It seems that adulthood is just a constant cycle of cleaning out your closet and wondering why there is still no room in said closet. No matter how many times you organize, donate, or move into a newer, bigger closet, the cycle continues—so it is no wonder that there has been quite the overwhelming movement to majorly declutter every aspect of our homes.
Why Decluttering Is Actually Not Always A Good Thing
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While I’ve been ruthless with closet cleanouts in the past, I started realizing that most of the fashion trends coming back in recent years have all surrounded items of clothing or accessories I’ve already owned in the past, and perhaps even spent a pretty penny on until finally getting rid of them because they were “out of style.” Well, apparently what goes out comes right back in, especially anything from the 1990s and 2000s right now.
Ugg boots? Ballet flats? Skinny Jeans? Birkenstocks? Suddenly, whatever graced my wardrobe as a trend-chasing teen and young adult is back and more coveted than ever. I’m just kicking myself that I’ve already trashed or donated them in the name of “decluttering,” even if they were still in good condition.
Now, I’d be forced to spend hundreds of dollars for something I could have just kept in my closet. That means we’re all ultimately just throwing things out to buy more new things, and eventually potentially even the same items again.
Why My Southern Mother Chooses To Keep, Not Throw Out
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My stylish Southern mother, on the other hand, still has a closet full of heels, purses, and sweaters from decades ago, and they look as good as new. Moreover, the purses and other accessories she has already passed down to me are the ones that get the most compliments. When tiny shoulder bags came back in style, the circa-1998 chocolate-brown purse I begged her to lend me suddenly became the hottest “new” thing.
While there is something to be said for not over-consuming or overstuffing your closet—as well as for letting go of things that no longer serve you, like that dress you haven’t worn since your 21st birthday—there is also something commendable about, instead of constantly throwing things out and buying more new things, just simply investing in pieces that will remain in good condition. My mother is absolutely perfect at doing just that, and it’s majorly paid off.
This certainly goes for heirloom pieces that you might not wear that often, but even for pieces of clothing or accessories that are unique enough (or classic enough) to wear for years or decades.
All in all, I’m not going to completely quit getting rid of items in my closet, but I will be keeping more expensive “trendy” items I purchase, even if it means waiting years or decades (just like my mom) to use them again.
