HOW TO DECLUTTER YOUR CLOSET » Everything you need to know (Minimalism)

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks for watching!! 📘 Decluttering Guide ebook: simplehappyzen.teachable.com/p/simple-happy-zen-s-ultimate-decluttering-guide ✨ Patreon: www.patreon.com/SimpleHappyZen 👚 How to build a capsule wardrobe: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iGTQp6iIrrJjY9E

[@monicaimre8586]

I love all of your videos!! Well done to your hard work create them for us in order to help creating positive changes :) i always learn a lot from each video, keep the great work up Darling ;)

[@tedw929]

Hello Vera. I went ahead and watched this video even though as a minimalist I have decluttered to the comfortable point. It was a good reminder . One comment I would like to make: once the cluttering is done, if you are required to switch your wardrobe around because of the season, it will take a fraction of the time that was spent previously stowing off season clothing. It now takes me 30 minutes or less to refresh the current wardrobe.( Many of my pieces are used year round.) It has been a big time saver and not the agonizing chore it once was.

[@yoanitasutjianto2878]

What i have to do if i feel exhausted, everytime i want to start decluter?

[@chilibandit6660]

"Would i want my ex to see me in this?" is lately my favourite😀

[@SimpleHappyZen]

I love that 😂

[@lemonielala3080]

Oooh, this is a good one!

[@denisegirmer4550]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@karinsky9337]

My new mantra😂

[@mbrady199]

I lovvvvvve that you said keeping an item you paid for doesn't put the money bank in your pocket. This flipped something in my brain!!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Happy to hear it! :)

[@vii6429]

Hey! I like your name!😊😊

[@stephanieg2000]

A question that helps me is "would I buy this today if I saw it in a store?" if no then out it goes!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

I love it! :)

[@loriroemer1122]

I am late to this video, this is an excellent tip, and it's going to help me a lot!

[@yamelove]

That’s a good one

[@milicaradakovic8098]

It took me three years to donate my moms clothes after she died. I now have more space to move on. They had special meaning, but it is more satisfying to know someone else is wearing them.

[@dominiquetheeasyminimalist]

Do I feel confident and beautiful when I wear that outfit? No need to pull on a skirt that is too short when I sit down, or tuck in my belly when I wear pants, and makes me feel uncomfortable. Clothes serve me, not the other way around!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

YES!!!

[@NenaLavonne]

The 80/20 rule is soooo true. I used to have that horrible habit of saving the clothes I liked the best for special occasions that never actually came...so the prettiest things never even worn. I am glad I’m aware of that now, LOL :-) Wonderful video ♥️♥️♥️

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yes it's such a shame if we don't wear our best and most lovely items :) Thanks Nena and have a great weekend!

[@thewealthysoul5340]

Same here. I used to buy certain items (mostly clothing) fantasizing about the day or situation where I would wear them and how that would make me feel... Sadly I spent way too much on things I never ever wore and I ended up selling/donating 90% of them.

[@Kfssan]

My rule is to wear 80% of my wardrobe in 2 weeks and 100% of my wardobe in a year.

[@creativecorner4715]

Me too in this process I wasted a lot of my earnings n earned a heavy guilt

[@lynnmoserakajona1550]

@@thewealthysoul5340 Me too. I also gained lbs and now I can't wear them even if I had somewhere to wear them.

[@victoriamather2267]

I really love the question ‘Is this me, my style and my lifestyle?’. This question can get you through any decluttering situation.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

It's such a great question :D

[@BillandJennTraveling]

So my wife and I are decluttering and going towards the minimalist lifestyle. Downsizing from a 2700 ft² home down to a 1632 ft² home going from one acre to 9000 ft² property. We have been donating and selling a lot of our items and will have a modest amount of things but only the things that we need. My wife and I were surfing around and found your KZbin Page and we really enjoy it! And you said you live in the Netherlands? We live in Twin falls Idaho USA!!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

That's awesome, good luck with the decluttering and downsizing! Yes I'm from the Netherlands :)

[@Kfssan]

I counted my clothes and came to 54. I would probably be able to downsize more, but Im happy with the number because I love all of my clothes 😊

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Sounds awesome!!! And a great number :)

[@tamarindjam5767]

This is the best video on decluttering your wardrobe ever - and believe me, I have seen quite a few! It packs in so much - and the questions cover everything possible, and help to decide whether to keep something or not. Vera, I am a big fan of yours, and watch every video of yours that I can - even the older ones! Thank you so much!💖

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Aw thank you so much, that's so nice to hear 🤗🌼🍵💕

[@ornellarose4818]

I love how you included how to get rid of them mindfully. A lot of people miss out on that!

[@mariafriberg2441]

When I'm stuck with some item, and can't find any question to if I should keep it or not, I find it helpful to ask how happy I would be if the item was gone. That 'backwards' question really helps me decide. Since I want minimalism, I love empty space. This way, some big winter jackets have been released. (And other items, beside clothes).

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yes I love that! The backwards reasoning is something I also like to do. Helps me out big time

[@therobotdevil2284]

I have a 122-piece wardrobe and I'm still narrowing it down! Thanks for this video, I've seen hundreds of minimalist videos (yeah I know, a bit extreme, but they motivate me while I'm decluttering) and this is the most thorough closet decluttering tip video I've seen!

[@forestno0k]

i have under 50 clothes/accessories and it really is a slow process of eliminating clothes that you realise are unnecessary and don't add to your style. I started off decluttering huge amounts but now i declutter one or two items every season as i refine what i truly want to wear. great video btw

[@liz-marigreen3470]

I think its also a good idea to literally fit all clothes on. Every single item in your closet. Look in the mirror from all angles and then decide what to do with it. I kept clothing before and when I put it on it looks horrible

[@Poppy-]

Thank you for mentioning weather condition on top of type of occupation /activity. Most capsule wardrobe don't include temperature gaps as big as mine (60°: +30°C to -30°C).

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Wow that's cold!! 😯

[@shantellelee7684]

Same!

[@gorana.37]

Hi Vera, Long time follower but first time commenter - first of all, thank you for all your great content ! I felt compelled to comment on this because ever since I switched to minimalism around 2015-2016, I managed to trim down my wardrobe down to these essentials (gave away around 80-90% of my clothes), I call it the "5x5" list as follows (I'm probably a freak, I know) : Not counting motorcycle, mountain hiking and gym gear + underwear (which is already rather minimalistic in itself), I found the sweet spot with an every day list that works like this, - 5 Tops (sweaters / jumpers) - 5 Bottoms (3 pairs of jeans / 2 pairs of shorts) - 5 Footwear (2 shoes for winter / 3 shoes for summer) - 5 Outerwear (4 jackets / 1 coat - that cost me a kidney by the the way) - 5 Specialized (2 zipper hoodies / 2 blazers / 1 raincoat) All I have to do is mix in a bunch of t-shirts/shirts/polos (15/5/5) and I'm good to go for 99% of work/life situations out there. That means around 50 general-purpose clothing items in total ! I focus on quality rather than quantity and they're all amazing pieces I enjoy wearing, it really does make a world of difference. It's always so good to not be stressed out about how to get dressed and prepared in the morning and I pretty much feel like a badass every time I step outside. It gives me a peace of mind like nothing else. It's an amazing feeling. Again, thank your for your heartfelt content and keep up the good work ! Take it easy!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks so much for following and commenting! 🤗🌾🌿 I love your system, sounds so amazing. Thanks for sharing and have a great day!

[@sarah.bea.]

That „gathering everything“ tip is the most useful for every kind of declutter. It can sometimes shock you into action :)

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yes exactly hahaha

[@shannie777]

When decluttering I really like to ask myself "If I saw it in a store right now, brand new, would I be willing to spend some money on it?" Something that question really helped me with, is that it forces me to think about that clothes as brand new and that I dont already own, it forces me to think about weither I would buy that thing just for what it is, without emotional attachment or memories and to not keep it just because I already own it I am now pretty minimalistic and I really dont have emotional attachment to objects and dont feel guilty about discarding things that I dont need/use anymore, but this really helped me get out of that mind set

[@barbarak3364]

I have a lot of colourful scarfs. They brighten up all neutral outfits 💝🥂🎶💃🏼💐

[@graham108]

I've just recently discovered your channel and I wanted to say that you have really motivated me to start my decluttering journey. I have taken things to the charity shop or recycled/sold online and I can already feel my anxiety levels going down ☺️ it's funny when I realise I'd become a product of my consumerism environment here in the UK, thanks again and many blessings too you...🤗🤗

[@SimpleHappyZen]

That's awesome, congrats on all the progress you've made and nice to hear you're already experiencing some benefits from decluttering :)

[@ColorJoyLynnH]

I adore clothes!!! I adore color!!! My closet palette is turquoise, hot pinks/magenta, purple, and hot green. Everything looks great together. I am not a minimalist but i do not want things that I won’t use or that are not sentimental. I believe sentimental value is absolutely valuable. When my closet gets to the point that I can’t hang things without using two hands to wedge it in, it’s time to thin items out.

[@nataliecheney3177]

I am just starting my minimalism journey, with a bit of a twist. I call it "Minimalist Bohiemian" style. This is the closest I can come to a good description of the style I love. Your post/site has really helped me so far Thank you 🙏

[@MarielaMerino]

when I first started being minimalist I did the hanger method and that really helped me to see what I didnt wear! Now what I do is the one in and one out rule to keep my closet minimal :) great video!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yes I love the hanger method, so simple yet effective

[@itoshiibaka8267]

The hanger trick is super helpful after weight change and postpartum. I have lots of clothing that's still backwards right now. 😳

[@patwteuseary3567]

I dont like the thought of my hangers not being in a smooth order. Hadn't realized something like that would bother me. Lol

[@storytimewithelisa3607]

This is one of the best guides to decluttering I have ever watched on youtube!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Wow thank you so much! :)

[@MadameMinima]

Dear Vera, 2 years ago I downsized to a capsule wardrobe and recently I even decluttered the capsule wardrobe! I now own only 5 dresses, 1 skirt and 1 blouse and I don't regret it!!! I have been on my decluttering and minimalist journey for 5 years now and I am still not where I want to be. I have even created a YT channel to help me stay accountable. But I think "it's all about progress not perfection". I myself try to declutter not more than I can handle in one go. The KonMarie method didn't work for me, as it has been too overwhelming. I declutter more than you do: one drawer, closet, cupboard, spot at a time. Thank you so much for inspiring me. 🥰

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks for sharing and good luck with your minimalism journey and your YT channel!!!

[@MadameMinima]

@@SimpleHappyZen thank you and sending you lots of luck to from Luxembourg 🇱🇺 to the Netherlands 🇳🇱

[@barbaracarr17]

Thank you, Vera, for recommending The Buy Nothing Project. This group has made a wonderful difference in my life. In the past few years I went through a streamlining of my belongings and things that I inherited. Finding people who were delighted to receive these items through Buy Nothing made a satisfying solution for me.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

That's amazing! :)

[@by_sha]

Love the tip you gave on combining the reflection on lifestyle, roles, and laundry habit! it's so practical 😊 currently I'm sitting on a 123-piece closet (well not quite literally), this include all handbags, shoes and loungewear/sports wear, and I'm pretty happy about it! It took me 5 years to really curate my wardrobe and found my style. I really love having limited pieces (although I think my wardrobe is quite generous still) and try to maximise it through creativity ☺️

[@antiquesrestoration3874]

Here in my area of southern California...we have nine months of summer, two months of winter, around a month of spring and probably about 45 minutes of autumn. 🙄 I'd like to cut my wardrobe by about a third.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Hahahaha 45 minutes of autumn 😂

[@casebeth]

i'm sorry but no, you have no winter Love, chicago

[@antiquesrestoration3874]

@@casebeth lol...fair enough.

[@rebeccaarcher3851]

I started my journey towards minimalism about the same time I started my journey to lose weight. A big joy in my life was the day I went to go find another box of my stored “skinny clothes” to find that I had emptied them all and now fit them!!! (Or they are too big now!) Everything in my house fits now! Clearing things out as I go also helps.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Wow that's amazing, congrats!! 🤗

[@kinskigirl]

I would say one other circumstance not to get rid of clothes that you love that don't fit is if you are postpartum. Your body will change a lot in the coming months and you may - or may not - be able to wear them later. One should wait maybe until their body "levels out." Until then, keeping them in a maybe box to revisit in a few months or even a year is a good idea.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yes very true :) Thank you

[@elsispanoghe5605]

That's so so true!

[@Poppy-]

Good piece of advice! Same for pre menopause. I keep yoyo-ing and got rid of some things too soon.

[@jw1512]

Though the same. Actually for my body it took about one year to adjust after giving birth. Didn't expect it might take such a long time...

[@itoshiibaka8267]

I had a cesarean section and diastasis recti, and my body is still adjusting 1.5 years postpartum. Early on, I let go of anything that I didn't absolutely LOVE from my pre-pregnancy wardrobe because I was pretty sure most of it wouldn't fit afterwards because of the shifting of the hip bones. I'm not mad at all. Most of it was so easy to replace from a thrift store and it fits my body NOW, not 6 months from now. I kept my favourite 3 pairs of jeans, my power suit and favourite blouses, anything like tops that were more adaptable to a new shape, and things like that. I relinquished a lot of things that I thought I'd find again fairly easily. Again, no regrets. But it sure does take a long time to heal.

[@srijaniroy1523]

You were right about the weather condition. I live in a hot and humid part of India. So I own few winter clothes and can declutter the excess. But I am bound to keep a number of airy cotton clothes during the warm seasons.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Weather conditions are so important :)

[@111-w9d7y]

Great video and tips Vera. Here in Switzerland, as all over in central Europe, a collection of various jackets and shoes/boots are needed for our four seasons. Since retiring I enjoy wearing elegant casual clothing. Also line dry my clothes. Enjoy your weekend Vera.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks for sharing Hazel and you have a lovely weekend too! :)

[@Poppy-]

Hey, hello Swiss friend! Nice to see you here too 😉 Hope you are doing well during this hard time. I line dry pretty much everything outside of linens. It saves energy and mostly the clothes. I have had pieces for years (up to 20y)

[@nancynurse4552]

Thank you so so much for this video!!! I have been struggling trying to downsize my wardrobe more. With my life that has extremes from 20 degrees and snowy/rainy to over 100 degrees along with I work at one altitude and live at a different one. I have very different needs at my one job versus my other job versus when I am at home. I also go to professional conferences as well as find it necessary to always have an interview outfit as part of my "always ready for a job change" mindset. You have helped my identify why I just don't feel like I have anything else I can part with while having many more clothes than so many minimalists do. Again, THANK YOU!!!!!!

[@karenhayward1488]

I really like the season thing you mentioned. I live in Canada and realized for the first time just how much more use I get out of my winter wardrobe than my summer one. (Cold 8 months of the year and only hot for three or four months). So although I need a vastly different wardrobe in summer and winter as it gets really really hot in summer and very cold in winter, I should allow for more winter items than summer because it really is mostly cold weather here for much of the year.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Happy it was helpful to figure that out! :) Thanks Karen

[@11Renee11]

I live in Texas where it's hot 7 months of the year and cooler for 5 months. I have too many coats. Ironically, I don't like hot weather (its 106 here) and don't like shorts.

[@bethjloveswax]

Lovely video as always! I personally have 50 items in my wardrobe at a time and two different groups of clothes for spring/summer, fall/winter (although some of the items can overlap into all seasons). So close to 100 items. Most of my clothes are work clothes since I am there 4 days out of the week and then only at home 3 days out of the week. Also, I have enough clothes to only have to do laundry every other week because washing and wearing your clothing a little less often actually helps them to stay in better condition than clothes that are washed everyday.

[@lisavanhengstum4800]

I live also in the Netherlands, and I own 25 spring and summer items and 25 fall and winter items. I think it is pretty minimal for our country :')

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yes that sounds great! 😊

[@kellyreynolds6680]

Another great video Vera 💜 Re summer dresses, I’ve got jumpers in certain colours that match mine so in the winter I can still wear the dresses. Just pop a coordinated jumper on top and pair with tights & boots. Means I get more use out of them (here in the UK) and its super comfy x

[@dr.dariapizzuto7668]

I do the same thing. Cardigan, tights, boots/booties. I realized I have so many dresses that can be styled UP or DoWN.

[@creatrixcorvusarts876]

I really needed to see this right now. I am going to be starting going through a couple decades of clothing, and this video gave me a clear idea of how to proceed. Since I have gained weight, knowing that it is better to only keep only clothes that fit my current body I will be able to release even favorite clothes that no longer fit. Thank you for all the advice!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

So happy to hear the video was helpful! :) It was challenging for me to get rid of the things that had become too small, but it felt amazing afterwards :) Good luck with everything!

[@celesteap174]

I have a tone of clothes lots of nice thinks one question that helps mebis Can I live with out this ? And will I bought it right now ? do I need i? How many similsr things I have? Hope the best 🙂

[@lynnmoserakajona1550]

@@SimpleHappyZen This video has helped me a lot. I have to stop saying someday these will fit again and just give them away.

[@joanateixeira4805]

Thank you Vera for your videos! This one really resonates with me, as I gained some weight and I am currently decluttering my wardrobe. ❤

[@amandasymon4363]

I really like your idea of wearing your items of clothing for a day (the clothing you have not wore for a while). I am being successful with decluttering household items but am really struggling with parting with clothes. I have always enjoyed styling my clothes but at long last acknowledge that my stuffed wardrobes (yes wardrobes!) are not serving me. I feel angry with myself that yet again I am struggling to get clothes in and out of my wardrobe because they are so jammed in! The trouble is that I see endless possibilities in mixing and matching - 😱!!! I will keep persevering - I can change my mind set with your help. You have made me realise that less is more. Thank you 🙏

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks for sharing your experiences Amanda, I wish you all the best with your wardrobe goals! This video could maybe also be helpful for you: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iGTQp6iIrrJjY9E

[@moniquebutler8572]

Thank you for the thoughtful questions. Dawn, from The Minimal Mom, recommends asking if there is something that will change in your life to cause you to need/wear the item after a long period of disuse. I found that helpful. I enjoy your channel and look forward to your videos. Many thanks 😊

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yes that's a great question to ask ourselves :) The best predictor of future behavios is past behavior, so unless something significant will change, you'll probably continue not to wear something.

[@cherylkane19]

An exception I've made to keeping only what I love: I have one sweater that I do not like. It's not flattering and the wrong color. But it's 100 percent wool and every now and then here in the mountains of Ecuador it gets really cold for a few days. I gratefully get it out of my closet and wear it at home. I don't want to replace such an expensive sweater that I need so rarely.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yes very practical! :)

[@tinnerste2507]

Can you tailor it or sew it to fit you better? I find sewing a princess seam into knits to make them fit well when they are oversized or streched out. You wouldnt even need to cut them inside on the seams untill your sure it fits well .

[@cherylkane19]

@@tinnerste2507 Great suggestion! Thank you.

[@tinnerste2507]

@@cherylkane19 your welcome!

[@oneimaginarygirl5]

Clothes are the most difficult for me to declutter. This is really helpful! Thanks Vera and enjoy your week off! 😊🌺

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much! :) I'll enjoy it. And yes for me as well, clothes are the most challeninging :)

[@gypsybelle4757]

Good reminder to spend a few minutes on a vision of your goal. Helps with motivation and planning!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yes it can be so helpful as we move through the process :)

[@corinnaturner5827]

Good Morning! This video was right on time. I finished decluttering most of my home, however, I left my clothes for last. They’re so cute, but overwhelming. You gave some great tips. Thanks. Stay safe. ❤️

[@SimpleHappyZen]

So happy to hear it was helpful! :) Good luck with decluttering your clothing 🤗👊

[@ToNi-em3we]

Right now I’m an Au Pair from Germany I’m America. I’m wearing what was in my luggage when I came here. I just shopped 3 more sweaters and a thick winter coat.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Good luck over there! :)

[@thewealthysoul5340]

High quality video with great tips as usual! I started minimizing/decluttering my belongings about 1.5-2 years ago and I’m still far from where I wanna be but your videos definitely helped with the process and I noticed it gets easier with time and practice. I started really losing my attachement to certain items I would have never let go of a few years back. Thanks Vera, much love from Sweden 😊

[@SimpleHappyZen]

That's amazing, you can be so proud of your progress! :) Have a lovely day

[@debbiehenchcliffe4059]

Very helpful , moving house after 24 years here , you have helped so much , we have so much clutter so it's been a little scary , 4 weeks to go and looking a lot better , thinking of doing it all again when we move in to make it even better . Thank you so very much . 😊

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Wow congrats Debbie and good luck with the move!

[@ChristysChannelYall]

I live in the US in North Carolina and our weather is crazy. We can get all seasons in the course of a week, particularly in spring or fall. I have to have every weight of coat and kind of boots and sandals. It is frustrating when you are a minimalist.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yes unfortunately it's not something we can change :) In my opinion, it's more important to have a wardrobe that makes sense and works for us, rather than to only have a certain number of items

[@patrizialaterra]

Hi Vera from Italy. I want to thank you because your ebook has helped me a lot during this quarantine period to declutter a lot of objects, cards, photos and much more. Now I feel free and happier. Thanks again

[@SimpleHappyZen]

That's amazing, so happy to hear it! 💕💕

[@asisqueezylovediary6474]

I'm also in the Netherlands but I am became minimalist in Dec last year so since I got rid of 80 90 % of all my stuff bc I had too much stuff. I do my washing every 2-3 weeks but I am dancer so I can't be too minimal in my dancing clothes but in my day day clothes.. I own about 100 normal items and 80 dance items lol. Still place for improvement. Charity stores are very happy with me soo meny times I have been there with full car stuff. Love the feeling. I like the questions :) great video. Groetjes

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks so much for sharing and congrats on all the progress you've made! :) Groetjes terug

[@anastasiamoiseeva4403]

Thanks for your work! I am a highly sensitive person too, since 2012 I follow the minimalistic life sty. I am enjoying your videos so much!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much Anastasia! :)

[@cherylc.7905]

I absolutely love your videos. I’m sooooo happy I found you and your channel. I can relate to what you are saying. The sad thing is the way I feel so misunderstood sometimes. People actually can be very hateful at my sensitivity and I can’t help it. I have even prayed about it. It is who we are. We just have to take the right steps to care for ourselves. Thank you so much for doing what you do.

[@barbarapope349]

I have hoodies , sweat pants, shirts with cool pictures on them that I don’t want to wear because I’m old and they would look stupid but I like them😳 and things that are to small 🤣 I would like to dress up but don’t really go anywhere and I get lazy so I guess I have a few issues to deal with 🤣 this has encouraged me to think about these issues 👍🏻❤️

[@pauwerwoman1247]

Everyday is a special occasion 🤗So no need for me to keep special occasion clothes in a different place🌷🍃

[@trisnaekowiyatnikawaii3860]

the most reasonable approach towards minimalism. Thank you for sharing

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yay, thank you! 🤗

[@petergeorge4415]

Oh My! The " maybe " pile...to wear a full day to really understand " why " it is in the maybe pile; fits well? No? Comfy? No? Forgot all useful it is...etc. to get to know if it becomes a real no or a real yes; brilliant! I never heard of that. Thank you so much for this wise tip! I am very grateful!! helene :)

[@cathylynnpietranton]

Thanks Vera thank you very much for all the suggestions. I don't have very many clothes so I keep all my clothes in the closet all your round.❤

[@kennedifisher7986]

last time i decluttered in the fall i believe i had about 50 items total and i'm fairly happy with that number. i feel like i get a good use out of everything i own

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Yes that's awesome! :) Thanks for sharing

[@beulahbenade4098]

Hi Vera thank you for a lovely concise video. I actually counted my wardrobe items just yesterday out of curiosity. Because I've been interested in minimalism for about 8 months now and have been gradually decluttering my home and wardrobe and what a difference it makes. Interestingly, also to one's mindset. So, I have 120 items, shoes included. I decided to keep all my clothes in my cupboard where I can see everything, even the "maybe" items, since the chances are good, if I see them, I'll wear them one day! I live in South Africa in a region where it's really cold only for maybe a month. The rest of the year is mild or warm or very warm. I find keeping everything on display also makes it easier to layer, which is ideal for this kind of weather. I really enjoy your videos. Regards Beulah

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks so much Beulah, have a lovely weekend!

[@elisseamaranthine]

So insightful! Thanks for this, Vera ❤️

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you Elisse! 🤗🌻

[@stanislavayousafzai4037]

Best video I have seen on clothes decluter. The BEST. thank you Vera.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Wow thank you! :)

[@ashleyzielke3072]

I own things for all season. Indiana weather is ridiculously indecisive at all times. Lol. I have stopped buying sale items so much, and it helped!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

That's great! :) Not shopping in sales anymore was a game changer for me

[@sofiaandersson3206]

I love the idea of a Special ocasion-box ❤💖 Thank you for that tip 😊

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Glad to hear it! :) Good luck!

[@enilereb0183]

I live in the Netherlands too and therefore I have a winter capsule and a summer capsule. I made a standard capsule with my basics for year round (20 pc) and then I have 15 summer additions and 13 winter additions(Inlcuding shoes and coats) and a separate occasion wear capsule (14 pc) since I am a musician and have a lot of concerts :) I would like to downsize more but laundry wise that doesn't work for me right now

[@quietandsun]

Thank you for a great video. I do own around 160 items with bags and shoes for all four seasons. I do live in a similar climate to yours. Snowy winters, hot summers and everything in between. Oh and I do wear 80 to 90% of it.

[@raniressler]

I have 61 items hanging in my closet. Currently working on decluttering. I have my t-shirts and summer clothes in a separate area. I’m hoping to be down to about 20 items in my closet. When I studied abroad I had two suitcases with me and it was so much easier to pick out my clothes with so few to pick from. Now figuring out what I’m going to wear is stressful.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks for sharing Christiana, good luck with your decluttering goals!

[@lovvejuliette]

My closet has always been the most difficult thing to declutter because I have so many clothes and I always make up reasons to keep them even if I won't wear them in the future. I'm hopeful though that in the future my closet can look as neat as yours!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Decluttering your closet is one of the trickiest parts of the house in my opinion :)

[@muhammedtawseefnoorjawad9231]

I'm definitely noting down the points discussed in the video , firstly, for its extremely useful and secondly, your presentation is worth noting. Really helpful tips and advice! Thank you very much, Vera.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks so much, that's so sweet! :) Good luck!

[@angim8984]

I'm about declutter my closet. You're video really helped me formulate a plan for organizing.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

So happy to hear it! :) Good luck with decluttering!!

[@marjiecleveland]

Oh my goodness! I had no idea clothing would add up so quickly. I have 97 items of clothing, and it doesn't include socks, underwear or shoes/boots. Yikes! I'm definitely going to go through to see how much I can eliminate! Thanks for all the very helpful tips!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

It's funny to count them haha, it's usually more than you had expected :) Good luck with everything!!!

[@TetianaUstych]

I have only dresses 👗 200 🤦🏻‍♀️👗👗👗👗👗👗👗👗👗👗- it’s my weakness 😢and they fit me all😂

[@hello-eo8xx]

Thanks Vera! Enjoyed the video. Have always struggled with decluttering clothes. I liked the idea about making yourself wear the clothes in the maybe pile daily. Also the questions to ask yourself are useful too! 👍👌😊

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks so much and I'm happy to hear the video was helpful 🤗🌿🌾

[@liliadietz357]

Wow - you did an amazing job of distilling a pretty big topic into very manageable bites! Thank you especially for giving me "permssion" to get rid of the clothes that no longer fit, ha! Also - I made my very first purchase at a thrift store online to replace a top I loved that was no longer my size. And that *fit* into my my new thoughts on sustainability. Cheers!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks so much Lilia, that's great to hear :) Have a lovely day!!

[@creativedutchess4866]

I really should count all my items just to get a shock factor to motivate myself to get rid of things

[@equinn6504]

I gained 30lbs and replaced the majority if my closet only to lose 40lbs again and now the pieces I loved too much to get rid off once they didn't fit are my most treasured pieces. So determining if your weight is going to fluctuate again is important too. For me it was probably just due to the end of my puberty and the last hormonal adjustments that came with it (at least that is what makes the most sense to me with my specific case)

[@daffidaizy]

Thank you for sharing some points that I haven’t seen yet in other minimalist/decluttering videos 👍👍

[@SimpleHappyZen]

You're welcome Renee, I really wanted to hit all the points that people can come across when decluttering their closet

[@aimtok]

Never thought of how much time I spend doing different activities and how my wardrobe should reflect that. I've been hanging on to professional clothes just in case. But why should I do that when I am a full-time mom. Thank you!

[@SimpleHappyZen]

I went through the same when I transitioned to being a fulltime content creator :) So I totally get it. Good luck with everything!!

[@amyhamilton5]

If I’m not sure on something, I have a special place (storage under our ikea couch) I put it. If I find myself wanting it, I can pull it back out. If it’s still there in 6 months and I didn’t miss it, it moves on. Helps to eliminate regret.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Great! :)

[@daniellaad517]

Thank you for these inspirational tips 🥰 I will *really* wear my occassion clothes as soon as possible We only have two seasons here in Indonesia, dry and monsoon. So technically I use them all year round. I have just recently found it helpful to take a visual inventory of my wardrobe (using the "smart closet app") so I don't forget what I have after decluttering 😁

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Great tip!! :) Thanks. Another app I know is called cladwell

[@GoingGreenMom]

Without counting, I normally have about 40 items. Last winter I went super minimal because I was wearing uniforms for work and went down to 2 bottoms and 2 tshirts and about 4 sweaters that weren't uniform items. And a handful of sleepwear pieces. I have had to buy a bunch of new pieces this summer since I haven't been working and black pants aren't really great in 90+ degree heat.

[@AlatarielMeneldur]

I really have nooo idea how many clothing items I own. But you made me curious... I will go and count them :D

[@chelseaalmost_]

I'm waiting to find out

[@PhoenixTears49]

I'm using an app called Your Closet and it has pictures of all the clothing I have and it lets me log them in my calendar to see which ones I wear the most and which ones are the best value for my money.

[@thebeachyfarmhouse6410]

I need to count mine too 🤣

[@Isabel_fit]

PhoenixTears49 that’s so cool! It would also be cool if it helped you put outfits together bc I’m the type of person who will always pair the same shirt with the same bottoms and never mix and match lol

[@danitaylor4512]

three months I've lost sleep wondering how many items you have lol

[@lareelongtin5129]

Loved this video, great decluttering tips! 🙌🏻 I try to keep up with my various decluttering so I'm not so overwhelmed & have too much to go through. Keep safe 🙏🏻 & have a great weekend! ☀️🌷🌸🌻🌼

[@SimpleHappyZen]

I think that's the best way :) Good luck!!

[@Stumpybear7640]

Line drying is best! The smell is gorgeous. Looking good Vera. Thanks for the video x

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks so much Linda! :) Yes that's another benefit of line drying, I love the smell of clean laundry

[@sherrymartin4412]

Do you have suggestions on hallway closets? How many towels, bedding, extra blankets for lounging or to take outside to sit on the ground & so on do you need? I have a pool, how many beach towels should I have? I am new to all of this and want to live easier & happier.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Hi there! How many of those items you need also depends on how often you use them, and how often you wash them. For example for me, we have 2 sets of sheets. We can use one when the other is in the wash. For towels, you could decide how many you would like to own per person. Depending on how often you wash them. For example you could decide 3 regular towels + 1 beach towel for each person. But make it a number that makes sense for you :)

[@chicvintagegifts6335]

I've done it! assisted by you! I did meet challenges. it might fit soon! I've got rid of lots and even treated myself to a couple of new items I can see I needed after decluttering 43 items xxx

[@shehnazahmad5213]

Thank you my friend ❤⚘

[@SimpleHappyZen]

You're very welcome!! :)

[@jennesont4791]

Thank you. This is a thorough video! Very helpful

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thank you so much :)

[@JJ-cx8gl]

Thank you for your tips. I really enjoy your channel. I hesitate counting my clothing item in my closet as there are many. When I do, I will report back.

[@theresew9910]

Hi Vera I also try not to wash my clothes too often and also line dry ? I don’t like dryers not good for clothes! Comfort and style takes a bit of practice but taking the time to find our own style is well worth the effort ! great advice here ❤️

[@SimpleHappyZen]

I totally agree :)

[@ClarySage-70]

I would love to see more content on coping with being a HSP ❤️🦋

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks Carol! :) Anything specific?

[@hirrorstories]

Another tip: if something in your wardrobe is out of fashion, you wore it 100times and already tired of seeing it. But the item is in good condition. DONT DONATE or throw out. Store it under your bed for 2-3 years or maybe 5. Because fashion is constantly recycling old models. And when it is again in the fashion you don't have to buy bunch of things that you threw out few years ago and it will be vintagelike cuz no one has it. Guaranteed when you take it out it will still look fresh. And it's not only about fashion sometimes you want fe leopard shirt but it is no where sold. For few years I hunted for leopard print and the models that I could find weren't what I wanted so I saluted when they became in fashion. Even though now everyone wears it and in next months everyone will be sick of it I'll store mine to take out in few seasons. My mom donated so many expensive nice jackets coats etc. because she was tired of seeing them everyday and now we look at them and sigh what a shame they were probably still could be used as vintage clothing.

[@LeanSerenity]

The thought of having anything stored under my bed completely blocks my zen!! 😭 that is true though .. styles always come back !!

[@christined2495]

Hi Vera, great video I have the opposite problem in my closet right now, I have 1/2 my closet empty, it actually looks very weird, my husband and I share a walk in closet, we did a major purse last year, well I did, and my husband followed me a few weeks later. Right now I have been dressing with 4 shorts, 3 capris and maybe 5 tops, very minimal, I was going to go shopping to get a few more summer tops and new Capri pajamas, but Corona virus happened. I have been making do with 12 items, I never thought I could do it, I live a very relaxed lifestyle, and of course not really going anywhere is helping me live with 12 items, the stores are opening up slowly, and maybe in two weeks I need to go and get pajamas and few more things. My winter wardrobe was 35 items, not including pajamas and lounge wear

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Ah that is very minimal! :) Yes sometimes it can help to pick up some pieces that are versatile and allow us to have more variety :)

[@AliceMara]

A support comment for the algorithm ;) Thanks for answering a lot of questions

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks so much Alice, I appreciate that :D

[@ihvetinae5715]

I have been wanting to declutter and downsize my wardrobe but don’t know where to start. Thanks for this video.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

You can do it! :)

[@angelaanderson8247]

Wow,First video I've ever watched! I love you you break everything down. This is something that I have struggled with since early childhood. I feel like this video alone has lifted so many burdens from my life making these tasks so much simpler and easier for me to accomplish and be successful. Thanks so much,Sincerely Hoarding Mom of 4

[@SimpleHappyZen]

So happy the video was helpful for you Angela! Let me know if you have any questions

[@pranitabose1805]

Great video, i am going to practice minimalism, thank you so much, Vera.

[@rachaelknight3710]

I did an inventory yesterday, I have currently counted 132 items, including gym/hobby sports wear. I have not counted shoes... It has certainly opened my eyes to the amount I own and I aim to reduce this down to 100 first, then 75 by the end of the year.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

Thanks for sharing Rachael! :) Yes we can own a lot more clothing than we expected :) Good luck with decluttering!!

[@nancycerreta2803]

This video is the most helpful! I'm excited to get started.

[@SimpleHappyZen]

So happy to hear it Nancy!! Good luck and happy decluttering!

[@franciscaceledonfiestas2360]

you helped me a lot, especially that part when you told us about the weight, I've gained so much weight since I have an autoimmune disease and haven't seen the things the way you see them