Send Your Winter Clothes on Spring Break
If you are thinking about spring clothing, it’s probably time to go through your closets and pack away your heavy winter items. It’s also a good time to weed out the clothing you haven’t worn for longer than you care to admit. (My general rule of thumb is if you haven’t worn an item in a year and a half, there’s a good chance you never will.) Once you’ve made your way through your closet and edited accordingly, keep the following storage tips in mind.
Launder or dry clean clothes before you store them. Small amounts of food or dirt particles may not be visible now but can become pesky stains that are difficult to clean. They can also attract little critters – an idea which gives us all the willies! As an added insurance policy, clean your storage containers or use new cardboard boxes and wash fabric storage bags. Never use plastic bags, as they won’t allow your clothes to breathe.
Store like items together. It’s best to fold all sweaters and knits for storage, as hanging them will stretch their shape. Stack folded items from the lightest on top to the heaviest on bottom. Heavy coats or jackets should be hung on wooden or padded hangers that will support their weight. It stands to reason that clear containers are best for easy viewing. Alternatively, take a picture or make a list o f the contents and tape it to the side of the container. If you are folding an item for storage that you would normally hang, roll it to avoid creases.
Think CD (cool and dry). To get best results, store your clothing in a cool, well-ventilated and dry area. Additionally, look for a spot away from artificial or natural light, to prevent fading and keep items cool. (Under-bed storage often works well.)
Freshen up. The chemicals in moth balls may prove too harsh for some garments. Instead opt for cedar chips or bars which are a healthier (and more pleasant) alternative. For an extra boost of freshness (and fragrance), include a lavender or rosemary sachet in each container.
Proper winter clothing storage may take a bit of extra effort (and the better part of an afternoon), but you’ll be happy you took the time when that first chilly swings back around.
If you need help assessing your winter items or building your spring wardrobe, just let me know. Mention the 3T’s for 10% off of any style, closet or shopping session. *(Contact Carol at carol@yourstyleworks.com or linkedin.com/in/CarolDavidsonStyleWorks.)
For over 15 years, Carol Davidson has helped women transform their appearance, wardrobe and self-esteem. Her style and life coaching advice has helped women tackle their careers and personal lives with confidence and enthusiasm.
Clients have told Carol they look better and feel better about how they look and the life they lead. They move forward with greater ease and confidently show up for matters most.
Carol is an educator at the Fashion Institute of Technology and has been quoted in countless media outlets including: businessweek.com, Forbes.com, ivillage.com, SmartMoney and Real Simple. While she calls NYC and South Florida “home,” her reach includes the Tri-State area and beyond. Her Skype consultations and easy-to-use, private, online closet, shopping and lookbook platform allow her to work with clients across the country and around the world.
For more of Carol’s style picks and lifestyle tips, please visit her at: CarolDavidson.com and like her on FB: CarolDavidsonLifeStyleStrategy. You can also find her on twitter @CarolDavidson.
