Your KYDRA Guide to Detoxing your Wardrobe

Before you start pulling clothes off hangers, get organised with these tips:

• Three bins and a large box 

One bin will be for seasonal clothes, one for everyday wear, and the third for "must go over them again" items. The box is for pieces you are 100% sure you plan to give away, donate, or try to sell on Marketplace or Carousell. 

• A playlist with your favourite upbeat tunes

Background music may help keep you upbeat and energised throughout the process. Think of it like a workout. 

• A friend with a no-nonsense attitude (optional) 

If you need a second opinion, ask a good friend to come over and make a hangout day out of it. Then offer to return the favour should they decide to cleanse their wardrobe too.

2. The Picking Process

We've gone over a similar technique with our guide to creating a capsule wardrobe. So, we'll take that decision-making process into more detail below. Start by looking at each item critically and asking yourself these questions. You can do this by yourself or with your friend:

1. Have I worn this in the last six months? If the answer is no, chances are you'll not wear it again soon.

2. Have I forgotten I even owned this piece? If the answer is yes, into the bye-bye pile, it goes.

3. Does this still fit me well? If the item hasn't fit well in the last six months, you know where it should go unless you know that a quick visit to a seamstress for alterations can bring it back into your regular outfit rota.

4. Is this still reflective of who I am today? We've all gone through 'phases' in our fashion styles. The combat boots you so lovingly wore when you were really into being goth are probably not something you should keep if you're no longer living that emo lifestyle.

5. Do I wear this regularly? These pieces go into the "keep" bin but first check them for signs of wear and tear. 

3. The Exception

There is one exception to these rules, which hinges on the answer to the crucial question, "Does the item hold sentimental value?"

It could be the dress you wore at graduation, the now-threadbare scarf that kept you warm during your first winter abroad, or an outdated skirt that was a gift from your grandma. Whatever the reason, if looking at a piece evokes feel-good emotions and nostalgia, there's no need to give them up.

But they shouldn't take up space in your closet. Carefully fold and pack them away. KYDRA Tip: find someone who can create a "memory quilt" using bits of fabric from these extra sentimental pieces.

4. Sort and Store 

Now it's time to put your sorted clothes into their respective spaces. But first, pat yourself on the back for getting this far! Your KYDRA Squad is proud of you. 

Items you wear regularly should be hung up or folded and put back in your closets. Take this opportunity to reorganise by arranging tops, bottoms, dresses, etc., in a system that works for you.

Take your seasonal clothes, set them aside in their assigned storage bin, throw in a few dryer sheets to keep the musty smell out, and say, "see you when I need you!"

The clothes you feel can be sold should be set aside for a good wash and ironing, while those for donation should be folded and put together in the box. Give yourself a deadline to get these items out of your home. We recommend two weeks max.