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Feeling overwhelmed every time you open your closet? It’s a clear sign it’s time to get your style (and confidence) back on track.
At Next Level Wardrobe, we know the most transformative part of our clients’ styling process is the all-important closet edit. Here’s why cleaning out your closet matters and the simple, four-step process we used to get it done right.
Why Your Closet Can Make Or Break Your Style
One of the first things you do every morning is pick an outfit. It sets the tone for your whole day. But if you open your closet and see chaos, you’re already starting on the wrong foot. Suddenly, getting dressed feels stressful instead of empowering.
Think of it like cooking: you need the right ingredients to make something great. Most people get this wrong because brands and influencers keep saying, “Just buy more!” Sure, that works for them, but not for you.
At Next Level Wardrobe, we focus on lasting style and confidence, starting with one thing: your closet.
Once you understand the impact of your closet, it’s time to take action.
How to Clean Out Your Closet: NLW’s 4 Steps to Better Style
1. Clean Closet Prep Questions
Like any project, a strong vision is the best place to start. That’s why step one of our closet cleanout is all about reflection.
Ask yourself: What do I want my style to say about me? Who inspires me and why? (No role model? Jot down five words that describe your dream style.) And finally, how can my closet help me get there?
If you’re feeling inspired, make a “My Style Vision” board and start pinning whatever catches your eye. No overthinking, no “I can’t wear that.” Explore freely—this is where creativity meets clarity.
Need ideas? Check out our Pinterest for inspo.
2. Prepare to Clean Out Your Closet
Make your closet makeover quick and painless with sturdy black velvet hangers. They’re gentler on clothes, work for almost anything, and look way better than plastic. Next, get garbage bags for items to donate or toss. Then, take everything out of your closet, including what’s in storage.
Audrey Hussey during our clean out of her and her husband, Matthew Hussey’s, closet.
Check out our blog post on transforming Matthew’s style.
Make a pile of pieces you’re sure you want to donate: things you don’t like, haven’t worn in a year, or that look worn out. For what’s left, organize by category and then by color. It’ll make editing so much easier.
3. The Closet Cleaning and Editing Session
We call this part of the closet purge process “the closet edit.” It’s where you fine-tune your wardrobe using the NLW Style System: fit, color, and the right pieces.
As you review each item, ask yourself:
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Does it truly fit?
Try it on—you might be surprised. Could a simple alteration make it perfect? -
Is it essential?
Consider whether it fits your lifestyle, climate, and the professional image you want to project. -
Does it align with your color goals?
Too much black? Too many prints? Aim for balance and cohesion.
If it’s not a clear “yes,” it’s a “no.” Sort everything into three piles: keep, donate, or alter.
4. How To Organize A Closet
Congrats! You’ve reached the last step in our closet cleanout guide.
We’re firm believers that most items can and should be hung. This includes pants, t-shirts, blouses, layering pieces, and yes, even jumpsuits. For sweaters, fold them and then hang them over the bottom rung of the hanger like you would with pants. This prevents them from stretching.
Is there anything more satisfying than closet cleanout images?
There you have it. You’ve completed our one-stop guide to decluttering closets. Bookmark this page for future reference or share it with a friend who could use a refresh.
Ready for a Stress-Free Closet Cleanout?
Apply for Next Level Wardrobe’s men’s or women’s styling services. Our style experts will work with you one-on-one, virtually or in person, to edit your closet with purpose. From there, we’ll guide you through a personalized shopping experience to fill any gaps and connect you with trusted alteration specialists.
Schedule your consultation and start dressing with clarity, confidence, and success today.
