Closet Memories

I was reminded by Ileana's comment, on the previous closet thread, that closets serve other purposes besides holding the clothes that we wear every day.

Some items in our closets are very hard to part with, because they hold memories of significant events, or of a different time, or a different body that we had to dress. These items fall into the category of "archival items," and, if you have the room, by all means, keep them. Box them up, put them in storage, keep them under the bed, wherever you have the space.

These things are very unlikely to work into perfect outfits in the upcoming seasons, but the occasional accessory may return as an accent piece. You are welcome to box all those, too. Just don't mistake these pieces for the clothing that you will be wearing soon.

Once an item has failed, it's unusual to have it reclaim its premier position. If it's so-so to begin with, it's even less likely to begin to wow you. So, arrange your closet to hold perfect items that sing out loud, only.

Discard the ones that fail (remember the Pres Wear Test; wear them once, for a whole day, and see how you feel about 'em. Then toss the losers out.) Any items that are out of season, or nostalgic favorites, can certainly be stored, but not for wearing tomorrow.