Over the years, I’ve had many people ask me “What do I do with all my clothes when I retire?”
For many people this can be a very time consuming effort – and a daunting one at best. Perhaps that incredible business suit worn in the 90s (which was very expensive) would seem like a crime to get rid of it
Or what about those amazing boots with the fringe off the back that are no longer in style. Sadly, styles change so much year after year.
That’s where I can come in. One of the areas I enjoy is helping people by providing assistance in a closet makeover.
A few years ago, I had the pleasure of working with a client in the Pacific Northwest who was preparing to retire. Through our conversations, she realized that many of the clothes she wore in her career were no longer necessary.
Going through tons of sweaters, slacks, jackets, scarves and belts she realized that storing all of these items (which commanded two full closets) was no longer necessary. And it freed her from buying yet another wardrobe rack to hang all of these items on.
Granted, it is very difficult to part with clothes that looked great at another time in our life. However, the possibility of additional closet space, and making your partner happy that he (or she) can actually get into the closet on their side, and allowing for new items will take you towards your next step for retirement. Such step is exactly what’s needed for this new chapter.
My first question: What do you plan on doing in retirement? Travel? Perhaps pick up a new sport or embrace an old one?
The next question: What do you want to keep and what can be donated?
Lastly, the all-important question: How many pairs of slacks/blouses (or shirts for the men) does one really need in retirement?
There are a myriad of ways the above questions can be answered. The most important question, however, is to ask oneself: Will I be wearing this outfit anytime soon? If your answer is: No, then perhaps it’s time to let it go.
Think of retiring as an opportunity to explore new interests and hobbies and learn something new. Hiring someone to help with the downsizing of a closet is an area that is money well spent.
For more information on this subject, please feel free to reach out to me at (925) 518-4950 or email to: lisa@cleanlinesfashion.com. No cost for the first hour consultation.
