is real.
I know this runs counter of what is preached (rightly so), but I do the same and sometimes I indeed look into the boxes and get stuff out and I am happy to wear it again. But I never was a mindless shopper before, so I really only have clothes I like(d).
Clothing and shoes will certainly not get cheaper, especially when living on retirement income. If you have duplicates of your favorite timeless pieces and the storage space, it's probably worthwhile to keep them. Consider it similar to an emergency food supply, except you don't have to rotate stock.
It's always wise to keep those good quality pieces that you may fit again if you can keep it to 1 suitcase. I've kicked myself for thrifting classic items and then gaining or losing that weight again. Much as I tell myself, this is it, invariably I fluctuate.
@@andreadavey1597 Absolutely!
"money in the bank" .. So true. And the clothes that are most commonly accessible (affordable) these days are poor quality compared to clothes around 30 years ago & prior (better quality the older they are 😊)
I wear all my different clothes. I couldn’t just wear the same black tshirt over and over again. Variety is the spice of life 😀👍🏻
I only own dresses. Minimalism doesn’t have to be boring
I must admit after I joined this channel 8 months ago. I start keeping a donation bag in my closet whenever I see something that is no longer in use. I tosh in it. Believe me, my closet is 40% clean. My house is lot declutter then before. Cleaning is easy. Tidying is easy. Thanks Josh
My closet is filled with clothes and has been for years. It doesn't stress me the least bit. The things that are worn out or just don't fit right because the sleeves may be too long or it hangs over my shoulders I get rid of. There are many things that are over 20 years old that I still wear. I have at least 15 sweatshirts that I wore constantly years ago. For the last 2 or 3 years I didn't wear them because I got too hot. Now that it is cold I wear them everyday. I don't need 15 but it gives me variety. 10 years ago I bought dozens of my favorite jeans and slacks when I could pick them up for $10. I have had no need to buy any clothes since. The same goes for shoes and sandals. I was paying $25-35. Now they want over $100. I have no need to buy them either. I really don't care what the latest fashions are.
It sounds like you being you is the right thing to do!
I wear out my shoes and sandals and now even more so with my bunions
@olderandwiser. I’m thinking that perhaps you are very tidy and organised.
That part would make a huge difference. Skills I would love- I do try.
@@melliecrann-gaoth4789 I do organize, but no one would call me tidy. I try to have a place for everything. My issue is using something and then not returning it to its place. I am getting better. I would never be a minimalist because it makes no sense to me to get rid of perfectly good things, just because you haven't used or worn it for awhile. Putting things used regularly in a cabinet like a toaster or coffee maker makes no sense either. It is just more work having to take it out and put away all the time.
Five years before I retired, I stopped buying business clothing. I wanted to wear out what I had. Some of the clothing were business casual and others were suits. I have since decluttered more. I kept a couple of suits for special occasions. It really helped me to move on from my past career and to live in the moment.
I was amazed by how few pieces of clothing Courtney had. I finally got down to 40 items of shirts, slacks, sweaters, jackets, and sleepwear because I'm retired and no longer to out dancing. It's so freeing to live with so few items, almost all of them were bought secondhand. Even my three pairs of athletic shoes were bought used. I learned early in life from my dad that used things are just as good and useful. Most of what I have at home was found at house sales.
I'm in process of cross-country moving with everything in one jeep load. Majority of clothes are in same suitcase I left home for college with 50 years ago. Been my biggest purge yet 😊
Blessings on your new chapter 💜
There are piles of clothes filling up landfills all over. I grew up in sight of a landfill and saw it fill up as Mt. Trashmore. It messes with your perspective on all purchases as you know it all has to end up somewhere. After you've purged, choose carefully.
Choose carefully is key.
I am in the minimalism journey and Thank you again for the great video and the reminders! I struggled with memorable clothing, but have been very blessed by being able to change my mindset to bless others in my church, and community with items that my adult children didn’t want. I Select organizations that are purposeful. For example, senior centers often need craft scrabbooking stuff, china set can be donated to church groups that entertain often, etc. Don’t let items sit in your closet that others can be blessed by and appreciated today 😊
PRACTICAL VIDEO
I did this three years ago, when I moved from California to Colorado. Having an empty and organized closet was freeing and very rewarding. It’s time to go through my closet again, and let go of the unused items I am not regularly wearing.
It does feel great to own less.
Definitely a good list - time for another round. Right now a little at a time does the trick for me; working 10-15 min in here and there can make a big 'dent' my collection of clothing. It is silly to think I need anymore than a few articles of clothing. After all, I am just one body and there are only 7 days in the week if I consider a weekly laundry routine and the possibility of wearing something more than once in those 7 days.
My wardrobe used to stress me out every. single. morning. Memory-laden clothing items were always my biggest issue. I'm so thankful for Minimalism and not feeling that twinge of stress every time I open my wardrobe anymore :) Thanks for your wonderful videos Joshua :)
I purged my closet of everything that did not fit, I no longer liked, and was worn. Best thing ever. I now think carefully about what I do buy.
"Bring intentionality into your closet, and you will begin to find it elsewhere." Sounds right. Thanks.
Funny thing about clothes. One ends up reaching for that same pair of jeans, footwear and top nine times out of ten! The rest is hanging there just in case.
My justification for holding on to some dressy and business casual clothes, even if I haven't worn them in a year, is with the expectation that a special and/or sad occasion will come up and I'll need something to wear. I work from home and I live in a very casual place, and my day to day uniform is hoodies, t-shirts, jeans, Vans, Patagonia, and a few button-up shirts.
This is great advice. I read Courtney's book Project 333 a few years ago, and I went from two double wardrobes to 25 pieces of clothing. They are all my favourites, I feel great wearing them, and getting ready in the morning is so quick and easy. Thanks for another great video 😊
Don’t laugh, but I’ve been decluttering my closet for the past three years. I was a school counselor, making a good salary, and I loved shopping! I had SO MUCH that in my previous home I had a special closet built for all my clothes, shoes and designer purses. Over the top idea but that closet helped sell my house in one day. Anyway, I am retired now, and my intention is to have a basic capsule wardrobe. I said all that to say this was an excellent video! Very good suggestions!
So u gave up on life
@@bambinaforever1402 , 😳🤣😂🤔, how did you arrive at that conclusion? Do tell!
@@angelirohival6270 that bambina (just like its name) is a childish thing trolling you for a response in order to get attention. ... what a sad existence
This short video & your details have motivated me to do the same, thank you 😊
Great advice as always. Having read comments here about not agreeing with some things, I would say that the advice is not prescriptive. Having ‘best’ outfits that do not see regular wear is a good example from one comment. If they fit and are still what you enjoy wearing for a special occasion then yes, keep it. You still have to use your judgement and common sense in applying any advice given; these points are a starting point for when you are overwhelmed. As Marie Kondo would say, if it gives you joy, keep it. I myself have a habit of hanging onto clothes I either a) bought on a whim (sale tags still on!) or b) I wore when younger/slimmer. It’s realising that if every time you see these things it triggers guilt or regret or similar, then maybe it’s time to pass them on to someone who will experience joy in receiving them. Keep the faith peoples ❤
Always the best information and every time you hit home at the right time. ❤
I like ALL the clothes in my closet and I’m not getting rid of them. Where I live, we have 4 seasons in one day.
I only started donating a few years ago. I wish I could get rid of my 30 yr old wedding dress (still happily married! Daughter didn't want it. No christening outfits for our faith).
Why did I get so attached to something I would never wear in public again? The pearls , beads & lace are still so pretty.
If I donate it to the Salvation Army, it might very well end up in the big semi-truck parked out back. (Going to be shredded for insulation).
I've seen videos of updated vintage gowns (cut off those puffy sleeves, etc). I've heard of organizations that make burial outfits for precious infants. Military Brides charity wants only recent gowns.
I'm supposed to be downsizing & I'm not much of a seamstress. Sorry for the long post. Maybe future brides should rent like the grooms rent a tux!
@CH-1984 I've been looking into Unbox the Dress...they create items out of wedding dresses for you. Also, looking into donating my dress to be made into infant gowns that are given to parents when their child passes away. I'm hoping it can be recycled and bring some joy.
You can get a dress made into something else, or, as PP commented, give to one of the charities that make gowns for stillborn babies.
I deliberately chose my wedding dress material and style so that I could dye it and turn it into a formal dress for future occasions!
If you adore it and the detailing then keep it. It was literally a once in a lifetime dress. I think that’s ok. My wedding dress was made from a hundred year old one. You could always put it on marketplace if you want to give it a chance to be remade and worn by another bride.
I had my wedding dress in a box for 30 years that I never opened. Finally opened it and had pillow made from some of the material from a shop on Etsy. I also had a locket made with a little piece of the fabric. I took a piece of the train and put it in a picture frame which sits on my dresser. Much better than being boxed up in the basement.
For my wedding in '77 I bought my dress at a regular dress shop. Nothing fancy. I usually wore jeans so it was hard picking out a dress. I only wore it once, don't know what happened to it later. We invited our 30 or so friends, one of whom could perform weddings. I made a big carrot cake. A friend played guitar. It was fun. For honeymoon we went camping and fishing. That marriage lasted 11 years so, not bad. We had two kids and grandchildren so the whole thing did feel like a success. Ok, the divorce was hard but I got over it.
Just returned from a 3-months journey with only a small set of garments and it was enough clothes. Having only few clothes that I really enjoyed wearing made me reconsider my whole wardrobe. Obviously for alpine winters a few more layers will be required but all in all, I will try the next season with only limited clothes again because it was so soothing nit having to stress about what to wear. Also, I only buy clothes from two brands, therefore everything fits the same style.
I declutter on a seasonal basis. For example, I will donate spring clothes in early March and summer clothes in early May. And fall clothes in early Sept, winter clothes in November and December. This way, the thrift store can actually sell them.
1) no fitting clothes
2) clothes untouched for 1 year (not sure I agree)
3) damaged clothes
4) special occasions outfits untouched (everyone needs a special occasion outfit)
5) special memory clothes
6) unwanted gifts
7 uncomfortable shoes
8) clothes that doesn’t fit
9) emotionally charged (I included all items not only clothes)
#2 I’m going to a family wedding in 2 weeks. Wearing a dress that I haven’t worn in 2 years. So I too disagree with getting rid of things we haven’t touched in 1 year
Thank you for the summary!
I agree I'd keep clothes for ten yrs if special occasion clothing also classical cut jackets wool not cheap Zara clothes rtc
I’d add out of style or trendy clothes too. Of course that means they’ve been hanging in your closet a long time anyway!
😮😂
I think it is easier for men to declutter clothes than for women. It is also easier if you are retired or not expected to wear business appropriate clothing. That said I am in process of decluttering. It is taking longer than I anticipated.
I don't think the actual act of decluttering is any easier for men, but women are far more likely to experience judgement for having a minimal wardrobe. For example, when I was in my 20s, I would get invited to maybe 6-7 weddings a year and I wore the same dress to each one. I often received negative comments/criticism for wearing the same thing all the time - yet none of the men in my peer group were judged for wearing the exact same suit to every wedding!!!
@@pippas5808 yes this is so true. I wear the same four things to church all the time and I’m sure everyone’s sick of looking at these items but I hate trying to find clothes that I really like so if I really like something you’re gonna see it over and over, LOL!
My favorite UA-cam channel!
One thing is to not have to know “why” we avoid wearing certain clothing items. Sometimes you just have to trust your gut on it and be ok with not needing to know exactly why you should get rid of it. Our heads go into all manner of questioning and reasoning but our guts only know two words. “Yes or no.” Seems like it makes life simpler to not always need to know why a yes is a yes and a no is a no. It just is…and that’s ok too. Perhaps a great plan for a perfectionist or an over thinker or if you have obsessive inclinations or are just extra curious about a lot of “why” things. I think I might be all of the above lol).
I love this comment bc I'm an overthinker / overanalyzer and you're so right about the "why" thing... Sometimes we overcomplicate the answer when our gut had it at hello..
Those were some simple and easy clothes decluttering Ideas. 👍😁
I love this video! And I love your delivery❤ since I have retired I have decluttered many items from years of working that said, I have kept a special place in my closet for these classic pieces. I don't feel encumbered by them I feel empowered that I have an easy reach and not have to spend three times as much as they would cost today❤❤
I’ve lost a lot of weight but did keep some old pants instead of donating. Well I shopped my closet and have some pants fit me now. They are getting looser but in one or two months I can fit into the next shopping size. Lol
I have a shirt that I got 15 years ago and started wearing it regularly this year.
My current frustration with clothing is that I am eight months postpartum, and while I do fit back into my pre-pregnancy clothes, I’m exclusively breast-feeding, and hope to for quite a while. Because of this, nearly my entire wardrobe, is not easily nursed in, and therefore useless to me, but it won’t be once I’m done. Meanwhile, I still have to have nursing friendly items. I have boxes up my non nursing friendly clothes that I know I will wear again, and my closet is full of things I can nurse in, which then will get boxed up since we’ll likely have another little one. I’m trying to be as intentional as possible, but I miss my old clothes and don’t love spending this extra money!
I do the same thing. It's just good stewardship!
I completely understand this. Women in their childbearing years need clothes in several sizes (plus clothes you can nurse in, if breastfeeding). You can still weed out the stained and worn out clothes though, and those you don’t feel good in.
Nursing tops that you actually want to wear are so hard to find. I ended up just using tee shirts that were a size up. I just made sure they were super soft fabric with a good drape. Heavy cotton made me look swallowed up.
Anyone have way too many clothes but they fit into all of them and like all of them? I'm overwhelmed by the amount of clothes I have but I like all of them. I honestly don't shop much, but my size never changes and I always buy very high-quality items that will last a long time. There are just too many, but I love every piece.
Why do I keep 3 night gowns I never wear ? I hate night gowns , I keep then in case I am sick ? Lol , ok , they are gonna go
I’ve kept two in case I need them. But I had them for the hospital when I had surgery and couldn’t wear any bottoms with elastic.
I have way too many clothes and shoes! I find this my hardest area to declutter!!! My latest strategy is to ask myself why don't I wear this, and that is making it easier. I also ask myself do I love this more than I hate ironing it😂
I’ve stopped buying anything that must be dry cleaned. I’ve kept some professional clothing that I do still take in, but I usually use the at-home dry cleaning cloths first to get a wear or two more from them. I also found a much more affordable dry cleaner.
Some extremely great advice for this time of year. I have many of these and am very ready to let go now.
Thank you for this.
Throw out or give away weekly( have loads of stuff), but keep the good items to re- design. Always like creating new designs if the fabric is good!
I found thread up online recently and it’s been so easy to get rid of clothes I don’t use.
I am now secure knowing that even on my min budget I can afford things I need in the future and am not inclined to hoard “just in case”.
Find a sweet resale outlet of your own and let the old clothes go!
Excellent advice, thank you for summarising so succinctly! 🥰
It hit hard when he mentioned clothes from previous relationships. Didn't think too much of it until the memories suddenly came back, off they go.
Thank you! Also, I have been clearing out clothes that are over 50% plastic, made of polyester, nylon or other plastic based material & opting for more natural fibers like cotton or linen especially undergarments. Studies are showing that “plastic “ clothes can even aid in causing cancer.
One thing that helps is for me to actually put the clothes on when deciding. Because when i put it on I remember that it itches or the shoulders are too tight or some other reason I don't wear it that I don't notice while it hangs on a hanger!!!
Excellent tips, watched every video and love new info never shared before! Great advice.
I repurposed my torn worn out clothes into cleaning rags. I don’t have to purchase paper towels in bulk anymore, so I’m saving money. I put my savings in a high yield savings account.
As I am listening to you I am tossing out stuff including shoes and clothes and anything that I just don’t use or haven’t used 👍🏼 Thanks Joshua.
I decluttered clothes with synthetic fabric as well.
Interesting about the negative memories of some clothes. I had a beautiful silk shirt which I never wore and couldnt understand why, till I realised the o nly time I had worn it someone was really nasty to me. Donated now. More closet space Yippee!!
I think it depends on your budget. Do I have special occasion clothes that I only wear once in awhile? Yes, and I'm keeping them because I can't afford to buy them if I gave them away. I only wear my Christmas clothes once a year, but I'm keeping them because I love them! Stuff that doesn't fit, needs fixing, or you never actually liked, sure donate it! But if you want to keep it, then keep it! You don't have to follow everything people say, you can pick what works for you. Years ago I was following someone on a decluttering thing on FB and she literally said (when we got to the kitchen) that WE HAD TO declutter everything and only keep one plate, bowl, cup, spoon, etc. per person in the house!! 😅😅😅😅 Seriously! So many people told her off and unfollowed her (I was one of them). So this way make work for some people and not others. Or some of it does and some of it doesn't. Do what works best for you! 😊
My one disagreement is about getting rid of clothes not worn in 12 months. I have some clothes I don't wear in a year because the weather may not be right for them that year. E.g. winters can range from mild/wet one year to dry and cold the next.
Or an item that I love but no longer have something that currently goes with it, and I have to wait to find the right pairing/colour. Usually I do finally.
Every time I watch one of these videos, I throw some things away. It's great motivation.
A very clear and pleasant way of presenting things
When my family moved out of a home that had been occupied by four generations of our family and with items going back even further, there was a LOT to go through. Something that turned up in an old wardrobe trunk (steamer trunk is actually an incorrect term) was one of those fur boars that had the fox's head and feet and probably tail also on it. That boa went into the garbage where it should have gone decades earlier.
If you find more fur items, they can be donated to wildlife rehab or rescue groups - they give them to the orphaned babies to sleep on, as they feel like their mother's fur and provide comfort.
Your post reminded me of my step-grandmother's fur stole. As a child in the 1950s I was fascinated by this garment that included the little mink heads in its construction. (Yikes!)
The "not fitting clothes" is an exception if you're actively in process of losing or gaining weight. I know someone who was obese and now weigh less than half of what they did back then
Thank you! 😀
I like that the video was so to the point. thank you .
The most important thing I did was to stop shopping. And I'm constantly picking up things that I let go of, I have a big garbage bag in my garage, I keep on adding stuff to it and when it's full it gets taken to goodwill
We love you!
It should not be necessary to say, but some people need to be reminded. Donated clothing should not just be dumped into a bag, creating a wrinkled mess of everything. We need to be respectful of the people sorting the clothing, and those who will be recipients, by making sure they are washed and folded nicely. Let's not make them have to do our sorting, by having to look for stains, tears, holes, threadbare areas. Thank you...
I thought that was common sense? But maybe some people don't do it😐
Thank you for your comment. I used to work for a Salvation Army charity shop and people might be surprised to know how carelessly some people donate - as you say, clothes are often stuffed into garbage bags unwashed and crushed by books, pots and pans and whatever else is being donated! At the end of my shift, I used to take home a bag of clothes to be washed and ironed, so that they were in a fit state to be sold!
@@susannegiesen2114my daughter volunteered in a charity shop when in secondary school. She told me they received bags with disgusting things like dirty clothes. Worn out clothing is not fit for donation, cotton things maybe could be cut up for reuse as painting or cleaning cloths.
@@RS-gl9ht I send the stuff in divided up, sorted and ready for display. I’m very far from on top of jobs at home- I just can’t imagine doing it any other way- it seems like an insult to me.
I
@@melliecrann-gaoth4789 I really don't understand why people act this way.....maybe they got no education.....
I gained weight slowly ore 1990s. Then research proved the low fat model was wrong (even dangerous) so I went low carb & lost a lot of weight. Now, even tho I do have carbs, Im still losing about 5 lbs per year, since long term low carb permanently changed my hormone profile. Im so glad I saved my favorite clothes from before weight gain. I love them & enjoy wearing them again so much.
Point 9 is huge. Just got rid of clothes associated with three extremely stressful years. So nice not seeing these things and immediately being taken back in time constantly.
I am about to declutter. Will be back in couple o hours~ 🎉
So true! Thanks so much! I will start doing this🙏💞
I've stopped listening to music that have -too much words in-, and this have improved my life fr. Ppl don't think twice about how much music actually impact our thoughts, like majority of the lyrics are negative and toxic
Yes, but I will say 1894 overture helps me
I think not 1894 actually.
Too keep a house clean you always need to reduce your home from things you don't need. It will be so much easier.
I can’t believe the number of T-shirts college students are given for free by clubs/organizations/departments/welcome events. Insane how many of them end up in parents’ homes
I'm definitely guilty of keeping clothes for 'when I lose weight'. Yea, it's been over 2 years and I'm still fat! Going to be going through my whole wardrobe (actually, the entire house) very soon for a garage sale in August.
Thank you!
Excellent guide lines
One thing I did was get rid of graphic t-shirts (except for a very few that especially seemed to be "me") -- I stick with just solid colors. I try to go with basic classic styles.
Chances are if you haven’t worn it in one year, you are working from home.
Or retired!
Thankyou i appreciate what you share . Blessings .
Every so often I pull an item from my closet I haven't worn in ages and put it on. If it's tight, it goes. If it fits and I like it, I wear it that day.
"...even having more than we even want." Now that is a sobering thought. Makes me wonder just how much control we have been under.
I did all this 😀😀
Thank you. Great video! 😊
I'm thankful to you for these words ❤from India
Very useful tips thank you 🙂
Nope I'm not giving up my costumes that I wear only when working at faires and I'm not tossing clothes I can mend and wear another year. I'm not buying new clothes this year other then one secondhand long wool coat I got last week.
Thankyou for your videos. Your videos are very helpful.