Declutter Clothes with the "I Hate That Thing" Rule

Highlight from episode 366. Watch the entire episode: / theminimalists
FREE MINIMALIST RULEBOOK: minimalists.com/rulebook
FOLLOW THE MINIMALISTS:
Instagram: / theminimalists
TikTok: / theminimalists
Twitter: / theminimalists
Facebook: / theminimalists
Podcast: / theminimalistspodcast
Clips: / theminimalists
Blog: theminimalists.com
#TheMinimalists

[@TheMinimalists]

What piece of clothing are you holding on to that you dislike?

[@brooksschneider3441]

I have a suit that I don't enjoy wearing. It's not that it looks bad, I just don't like wearing that kind of stuff. It's the only suit I have and there may be occasions when I need one (the last time was 3 years ago, which is the only time I've worn it), so I'm hanging onto it until I can find a place I can be confident that I can rent one when needed. Otherwise, my closet looks pretty good. The fact that I'm retired doesn't hurt. 😊

[@mirjamraehse9975]

Synthetik Dresses😬 I like them hanging in my closet but wearing them i sweat in dem and they arent strechy..i feel like i am wearing a plastik bag😄

[@sagitta12]

I just tossed out 4 garbage bags (donated!). Some unflattering jeans that were incredibly comfy. A beautiful shirt that looked weird on me. A duplicate workout set. An adorable top in a fluorescent color that matches nothing but denim in my wardrobe. A sweater that is too revealing. A cap sleeve top on the wrong color for my wardrobe and skin tone.

[@sagitta12]

I also tossed a summer dress that needed a special bra and was so incredibly summerish, I’d never wear it if it was under 90 degrees outside or outside of June-Aug.

[@dalladi]

The problem is I either love something or ignore it. There is no in between dislike area. This makes decluttering something that requires me to live a conscious lifestyle that has organization, mindful consumerism and humility built right in. So when I make a mistake and buy something or have something I don't want and need it can be extraordinarily challenging to forgive myself and move on as it's such an affront to my nature and how I nurture myself. I know a lot of people think talking about things like this can help but no for me or other independent types. And some things I have changed my mind on which makes decluttering even more challenging. So yeah

[@mindibear]

This rule applies to almost everything we buy. If it's not a "HELL YES!!" then it's a no and don't buy it.

[@diUmbria71]

Stay strong!!!!!! Lol

[@sagitta12]

After experiencing large wildfires, my extra tool is this. “Ok, you’re being evacuated and you’ve got all the important stuff. You have an hour but your house will probably burn down. What do you take?”

[@TheButterflySoulfire]

It’s become harder to find good quality clothing, so I have been reluctant to discard pieces that are just “okay.” This video is a reminder to let go.

[@auroraborealis6398]

Totally agree

[@starshot5172]

Or return them? I've returned so many items recently, saved hundreds of euros. Just returned a bagpack that didn't suit me well. One step closer to what I really want!

[@diosadeamore]

I have experienced not liking a dress, so I boxed it away and forgot about it. But I missed it and regretted "getting rid of it". Recently, I found the dress and was SO excited about it. This has happened to me with many pieces. So I think that sometimes we just need a break from certain pieces (before emtirely getting rid of it).

[@AnaLAF81]

I do that too.

[@HopeFilledchats]

Agreed. I find I often give stuff away then when an event comes up, I'll be like oooh I got that one dress and it's like NOPE NO YOU DON'T...NOT NO MO' 😢darn it man! 😂

[@tessarae9127]

Anyone who actually loves fashion… I made a system where I actually inventory all my clothes, its a google doc with tables categorized by type then a description, where / when I bought it, fabric composition, mods or repairs I’ve made to the piece, and then what I call a love rating from 1-11, 11 being 11/10 beyond perfect in every way. I try to have no items lower than an 8 in my wardrobe 😎👍 (aside from work or workout clothes)

[@pinkroses135]

Love this!

[@kaitlynkirk7234]

I’ve been thinking about doing an inventory and this inspired me! Good idea 🤩

[@daniellethongdy4732]

I adore this

[@HopeFilledchats]

Ooooh nice. Unfortunately I have enough stuff to create an inventory as well. Smh I could open my own boutique 🤦🏽‍♀️😬so yea the "keep nothing less than 8" idea is great. I'm going to be decluttering YET AGAIN 😵‍💫🥴here soon and will use this with my additional declutter questions I asked myself. 1)Toss it if you haven't worn it within the last 2yrs and 2) would you buy again if you saw it in the store today? if no toss it !! Now I'll add the raiting to the items I do end up keeping after those first 2 filter questions. This will def help me toss even more.

[@kathyhirsh9687]

Regarding clothing, a wise person once said: if it's not a definite YES, then it's a NO. I adopted that rule and it's very similar to what you're saying. I usually add that if the clothing doesn't fit me today or makes me feel bad/fat/old then I need to let it go. I've learned to become a lot more discerning about the clothing I bring in since I adopted these rules

[@elaineclaire7063]

I didn't expect decluttering clothes could be that SIMPLE, the standard rules for decluttering is always about if the outfit doesn't fit; if you haven't worn it for 3 months, if it has been in your wardrobe for decoration it needs to go who knew that you only need clothes that make you feel comfortable/ secure and grounded. Love you guys❤️

[@tessarae9127]

A season is 3 months though lol 😆 so new wardrobe every season???

[@Lifeisbeautiful-ri2tb]

There are a couple of itchy sweaters I hate. They are going in the get rid of pile today. Appreciate the good advice.

[@valerierogers9609]

It was Gilda Radner who said I base most of my fashion taste on what doesn't itch.

[@bb_lz9790]

Thanks for this video!!! I began a weight-loss journey in August. I've lost almost 60 lbs since then and suddenly fit into clothes that I haven't been able to wear in 10 years. I got rid of most of the old clothes years ago, but my wife squirreled some away in another bedroom. One of the shirts fits, but isn't as soft as I like. Consequently, I don't wear it and should get rid of it...which I will today.

[@AvalonMisty]

way to go on your weight loss journey! You laid aside all excuses and just did it.

[@bb_lz9790]

@@AvalonMisty Thanks!

[@isabellebechade6988]

I really dislike a black and white dress I recently bought.. It is a beautiful dress but I saw a picture of me with this dress and I thought "No way ! How could I buy that?"..I will donate it

[@sianamies1046]

I purchased the most beautiful red dress this year, stunning ❤️ I wore it to a wedding and when I saw the photos I was like 'oh my goodness, I look awful in that' 😞 I eventually donated it thinking 'someone else will love and look amazing in this'.

[@FisherOfMen705]

This reminds me of a relationship I was in for 5 years. I adopted every interest of his to the point I didn't even feel like myself. I'm so glad I no longer feel the need to drink heavily and buy a bunch of Boston Bruins merchandise just so I fit the mould that was expected of me.

[@sidneyoverland6869]

This is kind of unusual, but I have clothing items that I don’t like, I haven’t worn, & I’m sure I’m going to get rid of it, but suddenly I see that garment in a whole new way. Sometimes I’ve washed the garment & it’s hanging on a rack next to something it goes with for a whole new look that I hadn’t thought of. Or, I have a sudden inspiration about what to pair that garment with. Some clothes I was ready to let go of are now my favorites. I guess it saves me money & it’s fun to have a new favorite & get your monies worth out of your cloths, but I have trouble getting rid of clothes…..

[@Erin-rg3dw]

Same. I've had pieces that I go in phases with. Or that don't look good right now (but normally do) because I'm not in a good headspace or I'm feeling really bloated. I hate spending money on new clothes, so I try to really make sure I'm sure about a decision before I get rid of something.

[@millies.8810]

I had a new blouse and after laundering it became so difficult to iron I donated it. So you may like something but you might hate it.

[@beatingtheclock3467]

Can you guys talk about quality clothing brands that last for a significantly longer amount of time that most others? Only personal experiences and not sponsored ads because like you guys say, advertisements suck.

[@diUmbria71]

I agree. I cringe when I purchase LLBean pima knit tops (sorry for the brand name but it helps make my point) they are pricey tshirts but the cotton is substantial. They keep their shape, neutral , and dress up or down and eventually with sweats 💚 it's so important not to compromise. Especially with once quality stores that sell watered down versions with thinner, cheaper, junk. And it makes me crazy that some brands charge exorbitant amounts for quality; the $50-75 t shirt. For me, it has come down to finding quality but not being duped that the whole line is excellent. Sometimes quality can be found in mundane places. Again, I must say the brand, Carhartt is superb quality but distinct ly plain heavy duty clothing. Have you discovered anything to answer you question since you wrote it?

[@spoon1968]

This is a big one for me. I have clothes that have lasted 10+ years, even some quality socks. When I go to replace things when they wear out, they don't even last a year.

[@justinbuice]

@@diUmbria71 I second Carhartt. One of the few t-shirts I have found that don’t shrink, lose their shape, or have threads coming apart after multiple washes.

[@user-ch2lp9er6p]

Great clip! Excellent advice all around. Going to get rid of a pile o' clothes now!

[@ryeofoatmeal]

so freaking true right... what matter is you. if they said you look great but you don't feel great, then what are you doing haha. it's ok to get some opinions, it helps sometimes. in the end it is about what you feel

[@sagitta12]

I’ve been transitioning from a seasonal capsule wardrobe to an annual one. It’s been a process. I needed to research/think more about my personal style and my actual lifestyle and new body shape. I also needed to simplify my colors (but I still have my faves!) I’m down at least 50 pieces for the year. I’m working on it. Here’s my takeaways 1: take a moment to have intention about your wardrobe 2: learn your body type and what may be more flattering 3: determine your best colors 4: find a way to optimize pieces for more than 1 season 5: list or spreadsheet the pieces you actually need for your lifestyle 6: thrift, thredup and see if you can find what fits the gaps in your wardrobe 7: if you buy something new, keep all tags and receipts. Don’t wear the item for at least 24 hours. Try it on, think about it. Hang it up and let it rest. Come back and try again and ask valuable questions before cutting that tag off.

[@astar949]

Shopping for new things for me is a way to avoid activities that I have to but not quite want to do. It is like planning to go swimming early in the morning, but, oh, wait let’s go shopping for a new towel first, and this way I do not have to get up early tomorrow.

[@MrsJax304]

The Minimal Mom taught me if it's not a hard Yes it's a No

[@kathyhirsh9687]

Yesssssssss!!! Same!

[@melissasprayberry5047]

Yes! I love her and her channel ! I’ve kept that quote in my head ever since I heard her say it !

[@Hillside-Hive]

Fantasy Self purchases... I'm absolutely guilty of this. Hold it, thank it and release it

[@faithm.8958]

WOW!!! Soo simple but ACCURATE! ❤❤❤ Thank you!

[@UCanCallMeJesus1]

It’s shocking how many of us do just this “Ugh, I don’t like this.” And then put it back on the hanger or “ugh I don’t really like this but I guess it’ll work.” And then go and buy something

[@ciaradiam0nd]

This is part of the reason why I’ve stopped shopping online unless I already own the exact item and I’m just buying it in another color. I spend FOREVER at the store when shopping for clothes now but I’m being suuuuupeer critical about the fit and how I feel so I can ensure I will actually use it. Otherwise, it’s not coming home with me.

[@valerierogers9609]

I only have neutral, generic clothes. Has to do with practicality like dressing for the elements. Emotions don't factor in.

[@amonralice]

I've applied that rule since like forever, especially on clothes. It comes natural. 😁

[@julihouser7468]

"Wearing a job title that doesn't fit"....Amen! I'm working on it guys😅

[@ah5721]

I love how TK Talks about how other people say" it looks good on you" whatever it is even if if doesn't fit who we are brings a voice ot the community around us -especially community of color. There is so much pressure to fit in but it doesn't mean its for us

[@MikeIsCannonFodder]

In addition to what Josh said, I've seen a few people quote the "if it's not a hard yes it's a no." How does this way of thinking account for things you're indifferent about? I'm a hard yes that I want pants. I'm a hard yes that I want this fabric and definitely don't want that fabric. Whether I get brand A's pants or brand B's, I'm totally indifferent. Likely I'll get whichever one is on sale when I need more pants.

[@Erin-rg3dw]

Ditto - sometimes the item just serves a purpose and a different one won't change that.

[@kaylatroxell5816]

I love that I came across this! This is always been my rule!! ONLY BUY WHAT YOU ABSOLUTELY LOVE. Not the “This is kind of cute. While squinting your eyes looking in the mirror.” 🤣 and if you absolutely love it, you would not need to ask yourself, “Do I love this?” or be asking someone, does this look good on me?” now the real problem for me is typically applying this rule! 😮😂

[@shirleyburnham2782]

If in doubt do without is my motto xx

[@fernwehchronicles193]

Hey! I LOVE paisley!!

[@susandermond9254]

You are restating Marie Kondo's Does it spark joy.

[@pinkroses135]

When I ask about a piece of clothing I personally do it because I'm asking for data/perspective I might be overlooking. Seeing it in natural light by the stores window or at home if it's an online order helps. That's one thing I like about online. I guess it's better to get more in your feelings there lol. Women's fast fashion made things complicated.

[@georginas7171]

I won't have many clothes left if I apply this rule 😅

[@thatswhatisaid8908]

My dilemma too. We need to be more intentional about what we purchase.

[@Tony_Seed]

It’s so hard to find clothes lately that aren’t made out of plastic

[@MayTheSchwartzBeWithYou]

No, it's not.

[@thatswhatisaid8908]

​@OC-CPA well, that's helpful. Do you have any actual suggestions or recommendations?

[@peachpathfinder]

Jungmaven hemp T-shirts are nice, plus hemp is anti-microbial. They offer them in different weights.

[@marywhyte8484]

You've got to be careful with this rule...especially with jobs and relationships. Jobs and relationships don't always feel good at every minute, but they're worth the work. With clothes, it's more about what we like. Even still, I wouldn't recommend this if you're highly emotional and impulsive, because it's easy to feel like you hate all of your clothes, when really, you're just in a bad mood or feeling some body image issues.

[@susanb2171]

A sweater that was a gift. The guilt!

[@melaniegodwin8791]

I can so relate to this!

[@dancerdude83]

Beautiful reminder to let go especially since it’s ’Spring Cleaning’ time

[@a_demain]

I have too many clothes that I absolutely love. None are fashion. All are functional. I'm still trying to wear them all out! [in order to simply have less clothes, as they take space++] Been at least 4 years now. Frustrating.

[@johnny62]

When in doubt, throw it out.

[@jeremytorgersen]

I like this simple rule!

[@Dashzap]

I'm keeping some clothes I hate, because I have to wear SOMETHING. I'm transitioning to a wardrobe of clothes I make, but it takes time.

[@Goodgrief7811]

It’s the money thing too! I spent money on it so I shouldn’t waste it or get rid of it!

[@s.nicole6740]

Needed to hear this so bad! You have no idea. Especially before black Friday 💲💲

[@MayTheSchwartzBeWithYou]

What happens if all clothes look bad on me? 🤔

[@peachpathfinder]

Find a good tailor to alter the clothing to fit you better.

[@cute7g467]

What about casual stuff?

[@Platochidi]

In America. It's more like I am too fat for my entire wardrobe again....

[@marta_czarnecka_art]

you wouldn't eat the food you hate, just because someone else enjoys it, right? :)

[@neartrumpersoo2109]

subtitulos en español por favor 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@HopeSingh]

People don't try clothes on in the states? they always tell how they take it home and THEN try it on??

[@thurst3224]

Hope...I always try things on before I buy it. I hate buying online for sooo many reasons (can't feel the fabric, see the true color, know the fit, etc.) My guess is they are either buying clothes online, or for some reason choose to not try it on while in the store....but it is an individual issue not a U.S. issue. Of course, I suppose there could be regional factors, New York is very different from Kansas...but I've never been to a store in the states that doesn't have a dressing room.

[@MayTheSchwartzBeWithYou]

Why do non-Americans always assume all Americans act exactly the same? This has nothing to do with being an American.

[@jenrich111]

Quality is so bad online. The material is cheap and washes badly. I want to shop in person and feel it, try it on and consider each item clearly and carefully moving forward. I want it to last. Loathe the vicose/rayon/bamboo+lycra wrinkly stuff.

[@MayTheSchwartzBeWithYou]

You realize you can buy ANY kind of clothing online, right? Many of my most favorite clothing items (including shoes) were purchased online.

[@ChrisCanomi]

Is he trying so hard to sound str8?

[@benholzer1649]

This is so far fetched. I keep clothes because I don’t have money to buy more