Most of my Fashion Sense articles will include lists and tips about fashion, organization and shopping. Today, however, I’d like to discuss what a closet actually symbolizes and hopefully motivate you to work on getting rid of some of the skeletons that may be hiding in there.
As a wardrobe consultant and closet organizer, when I go into a client’s closet I need to keep in mind that closets are incredibly personal. What seems like a ratty, old jean jacket to me may be a prized possession to my client. I have to be aware of such emotional attachments to items as I’m working on such an important space in their home.
Let’s begin by asking, “What is a closet?” According to CedarClosetLining.org, “Closets are efficient, convenient means of keeping our valuable belongings.” This is the obvious definition, however there’s more to a closet than meets the eye!
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Whether you clean it, clutter it or try to ignore it, closets are much more than a place to put your wardrobe!
Clinical Social Worker Stephanie Reubins of Sudbury Valley Counseling says, "They can be hiding places — to hold your valuables and treasures. Closets can also be the places where we hide our hopes and dreams.”
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Perhaps some people do not consider their closet to be a sanctuary that can contain so many feelings and emotions, but according to CedarClosetLining.org, “Symbolically, your closet represents what is hidden inside you, including your thinking. Therefore, if your closet is cluttered, it can clutter your mind as well.”
So, it is important to create a space where you can think more clearly.
Not only do you have to remove clothes from your closet to allow for less clutter, but you need to remove emotional attachments and hang-ups that go along with these items. People often feel comfort in what they keep. It can be difficult to get rid of things especially since we’re truly affected by them. What makes it so challenging to let go? What are we afraid of?
For some of you, opening your closet door may mean opening old wounds, memories of events or people (whether good or bad). The challenge is to realize that things are just that … things. Our memories have the most value and will last forever.
According to ehow.com, “Sometimes holding on to the familiar makes it more difficult to appreciate change. We hold, not only to the possessions we have accumulated (material clutter), but more significantly we also tend to hold onto assumptions, beliefs, and perspectives (mental and emotional clutter) as if they were carved in stone.”
Since this is a new year, let’s make positive changes. To create something new in your life, you first have to make room for it. One way to do this is to embrace change. By cleaning and getting organized you can make certain changes that may allow you an opportunity to grow.
Take a deep breath! I know that it can be emotionally exhausting to get rid of outfits that remind you of various events in your life. So, rather than throwing them away, I suggest you temporarily pack them up and store them in a different area of your home. Eventually you’ll forget about them and will hopefully be more ready to move on the next time you see them!
