Tips for a Fresh Start in the New Year

As we welcome the new year, it’s the perfect time to focus on the little things that keep your closet—and, let’s be honest, your life—feeling organized and refreshed. This year, let’s commit to building smart, sustainable habits that ensure your closet stays in perfect working order. These simple resolutions will keep your wardrobe looking pristine, your space feeling calm, and your mornings stress-free.

1. One In, One Out

Let’s start with a classic. For every new item that comes into your closet, commit to letting go of one that’s no longer serving you. Whether it’s donating, selling, or responsibly recycling, this rule prevents overcrowding and ensures every piece you own has a purpose.

2. A Monthly Refresh

Don’t wait for spring to declutter. Set a reminder to give your closet a quick refresh every month. Check for items that need repair, polish shoes, dust your shelves, and reorganize anything that’s gone astray. It’s a small task that pays big dividends.

3. Invest in the Right Tools

Start the year with the tools to keep your closet in top form. Slim velvet hangers for delicate pieces, drawer dividers for accessories, a handheld steamer for wrinkles, and cedar blocks to protect against moths—these essentials make maintenance easy and effective.

4. Prioritize Seasonal Rotations

Make it a habit to rotate your wardrobe seasonally. Store out-of-season items (like heavy knits in the summer or swimsuits in the winter) in breathable bins or garment bags. This not only frees up valuable space but also makes it easier to access the pieces you wear most often.

5. Get Comfortable with Color Coding

It might sound like a luxury, but color coding your closet is one of the simplest ways to make getting dressed easier. Group your clothes by hue for a visually calming effect and to instantly see what you have at a glance. Bonus: It looks incredible in photos.

6. Keep a Tailoring List

Never let a too-long hem or a missing button keep a favorite item from seeing the light of day. Keep a running list of garments that need tailoring or repair, and schedule quarterly trips to your tailor to ensure everything stays in perfect shape.

7. Embrace Proper Shoe Storage

Stop kicking shoes to the floor and start giving them the proper care they deserve. Invest in pull-out shoe shelves, cubbies, or clear boxes to keep pairs organized and easy to find. Use shoe trees for structured styles like boots to maintain their shape.

8. Don’t Ignore Accessories

Scarves, belts, sunglasses, and jewelry often end up as afterthoughts in closet organization. Dedicate specific storage solutions for these items, like hooks for belts, trays for jewelry, or drawer dividers for scarves. Keeping them organized elevates the whole space.

9. Add a Luxe Touch

Your closet doesn’t have to be purely functional—it can be a space you love spending time in. Add something special, like a scented candle, a chic mirror, or even a small plant, to bring personality and warmth to your space.

10. Plan Outfits Ahead of Time

Commit to taking five minutes each evening to plan your next day’s outfit. Not only does this save time in the morning, but it also helps you rediscover pieces you might otherwise overlook.

This year, let’s take the time to make our closets more than just storage spaces—they should be inspiring, organized, and a reflection of your personal style. By following these resolutions, you’ll create habits that keep your wardrobe—and your life—feeling fresh and stress-free all year long.

Here’s to a stylish, organized New Year!