Which Dresses Can I Keep? // Massive Closet Clear Out Part 2

Time for part two of my closet clear out, and this time I have to deal with decluttering my thrifted blouse collection and sorting through the large volume of retro dresses I have sewn over the last several years. It is certainly harder for me to let go of things I have made myself, and since everything still sparks some joy, the question becomes which things spark the /most/ joy, eek!
Hopefully by the time I get to listing everything on Etsy (think summer-ish, it's going to be a while!!) and doing a final sort I will be able to let a few more items go, but by then we all know I will have made new things as well of course!
The video where I flail at making that striped silk button back blouse : • 1940's Button Back Top...
The video where I style that eyelet embroidered top in 3 ways : • Restyling Thrifted Fin...
Collections Management Playlist - a closer look at various parts of my vintage collection : • Vintage Clutch Handbag...
My last full closet tour : • A Tour of My Closet //...
A great video about Ankara fabrics : • Ankara Fabrics : EVERY...
The spider web heels from Macy's : mcys.co/36bXeAS
The metallic BAIT heels (are on sale!!!) : baitfootwear.c...
Also, not sponsored by either of these shoe sources, just to confirm.
I won't be selling the Ankara wax print cotton dress seen in the video, as I don't want to profit off it in any way, and really I'd like to send it directly to a more appropriate owner, so I'm going to try and figure that one out. I have learned and grown over the last 10 years of wearing and collecting vintage and sewing retro garments, and I always hope to continue learning about how I can do better as member of the vintage community.
Music and Sound Effects from Epidemic Sound.
Where I get my pattern drafting paper: atlaslevy.com/P... (not sponsored)
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Want to help me continue making more videos? Listen to me ramble on in a monthly podcast? Watch an additional project video each month? Peruse my Patreon here: / theclosethistorian
Blog: theclosethistor...
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Etsy Shop: www.etsy.com/s...
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Beauty Channel: / thehistoriansvanity
But wait there's more! A PO BOX finally wahoo!
First, a disclaimer: So many of you have kindly offered to send me things, including vintage items you may have inherited, and I am so honored you would think of me and of course I do adore vintage treasures, however, unfortunately I only have so much storage space currently! So there is a chance that if something just wont work for me, or doesn't fit me etc, that I may not be able to keep all of your lovely things. Please only send things if you are okay with the possibility that I may donate items I just cannot keep. If you would prefer I put things that I can't keep into the TCH Etsy shop to help raise funds for me and the channel, please specify this in a note or letter in your parcel. Thank you so much!
Bianca Esposito
PO Box 632177
Highlands Ranch, CO 80163
Thank you for watching!

[@HUDSONVINTAGE]

I just realized that you like anything that looks like it was dyed with poisonous dye. I knew every time you held up anything acid or arsenic looking that it was going to be a keeper!

[@rd6203]

😳😅

[@nannapanna6610]

Its the haunted mansion vibe of a wealthy widow. Did she poison her late husband, and the one before him? Probably. 👻

[@nannapanna6610]

I mean this in the best possible way of course -- at least aestetically! :/

[@mollymoon510]

Definitely make "less than perfectly made" items available online- provided of course that the discrepancies are mentioned in the listing :D

[@belindacoba5158]

She can write a small description of what those details are and sell them for a cheaper price that way people can decide to buy them or not ....

[@nikkicafeina]

Agreed! Especially because if some of us are thinking of altering the pieces anyway, the imperfections may be nonissues depending on the alterations planned.

[@winnievaughan]

YESSS Part 2! I have ADHD and there’s a technique for focusing called “body-doubling”. When someone else is doing chores or productive things, it helps me to do my own chores at the same time :)))

[@BeowulfIsMinNama]

I didn’t know there was a name for it! When I watch sew-alongs, home improvement, how to’s (especially organizational one!) I get productive!

[@Venya9]

Wow, I didn't know there was a name for this!! I ALWAYS have to have either the tv on or a video from youtube talking about stuff relating to the things I'm doing when I'm doing things, otherwise it's super hard for me to get anything done. I get my university homework done much easier if I have a friend sitting with me (in Discord during these times). I googled this and my mind was blown, it's always weird to find out things you've been doing are an actual coping mechanism.

[@nicolegoddard7086]

thank you for naming this weird thing I do!

[@TheAngelofBlood]

Yaaaay!! I'm not alone in this haha. I do have times when I get the "productive itch" and I try to take advantage of it while I can but I definitely feel more motivated to do something if someone else is also working on a task or project at the same time. Whether it's a friend or family member in the same room as me or if I'm watching a video of someone working on a sewing project.

[@melimsah]

Because of this comment, I put together a private playlist for such videos, cuz I do this too!

[@phyllisstein1837]

A) your sense of humor has me in stitches. thank you for that. B) I super enjoy seeing the photo inserts of you wearing the clothes. thank you for that too.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Phyllis!

[@doblemaltita]

YES she looks fab in all of them and it makes harder to get rid of them

[@woodenkat8971]

I think getting rid of almost 40% of your closet is amazing. It's all about scale. Some have a much smaller scale. I love seeing the great outfits and clothes you have made or bought. Makes me sew.

[@cenedra20]

+

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Kat!

[@turtle4llama]

You're like the set of the Addams Family. Superficially goth, but secretly vibrant and colorful.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Depends on the day, sometimes I feel it is reversed ha!

[@edgewickearnest]

This was such a great video! As a fellow maximalist and sewer, I was very impressed with how many things you decided to let go. Well done. I would love to see you do a “New Outfit Every Day” challenge to see how many days you can go without repeating items and seeing how many of your garments and accessories you can use. I would watch the crap out of that. ;)

[@cwbrownCaroline]

I would also watch, it’s a great idea!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Alas, while I could perhaps get dressed everyday, I am currently having some trouble with my eyes which means I cannot wear make-up everyday 😭 My eyes had such a break from make-up in general during lockdown, that now whenever I do wear mascara (and I'm trying all kinds of new ones now due to this sudden issue) it really irritates my eyes and they hurt for the next 24 hours almost, making getting editing or sewing done a bit harder! So no daily dressing up for me until I find a mascara I can wear daily again too! Super irritating 😅

[@RoseDoes]

@@TheClosetHistorian I hope you find a solution soon as we know how much joy makeup brings you.

[@edgewickearnest]

@@TheClosetHistorian It is so incredibly frustrating and uncomfortable when your eyes/skin and makeup are not getting along. I absolutely understand and I’m sorry you’re going through that. I have sensitive eyes and skin, but I need to wear makeup for work and my work can be a harsh environment so the struggle is real. I’ve been thinking about trying those magnetic lashes and skipping mascara all together.

[@LixiaWinter]

When she says she's not funny... the audacity

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Occasionally funny I can perhaps allow, but I'm not very fun, ie: I don't/cant dance...I don't like to go out drinking, board games frustrate me because I want to win, I like to stay home and watch antiques roadshow with my cats...😅

[@katerrinah5442]

@@TheClosetHistorian fun is subjective going out drinking is overrated. Staying home is so much better!

[@LixiaWinter]

That's just different kind of fun! I mean, you made an hour long video where you look through your dresses, and it's captivating!

[@bee_outside]

@@TheClosetHistorian what @Kat Robinson said! Fun is subjective and just because you don't enjoy stereotypically "fun" activities does not mean you are not a fun or interesting person!

[@asilverfoxintasmania9940]

@@TheClosetHistorian you sew and create amazing content, show of your humour and share it! That is fun to me! sharing your cats also shows you are fun.... but that could be because i do similar things to mine!

[@dominiquejackson21]

The zoom in while debating the red polyester blouse, was a cinematic masterpiece! Just *chefs kiss*

[@TheClosetHistorian]

ha thanks!

[@thecadaver]

The amount of stuff you kept seems pretty good actually, it makes sense that when you've made your clothes to fit well and in your favourite colours and fabrics that you wouldn't want to get rid of them! It's not like it's a bunch of impulse purchases you can easily part with

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Holly! Exaaactly 🥰🧵

[@ukehimesama]

I feel you on the cocktail dress, if only bars/cocktail lounges weren't so loud and peopley

[@nannapanna6610]

I agree!! And I could do without the alcohol too😂

[@TheClosetHistorian]

I am not a peopley fan usually either, but I'm dying for a very overpriced fancy cocktail right about now in this ongoing lockdown!!

[@petapendlebury9024]

Ah but a rare positive of the plague - went for afternoon tea at a posh hotel in the summer when we were allowed out a little bit and, of course, half the number of tables because of social distancing. Felt sooo much more luxurious. Certainly here in the UK we are not going to be allowed to be too peopley any time soon 🙂

[@2480hanna]

I'lll need some kind of notification when you upload everything on the shop! Otherwise I'm sure I'll miss it. Also, provided you detail which items aren't finished and maybe add photos of the inside, I don't see a problem with you selling them. It's up to the buyer.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thanks Hana! I will definitely do a few announcements when the shop is to be reopened!

[@MsAngieNightmare]

I second this.

[@joannaerhardt7294]

When you got rid of the green gingham I cried NOOOO!!! You are stronger than I am! So many beautiful clothes. You are very talented!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Joanna! I too love that one, but luckily gingham fabrics are easy to come by, so if I ever need another I can remake it!

[@sethtibbs9164]

YOU. LOOK. ABSOLUTELY. STUNNING. Thank you for the great content, brightening up our day!!!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Seth!

[@katjas9150]

Love your collection. The lemon dress is an absolute knockout. It looks stunning on you so I wouldn't let go of that.

[@rebeccac1861]

I second this. Keep the lemon dress!

[@maryblaylock6545]

Prosecco is a lovely beverage which shouldn't be limited to Italy! I would advise finding a nice area in the backyard to set up a little table with some nice chairs and enjoy a light lunch(perhaps melon with prosciutto) and salad. And of course chilled Prosecco! And I would dress up for such an occasion!

[@katjas9150]

@@maryblaylock6545 I love that proposal. I think one should arrange the occasion where a particular dress can be worn rather than wait for the occasion to realize itself.

[@mrs.knecro7044]

Right? I love that lemon dress and the island print dress she was debating on.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Katja! If it had a different neckline I might keep it, but there are more lemon fabrics out there in the wild so I can make something I like even more 😅

[@deblepretre8219]

you look exceptionally pretty today, i love how you do your hair and make up, you are truly gifted, your friend debbie in illinois

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Debbie!

[@davidhutchison3343]

Love the fact that you still have and wear a shirt that you've had since high school. That's the beauty of vintage fashion. It never goes out of fashion (unlike modern fast fashion) and you can get years of wear out of your items.

[@laurapeters4683]

Watching this makes me look at clothes different you show something and I think ehh it's ok then you show it on and I'm like shit I looks so good on her

[@LualaDy]

same!!!!!!!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Laura!

[@katerrinah5442]

Your wardrobe is amazing Omg, those shiny shoes and to die for! I too did the polyester purge recently. So many pretty tops, but alas, they make me sweat like a pig.

[@bridgetthewench]

Few things have been as life-changing as a polyester purge! I'm so much more cool in the summer, and warm in the winter. My mom gave me a bunch of her old clothes to sell recently, and I had to wash & wear them each a couple of times to get the old house musty smell out of them, and the polyester ones drove me bonkers, they're so itchy! How did I never notice how itchy polyester is?

[@katherinemorelle7115]

I’m also doing a polypurge! As I make myself a new item in cotton, linen or wool (mostly cotton, I’m poor), I get rid of a poly item. Eventually I will have the natural fibre only history bounding wardrobe of my dreams.

[@kytrvlnurse]

Since I had my hysterectomy I’ve had to slowly over the poly-purge.

[@mariaivanoff7955]

If polyester makes you sweat, you can wear a cotton T- shirt or singlet under it , it would absorb the sweat

[@infamoussphere7228]

I loathe polyester, I'm always checking labels when I'm thrifting or buying new items. If it's polyester, nylon or acrylic, I won't buy it. If there's no label and I'm not sure I won't buy it. Unfortunately my work uniform pants are 50% polyester and let me tell you, i sweat horrifically in them but I have to wear them anyway, oh it's unpleasant.

[@raraavis7782]

Lol. Love the little 'let the polyester go' shuffle of indecision - so relatable 😄 And I adore that particular hairstyle on you, btw. Elegant and edgy, vintage and futuristic, all at the same time!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Rara!

[@PolyvoreThea]

I am watching your content because mentally I haven’t done well lately- but listening to you is like hanging out with a friend. Still blown away by how much you got rid of, since your last clear outs were a lot .... less.... LOL

[@TheClosetHistorian]

A LOT less eek! Indeed 😅 I hope things start looking up ❤ I've been in a bit of funk myself, winter and spring are always the foggiest for me.

[@kandiszucker6121]

I have to admit, I am hardly watching it, just listening, because, gooosh, you have such a calming voice.

[@nannapanna6610]

I of course watch when her videos is just uploaded, but then I put them on in the background when I need something calming. Love her 😍

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! ❤ I'm happy to keep you company with my rambling ha!

[@meamela9820]

It is impressive that 57 % of your wardrobe is made by you. I can understand how hard it would be to get rid of stuff when spending so much time making them. (The stuff I have made are still a very small procentage of my clothes.) Hope you are happy with your decluttered wardrobe!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! I am indeed, it all fits so nicely now ha!

[@nadiasews9464]

You look beautiful! The hair and makeup are so impressive. I really enjoy how you mix a punk style and vintage!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Nadia!

[@sheamonieux3409]

It's so nice to see a clear out that isn't a pile of beige sweaters. It's refreshing to see someone with a personal style and FABulous personal style at that. Absolutely adore you and your videos. Thank you Miss Bianca.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Shea! ❤

[@systlin2596]

I just went through and did the Great Polyester Purge as well, and realized that all the polyester stuff I got rid of was stuff I almost never wore anyway, because it didn't breathe and was therefore uncomfortable. Anyway now there's room in the closet for the wool, cotton, linen, and silk clothes I made myself and like much better.

[@HUDSONVINTAGE]

Forgive me for writing again. I believe you have a very valuable Schiaparelli set. The large black stones on the bottom right at 51:03

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Alas sadly it is by a brand called STAR and is cheap base metal, I got it for $10 😅

[@motheroffreaks6879]

It is SO flattering on you!!!!!!!! the floral one you were on the fence about. You look stunning in it.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@brookeg5979]

The only item that made me actually say "NOOOOO!" out loud was the large gingham check dress with the different colored sleeves. That dress looked absolutely amazing on you. And the red and teal plaid skirt which I wouldn't want you to save but OMG do I want to own it. Gorgeous. Other than that, I keep my opinions to myself because I know how hard it is to slash and burn stuff out of your life. You did so well!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Brooke! I really do like that gingham dress too, but the nice thing about gingham is that the fabric is pretty consistently available so I can always make another!

[@khaxjc1]

27:12 comes in for my first save. The 80s does 40s where you werent sure of the sleeves? I think it is flattering but that is just my opinion. 29:00 is the second. The collared 80s does 50s? It has pockets, I feel like it could be layered and styled in some fun ways but is nice on its own, its flattering, and is a nice pattern. I know you said its too I love Lucy and not your style, but I feel like it could be useful some day for a photoshoot, last minute costume, a look book, or some such? Selling things that aren't finished seems fine to me so long as the description reflects that. Especially the fan favorites, cause you can bet several someones would be sad at not getting the chance give it a good home now that they know you're letting them go. I also couldn't help cracking up at lines and wanting to type them out here in the comments. "I had to suffer through doing a zipper" "so colorful and fun and yet Im going to keep it anyway" "I spent all those random tens dollars, instead of on a vodka soda, on a broach" and "yes I am a maximumist and I like having stuff" Came out as my top pick. The last two I related to greatly. I think we in the modern age have a prejudice against collecting things that aren't "useful" or a person collecting a large number of one thing even if it is useful because "surely its too much to use them all so its wasteful and a bit obsessive and obsessive is bad". I always get a bit itchy when people get down on themselves or others for having stuff. I dont think its a bad thing in itself. Problems come when there is an unhealthy attachment, your spending to much, you hurt others in some way, or you cant maintain a healthy living space for how much you have. In your case and that of creators in general I feel extra leniency is due with having things since the stuff you have related to your passions AND to what do with your life. You make things and content connected to fashion and vintage. It makes sense for you to have access to pieces to use and as inspirations, reference, and what not. Also the more time passes the harder it will be to find things in decent condition. Vintage will become antique and so on. What you have wears out, becomes, damaged or lost, and it can be nice to have a similar as a replacement. I know several older ladies who kick themselves for getting rid of things because now "you just cant get the same quality anymore, if you can find it at all"

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you for noticing my one liners 😅 I had to re-do the zipper in a dress this last month so I had to suffer through a zipper twice for one dress!! But now it fits so it was worth it in the end. I'm glad to have my large "styling" closet recognized as part of my job too, as I do feel that way really. I have been a fashion blogger and KZbinr for several years now, of course I've got a bunch of stuff ha!

[@Heyoooo865]

Keep the 40s style gingham dress with white capped sleeves! I yelled at the screen when you didn’t LOL

[@rd6203]

Same! "NO! What..? What are you doing?!?" 😅

[@lilibetp]

YES! KEEP THE LIMONCELLO DRESS!!!!!!...

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Ha I do love that one the best of the 3 ginghams, but I've actually already promised that one to a friend! Gingham is an easy enough fabric to get a hold of though, so I could always make another one of that dress 😅

[@Susanfuzz]

Just what I need! Home from the hospital and desiring a distraction from the antibiotic war in my midsection :/ thanks💖💖💖 ETA you can always promise to scowl (attractively, of course) when you wear cheerfully colored clothes, to offset the fun factor :)

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Get well soon! ❤

[@rileyriley8123]

Maximalists unite! :D

[@TeaCupCracked]

If you think something is not good quality in it's workmanship, but it's pretty, perhaps the middle path would be to list it at a very low price titled "novice-made" with a very transparent description of what's kinda funky about it? I sold some pieces a few years ago that were designer, but I was really worried about getting the condition-to-price ratio right; so I listed them very under-priced and explained why they were discounted. It all sold and I got very positive feedback because people seemed really excited to have such a clear idea of what they were buying and what to expect.

[@tiffytattoo2450]

A good indicator when decluttering is facial expression. If you feel your face doing the mhhh meehh thing, you can let the item go. Given you have lots of stunning clothing, when you get dressed you won't reach for a mhhh meehh piece ;)

[@agelesstailoress]

I too am a maximalist when it comes to collecting, so I get. The Victorian mentality of "if your house is not full of trinkets that you've collected through life then is it really a home" is strong in my family. These two videos have also inspired me to do the same thing to my own closet! It was fairly successful (a decrease of about 1/3) so thank you!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Good work! I love a trinket too ha 😅

[@Smiju22]

Can I use both my saves on the gray small floral dress that you were iffy about? Really think that ones a keeper. On the other hand, I am suddenly in desperate need of a purple circle skirt for my own collection...

[@Rhaifha]

As a fellow big busted lady, a sleeve length like that just doesn't work for me. I feel like it just goes in line perfectly with the widest part of my chest (in a bad way), making it look wider than it is. Also, good job on the dresses! Getting rid of stuff you made is hard! I just try to remind myself that they're going to people who will have more use for it.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Joelle!

[@sydneybell5017]

My lord. PLEASE I ~require~ that agent carter inspired dress!! Gorgeous! I can’t wait until you list these!!! ❤️❤️

[@katherinemorelle7115]

I would absolutely keep that green 1940s dress!! Stunning! It’s probably my favourite out of all the dresses in this video, kept it not.

[@katherinemorelle7115]

Also, I think it’s better if you sell those slightly unfinished dresses. You can mark them down in price a bit and note that it still needs seam finishing. That way, anyone who wants to take that on and has the ability can. If you donate it, it’s just a general donation, and honestly, they might just bin an unfinished dress. Definitely better for you to sell it yourself, that way someone can buy it while knowing exactly what they’re getting.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@elizabethturel78]

You makeup is beautiful. You look fabulous. Loved you in the shiny lavender cocktail dress; stunning. I agree this light beige washes you out.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Elizabeth!

[@shawnagoddard4999]

I love the commentary in this video. I wish to use my two saves on that lemon dress because lemons and that beautiful orange skirt. They are just to beautiful. I might have to keep a close eye for when they go on sale. Also I thought you were in your 20s.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Shawna! I mean technically I am 29, so "in my 20's", but only barely anymore 😅

[@sekaihatsu]

"You're an Autumn dear. not a Spring". Or it's just that the brighter colors wash you out compared to the warmer colors which give your skin a bit of color without turning your porcelain skin pink. Great job decluttering your closet. Now you won't be able to decide what to wear because there's so many great choices that all look great on you!

[@lilibetp]

Deep Winter, so some warmth works well. Total warmth is too much, but total coolness is also too much.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! I have a secret olive skin tone which makes finding foundation a bit of a pain in the arse actually 😅

[@Offroadkartplans]

I don't know why, but the first thing I thought when I saw your hair was WOW, sooooo Maleficent!!! just love it. xxx

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! Disney evil queen style is pretty goals so I'll take it! 💜🖤💚

[@annettebroomhall8617]

You kept more short sleeve tops than all the outfits in my wardrobe. Time I made more clothes me thinks lol.

[@geunyoungbang9972]

Yay! I have been waiting for you for a whole week:)

[@Gandellion]

Of course you should wear whatever makes you happy, but I definitely think bold jewel tones suit you especially well

[@Gandellion]

For me I love jewel tones and pastels too but I suit very muted tones much better

[@ailsadixon408]

I have genuinely waited all week for this! Oh those dresses! You're so brave!! Thank you so much for making my UK lockdown much more tolerable. Also I hope you don't mind me saying you always look beyond beautiful! 💚🖤 Also please don't ever get rid of the wisteria print dress it actually made me gasp when I first saw it x

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Alisa!

[@xsumfunx]

Absolutely loving this video!! I adore that lemon print 👌 if you’ve looked into Kibbe typing at all, you’re very similar to the Kate Winslet type. Feminine and vintage but with a structured edge. - Summer

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! It's funny how many different seasons people have told me now, last video it was all winter, here it's a mix 😅 I never put much stock into such rules myself personally!

[@davinamcm6435]

Love the lemon dress on you 🍋❤

[@pepperreed.33]

So hard to weed all the great finds -- esp the vintage. My criteria are -- do I need to fix or change it in any way? Does it fit me? Does it fit my current style, a classic, or sooper unique? Do I actually *wear* it? What's the fiber content? Does it duplicate another garment? And most importantly, Do I Love It? LOOOOOOVVVVVVVEEE ITTTTTT? Must have majority positives or it's gone -- at the very least, I store it out of sight for a year and see if I miss it (and I rarely store stuff, because ... space). Have fun weeding!!! #LetThePolyGo!!! :^) #TheyreAllMyFavoritesOKAY?

[@hrani]

"Instead of going out and spending money on drinks, I bought..." is such a mood. The amount of nice random thrifted things I got with the money other people used to buy hangovers! :'D

[@Mooserinde]

This video was such a treat!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Nikoline!

[@pukestar]

I was so excited to see part two up! Squee!! Lol, "not eat or breathe when I want to wear it", totally relatable!

[@nannapanna6610]

Totally! It just goes in more planning when wearing it 😂

[@gerrilyn1070]

Just remember, there are worse things then loving your clothing so don't beat yourself up too much.

[@tempesttormented]

You did it, you got me to purge my closet. XD This pair of vids has been great! I live for a declutter/organisation video.

[@AndyD.21]

Same :D

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! Good work!

[@theophania10]

Those cobweb design shoes!!! If I didn't have such bad feet and knees, I would totally rock those. Can't wait to see them in a lookbook or styling video *hint, hint* :)

[@maryblaylock6545]

Those are GORGEOUS! And sexy as the dickens!

[@Dylorid]

That lemon dress is so beautiful on you and I'm sad you're getting rid of it. But I may be biased because I love lemon print things

[@TheClosetHistorian]

I may already have a new more "me" lemon dress planned ha!

[@Dylorid]

@@TheClosetHistorian can't wait to see it!

[@thegreypoet9518]

I think; Make the unfinished pieces available, but put the flaws in the description.

[@lilibetp]

I like the design of the one dress you're uncertain about, but I think the print kind of wears you.

[@Lilyannaluv]

Your hair is amazing here! I went on the great polyester removal a few years ago, and there's still a few pieces left in my wardrobe I'm having a hard time letting go of. I have not brought any new polyester in though, aside from an online purchase that was not properly listed online 😢

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Melissa! I have to /really/ love a polyester thing to keep it, so its almost a help when curating like this 😅

[@popovka]

“'...it's just. Not...... black enough“ Somehow this really spoke to me

[@JustSaralius]

27:54 Keep it! The sleeves give a sort of cape look and it's so elegant and pretty on you! 😍😊👌

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@ReinaElizondo]

💜 Your wardrobe is so fun! That rainbow dress is so pretty. I think it's fine to sell it with unfinished seams as long as you disclose it, but if you feel off about that, you could consider doing a giveaway for it. Like you said it's a favorite. My inner magpie tendencies are in full sympathy. I tried to go minimalist and succeeded in decluttering a lot, but I just don't think I'll ever be able to live my tiny house dreams lol. Too many craft items which also need space to use. And my wardrobe tends to re-expand.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Reina! I am definitely not meant to be a minimalist 😅 Just not in my bones ha!

[@thecadaver]

Very much feeling the "this is the wrong kind of feminine for me" problem you're having with the softer floral prints. I always feel like I dress quite feminine but like... if all the feminine clothes were dumped in a black dye bath and had all the frills taken off. Which I may have done once or twice...

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Yes exactly! 🖤🕸🦇

[@liz257]

54 mins let me get a coffee. let's goooooo

[@odettemichel3563]

Thanks for making me feel like a minimalist.

[@katefromantikanueva4629]

Thank you! It was useful to see your curation process--I need to do the same, and it's nice to see another maximalist doing this, rather than one of those folks who weed down to 1 pair of jeans and 2 t-shirts.

[@sandyaledor]

Girl I'm going to be all over your shop because there are a couple of dresses, blouses and skirts you are letting go of! Especially the ones you've made! I'm a big fan😅💕

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Sandy!

[@the_dapper_scrapper]

I agree with your assessment of the sleeves on the orange floral dress. They do hit in an awkward way. The dress is nice enough to bother altering though. I think you could shorten the sleeves to a more attractive length.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

I am inclined to agree with you...perhaps a simple sleeve solution is in my future

[@nonakabyrd5759]

I don't have many friends either, and they all live in other states. You should have live online cocktail parties. We can ask questions and get dressed up and go no where, but drink classic cocktails.

[@believeinfaeries8713]

You should certainly list the items that may not be as well finished as you would prefer in your shop. I thoroughly enjoyed these videos. It was enjoyable to see someone else grapple with how to curate their wardrobe and get rid of those items that they don’t reach for. Glad I’m not the only who keeps stuff for sentimental reasons.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! Certainly not alone there!

[@amiberg1991]

I wish we were the same size so I could buy all the dresses you are not keeping 😭😭😭

[@Lamdennison]

I think the 80s-does-40s floral dress (with the sleeves you don't like) looks lovely on you; however, if you don't think so, how likely are you to wear it. Since the idea is for your to stick with what you wear and what gives you joy (Konmari method), you should probably let it go. I love the tropical dress with the pink flowers best on you. I hope it goes back to or stays on the keep rack. And I really don't think the 20s one-hour dresses flatter you as much as the 30s to early 50s styles.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Leigh-Anne!

[@cenedra20]

40% is amazing, you did superbly!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@CC-ym1di]

I just love that hairdo on you !! Good job with your closet decluttering, we love thrifting haul but never realize how much space all these vintage beauties take...

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@Fireball0]

Not the lemon dress! It is so beautiful. Too bad I'm much larger than you, otherwise I'd buy it off off you.

[@paulapercsi8897]

I watch this and think: I need to make more dresses! I only have perhaps 8? Most of them for the summer. I will definitely make a navy pencil one. I loved that on you 😍 Good job with this video!!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Paula!

[@crowfaerymori]

Yes, I definitely could justify my clothing addiction as being the money I would have spent if I partied haha.

[@ShannonLambert]

I've rarely regretted letting things go - and even the one pair of shoes I kind of wish I had kept, I rarely wore. So I'm in camp "if you're hesitating, let it go" - and you have let a lot of things go! Well done.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Shannon!

[@FiresideAngel]

Your cat is so adorable! Love his little mumbles :)

[@TheClosetHistorian]

The best, our cats are very chatty ❤

[@rinsesshomaru4789]

Organisation....so satisfying. Mmmmm neatness.

[@pdxcyn]

So hard to let go of any me-mades. I feel your pain. I'm also trying to get rid of synthetic clothing in my wardrobe, but I also recently bought a bag for washing synthetics that is supposed to keep the microplastics from entering the waterways at least. I have owned a few true vintage dresses that did not have finished seams, and they managed to survive decades so I think it is okay as long as you disclose in the listing. (Looks more authentic than serged seams, lol) Also meant to comment on the last video that I completely disagree: you look great in a bolero. I will definitely check out the etsy shop when you get around to listing.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Cyndy!

[@amberschipper3851]

Please give me the purple en gold dress..... 😍 and the purple circle skirt, I love it

[@636ellie]

Thank you 😍

[@tiffytattoo2450]

Ok, we just saw a myriad of beautiful clothing, but I keep thinking "I love this wall!". The panelling and the colour is so stunning!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! I am really loath to paint over it because I like it too 😅 I only get to decorate my "set", aka this wall, so dark moody green it is currently 💚

[@dottiemathews6853]

THAT FLOWER DRESS? YEAH, IT'S THE SLEEVES. I SAY, KEEP THE DRESS BUT DO SOMETHING ELSE WITH THE SLEEVES.

[@waterbitten]

Your hair grows so quickly! I love this hair style.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! I ended up cutting my own hair in a lockdown need-change-now-going-bonkers moment earlier this week 😅 So I'm back to my shorter bobbed hair for now, but it will grow out again indeed!

[@kjtherrick4031]

You've done a great culling job. Thanks for showing off your costume jewelry, closet, etc. It looks amazing! Years ago a friend of mine inherited a fair amount of costume jewelry from her grandmother and she came up with what I thought was an awesome idea. She bought a nice, but plain floor rug that she hung and then she pinned her various brooches and I think draped some necklaces over other pins too on the hanging rug. So, the costume jewelry was within sight and reach and she had unusual, interesting, and very decorative wall art. So, if you have wall space and can find a rug you want to hang....

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! Alas I fill every bit of wall with art and maps and such so I haven't any bare wall left ha!

[@JustSaralius]

Time to start dusting off ye olde pinterest board and get sorting! Thanks for the motivation and useful tips! It's not going to be easy with my chronic fatigue etc. so I needed this! Hopefully I'll get to it before spring has come and gone... XD

[@tikimama1139]

Never be embarrassed of your amazing jewelry collection! (She says, owner of 12 Lady Buxton jewelry boxes full of vintage costume jewelry).

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Ha! Thank you! 😅

[@1Tonysgal]

Your hair is FABULOUS! I'd love it if you'd show us how you do it. I bet I'm not the only one!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! I have a couple of victory roll tutorials here on the channel kzbin.info/www/bejne/Zpu4mZquYtRmg5Y kzbin.info/www/bejne/mqSWdKGHf8uWftU

[@bhavens9149]

My 3 cents! :) I like the green gingham better than the grey one, and the Limon Cello dress looks fabulous on you, The taupe that you aren't happy with try with raisin lip color, and switch the accents to black, dark wine or dark brown (olive maybe) and see if the color works better, might still Not be perfect, but might be worth a try. :) the red doesn't like the taupe as far as I can tell via internet, never certain the colors online are true. :) Hope that helps!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! I too in the end agree and like the green gingham the best of all the ginghams 😅

[@gabriellewhite9607]

You only have 202 clothes 😳 when I counted what was in my closet the other day it was 236 and that’s not including the enormous pile of clothes I have yet to put away 🤔 I love closet clean out type videos because they really make me consider my style and what I should be keeping vs getting rid of. I think you did a great job

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Gabrielle! I mean the total would be higher if I counted all my pajamas and oversized Star Wars tee shirts I wear around the house too, but those aren't "real" clothes in my brain because I wouldn't wear them out 😅

[@Salsagirl66]

I applaud you for this efficient clear out! Whenever I try something like this, I end up putting 98% back.. I do hope you keep the dress with the flowers made with the Marc Jacobs fabric (@24:40), it looks stunning on you. Also, if the only reason you’re getting rid of the wax dress (@22:10) is because you feel it is “appropriative”, don’t. I happen to have lived in several African countries for a total of 10 years and the people there were always happy to see me embrace their culture, celebrating their holidays and wearing clothes made of wax and basin fabric.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@michelledee9304]

I am favoriting your Etsy shop, waiting for the closet clean out to get listed. I am especially interested in the accessories.

[@wwirelesswwizard]

I don't like polyester very much either, for a number of reasons. One of these reasons is the lack of breathability, of course. But if part of the reason that you're weeding polyester from your wardrobe is because of microplastic pollution when you wash it, you could get one of those Guppyfriend laundry bags to help reduce that problem. I plan on getting one soon.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

It's just because it's less comfortable really. I am keeping some polyester pieces that I have sewn myself because sometimes one needs wild metallic finishes only plastics can proved unfortunately!

[@lynnbigner570]

Oh that was fun! NOT a flirty fifties girl. Embrace your sophistication. Anyone who envisions herself drinking lemon cello in an olive grove does want to look like Lucy.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

To be fair I am just not a flirty person in general, I wouldn't even know how to flirt if the occasion ever arose where I found wanted to 😅 Not my area!

[@NYetton]

100% this drag queen snagged those spider shoes in a 13M

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Heck yes! 🕸🖤

[@WithLoveKristina]

I think you made good choices and also should keep that black one you kept waffling on. Also, I need to do this SO BADLY and you've inspired me to finally get to it.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Kristina! It feel so nice afterwards 😅