The new season is finally upon us. Closets brimming with slouchy boots and oversized cardigans are now pining for spring’s feminine and airy confections. With a new emphasis on bright, bold colours, your once on-trend greys have become the latest addition to your fashion reject arsenal.

For most diehard fashionistas our entire wardrobes are in need of a major overhaul.

So instead of pondering the merits of past purchases, learn what to keep, what to toss and how to restyle some of your old favourites. ELLECANADA.COM gives you our best tips for a closet makeover.

Edit, edit, edit
Empty the entire contents of your closet. Yes, everything. By starting fresh, you’re able to assess all of your posessions. Label boxes: “Throw away,” “Charity,” “Repair,” and segment your clothing into these three categories. If clothing is damaged beyond repair (stained or entirely torn), throw it out.

After this is complete, then go about sorting your wardrobe into seasons: fall, winter, spring and summer. Put off-season clothes in garment bags and store in a separate closet. Keep only what you’ll be wearing that season visible.

All footwear and outerwear (overcoats, jackets, etc.) should be stowed in a front hall closet. If possible, house all of your shoes in their original shoe boxes with a polaroid attached to the front. Once lined up, they will be visually accessible. Plus, you won’t have to worry about scuffing or damaging your Louboutins as you look!

Be critical!
Be harsh on your wardrobe. If you haven’t worn something in a year, get rid of it. Chances are you won’t wear it again. If in doubt, invite one of your closest (and honest!) friends over for a mini fashion show. They’ll be able to tell you what looks ill-fitting (a.k.a. you’re not a size 4 anymore), what is out of style or just plain ugly.

Categorize your clothes à la Martha
Before you start to pack up your closet again, invest in some high-quality wooden hangers. Steel hangers can damage your clothes, so go for ones that are walnut or cedar (www.ikea.com). Your garments will thank you!

Photo courtesy of Geoff Barrenger

Group your clothing: skirts with skirts, pants with pants, shirts with shirts, etc. If you’re really getting into it, organize your clothes by colour — dark hues to light.

Accessories:
Opt for one of those vertical see-through shoe bags that you can hang from your closet door. They’re perfect for earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. For scarves and hats, purchase clear containers with labels. Different shapes and sizes can help maximize your closet space.

In and out
Every time you purchase a new piece, go into your closet and take one out. An organized closet is a healthy closet! Avoid clutter at all costs!

Time to shop!
Now the fun begins. After the arduous task of cleaning out your closet, you’re now able to decipher what may be missing. Perhaps you have one too many black sweaters and are in need of some colour therapy? Supplement your wardrobe with a few trendy pieces, but always spend your extra dollars on classic items that will carry throughout the seasons and last for years to come.

Photo courtesy of Geoff Barrenger