☘️ I Wore Every Item Of Clothing In My Closet. Here's What Happened

[@jacquelinesanders-h3i]

As a woman of 74 I can honestly say life is better after 40. You don't have to placate those around you and take shit from no one 🎉

[@valeriecoopet9897]

I am 73 and I agree with you! I am healthy,lift weights and workout. I have begun painting again. I volunteer. I keep thinking I am living my best life. I agree with you.

[@fridayschild1566]

Totally agree. Life is wonderful after 40. I would never want to be young again. I would love to have my younger figure but I would never want to be young again 😂

[@LeighannRiceDietitian]

Whew I’m so happy to hear this!!

[@cxqcxq5176]

I hear you but not finding it to be true for me yet as i approach 50. Maybe soon i hope. All i do still is take bs from everyone and anyone 😂

[@jacquelinesanders-h3i]

For those of you that t are not feeling it; remember growing old is a privilege. So many don't get to do it. You're alive! Enjoy it!

[@MsSassyGrace]

I spent a fortune on clothes. After I retired, I donated all my work clothes to an organization that helps women dress for a job interview. Now I am 72. I wear leggings and T-shirts. I keep a couple of good outfits for events that pop up - and let's face it, funerals. I pared down my clothes to navy, gray, black, and white. Everything goes with everything! Color is for accessories. However, once I realized I was buying clothes because I loved the color/fabrics, I started quilting. I'm still buying colors and patterns but in fat quarters and yards. Now I have a whole new problem!!!

[@HowToGYST]

Out of the frying pan and into the fire. 😂 Great to actually do something with the material though.

[@lookforward2life]

This comment was amazing. ♥️ I’m in my mid thirties and my quilting stash is sitting waiting for my kids to leave me enough time to dig into big projects that can’t be mixed up or messed with. Rock on and enjoy the colour and texture lady!

[@JesseGreenwood-h1o]

@@MsSassyGrace Hahaha, 'whole new problem', haha, love it!!! ...and yes, you do. 😄

[@michellejugao4091]

I also came to realize that I could appreciate beautiful fabrics in quilts rather than wear them. There’s something liberating about it ☺️

[@parkersnowe]

To ad texture find some home interior fabric sample books. SF has a group called fabmo with all sorts of goodies. I love playing with that stuff. It is wonderful for art quilts and appliqué too.

[@silverari23]

I’ve been on a decluttering path for about two years now and this is the first time I’ve heard about this “wear everything challenge.” What an interesting experiment! Just thinking about it with my own clothes brings up feelings of “oh, no, I don’t want to wear that…” which begs the question, why in the world am I still keeping it!?!? Thank you for this video, I quite enjoyed hearing your story. ❤

[@lynettefinnigan9540]

Exactly!! I did the same thing. And when my wardrobe emptied out, I actually enjoyed looking at what I was going to wear for the day, you can actually go and buy a couple of new fresh items... one show I watch, she started a 'swap out party' where you can take a box or boxes to a house (they rotate and the person puts on coffee and cake) you lay out what you brought, look at, try on what others bring, take what you like, and what's left at the end is taken to donation centre. Do it once a month, you get free clothes (they did shoes, coats, kitchen items, etc..) and get rid of stuff that's not making you happy

[@gwenellison3937]

it does raise (but not beg) that question, good insight!

[@M_SC]

Yes it’s original and made me think the same

[@elizabethfox3769]

It's so fascinating how exercises like these help us realize how much we keep clothes that feel HARD to wear. Imagine how game-changing it'll be to ditch those and only have items that feel EASY & GREAT to wear! 🙌

[@hollyedmiston3332]

Thanks for the update! I'm sorry you have been dealing with depression. Getting into your 40s does bring up so much "stuff", but I must tell you that I turned 63 this summer and I have never been more at peace and enjoying life. So, hang in there! Also, your clothes are such a pleasure to look at--your artistic sensibility and creativity are wonderful. 🍀

[@HowToGYST]

Thank you so much! And yes, I'm really enjoying my 40s so far. Definitely leaning into that inner peace. I'm glad your 60s are treating you wonderfully. Here's to life getting better with each passing year! 🥂

[@findingaway5512]

Around my 40th I was sad this year. It was weird since I don't usually make it about birthdays for me but this one hit hard. It felt lonely. Life was happening and we didn't do anything special on my actual birthday... Which is normal around here. I did get a fancy dinner with the hubby after but there was an odd feeling in general about it. I will say I'm that I have lots of friends who have entered their fortys before me and they have definitely made shifts or focused on areas for themselves or let go of things and feel lighter. I am hopeful for this new decade. But also exhausted. Last year was a rough one for me too. ❤ Hoping this one is full of light and joy for us all.

[@koala2464]

I’m here because this comment resonates so well with me. I’m 53 😮 shocked I got here 🤷‍♀️ but it’s such an amazing journey from 40 onwards. Hardest time but so lovely to discover who I am and making sense more of humans and society. Enjoy the ride. 💕

[@kimhanback1302]

I turned 60 this summer and I love it. It's just a number. The rest is in your mind. I'm still 16 in there.😉 Turning 30 hit me like a ton of bricks. I kept thinking, I'm like those old people on that TV show, Thirty-Something. 😂

[@kristinaheylen2880]

​@@kimhanback1302❤

[@theeggtimertictic1136]

I remember my 5th birthday. My father jokingly said to me that morning when I came out of the bathroom "you're 5 now, you'll never see 4 again". Well that really hit me! I went through an existential crisis for the next week. I didnt want to get old! Every birthday after that was a doddle ... Im 53 now. Children can be quite deep 😊

[@susancrawford5927]

That is so funny.

[@user-ij9uk8tn8i]

Awwwww, poor little 5 year old you. I remember crying the night before my 8th birthday because I didn't want to get old!

[@theeggtimertictic1136]

@@user-ij9uk8tn8i 😊It's hard being a child sometimes!

[@laurensmith6063]

I had similar thing happen to me...a few days before my 10th bday, my grandpa said "only a few more days of being a single digit." I was like 😲🤯...now i say that to my kids/nieces/nephew. Really puts things into perspective and i learned to love every single day.

[@preciousypenguino]

That's too funny because I cried about turning 5. My parents would remind me every birthday: "I don't want to be 5, I want to stay 4!" And soon I'll be 41, still don't like my birthday, and I still want to be 4.... it was my golden Era 🤷🏻‍♀️🤣 It extends to my son too. I wish he could've stayed 3 forever lol

[@joolzmac1]

I’ve only ever used one everyday hand bag at a time. I buy it, kit it out with everything I want to carry, then use it for 1-2 years. Then I buy a new one and go from there. Of course, I have a few evening bags for going out but for every day, I just use one. In Australia, there is a charity called Share the Dignity and within that charity is their initiative called “It’s in the bag” … fill a large hand bag (good, clean used condition or new) with feminine products, toiletries, brush/comb, perfume, mirror, notebook, pen, chapstick, hair ties - any handy items for a woman fleeing DV or homeless. They have a couple of hand bag drives a year, collecting 1000’s of bags which are given to women in crisis. So next time you go to donate those hand bags to your local charity shop - fill it with items and then the charity shop can pass it on to someone in need. Bags for teenagers are also good. 😊

[@HowToGYST]

Wonderful idea!

[@loverlyme]

'Bags of teenagers are also good.' Where do you get teenagers from that are small enough to fit into a handbag?!

[@esmeralda3858]

@@loverlyme And who wants them?

[@cxqcxq5176]

@esmeralda3858 these comments. I've got two to donate that would fill up a pretty large bag for whoever can use them 🤣 😂 💀

[@darrellwendyjenkinson8972]

When we became empty-nesters, we realized how much house we had and decided it was time to sell and downsize. That downsizing was the best thing ever! We got rid of boxes of things (not just clothing) that we never used, rarely (if ever) took out of storage and had no reason to keep something that we didn't miss by it NOT being out in the daily traffic of life! I think that even though you didn't meet the challenge, you did a fantastic job of whittling down and finding the root of your feelings while doing it.

[@jennyjenkins877]

In my mid 40s, I was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease of the thyroid on top of being perimenopausal so I gained a significant amount of belly fat. I purged so many clothes not only because of fit, but I could no longer tolerate the synthetics like polyester and acrylic that would cause me to overheat. Keeping only what fits and feels good to wear helps my mood during this trying time.

[@elimac1462]

I can relate to that. I’m just about to declutter some jeans that no longer fit. If they’re no longer comfortable, the reality is I will not be reaching for them, so they can be passed on.

[@cassandraknight8804]

Similar… turning 50 this year. Definitely can’t wear synthetic fabric anymore

[@raraavis7782]

I'm in a similar situation. Still fighting tooth and nail against the seemingly inevitable (never again fitting into all the really nice clothes, I accumulated during the last 10 years). Sighs. I've more or less replaced my less expensive casual pieces, but man... letting go of the rest 😢 Maybe next year.

[@amg9163]

@jennyjenkins877 I have severe hyper hyperhydrosis, and wanted to share that after years of trial and error with lots of fabrics (i.e. cotton, linen, wool, etc.), I have found that *Rayon* also known as *Viscose*, is very cool to th touch, lightweight, and a _naturally_ produced textile fiber. It does wrinkle, so I usually just get rayon or Viscose blouses. Hope you find this tip helpful! I wish I figured it out decades ago. 😁

[@jennyjenkins877]

@@amg9163 Thank you for the helpful tip! I really wish that clothing made from hemp was more widely available and I'm hoping to try modal as well.

[@ursamajormouse]

I did this same project (wear every item of clothing I own over a year) in 2023 and it really was eye opening. One thing I realized though is that I seem to have clothing phases I go through. For a while, I'll wear a lot of skirts and then suddenly, I don't want to wear a single skirt and don't touch them for a year or two. Then again, some things I keep but just never, ever wear. My closet it now very curated and I'm happy with it. Glad your project brought you a peace of mind and coincided with accepting reaching 40. I'm 47 and my 40s have been my best decade in many ways.

[@sarabrunton62]

I find it really interesting that you have so many memories wrapped up in your clothes. I can barely remember what I wore yesterday, let alone what I was wearing when I got the keys to my first house, and I have very few memories of past clothes I loved. No doubt I have items on other categories with memories attached that you don't - just goes to show how we are all different, and all struggle (if that's the right word) in different ways with the decluttering process.

[@joannc147]

Interesting…..I agree….and yet, years ago I remember clearing out my closet and removing some very fun dresses from my “disco/party era”. As life settled thru the decades, party clothes were less important.

[@SaraBlu]

The things you said about clothes and past-selves had me in tears. I keep whole sets of clothes for those versions of myself that are long gone but somehow I can’t let go. Maybe cuz I liked them way more than my current self? I hope eventually I’ll find a way to make space for a new me. Thanx for sharing.

[@user-ry1vi1jc7o]

I think that part of holding on to the "old selves" has to do with our self-cruelty in casting them aside in order to fit a new adult age-appropriate personna. All the things we're told we should aspire to as far as how we present ourselves, have to do with showing our place in society - that we've arrived. So, if we feel we haven't arrived or don't measure up, that causes anxiety, depression, and an age-related crisis. If our former selves haven't been folded into our current person, we've committed a form of self-abandonment and may feel lost. That can be remedied by taking the time to let go of everything that is fake and doesn't really represent you or feel right. This goes for clothes and other areas of life as well. So of course we want to hang onto those old selves because they are part of what we truly are that we didn't bring with us; we're afraid that we won't be able to find her again.

[@BarbaraM-lv7pe]

I love your astute assessment 🕊

[@nanavango9374]

I love seeing COLORS in your wardrobe! Sad, minimal wardrobes with only beige and gray are so depressing! 🌈

[@stefs3460]

Me too! I have always liked her style because it is very fun! I'm about the same age as Laura so I love that it's ok to let my personality out too! I also love she doesn't limit herself by number of items she keeps what works for her at the time. I also am dealing with health problems so navigating that alongside is helpful too. I don't have anything against neutral colors, I often wear neutrals with fun things and I have an all black dress and an all beige dress but the bottom is pleated and actually it's interesting in texture and shape so it's not boring. 😂

[@ginak921]

I never wear grey or beige thank goodness unless it sandals or shoes, my colours are mostly blue, red and in-between kind of.

[@edennis8578]

I would hardly call hers a minimal wardrobe. I feel like I have a lot of clothes and I have about 50 items of clothing, 3 purses, and I just scaled up to 10 pairs of shoes from 3. I don't consider myself a minimalist at all.

[@user-ry1vi1jc7o]

Maybe it just doesn't FEEL minimal.

[@chanboubou9245]

depressing for you....

[@CP-gr5eg]

I'm actually more excited about clothing when the weather is cool - I love styling layers. In Summer I just do simple things that keep me cool, in cool weather I can layer it. I love layers, lol.

[@azrani2023]

Same here! When she was talking about winter, I was like, BUT LONG WOOLEN SKIRTS! TIGHTS! SHIRTS UNDER DRESSES!

[@dagnolia6004]

in my sixties now, my forties ROCKED. i am jealous that you are just beginning this GREAT decade. HAVE FUN. old enough to know (some) of what you like, young enough that your body can still dance until dawn!!!

[@LilyLightOne]

I watch so many minimalist videos, its good to see someone with a realistic amount of shoes (in my opinion!) 😂

[@user-ry1vi1jc7o]

I am down to 14 pair of shoes. Down from 80 a few years ago!

[@Su-ri5ob]

I think a lot of the minimalists don't walk anywhere, don't go out in wet/cold weather, don't exercise or really do anything that isn't indoors. I need more than 1 coat, more than 1 pair of boots etc. I also hate, with a passion beige, grey and taupe and frankly I look awful in them, so why would I have them in my wardrobe, for heavens sake I need some colour!

[@paulachristie7807]

@@Su-ri5obI agree. I watch these “fashion” or clean out your closet videos and they always say to get rid of anything that’s not “cute”. I always end up asking myself what these women do for fun. They want us to dress as if all we do outside the home is go out with friends. Anyone who ever goes out into nature isn’t going to get rid of those hiking shoes or hiking sandals, isn’t going to get rid of their less than dressy jeans etc. I prefer to put on those hiking shoes and go for a walk in the woods.

[@uniquethedominique]

Realistic? Idk..i think i havent had that many in whole life by now combined 😂 i guess it depends on perspective

[@teresaharris-travelbybooks5564]

I've started donating clothes, and I thought I might feel regretful, but the more I get rid of, the lighter I feel. Originally, I could probably have worn a different outfit every day for a month. My goal is to get down to just enough clothes to get through one week. I've really enjoyed this video. I hope you kept the gray long sleeved top and metallic skirt at 2:01. You look so good in that.

[@lmo4879]

Deep declutters can really move some deep personal waters. In a way that's how you know you're making progress. I hope you're doing well emotionally now and congrats on a beautiful wardrobe (and pupper!)

[@gerigaskill785]

Sooo happy to see the green bags made the cut, I love your bits of green throughout your wardrobe, such a strong, vibrant color! Sending much love for you to feel better, hitting 40 is hard but trust me, your 40's will be FABULOUS (I just turned 70!)

[@joannc147]

💯 % TRUE! Change thru the decades has been a challenge….and a JOY!

[@brendasnow8255]

I’m 83, and very happy with my life. It gets easier as you age.

[@HowToGYST]

Definitely a lot of benefits!

[@cjhoward409]

No. No it doesn’t. If it did, we’d love forever. But eventually something will kill our body. We slow down, we lose muscle mass and bone density. That’s normal.

[@Fashn4LaDieS]

Except for the osteo arthritis.

[@tomjones2157]

@brendasnow8255 Mentally it gets better but physically it's terrible for me!

[@janeseemann2527]

@@cjhoward409I just read about a lady who, at 70, took up tap dancing. She’s just turned 100 and is still tapping! How we age is a choice. In the last 2 years I’ve watched my parents wither and die. I will NOT be their mirror, as I age.

[@genealotech]

The book Transitions by William Bridges has been a game changer for me. The book teaches before you can start a new life there must be a death if the old ones. Great book.

[@M_SC]

I will check that out

[@deliawallace4426]

My 40th was so much better than my 30th. I just felt like I had finally moved forward in life.

[@hippiekathy420]

Love the name of your channel. I have been forced to declutter because I lost 100 pounds this year. You're right, this is emotional. I think I can learn by watching you. I subbed, commented and rang the bell.

[@HowToGYST]

Thank you! And I'm sure that must be a big change for you to embrace. It's like adopting a whole new identity in a way, similar to how I felt when I turned 40. I mean, inherently we're the same person, but maybe see ourselves differently or feel differently. It's quite interesting!

[@MiljaHahto]

​@@HowToGYST Also our bodies may feel different. Even with the same weight, it may be distributed differently, sensory issues may appear etc.

[@Rubyisgrowing]

The rainbow dress rail is SO satisfying

[@HowToGYST]

You can thank The Home Edit for that one. 😂 That's not normally how I organise but I had so many beautifully coloured dresses and jumpsuits that it seemed to make sense for that one space. 🌈

[@RCGWho]

Do we mean color or gay?

[@jeanbean1390]

Organizing by color ​@@RCGWho

[@cynthiachazen3420]

We don’t need a lot of clothes; we need the right clothes for our lifestyle! Also,the right variety: a good mix of heel heights and shoe styles. A few bags in different styles, shapes and finishes. And high quality jackets and blazers to finish the look. Working within just a few color schemes also helps keep the clutter down. I have a written clothing inventory, and I pull out and discard twice a year when the seasons change. I’m older and I’ve replaced junk with quality, my closet finally works! I only buy a few things a year so I can afford to buy really good things. Being free of “I have so much but nothing to wear” takes thought and planning!

[@Turtledove2009]

Well said! I can confidently say that I have all that I need in my closet right now, that they match my lifestyle and my climate. All I need to replace on a regular basis is jeans, socks and underwear and the occasional sweater/shirt/Tshirt that has finally become worn out or stained from regular wear. There is enough to mix and match to keep my outfits fresh. I might add that we have to overcome the stigma that we can't be seen twice in the same lovely outfit worn on a special occasion. If I'm seen several times in the same clothes, why should I care what anyone else thinks, especially if I love what I'm wearing? My clothes have to spark ME joy, not anyone else.

[@user-ij9uk8tn8i]

@@Turtledove2009 Absolutley - I've I'm going to spend a lot of money on a posh frock I'm going to wear it at every oppertunity I get!

[@susanrikimaru6630]

First, it’s SO GOOD to see you again. We may not know each other in real life, but I was concerned for you 😘 Second, thank you so much for letting us know how the challenge went! I think it’s such a great idea to challenge ourselves to actually wear the clothes we are holding on to. Third (and last!😀) Your first point about mistakenly starting with the “easy” clothes… I actually think it’s quite brilliant and telling. What clothes are easy and do we want to wear? That’s great insight for what to keep. And those items we keep putting off wearing? Maybe our intuition knows that the items don’t feel good on us (physically or metaphorically). Thanks again for being such a bright spot on KZbin!

[@elizabethbrossy8015]

I now have a rule - if I buy something new, I get rid of an item. Keeps things updated and less cluttered. And yes, I have lots of clothes and now I enjoy wearing them. I am retired and it has taken me literally years to change my wardrobe from “work outfits” to a bit more casual clothes. It is difficult to let go of clothes you love, but ones that no longer fit or your style now. (I feel your pain!)

[@jeanerdman143]

We live in a bazaar time of valuing stuff more than is healthy. The less I shop, the more grounded I feel but it has been much reflection to get to this outlook. Laura, you are a good person.

[@dellahayden5606]

After watching your video I thought 🤔what the hell am I hanging on to the clothes that don’t fit me anymore!!! I have gone through this before and I still can’t believe that I have a way to go about getting rid of some of them. I guess I’m also in a rut right now. I’m always hoping to find a way around this issue and get back into some of my clothes. Watching this has made me realize that I’m not alone in this battle and I’m not going to feel bad 😞 about it anymore. I just got rid of 2 bags of clothes that do not fit me anymore and I’m willing to let go of them…🎉 Thank you for sharing your story with us. Now…. The hard part is not buying new ones. I think the best way is to just say NO!!!!

[@Fashn4LaDieS]

Rip the seams out of the too small skirts, & color block 2 skirts into 1. Saves $, & they do it all the time on Project Runway. Just make sure the colors coordinate.

[@vweddell9195]

Only 15 items unworn is incredible! Happy Birthday (and another note that 40s are better - I'm on the cusp of 50 and excited to see what's next).

[@andeebee2530]

The 40s years were awesome! Embrace them! Your closet is looking so much better, hope you are feeling better too.

[@abirobins608]

I feel like I've not seen you in forever, it's so lovely to have you back on my screen!! (and as a fellow depression sufferer I'm sorry to hear it's been hitting you too, stay strong 💪)

[@elizabethkamras897]

You did such a great job in your closet. It’s funny how we can go through different phases in what we like to wear. My go to will always be jeans and a top. Thank you for showing us the results. I hope you will be feeling better. It is so tough to go through depression like you have. It seems to come out of no where.

[@janetEC1C2]

Great to see a new video from you - interesting challenge “I don’t wear it but don’t want to get rid of it” is so familiar - found a jacket I kept from 1990 and can now fit into it…. And it looks ridiculous with enormous padded shoulders😂 but I haven’t let it go yet!!

[@HowToGYST]

Sometimes the value isn't in the wearing. 💖 I get so sentimental about my clothes because I remember where I was and who I was with when I wore them.

[@corinawohlfert1787]

I love this idea. I also do the thing where in the spring I turn all my hangers around backward, and after I wear and wash them, I hang them the right way. I can then see what I didn't wear all year. Some things I don't get rid of lie extra nice thinhs or sentimental things, but for the most part, I just grab and donate it without much thought.

[@bethstratton3391]

I think you did amazingly, especially considering how much you love clothing. I think the fact you realised that you have changed as a person and that you are no longer wanting to cling onto the notion of your former lifestyle is so great. So many people have difficulty changing into midlife and leaving their carefree days with less responsibilities behind them. For so many clothing really ties to their notion of self identity. Therefore, you can really tell people who accept themselves fully when their wardrobe reflects who they are in their current time of life, their current size and shape and current circumstances. When we have a wardrobe only full of stuff that suits us, fits and flatters us and that we actually want to been seen in; that is when we understand we rule our clothing and not the other way around. It is also when we know we are truly dressing for ourselves and not to fit in, people please, because it’s required to dress a certain way or simply to fit into the current trends “just because” we feel we should. People who dress the best reflect themselves outwardly whatever that looks like for them. I can really see now you have decluttered that your newly curated clothing collection reflects your style, your liking for colour and your current lifestyle.

[@BarbaraM-lv7pe]

I’m trying to get there - the fact that she sorted her large wardrobe is a daunting task, and her personal challenge over a year’s time is surely an inspiration!

[@bethstratton3391]

@@BarbaraM-lv7pe Yes it is inspirational I agree. Barbara, I’m sure you’ll get there. Keep moving forward, no matter how small the increments are, and believing you can do it, that’s the secret. 😊

[@jenocean824]

You did a great job, both physically in your closet and mentally! Thank you for the video.

[@lynettefinnigan9540]

We have too much clothes, because often we buy new stuff, but don't get rid of what we don't wear...often theres nothing wrong with it, we've just had it for ages and just not excited by it. I found that every few years, take everything out of the wardrobe, you'll reach for all the stuff you like, feel comfortable in, what makes you happy, wear it, match it up to shoes and bag, etc... once you are struggling to pick from what hasn't been worn yet, its time to go through all thats left and start donating it!!

[@sharpiesarecool814]

my parents are in their mid-fifties and tbh they're more relaxed. i don't think people realize that in youth yes you are allowed to be more care-free but the egos are a lot bigger too, so when it gets bruised, it hurts A LOT. the wisdom that comes usually along with age makes you more graceful as you have experienced more things. but imo there are still A LOT of firsts no matter what age :)

[@olivemaycards]

I heard a statistic that we’re happiest when we’re 55-75 years old, which blew my mind! Our culture tells us something SO different. But like you said, we gain wisdom and perspective, our responsibilities shift, we have more time to enjoy friends and family and to do the things we enjoy doing, and we don’t care so much about what other people think. Maybe we let go of comparison.

[@sharpiesarecool814]

@@olivemaycards love that!! thanks for sharing

[@Kelly_Ben]

Great observation! I think it's important to not settle into a place (rut) where there are NO "firsts"... whatever your interests and hobbies, you can always try something new. Food, music, sports, new walking routes, even going for a drive. My parents would pack a lunch, pull out a paper map, then close their eyes and point. Then they'd drive to that new town they'd never been to, exploring along the way. A cheap day of fun! Do what makes you happy. If you're not happy, do something different!

[@kbal1451]

Not to be a downer but for perspective, the year I turned 40, I had a catastrophic spinal cord injury. I had to learn so many things from scratch again, from personal care to getting around in a wheelchair, to driving a car (I was pretty thankful that I could still do that, it would have been much harder to look after my 3 kids and get to my office job, if I hadn't been able to drive) so many of my clothes didn't fit anymore and I had to buy items that I could wear to work etc, but still haven't been able to part with some. 18 years later and I'm retired and looking after my grandson part of the time, I really need to keep going through my wardrobe I still have too much. I hope you can maintain good mental health, depression makes everything more difficult and without it there's so much we can deal with.

[@EmerCurran-up1ej]

What a terrible time for you. I can empathise to a degree as I have an incomplete spinal cord injury. I know they aren't the same but the struggle to find clothes to fit our new shapes is real. I lost a lot of height and am hunched forward, so my tops are too long or don't go down past my upper back, and my belly area now sticks out. You clearly are a resilient person. You relearned many skills and got back to work. I agree that being able to drive is a wonderful thing in this context. Good for you, and keep going.

[@nina3538]

This is a gem of a video. I love that you were able to wear so much from your closet. It’s all so fun and flattering The getting rid of many old items of clothing made me feel the same way. I realized I was holding my old life in a higher esteem than my present and that just can’t fly. Life is great every moment that it’s great lol

[@Kelly_Ben]

What a great way to put it. I'm in the middle of decluttering, and that new attitude will help.

[@sharpiesarecool814]

acceptance is a liberating feeling for sure

[@KatjaTheAutiArtist]

“Not all memories make you feel great in the present…they might not have bad memories attached to them…But they’re still taking away from the present.” This got me right here!!! I have clothes shoes and bags from decades to the present and some are in boxes or shoved or taking up space hiding clothes I like to wear. And this causes me to hate getting dress3d much of the time….

[@carynsire3578]

Your video is just what I needed today. I have the exact same "hang ups" about getting rid of certain clothes as you do (memories, letting go of a past version of me, etc). I'm also in my 40s (48 y.o.) and I completely get everything you say about depression (a lot of it is due to shifting hormones in my case (perimenopause)) and trying to find and embrace the 40+ year old version of me :) Also, these days I am decluttering my office/personal room and I am feeling so overwhelmed with all the memories and the questions about what to keep (I brought a lot of my old stuff from my parents' house when we bought this house (I was already 45 yo and it is my first house!) and now I have to deal with all these nostalgic feelings, but I have to say your video and your comments on this topic help me SO much. I feel much more "normal" about having those feelings and about being overwhelmed. I now have hope that I will "get on the other side", as you say :) Thank you for sharing and putting yourself out there. We need more content for (middle age?) women. I love this. Thank you so much.

[@unaprofa]

Amazing analysis of old clothes. Spot on. Glad you are back. Thanks!

[@CarolRodriguez-c9e]

Hoping you feel better. I like your honesty about life's challenges. Good thoughts coming your way. You got this .Many if us struggle and we should be supporting each others challenges

[@julieharward5476]

When you said that we were here for the final result, that’s only partially true. I’m glad you were able to declutter so much! And I enjoyed hearing you talk about your thought process during the challenge. It helps me think about my own decluttering journey. You absolutely had a win! Great job and thanks for the content!

[@sinkintostillness]

I think now you've gone through every item, you should pull items into your other closet to make a capsule wardrobe. That way you can have fun with styling some of your go to favourites with pieces you find more difficult to style. You could change it out for a new set every other month or so - get excited because reaching into your main closet would feel like a shopping trip! I personally love the idea of being able to fit all of my clothes into one suitcase. I'm not quite there yet, but am pretty close! I wear all of my clothes, they all go together (even if some of the combos are a little quirky!) I have got rid of decision fatigue over what to wear, it's liberating!

[@daniellepellegrino6262]

I swear I'm going to start doing this every Monday. I usually get 3 days in and then just reach for my favorites. I'm so happy you shared this experiment with us , especially showing us the hard parts

[@aileentoomey9627]

Lovely closet! You have good taste in clothing, and are very creative in your combinations. This is a work of art. You have also demonstrated how to curate a collection of beautiful items. ❤

[@amandaputman3000]

This was an incredibly helpful tip thank you! I immediately went to my closet and was able to select several items that have been sitting around

[@adriab5796]

Great video! I noticed I actually ran into the same issue when I tried to wear everything that I had; I actually got overwhelmed by the sheer number of items. It was a chore to try and find a way to style the stuff I didn’t often wear, and the experience also reminded me how many oversized items I had which needed alterations. I have sold a lot of stuff on eBay this year, and what didn’t sell, I gave away. I actually had the opposite experience with seasons, I have more autumn clothes than summer clothes. That transition period you referenced before, I get it. The isolation, the depression, I went through it as well. I think during that time I was doing dopamine dressing to help with the pain.

[@MizzzKitty]

I am for this! As a avid "collecter" an especially of clothing I totally connected the what you were saying about yr second closet... I need to do this! Too! So it's really nice to hear it and feel good that I am not the only one that felt that way... 100% understand what you are saying.

[@ready4reiki]

That is a lot of cloths! I feel that when I have too many cloths it’s overwhelming. Tons of with nothing to wear. I got a color analysis and it helped my wardrobe. It keeps it small with so much to wear! And everything mix and matches and looks great. I’m 53 and feel like my style is better now than it has been in years. I love to shop but I shop so much different now. I shop my closet more often than I go out to shop now. I try stuff on, come up with different outfits and love and know my closet better than I ever have before. And know what I am missing so I can buy smart and keep my eyes peeled for what I need to complete something I already have.

[@HowToGYST]

Sounds like you've found a system that works really well for you! 😁

[@TheObsessiveBookseller]

I’m so happy to see the end of this journey and how it went for you over the last year or so. Some of the most life-changing moments for me have been when I’ve finally had enough!! Of whatever. It’s a cool place to be. I’m very proud of your accomplishment, especially since the road wasn’t always easy.

[@wilandilaubscher9030]

Wow!! You have done so well!! And now you can maintain this. And remember, you don’t need to keep clothes around - styles and your body changes!❤

[@HowToGYST]

Absolutely. And it's more difficult for certain clothes to "fall through the cracks" and remain unworn when I can more easily see everything I have.

[@jacquelinetusman6683]

Thank you so much. You really helped me. I have all of my clothes sitting in my closet since I retired in 2018! Oh gosh. Hopefully you’ve given me the inspiration to do this. You’re the best!

[@clarissaotto4508]

Your closet looks so much better now! Love how you have sorted the clothing by function and colour. Nice to have some room between your items instead of having to cram things in. Well done!

[@thatswhatisaid8908]

I really, REALLY want you to take the clothes you can't bring yourself to wear but can't get rid of, out of your closet, and put them maybe in the other closet. I promise this will feel much better!

[@elisefinder]

I have some clothing I have declared Keepsake Clothes, and they are boxed up away from my current wardrobe of clothing.

[@Jessica_Jones]

First time viewer here so I don't know what your typical content looks like, but this was so beautiful. I've been through several rounds of decluttering my wardrobe (also going from very crowded hangers to breathability!) and it really is remarkable what kinds of emotions come up. Lately I've been getting down to some really tough items that I honestly don't super care about, but some part of me is somehow fearful of finally saying goodbye, and two of them are from my college years...I really appreciate what you said about closing the chapter and feeling that weight lifted, and I believe I will finally be ready to let these go soon 🥹 Looking forward to checking out more from your channel -- much love from Seattle! 😘

[@booklover4330]

I love the colors in your closet! I love colorful clothes. I never grew out of wearing clothes with lots of color. I'll wear white, gray or black as well, but I love colorful clothes.

[@jennyjenkins877]

Thank you for following through... I was really looking forward to the results of this challenge and you did great!

[@suzannakoizumi8605]

I need to count my clothing items and ditch 50%. Thanks for the inspiration. 50% is my goal. I have boxes for my out of season items and plenty of dressers for folded items. It is not all in my closet.

[@josephdaly2015]

Great to see you back Laura. You’ve crossed my mind several times. Sorry to hear you’ve been dealing with depression and the struggle is real. Always remind yourself this KZbin family is here cheering you on. On your challenge you did fantastic and you won 🥇Have a great week. Mary, Joes wife 🙇‍♀️👏💪👍🙏💐🐕‍🦺🥇

[@HowToGYST]

Thanks so much, Mary. Great to see you back in the comments too. 😁

[@sherylmeyer7412]

I'm in my 70s and still working and have at least as many items as you that I try to wear as I can because in those early years in my career when I was working a heck of a lot, a big chunk of money went on clothing. I need to dress up for my job. I'm still pretty much the same size and almost everything still fits. Obviously I don't need to shop for clothes anymore, and the main things I've discarded are some totally age inappropriate items that were there, but the main major depletion in my closet recently has been to my shoe collection which was over a hundred pairs the reason being I can't wear those high heels anymore. If I ever got on a minimalism kick, the last thing I would get rid of for me would be my wardrobe. Too many memories for me.

[@cltinturkey]

Congratulations! You learned quite a lot while working on this project. You looked great in your "fashion show" of daily outfits. You got to play dress up, you're providing clothes/accessories to those in need, and your new wardrobe setup looks like a chic boutique. Play and have fun and dress up just for yourself! Great job. Bravissima!

[@HowToGYST]

Thank you! I definitely feel so much better when I walk into my closet now.

[@siljehh]

Well done, that was a good challenge! I have decluttered many times and I don't think I have as many items as you, but still I have the ones that I am "saving" but not wearing. I think the reason why it doesn't feel different for you is that you still have all your desired options in there. The things you got rid of were just fillers. Very inspiring and hoping for better mental health for you and for us all.

[@mscheapskate]

I’m a purse person! 👛 I decluttered 5 recently. This is big for me, as some I was sure I’d never let go, yet I’d never used them, either. 🤷‍♀️

[@ninsartcabinet]

I’ve been waiting for this one. I’m so excited! ❤ it’s been very inspiring for me. I’ve decluttered a lot of clothes. And still continue to do so. As a minimalist, I still feel like I have too many. But I wear everything and really like what I have. So I’ve been trying to make peace with the amount and feel good about it.

[@ivanova1996]

thanks for this, i love videos like this!! i will try to declutter some stuff :)

[@Turtledove2009]

Thank you for this video. First time viewer here. Buying clothes can be addictive, and perhaps part of the depression you suffered made you realize that you had too many clothes, and that they didn't really make you happier in your day-to-day life. That challenge was definitely good for you. You've learned that you can pare down your winter wardrobe. You've learned that it's less stressful when you have fewer choices. Perhaps you've learned that if your clothes match your lifestyle, you can throw on whatever is in your closet without really thinking about it. You've learned that the clothes that you already wear all the time reflect the person you really are. Perhaps you know now that you can wear your favourite shoes till they wear out and then get another pair exactly the same with confidence. One can admire beautiful things on hangers in stores and online, just as we can admire and appreciate art in a museum without owning them. I suggest practicing going on shopping sprees and just trying on beautiful clothes, admire yourself in them but put it back on the rack. Chances are you already have all the clothes you love anyway. Become an expert window shopper instead! Finally, I want to say that once you get older, you will find happiness and contentment in other things besides clothes and it is much more fulfilling.

[@RashmikaLikesBooks]

This is the first video of yours that I'm seeing. Wow! What an amazing endeavour. Even if it wasn't "successful" in the way you initially envisioned it, you still learnt a lot. Decluttering 98 items is also no small feat, so well done!

[@melenelewis2955]

Interesting video ...thanks😊. I am 70 yrs old and I don't think I have owned that much clothing in my entire life! I could afford it but I have always reduced anything in my home by getting rid of anything that has not been used in the past 3 months! I think it stems from the fact that I went to a boarding school from the age of 11 yrs to 18 yrs and got quite used to the fact that whatever was needed for the school term ( 3mths) had to fit in the suitcases that had to be transported . Good for you for taking the decision to declutter and a word of encouragement......life gets better and better each year as you get older and contentment is wonderful!!!😀

[@TinaJackson]

My day just got a little brighter 🙌🏼💙🙌🏼 I never remember what day you post but it’s always an awesomesauce surprise. 🌈🎉

[@HowToGYST]

Usually on a Thursday but it won't be weekly anymore, I don't think. So yes, still a surprise. 😂 And thank you for this lovely comment. Saving this one to my "sparks joy" folder. ✨

[@angelhowell5420]

It’s so good to have you back! I was thinking of you often and hoping you were doing ok❤️

[@ZirandaHope]

Been listening to you for a bit . You have the most soothing voice . Love it!

[@jacquiheywood3142]

Well done! You’ve decluttered heaps. You often see vlogs like this where they don’t actually declutter that much. You have such a lovely colourful wardrobe. Lots of things with labels still on though. I’ve started a long term declutter and it’s hard work. I get rid of things but then buy more.

[@megand888]

Well done you! I can’t believe you even counted the number of clothes, amazing. Love the colours in your ending wardrobe, it’s so joyful 🥰

[@jtidema]

I did this as well! It got rid of about a third of what I had and reminded me of many things I forgot about! worked very well for me.

[@itsdeanya]

I moved to Germany 10 years ago with 3 suitcases, mostly not clothes. I own fewer than 50 pieces of everyday clothing, and I can't imagine wearing all of them even! Isn't it amazing how we accumulate things, when we're not careful?

[@PhoebesWorldProductions]

I think you did great with the challenge, I agree, it's a win! thanks for the update. 😊👍🏼

[@HowToGYST]

Definitely chalking it up to a win. 🥳 Thanks so much for watching.

[@PhoebesWorldProductions]

🎉 😃👍🏼 You're welcome.

[@MariaEkeblom-ld5bb]

Well done! Myself, I have a pair of shoes, that brought me so much joy I’ll never throw them away. They are completely worn out but soooo beautiful and loved.

[@lynettekarp2029]

I love your honesty, it’s so nice in this superficial world. 💕

[@LottieSue]

Congrats! I'm a first time viewer and I get to see the end product of all your hard work. Must say I pretty much stayed for your accent - love it! Perhaps I have an idea how you can tackle a deeper purge. Maybe you have done it already but....what helped me is finding my best colors (season) and weeding out all colors that are not completely to me.

[@Mamaki1987]

It is fantastic, that you could let go of so much. Once you managed to start, it will get easier. I started my journey back in 2020. Now, after 4 years I only have clothes I actually wear. And let me tell you, I'm 46 now and what you do past 40, is up to you. As long as you are content, you can have fantastic times past 40 as well.

[@lindaruddy8324]

You honestly look more rejuvenated and happier after doing this challenge! Good for you! Thank you for sharing a different perspective on the situation most everyone has to confront! A different perspective can make all the difference in life overall!! 👏 🤗 🎉😎

[@nedf8668]

My guess on the original video: "I think at the end you will have 199 pieces of clothing and 38 pairs of shoes." You beat me! Well done! 😄

[@HowToGYST]

😂 Honestly didn't think I would!

[@wendajones9040]

You have a happy wardrobe!

[@JesseGreenwood-h1o]

Thanks for the video--fun idea, wearing everything to see...I will try it. I solved a massive chunk of my chronic depression when I noticed I suddenly WASN'T depressed after taking aspirin; but knowing regular aspirin would shred my stomach, I take ones derived from willow bark, and it has been a game-changer. I notice that you gravitate towards multiple versions of the same things, like I do: several similar brown bags, for instance (for me, it's black shoes). While it's good to have backup, most of the time it's the exasperation of having traits you need in one bag spread out over several. This has driven me into making my own things. But often it's a vibe or look one is unconsciously reaching for, like a fix. It will save you money and regret to profile your own drives! Lastly, I love how clear and organized your closet system is, that white-wire modular stuff--I will keep that in my back brain as a system that actually works. Cheers! 😊

[@Stumpybear7640]

I solved the multi black bag thing by having 1 bag with different interchangeable handles. It works xxx

[@cleitatreestrong8397]

Ever heard of the messy middle in any quite uncomfortable process? Where you feel like you're stuck, still far away from the goal (finally having decluttered any space), but also having invested so much already? I'm in there, but one category I feel like having hit the goal: bags, suitcases, etc. To see where I've been (very close to your starting point in this video) feels very satisfying. But I've been in the "goal state" for so long that I got used to it already. This reminding video of yours makes me feel very proud, and I wish all of you will reach this point. Be consistent, and you'll get there. The onion method and consistency ✌️🥳😊 Thanks for your positive, helpful, encouraging and funny support in decluttering and gyst 😂❤❤❤❤

[@lpanayi6954]

I recently turned 50 and I'm loving it so far. I would not choose to be young even if it was possible. I'm so much happier in myself 💝

[@vickirogers2844]

I appreciate your honest feelings about going through this process!

[@GirlyNerd173]

I loved this video! you did so well 😄 I also have a suggestion which really helped for me when I was overwhelmed by my (then) massive wardrobe. Go through each category of clothing with the aim of only keeping half. E.g. I had 40 jumpers and I challenged myself to only keep 20. It was surprising how much easier I found decluttering when I had a set goal and it made me quickly realise which jumpers I held most value to and which I was (surprisingly) indifferent towards.

[@lindabourketempleton4040]

I still have my 21 st dress I’m 61 this year and it still fits, mind you it’s in my memory box not my every day wardrobe

[@cleitatreestrong8397]

You can be so proud of yourself - thank you so much for sharing ❤❤❤

[@lkofie6670]

I LIKE the challenge you've given yourself. Since I have a massive amount of clothes and shoes and wardrobe in general, I had a similar challenge which was to shop my closet more but that was once I purged and then curated my closet(s) to be sure my wardrobe was filled with items that were still in line with my personal style and would be things I would want to put on.

[@vanessakasz8031]

Thanks for sharing this! One of the most realistic closet declutter videos I’ve ever seen and it’s encouraging! 💜

[@martast.john-anders6448]

This popped up for me on KZbin at exactly the right moment. I had purged some clothes yesterday but after watching this, I went back to the closet and purged five bags of clothes. I didn't count but probably 60-70 items total. I want only clothes that fit and I feel good in. No more someday it will fit collection!

[@robertakeogh8650]

I, also, wear every piece of my clothes and I have loved it. I can then declutter if I don’t feel good in it.❤

[@dah8789]

I think you did really great 🎉. I am proud with letting go of even 1 item. It takes time.