I am a huge fan of small changes that you can build upon throughout the year. And one of my go-to's is the 1-hour closet cleanse.  I do this at least 2x a year. 

The secret to a successful closet cleanse is understanding that this isn't a complete overhaul of your wardrobe (or life) but a way to get you moving in the right direction. Having a plan going in, is also key. So read on for the 3 steps you'll need to take.

MINUTE 1-15
Use the first 15 minutes of your time to REMOVE everything from your closet.  You have to make a mess to clean one up!  When you are emptying your closet, create 1 pile for clothes, another for shoes, another bags and a final for miscellaneous.  If it has been awhile since your last closet cleanse and it seems to be bursting at the seams, consider doing half of your wardrobe at a time.  The goal is to feel successfully more organized by the end of one hour vs having a bigger mess on your hands.

MINUTE 15-45
Next, grab 3 BAGS/BINs and designate one for things to donate, another for items that need to be thrown away and a final bag for items that need extra time to consider.  Instead of tackling each pile item by item, you'll start by quickly pulling out pieces you know you want to keep.  Ask yourself these question when holding the item - does this piece make me happy, do I feel good in it.  Trust your gut on this.  Place all the "keeps" aside.

BEFORE Closet Cleanse

AFTER Closet Cleanse

Next, you'll look through the remaining items in each pile for pieces to donate.  Grab things in good condition and that you are okay parting with.  This pile of your wardrobe should be items that are good pieces, but they just don't fit in your life anymore.  Like the bateau neck sweater that I wear every week last winter, but this winter I barely ever even consider it.  Say a quick "thanks" to the pieces and place them in the donate bag/bin.

Now it is time to pull out the pieces that are in poor condition. Any remaining items get added to your 3rd bag/bin, which you'll keep out of sight for the rest of the month.  If you find yourself wanting to wear one of the pieces feel free to add them back to your closet.  After 4 weeks, everything else  remaining in that bag/bin should be donated or swapped with a friend.

MINUTES 45-60
You are almost done - YAY!  It's finally time to put your beloved items back into your closet.  Start with your tops - but don't just throw everything in willy-nilly - keeping everything neat now will encourage you to stay organized.  I like to go by sleeve length, then color.  Makes it much easier to find things. Next put back items you keep on shelves and finish with the items that go on the floor.

Finally stash your bag of "think about" items in a hidden spot, and place a reminder in your calendar next month to find a new home for these items!
 
Bravo on completing  your closet cleanse - don't you feel great?  I know I do after mine.