What to do when you hate everything in your wardrobe but can’t afford a new one

Big changes can be a lot simpler than you think

Hello you

The desire to overhaul your wardrobe can be a torturous one. We’ve all been there I think, surrounded by mountains of clothes sure to swamp us into deeper self-loathing. Nothing feels right and nothing can be made right.

A simple emotional block on the surface but multi faceted once you scratch the surface because there are complex layers within this desire for change. On the one hand you believe that if you could just own one of those perfectly curated capsule wardrobes from Pinterest or Youtube you’d be happy, you’d feel confident and life would be beautiful. On the other hand you’re lying to yourself and you know it. When was the last time you bought something you desperately wanted, convinced it would make everything ok? How long did this feeling last once you’d got it? A day? A week? I bet it was temporary. Here lies the conflict within us. Throw in marketing and we’re being tortured.

Let me ease the burden for you.

I’ve been a devout capsule wardrobe lover for ten years now, slowly but surely perfecting my process and learning the lessons required to curate a mindful wardrobe you can rely on.

We’re still at the start of the year which both the best and worst time to overhaul your life. The power of fresh new start energy is real but also it’s hibernating season and we’re feeling tired as well as financially drained. It’s a time better suited to reflection and seed planting for slow sustainable change when energy levels begin to rise.

Still if you’re looking to overhaul your wardrobe I wanted to share what I’d do, and it’s very simple. The best part is it will cost you absolutely nothing.

The process can be lengthy but easily achieved in an afternoon if you set the time aside. Try to work through these steps when you’re feeling calm and relaxed so focus and clarity come with ease. Light a candle, put on some music and put your phone on airplane mode.

1 - Take everything out of your wardrobes, drawers, garage, car and wherever else you keep your clothes. This sounds straightforward enough but the specifics are really important. I truly mean everything. The reason it has to be absolutely everything you own is because this is the only way to come face to face with your personal situation. It’s time to look in the mirror. Gather and lay out your items in one place where you have space to asses each one individually. You might be shocked at how much there is at first. Sit with that feeling and whatever else comes up. Name the feelings if you can as well as where you feel them in your body and bring your awareness to them without any judgment. These initial reactions are important messages laced with the essence of your relationship with both your clothes and your body.