5 Mistakes to Avoid During a DIY Closet Edit

May 22

To make your closet edit a success, it’s important to approach it with a strategy.

Doing a closet edit can feel liberating and empowering—but it can also feel overwhelming if you’re not sure where to start. Many women dive into the process with good intentions, only to end up frustrated, with a bigger mess than they started.

Here are five common mistakes to avoid during a closet edit, and how you can steer clear of them for a smoother, more effective process.

1. Starting Without a Clear Plan

MISTAKE: Diving in without a strategy can leave you feeling stuck or unsure of what to do next.

SOLUTION: Before you begin, map out your process. Decide if you’re tackling your entire closet at once or breaking it into sections (e.g., tops, bottoms, shoes). Gather supplies like donation bags, bins for sorting, and a full-length mirror for trying on items. Set aside enough time to complete the section you’re working on so you’re not left with piles of clothes taking over your space.

2. Keeping "Just in Case" Clothes

MISTAKE: Holding onto clothes that you’ve outgrown physically, emotionally, or stylistically “just in case” you need them someday.

SOLUTION: Be honest with yourself about whether these pieces truly serve you. Ask, Does this fit my body and lifestyle today? If it’s been years since you wore it, chances are you won’t miss it. Letting go creates space for pieces that align with who you are now.

3. Not Trying Things On

MISTAKE: Skipping the step of trying on clothes can lead to keeping items that don’t fit or flatter.

SOLUTION: Make trying on non-negotiable. Fit and comfort can’t always be judged on the hanger. Trying things on ensures you’re only keeping items that make you look and feel amazing. It’s also a great opportunity to rediscover forgotten favorites or confirm that certain pieces need to go.

4. Decluttering Without a Vision

In my Closet Edit Guide, I help you identify your wardrobe gaps.

MISTAKE: Focusing solely on what to remove instead of thinking about the wardrobe you want to build.

SOLUTION: Before you begin editing, take a moment to envision your ideal wardrobe. Think about your personal style, lifestyle needs, and the pieces that bring you joy. This vision will guide your decisions and help you identify what to keep, donate, or replace. Remember, the goal isn’t just to declutter—it’s to curate a wardrobe that works for you.

5. Forgetting to Address Wardrobe Gaps

MISTAKE: Decluttering without assessing what’s missing can leave you frustrated when you go to create outfits later.

SOLUTION: As you edit, make note of gaps in your wardrobe. Maybe you realize you don’t have enough versatile basics or that your shoe collection lacks variety. Creating a shopping list of intentional pieces ensures you’re building a cohesive wardrobe, not just paring it down.

In the guide, I also give you guidance on how to make the sometimes tough decision if a piece should stay or go.

Bonus Tip: Don’t Skip the Emotional Work

Closet editing isn’t just a physical task; it’s an emotional one. Many women hold onto clothes because they represent past identities, memories, or aspirations. Recognize that it’s okay to feel attached, but also remind yourself that letting go of the past makes room for the future. You deserve a wardrobe that reflects and supports who you are today.

Final Thoughts

A DIY closet edit can be a game-changer for your wardrobe and your confidence—if you approach it the right way. Avoiding these common mistakes ensures you’ll not only declutter effectively but also create a wardrobe that aligns with your personal style and lifestyle.

If you’re ready to make the process even easier, grab my Closet Edit Guide and Workbook, designed to help you tackle your closet edit step by step with confidence. (See below.)

Your dream wardrobe is waiting—let’s get started!

With love and style,