What Your Closet Says About You

Most likely everyone has had that closet moment where we stare at a full rack of clothes and think that we have nothing to wear. Have you ever paused and asked yourself what your closet is saying about you?

Your wardrobe is more than just fabric and hangers. It’s actually a snapshot of your lifestyle, personality, habits, mood swings and even your insecurities. Even if you don’t realize it, your closet is actually telling a story, and it might be time to start listening to it.

Image from: https://www.nytimes.com/2022/10/10/style/clothes-wardrobe-need.html

A maximalist or minimalist?

We need to start with something that is obvious, and that’s the quantity. If your closet is full of dramatic sleeves, layered textures, bold colors and patterns, then you are most likely a fashion maximalist. It means you love variety and you consider your wardrobe as a playground.

You are creative, a bit spontaneous and expressive when it comes to your shopping habits. And there will most likely be a story behind each piece. Like travel finds, vintage treasures and even impulse buys after late-night scrolling.

On the other hand, if your wardrobe heavily leans into beige, white, black and soft neutrals and clean lines and a few well-loved staples. It means that you are a fashion minimalist. Also, it means that you value quality over quantity. Your wardrobe will reflect intentionality, and you most likely gravitate towards order, calm, and timeless pieces that will make you feel grounded.

Neither is better and both tell a story. And then the question becomes the following: Is your current wardrobe reflecting who you are now or who you used to be?

Image from: https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/fashion/capsule-wardrobe-what-is-it-why-how-to-start-fashion-clothing-a8614476.html

Ghosts in your closet?

And those ghosts are the items you never wear but can’t seem to let go. Those heels that look amazing but don’t fit you. Or the blazer you bought for a job, but hated. Even a dress that reminds you of someone you no longer are.

We tend to keep pieces for emotional reasons and that’s also ok. But when your closet becomes more about who we used to be than who we are now, it can weigh us down. Not only literally but also emotionally.

Can you ask yourself what are you holding on to and why? Maybe is it guilt or nostalgia. Even a version of yourself you think you should be. Your closet should celebrate the person that you are today. They shouldn’t haunt with expectations.

Image from: https://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/closet-organizer-ideas-how-to

Confidence and your closet

You need to take a look at the items you wear most often. Not those you wish you wore more, but those that make it into the rotation. Do they have something in common? What is it? Maybe are they cozy and comforting? Polished and structured or fun and playful?

These pieces are your confidence boosters. Those items that you subconsciously reach for when you want to feel your best. The chances are that they reveal what makes you feel safe, stylish and powerful.

Your style comfort zone isn’t a weakness, but it’s a clue. It tells what shapes, colors and textures feel more aligned with your identity. You should use that information when you’re editing your wardrobe or shopping for it. You need to build from your confidence zone and then add some curiosity around the edges.

Image from:  https://www.theessentialman.com/blog/mens-capsule-wardrobe-guide

Style isn’t a requirement but a reflection

No rulebook says your wardrobe has to look a certain way. It doesn’t need to be Pinterest-worthy or perfectly curated. But it should for sure reflect your current reality, your lifestyle and your values.

Maybe you just became a mom and your wardrobe is soft, stain-proof and stretchy. Or maybe you’re building your dream career and your armor is blazers. Or you are just beginning to explore your style after many years of feeling lost. They are all valid, as your closet is a reflection and not a requirement and it should evolve with you.

Image from: https://www.thespruce.com/storing-your-clothes-without-a-closet-2648456