How I Finally Built a Closet I Love
A capsule wardrobe isn’t anything new, it’s been around for years. But in a world where consumption is the norm and every trend demands our attention, our closets have become overfilled with pieces we don’t even like. The goal here isn’t necessarily to build a capsule wardrobe. But through this process, you’ll find yourself much closer to one just by creating a closet filled with clothes you actually love.
Years ago, I downsized my wardrobe out of pure frustration. I always felt like I had nothing to wear, but what I found was peace, ease, and a closet that actually worked for my everyday life. It’s about making mornings easier, feeling good in your clothes, and letting your closet reflect the life you actually live.
When I moved to North Carolina in 2013, I landed in a place with the smallest closet imaginable …
I’m talking 1950s post-war small.
Thanks to that tiny space, a pile of clothes that didn’t feel like me, and in a season where I was battling anorexia, I slowly began building a wardrobe with only the pieces I loved. And surprisingly? I didn’t miss anything I tossed. In fact, I still find it freeing to let go of things.
That season taught me a lot about how I wanted to feel in my clothes. And honestly, I wanted less. Less fuss. Less guilt. Less of the "someday" outfits that made me feel like I wasn’t enough right now. And I found myself so much more productive when I actually get dressed and ready for the day than when I do when I'm in yoga pants even on weekends. So you'll find me in the yard tending to weeds and flowers in a dress and usually barefoot. But I digress ..
Fast forward to today, and my wardrobe has its moments where I buy I something for a specific event but I’m still drawn to capsule-style dressing. I only occasionally look at Pinterest boards for inspiration around what I already have. Its easy to get sucked into thinking you need to buy new things to create a capsule wardrobe but honestly I think its more about what makes you feel like your best and build around that.
Here’s what helped me …
Start with what you actually wear.
Don’t begin by shopping or making a list of things you want or need. Begin by noticing what pieces you reach for over and over?
You’ve probably heard people suggest turning your hangers around, and then after three to six months, donating anything you haven’t worn. I love this idea if it works for you and feels less overwhelming.
Ideally, lets focus on the outfits make you feel good. Are they more fitted and tailored, or do you love a good pair of jeans and a blouse that’s a little loose? Is there a certain color you’re drawn to?
I found that I wore jeans and dresses most, a lot of neutrals, natural fabrics, and light layers—so I leaned into that.
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Purge with purpose.
Yep, take it all out of your closet—every last bit. Then create three piles: yes, no, and maybe. Yes gets to stay. No gets donated or tossed. (Ask yourself: Would I buy this at Goodwill if I saw it today?)
The maybe pile? Stick it on one side of your closet. Revisit the pile over the next three to five days—see if anything already feels like a no. Then, this might be a good time to try the hanger trick: turn the hangers around, and if you don’t wear something in the next few months, go ahead and donate it.
I gave myself permission to get rid of anything that didn’t fit the life I was living now. That old blazer from my corporate days? Gone. The jeans I hoped I’d fit into again? Let them go. I made space for what felt good in this season.
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Dress for your real life.
There’s a time and place for the old saying, “Dress for the job you want,” but there’s also beauty in dressing for the life you actually live. Whether you're homeschooling, working from home, chasing toddlers, or running errands … build a wardrobe that works for that. My favorite classic dress can go from garden to dinner in a flash. Even if I spill coffee on it... which I probably will.
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A quick note on shoes, accessories, and sentimental pieces.
If it doesn’t fit, isn’t comfortable, or hasn’t seen daylight in three seasons, let it go. Your space matters. The same goes for accessories—keep your go-to pieces and let the rest move on. If it was for a season, that’s okay. It served its purpose.
As for sentimental items, I store the few that hold real emotional value neatly so they feel like keepsakes, not clutter. And if something was a gift that no longer serves me? I honor the thought, not the item.
It’s wild how different you carry yourself when you feel good in your clothes. A simple outfit that fits well and feels like you? That’s powerful.
If you’re feeling some resistance, here’s a little prompt to ponder:
What do I actually love and want to wear more of? What’s taking up space but not adding value?
Honestly, those questions apply to a lot more than your closet.
Remember, there’s no rush. There’s no perfect number. You don’t need to hit 33 pieces or follow someone else’s checklist. You just need a wardrobe that fits your life.
Your wardrobe doesn’t have to be trendy. It just has to be true to you.
I hope this inspires you to dress for your life, love how you feel in your clothes, and make getting dressed just a little more fun.
If you try it, let me know. I’d love to hear what you learn... and what you let go of.