In todays video and in all photos I’m wearing the newest necklace added to my shop, shopjuliamarie.com, the CHUNKY NAME NECKLACE. It has a chunky Gourmette Chain close to the same width as the nameplate making it a great statement piece. It is absolutely my favorite of the moment! It comes in both gold or silver and you can have it made in any chain length between 14″ and 20″. Mine is on a 16″ chain which is the most popular length.
A RULE I CREATED TO BE MORE INTENTIONAL WITH MY PURCHASES TO HELP STRETCH MY SHOPPING BUDGET TO IT’S MAXIMUM CAPACITY
WHO ELSE HAS BOUGHT A NEW TOP BECAUSE YOU “LOVED IT SO MUCH” THEN MONTHS LATER IT STILL HASN’T BEEN WORN?
We’ve all been there! There has been a time in our life we’ve walked in our closet looking for something to wear only to be reminded of the items we purchased but still haven’t worn, tags still attached and all.
When we make impulse purchases we end up with a closet of one offs that we only have one other item to wear with it, if even that.
When we make impulse purchases we end up with a closet full of clothes yet still have NOTHING to wear. WHY are we like this?!
In 2013, after losing 20lbs, purging 90% of my closet and only having a clothing budget of $150 a month I was in desperate need of a high functioning wardrobe. That is when, why and how I created my #1 shopping rule, The Rule of 5.
I knew in order to still buy quality pieces I loved I was going to have to get creative (and disciplined) and that’s exactly what I did. Every single purchase I made for the following year was well thought out and 100% intentional. I had no room for impulse purchases, the function of my wardrobe couldn’t afford it.
I bet you don’t like throwing your money away, do you?
We all deserve to hit our financial goals (and best wardrobes) and a great starting point is to become more intentional with what we spend our money on.
I want you to be great in everything you do so I wrote a 24 page book to fully share The Rule of 5 with you. There’s even worksheets for you to brainstorm your goal wardrobe!
Just enter your email below for your FREE Rule of 5 guide to get started on your best wardrobe yet!
If you need more help building your wardrobe my e-book,Build Your Dream Wardrobe on a Budget is a great tool. The 12 steps I take when planning and shopping for my wardrobes each season is covered in detail with examples for you.These are the steps I take to ensure each purchase is intentional, it’s also the strategy I used to budget to purchase my first Louis Vuitton handbag. In fact, The Rule of 5 is one of the 12 steps in the e-book.
5 WAYS TO WEAR A SLIP DRESS
Slip dresses are not only on trend right now but they’re easy and comfortable to wear and style. I know a lot of us are spending more time at home this season and a slip dress is perfect to wear around the home as well.
Personally, I prefer all casual everything and a slip dress is no exception. Flat sandals or sneakers is always my go-to but if you’re more of a dressy lady and love your heels this is absolutely a style that is perfect for your favorite stiletto’s.
The most popular lengths for slip dresses are right at the knee/slightly below or a midi length. Midi Length is always a favorite length for me, something about it is “sexy” (I never use that word haha), chic and fashion forward. Because of my height and sexy cankles 😉 it’s not always the most flattering length for me so I tend to go for body skimming silhouettes.
SIMILAR HANDBAG: My handbag was purchased last Summer from Amazon, it is a designer dupe so they sell very fast and/or the listings are taken down. I was unable to find the exact bag I have but found a similar Hermes inspired PVC bag and linked it for you. I searched Clear PVC handbag and have the Large size if you are able to locate this bag. Mine does have a crossbody strap and it’s the perfect length for me, I’m 5’4″.
SNEAKERS: These were my F/W 2019/2020 white sneakers. I wore these 5 days a week this past season and love them for leather leggings and oversized sweaters, they’re great to pair with dresses too. The run TTS.
LOOK TWO
SUNGLASS CHAIN: I was inspired by a pair of Chanel sunglasses I saw in Nordstrom then Emily Ann Gemma had a similar look and said she got her chain from Forever 21. I thought to self, “Self, Amazon has to have them”. So I went to Amazon and here we are. This $6 accessory makes a fun subtle yet statement.
CLUTCH: A Summer 2020 purchase, the quality of this MCM clutch is amazing and completely elevates a simple look.
SANDALS: If you preordered these you know they were a pain to get, since then they’re fully in stock and ready to be shipped. They come in a few color options. The shoe itself is okay quality, they’re not leather so they won’t “break-in” like a leather shoe. However, the stud detailing is the best quality I’ve seen on a sandal thus far besides the actual Valentino Rockstud, the studs are absolutely where they put the money in on this shoe so that made them worth it to me. The width of the shoe is on the narrower side, I think I have average width feet and they are snug but maybe I have average-wide feet, who knows?!
LOOK THREE
HAT: I have a child size head therefore have the hardest time finding a hat that fits my bean head and this one does! I think this hat is for small to medium size heads but I’m not a head expert and don’t actually know anything about head sizes and what’s average or not.
SIMILAR JACKET: The only denim jacket I own, mostly because I don’t wear jackets. This was purchased 15 years ago, it’s Ralph Lauren.
SANDALS: If you preordered these you know they were a pain to get, since then they’re fully in stock and ready to be shipped. They come in a few color options. The shoe itself is okay quality, they’re not leather so they won’t “break-in” like a leather shoe. However, the stud detailing is the best quality I’ve seen on a sandal thus far besides the actual Valentino Rockstud, the studs are absolutely where they put the money in on this shoe so that made them worth it to me. The width of the shoe is on the narrower side, I think I have average width feet and they are snug but maybe I have average-wide feet, who knows?!
LOOK FOUR
SIMILAR VEST: An oldie but a goodie, this was purchased 10 years ago from the Matthew Williamson for Macy’s collab.
SIMILAR HANDBAG: My handbag was purchased last Summer from Amazon, it is a designer dupe so they sell very fast and/or the listings are taken down. I was unable to find the exact bag I have but found a similar Hermes inspired PVC bag and linked it for you. I searched Clear PVC handbag and have the Large size if you are able to locate this bag. Mine does have a crossbody strap and it’s the perfect length for me, I’m 5’4″.
SANDALS: If you preordered these you know they were a pain to get, since then they’re fully in stock and ready to be shipped. They come in a few color options. The shoe itself is okay quality, they’re not leather so they won’t “break-in” like a leather shoe. However, the stud detailing is the best quality I’ve seen on a sandal thus far besides the actual Valentino Rockstud, the studs are absolutely where they put the money in on this shoe so that made them worth it to me. The width of the shoe is on the narrower side, I think I have average width feet and they are snug but maybe I have average-wide feet, who knows?!
LOOK FIVE
SHIRT: This was a quarantine purchase. This style sells out fast but does get restocked occasionally. I’m not a t-shirt wearer but I had to have this one. It’s super soft and great quality, it’s perfect to throw on with biker shorts or sweats. I wear it with high waist jeans tied up for a sassy look.
SNEAKERS: These were purchases as my S/S 2020 white sneaker. The past few white sneakers I bought had a stronger classic silhouette so I wanted to go with a running sneaker silhouette to switch things up. I have the sneaker in a hot pink too that have become my gym sneakers, both are very comfortable and run TTS.
The Chunky Name Necklace is my current fave I love the retro 90’s style of it and that it is more of a statement piece.
Thank you guys so much for your support, you are truly appreciated!
BODYSUIT + HIGH WAIST MOM JEANS
BODYSUIT: I have this is white and nude, I love them both! They’re so chic and put together, runs TTS.
JEANS: Current favorite jeans, I wore them 3 times the first week I got them. I have the petite one size up from my TTS. I bought the regular length in one size up too, they were HUGE! I am 5’4″ with 2′ legs so I am technically petite.
SANDALS: These are my FAVE sandals, I bought them last year, wore them a few days a week and they still look like new this season
SANDALS in mirror selfie: YSL dupes from Zara, go with your TTS or half up
HI-LOW BUTTON DOWN
+ MID THIGH SHORTS
SHIRT | LONG SLEEVE VERSION: This top is very oversized, if you like oversize get your TTS, if not go one size down. The top I am wearing sold out but sizes have been going in and out of stock so if you see it and want it purchase asap.
SHORTS: These fit TTS, good amount of stretch, mid thigh on me. I’m 5’4″ with 2′ legs.
SANDALS: These have been a regular wear for quarantine season. They slide on, then slide off with zero effort and have super snazzy gold spikes that make them pass as actual shoes. They’re a recommend! TTS
SLIP DRESS + NUDE STUDDED SANDALS
DRESS: This dress is really great quality especially for the price. I went up one size because that’s all that was in stock and it fits great. I have a Rule of 5 schedule featuring this dress this month (May!) so look out for that.
SANDALS: If you’ve ordered these you know they were A WAIT to get, they were worth the wait. The studs are excellent quality and make the sandals look more expensive than they actually are, I recommend going a half size up.
HAT: Love this hat! I have a really small head, it’s so hard to find a hat that doesn’t fall to my crown and cover the top part of my fave. This hat is a perfect fit, should fit regular sized heads too. Comes in 5 ish colors.
DENIM JACKET: 15 years old from Ralph Lauren
NAME NECKLACE: This is the newest piece at my shop, shopjuliamarie.com I am obsesseddd it’s so 90’s and right on trend. I have mine on a 16″ chain, if you were to get a 14″ chain you’d get a proper choker look.
BODYSUIT + JOGGERS
BODYSUIT: I have this is white and nude, I love them both! They’re so chic and put together, runs TTS.
JOGGERS: I highly recommend these, they fit oversized so your TTS or one down should work. I have them in this color and black, I just ordered another black and white to do monochrome looks this Summer.
SNEAKERS: This are my current fave/go-to sneaker. Each season I buy an all white sneaker and pretty much wear them with everything. These are this seasons white sneaker. I bought my TTS, they’re very comfortable, so comfortable I have two pair (the other is pink)
ACID WASH DENIM DRESS
DRESS: I love a throw on and go dress that hits right above the knee, I really wanted to dabble in acid wash this season and this was an affordable option. I went with my TTS
SNEAKERS: This are my current fave/go-to sneaker. Each season I buy an all white sneaker and pretty much wear them with everything. These are this seasons white sneaker. I bought my TTS, they’re very comfortable, so comfortable I have two pair (the other is pink)
DENIM COVERALL JUMPSUIT
JUMPSUIT: This is more acid wash irl than it appears or maybe it was because I didn’t realize it wash acid washy. I bought my TTS, it fits a little too big up top and little too tight in the hip area. It does not stretch much. With that being said, still love it and keeping it. I expect the hip area will loosen up with wear as most denim does.
SANDALS in mirror selfie: YSL dupes from Zara, go with your TTS or half up
OVERSIZED RIPPED T + CAMO CARGO PANTS
SHIRT: This shirt sells out FAST! The white sells out within days so if you see it, BUY IT because it will be gone. Shirt does run big, my dryer shrinks everything so I can always risk it on oversized pieces.
PANTS: I thrifted mine after I bought the pair at Urban Outfitters and realized they were just selling second hand military pants.
SNEAKERS: This are my current fave/go-to sneaker. Each season I buy an all white sneaker and pretty much wear them with everything. These are this seasons white sneaker. I bought my TTS, they’re very comfortable, so comfortable I have two pair (the other is pink)
COLORFUL PRINTED T-SHIRT DRESS
DRESS: You may have noticed I pretty much only wear neutrals. I wanted a fun colorful dress to add a splash of *pow* here and there while lounging at home, this Adidas dress serves that purpose.
SANDALS: If you’ve ordered these you know they were A WAIT to get, they were worth the wait. The studs are excellent quality and make the sandals look more expensive than they actually are, I recommend going a half size up.
DENIM ACID WASH MINI DRESS
DRESS: This was a pre-quarantine dress, it sold out back in February but is now back in stock. It does run small, I sized up and it’s still snug.
SANDALS: If you’ve ordered these you know they were A WAIT to get, they were worth the wait. The studs are excellent quality and make the sandals look more expensive than they actually are, I recommend going a half size up.
In todays video I’m wearing the Best Selling classic, Carrie Name Necklace from my shop, shopjulimarie.com. It has been the #1 popular piece the past 5 years. I have 3 of them in different sizes and chain lengths. Lately (and shown here) I’m wearing the Classic Carrie Name Necklace in gold on a 14″ Chain.
WHO ELSE HAS BOUGHT A NEW TOP BECAUSE YOU “LOVED IT SO MUCH” THEN MONTHS LATER IT STILL HASN’T BEEN WORN?
We’ve all been there! There has been a time in our life we’ve walked in our closet looking for something to wear only to be reminded of the items we purchased but still haven’t worn, tags still attached and all.
When we make impulse purchases we end up with a closet of one offs that we only have one other item to wear with it, if even that.
When we make impulse purchases we end up with a closet full of clothes yet still have NOTHING to wear. WHY are we like this?!
In 2013, after losing 20lbs, purging 90% of my closet and only having a clothing budget of $150 a month I was in desperate need of a high functioning wardrobe. That is when, why and how I created my #1 shopping rule, The Rule of 5.
I knew in order to still buy quality pieces I loved I was going to have to get creative (and disciplined) and that’s exactly what I did. Every single purchase I made for the following year was well thought out and 100% intentional. I had no room for impulse purchases, the function of my wardrobe couldn’t afford it.
I bet you don’t like throwing your money away, do you?
We all deserve to hit our financial goals (and best wardrobes) and a great starting point is to become more intentional with what we spend our money on.
I want you to be great in everything you do so I wrote a 24 page book to fully share The Rule of 5 with you. There’s even worksheets for you to brainstorm your goal wardrobe!
Just enter your email below for your FREE Rule of 5 guide to get started on your best wardrobe yet!
If you need more help building your wardrobe my e-book,Build Your Dream Wardrobe on a Budget is a great tool. The 12 steps I take when planning and shopping for my wardrobes each season is covered in detail with examples for you.These are the steps I take to ensure each purchase is intentional, it’s also the strategy I used to budget to purchase my first Louis Vuitton handbag. In fact, The Rule of 5 is one of the 12 steps in the e-book.
TOP: A new purchase for this season, I bought my TTS in both white (to wear with denim) and black (to wear to the gym). The top is very cropped, the waist of these pants come right above the belly button to give you an idea of the length of the shirt.
SANDALS: went half size up. These are a new style for this Spring/Summer. You know I love my gold and I’m always down for a good stud. These add some razzle dazzle to an otherwise basic slide-on sandal.
LOOK 2
BODYSUIT: This bodysuit is a MUST HAVE! I bought it in the nude and white in my TTS. The fabric is very stretchy and comfortable, I’d consider ordering a size up for length purposes if you’re tall or have a long torso (I’m 5’4″). It is a thong, I have not experienced any discomfort but than again I’m exclusively a thong girl.
SANDALS: I purchased these last year and wore them at least 4 days a week, they still look brand new going into this season. They are a bit of a splurge for a sandal but I’m from the south and wear sandals 6-9 months out of the year so I’m down to splurge on a good sandal. Order half size up.
HANDBAG: This PVC handbag I scored last Summer on Amazon. Turns out it’s an Hermes dupe so if you can catch it, purchase it ASAP because it’ll get taken down. The quality for a plastic bag lol is excellent, it comes with a long shoulder strap that you can wear crossbody. I have the Large size.
LOOK 3
SWEATSHIRT: Cue 8th grade Julia because that’s how old this sweatshirt is. I have no idea how this hoodie made it through 20+ years of purging. I mean, it hasn’t gotten purged over the last 10 years because it’s a legit vintage top that has been distressed with love over the years. That includes bleach marks on the kangaroo pocket from cleaning my first college apartment.
SNEAKERS: Puma for the win!! I have this balenciaga inspired Puma sneaker in neon pink and bought this white pair for my S/S white sneaker. I usually do a structured sneaker for my seasonal white sneakers but decided to mix it up with these runners.
BOOKBAG: A birthday gift to myself last year, this was my go-to handbag last Summer. I connected the straps so that I was able to wear it crossbody, inspired by the Louis Vuitton Palm Springs. This shade of pink has been discontinued but you can usually catch a seasonal shade of pink each Summer.
LOOK 4
HAT: If you have a small head, this is for you! Legit, I have a childs size head and can never find a hat to fit my dome but this fits perfect. I just bought this from a Corona sale, there’s 5 different colorways if white isn’t for you.
BODYSUIT: A basic, new purchase. It’s a thong, runs TTS. It’s not the best quality, It’s not bad either … it does do the job. Expect a basic T-shirt material you’d find in the juniors section at Target.
SANDALS: These were my one must have sandals this season. They run narrow and TTS, come in 5-ish colors. The studs are the best quality on an affordable sandal I’ve ever found. They are not leather so they won’t stretch to fit your foot however, if you need to widen them they will stretch with the assistance of a shoe stretcher.
BELT BAG: Another must have new purchase. I’m moving (in 10 days) to a highly walkable area and this was on my “need” list. The cut and gold hardware makes this chic and on trend while the nylon fabric keeps it casual (& waterproof -ish).
LOOK 5
VISOR: Another seasonal trend must have for me! Last Summer I was diagnosed with Melasma so I needed to bulk up my Summer hat collection this season to help protect my face. This hat is super fun, cute and serves a purpose. At $12 it’s an easily justified buy for poolside lounging, beach trips or back yard bbq’s.
SANDALS: If you like subtle chic this YSL inspired slides are for you. Some people claim they’re uncomfortable, I suggest sizing up for comfort. These are leather so they will mold to your foot with wear.
STYLED PHOTOS WEARING THE LEVI’S RIBCAGE JEANS BECAUSE WE CAN’T LET THEM GO TO WASTE
TOP: This tube top is only $5 from Target, runs TTS. If you’re feeling Hot Girl Summer-ish pair it with high waisted leggings
JOGGERS: This are hands down one of my most worn pants. I’ve worn and washed them so much they’re beginning to fade (I blame this on switching my laundry detergent
BUSINESS ON THE TOP, PARTY ON THE BOTTOM
This combo is perfect for someone taking Zoom calls throughout the day and wants to look polished just like they would in office. An oversized button down is both comfortable and polish and we all know there’s nothing more comfortable than leggings.
TOP: I’m wearing an oversized Men’s button down I thrifted. I have no idea what size it is, when you are wearing anything oversized you’re able to get flex sizes. I’d suggest going up 2 sizes if purchasing from a store. You can always slide in your husbands closet and borrow one of his.
LEGGINGS: I like to call these my Peg Bundy leggings, they are high waisted and have that retro sheen to them. I suggest ordering your TTS
IF YOUR HOME IS COLD AND YOU NEED A HUG
A coordinating set whether it be a knit material, jersey or sweatshirt material is great for around the house. You’ll look and feel put together but will have that elastic waistband for full comfort.
SIMILAR SET: The set I’m wearing is sold out. I linked a similar set with great reviews on Amazon, I have not seen it in person. The differences are: the set I’m wearing is a sweater knit, the set linked looks to be more of a thermal ish material.
WEAR WFH NOW & THE OFFICE LATER
This is a great item to wear now while you WFH and will easily translate into the office. Pair this dress with a office shoe and throw a blazer on and you’ll be ready for your morning meetings.
DRESS: I’m wearing my TTS, the fabric is great quality, sleek and soft.
FOR A SPRING PATIO WORK DAY
At first glance a maxi dress may seem like A LOT to wear around the house to work from home but we all know maxi dresses are Summers equivalent to sweatpants.
If you want to have a full moment plan an outdoor workday on your patio/balcony/yard when you wear your maxi dress. Make a nice iced beverage, pick some flowers to put in a vase on your patio table, grab your laptop and set up shop.
When you work from home finding simple pleasures to make your day more exciting is key!
SIMILAR DRESS: This dress is old and no longer available.
SANDALS (also available HERE): These are a comfortable, chic and edgy slide that are easy enough for around the house …. until we’re able to get in these streets again. The run a bit small, I do recommend going one size up.
In todays video I’m wearing the Best Selling classic, Carrie Name Necklace from my shop, shopjulimarie.com. It has been the #1 popular piece the past 5 years. I have 3 of them in different sizes and chain lengths. Lately (and shown here) I’m wearing the Classic Carrie Name Necklace in gold on a 14″ Chain.
WHO ELSE HAS BOUGHT A NEW TOP BECAUSE YOU “LOVED IT SO MUCH” THEN MONTHS LATER IT STILL HASN’T BEEN WORN?
We’ve all been there! There has been a time in our life we’ve walked in our closet looking for something to wear only to be reminded of the items we purchased but still haven’t worn, tags still attached and all.
When we make impulse purchases we end up with a closet of one offs that we only have one other item to wear with it, if even that.
When we make impulse purchases we end up with a closet full of clothes yet still have NOTHING to wear. WHY are we like this?!
In 2013, after losing 20lbs, purging 90% of my closet and only having a clothing budget of $150 a month I was in desperate need of a high functioning wardrobe. That is when, why and how I created my #1 shopping rule, The Rule of 5.
I knew in order to still buy quality pieces I loved I was going to have to get creative (and disciplined) and that’s exactly what I did. Every single purchase I made for the following year was well thought out and 100% intentional. I had no room for impulse purchases, the function of my wardrobe couldn’t afford it.
I bet you don’t like throwing your money away, do you?
We all deserve to hit our financial goals (and best wardrobes) and a great starting point is to become more intentional with what we spend our money on.
I want you to be great in everything you do so I wrote a 24 page book to fully share The Rule of 5 with you. There’s even worksheets for you to brainstorm your goal wardrobe!
Just enter your email below for your FREE Rule of 5 guide to get started on your best wardrobe yet!
If you need more help building your wardrobe my e-book,Build Your Dream Wardrobe on a Budget is a great tool. The 12 steps I take when planning and shopping for my wardrobes each season is covered in detail with examples for you.These are the steps I take to ensure each purchase is intentional, it’s also the strategy I used to budget to purchase my first Louis Vuitton handbag. In fact, The Rule of 5 is one of the 12 steps in the e-book.
I know you’ve seen this bodysuit on your favorite fashion bloggers Instagram feed and asked yourself if it’s really worth the hype. To answer your question, YES, yes it is!
Originally, I purchased the nude (shown) after trying it on I went right back to the Zara website and ordered the white too!
FIT: It is a thong for those that are particular about that. I purchased my TTS while it fits I feel like a size up may be better for length purposes. When I pull the top up so my boobs aren’t coming out the side I get a super serious wedgie and the thigh of it almost comes out the top of my pants. The fabric is super soft and stretchy so it’s super comfy, just the one fit issue with length. I may have a longer torso than I thought is what I’ve learned through this.
LOOK 1
JOGGERS: These were a recent purchase for Spring. They’re 90’s oversized sweatpants, I have them in black too. I wear one of the two at least once a week. I do say they fit TTS
SANDALS: When I saw these sandals last Summer I had to have them, they are more of investment but worth it to me. They’re my most worn sandal. Do go up a half a size. I’m an 8/8.5 and went with a 8.5.
HANDBAG: Another Amazon win I scored last Summer. It is an Hermes dupe so if you see it, buy it ASAP because the post will get taken down. I have the large option, it does come with a shoulder strap that I’m able to wear crossbody. I’m 5’4″
LOOK 2
DENIM: A new purchase! One of my must have items for S/S was a pair of light wash straight leg Levis and this Ribcage pair is everything I wanted. I went a size up and has they loosen up they’ll still look great!
SANDALS: Another new purchase for the S/S season. Did I need spikey cognac slides? No! Will I wear them, yes … ish.
HANDBAG: Purchased last Summer, great quality as expected.
LOOK 3
SKIRT: TTS, this skirt is just for styling if I’m being honest. The skirt linked is different from this one but is similar and better quality.
SHOES: This platform heel is from last year but there’s an even better version available this season. I went with my half size up and they fit great, are comfortable and easy to walk in. A cognac platform is very versatile.
HANDBAG: Another Amazon designer dupe I randomly stumbled upon. It’s similar to a Chanel bookbag. There are no double c’s or chanel logos so it’s not a knock off, just a similar looking dupe. I do recommend it!
LOOK 4
TROUSERS: The trousers I’m wearing are almost 15 years old. I linked a similar version that is available from the same brand
LOOK 5
PANTS: I’ve been wearing these pants all F/W and have all intentions on keeping that party going this S/S. I’ll be trading in sweatshirts for crop tops and bodysuits though. I did go a size up for an oversized look.
SHOES: I love these sneakers so much, I also have neon pink pair I wear daily to the gym. They are similar to a Balenciaga sneaker. I went with a 8.5
In my recent Build Your Dream Wardrobe on a Budget Guide I talk about two things.
Take Inventory of your Wardrobe
Sell items no longer in use to make money to buy new items
When combined you have a full fledge closet purge and in my opinion that is the best way to start a new season.
To give you an additional tool to help you Build your Dream Wardrobe I’m sharing my 5 steps to purging your closet
After purging 85% of not only my wardrobe but all of my belongings over the past 7 years I’m what I now consider a purging expert. One thing I’ve learned by doing is that the act of purging is therapeutic, it will lift weight off your shoulders, clear your mind and give you a stronger sense of self.
We tend to get so attached to physical objects for literally no reason at all other than we liked it at one point and we spent money on it. By holding onto objects that serve no purpose or bring no joy to us we are weighed down mentally and spiritually. I know it sounds ridiculous but purge once a month and see the difference it makes in your life.
One of the most common questions I get is, “Do you miss/regret anything you’ve purged?THE ANSWER IS NO! I HAVE NEVER REGRET ANY ITEM I’VE PURGED, EVER! TBH, I don’t remember 99% of the things I’ve purged. I mean, I remember my old sectional couch and dining set I’ve sold/purged but it’s furniture so of course I remember it however, I in no way miss or regret it. If you aren’t using the item in question now it’s because it doesn’t serve a purpose, does not bring you joy and you more than likely are not thinking of that item. Do you miss trash when you throw it out? … it’s the same thing.
If you’re new to purging I recommend purging once a quarter or monthly. Every time you purge you’ll find you get rid of more pieces. For example, I have a collection of v-neck tees and basic tanks I keep “just in case” for layering and because at one point in my life I wore basic white v-neck everyday. Every single time I purge I get rid of one or more items from that section of my wardrobe. Bear in mind, I haven’t added to this section in years nor do I actually wear any of these tops but I have some kind of connection to them and like to keep basic staples on hand which is why I don’t toss them all. Point is, with each purge this section gets smaller and smaller and is becoming more curated and impactful to my wardrobe.
STEP ONE: Pull everything out of your closet
This step is self explanatory. Pull everything out of your closet. We pull everything out because when you see piles and piles on your bed/floor etc you’ll have a dose of reality hit you. By clearing out your closet you’re also starting your closet with a blank slate. What you put back in is your edited wardrobe.
STEP TWO: Determine what you’re keeping and what you’re purging
The most asked question I got was, “how do you know what to purge?” there are 5 reasons you should purge an item
If you haven’t worn it in a year, toss it! If you haven’t worn something in a year it doesn’t fit into your lifestyle or you simply don’t like it as much as you think you do. Your subsconcious is very telling
If it doesn’t fit, goodbye!! Whether you’ve had a weight gain or loss, it’s time to move on and stop holding onto items that are no longer usable to you.
If it’s stained, ripped, damaged, etc. If an item is damaged beyond repair there is absolutely no reason to hold onto it. LET IT GO!
If you don’t absolutely LOVE it!! It has to bring you lots of joy! Life is too short to have anything in our lives that don’t make us happy!
If you do not feel Ah-Mazing when you put it on, it’s gotta go! This combines fit and joy. Every item in your closet should fit you like a glove, you should feel your best self in everything that you own. There are wayyyy too many options out there to settle for “good enough” and that goes for every aspect of our lives.
STEP THREE: Divide purges items into 3 categories; sell, donate or recycle
SELL: You may want to try to sell everything that isn’t damaged first then donate what doesn’t sell. You will get the most money for high ticket items on Poshmark or Ebay vs a local resell shop. Any popular brand names, denim, shoes and handbags are usually higher ticket items to try to sell on online resellers. What doesn’t sell online you can take to resell shops. I recommend hitting up at least 3 different resell shops if you’re selling in person, all locations will buy something. If you want everything out of your life and are okay getting less money for your pieces you can skip online resell and go straight to local resells.
DONATE: I love to donate to local non profits, women’s shelters, etc. If I’m not in the mood or short on time to sell my purged items I go straight to donating. There were a few years I didn’t sell any of my purged items I just donated, I got more out of giving to others than money could give me.
RECYCLE: Our recycle items are pieces that are damaged, undergarments, etc. I don’t know where to donate to TBH, I know that when you donate what the donation center can’t use they send to recycle centers so I usually do that. As far as store related discounts for donation H&M will give you a 15% off coupon for a bag of items. Madewell will give you $20 off a new pair of denim if you bring in an old pair of denim (any denim, it doesn’t have to be their brand). The denim donated is recycled and used to create insulation for Habitat of Humanity homes.
STEP FOUR: Put all of your keeps back into your closet
Another self explanatory step. Only put what you’re keeping back into your closet. Your purge items should be out of your possession within 48 hours. You’re defeating the purpose of purging if you hold onto your “toss” items. Do yourself a favor and GET IT OUT of your life ASAP
STEP FIVE: Sell the pieces in your sell pile, donate items in your donate pile and recycle the rest.
As mentioned in Step 4 you want to “dispose” of every single purge item within 48 hours. If you’re selling on Poshmark or EBay you get 2 weeks to sell it. After 2 weeks take to local resell stores then donate what’s leftover.
