How many coats do you need?

It’s true that most of us probably have quite a few coats. I know I do. I’m not sure how it happened but, well, there you are. Regardless, if your closet is overflowing it may be a sign that maybe it’s time to do some decluttering and pass those excess coats on to someone who can use them. Trust me: there are not too many things in life better than a closet with white space, where your clothes can breath, where you can find things without rooting around, where a sense of peace flows out every time you open the door. Haven’t felt any of this? You. Are. So. Missing. Out.

Before you even look at your coats, get out a pen and notebook and make a list for each of the categories below. Define on paper the exact coat that best fits each occasion. This is the easiest way to truly narrow down your needs: get it down on paper based on memory.

Two categories of coats: 

Weather coats: In downtown Cincinnati we need a super heavy winter coat, a heavy winter coat, a raincoat, and spring/fall coats. 

Lifestyle coats: Now, based on your lifestyle, add in the other coats you need.   

• Business? I work at home so I don’t need one. 
• Dressy? I have a dressy coat for winter and another for spring/fall. Both double as mild raincoats.
• Exercise? In addition to my two winter coats and my raincoat, I wear 2 vests, a windbreaker, and two lighter jackets for different temperatures. 
• Gotta keep? I have a wool shawl that I bought in York, England and every year for the past two decades I swore I would let it go if I didn’t start wearing it. But I’ve given up. I can't let it go. It’s still here, waiting patiently on my shelf hoping someday it will get to see the outside world. ​

Now that you have a list, it’s time to start. (Take pictures to share with your friends and brag about your huge accomplishment!)

1. Totally empty the closet. Totally. Empty. Everything thing out.
2. ​Sweep up the crud.
3. Put back the coats from your lists above. If you have more than one for each occasion, put back your favorite, the one you wear most often. 
4. Take care of what's left. Really, if it wasn't on your original list it means you forgot about it which means you probably don't wear it which means you probably don't need it. If you're strong, pack them up to sell or donate Right This Very Minute. If you're not that strong, pack them into a box and store the box far away. Then see if you want to wear them badly enough to go dig out the box. If you don't wear them the very next season, pass them on!

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