Monday, February 28, 2011

CLOSET CLOGGING HABITS TO BREAK

Attention Shoppers! 3 Closet Clogging Habits to Break Now
Oprah and O's creative director, Adam Glassman, know—these three habits are the quickest way to clog your closet.
By Adam Glassman
O, The Oprah Magazine  |  From the March 2010 issue of O, The Oprah Magazine

1. DON'T BUILD A WARDROBE BASED ON FANTASY

Oprah: "I bought a lot of little bags when I thought I was going to be a 'lady who lunches.' I've never been one, but I've always liked the idea and longed for that life. There's something about dressing up and being ladies—it's like playing house."

Adam Says: "Fashion can help you create an image, but be honest about your lifestyle. Do you really need yachting clothes when you never set foot on a boat? When buying an item, if you can answer 'Where am I going in this?' with at least four legitimate places, you have my blessing."


2. DON'T BUY YOUR FAVORITES OVER AND OVER AND OVER

Oprah: "This suit, I don't know why I have it. I've never even worn it. But when my favorite designer, Gianfranco Ferré, was alive, I never went to Los Angeles or New York without going to his store."

Adam Says: "There is absolutely nothing wrong with having a go-to brand or ensemble. But if you're buying multiples of things, ask yourself: "How many black pants or little gray sweaters do I really need?" Invest in a few high-quality pieces; better craftsmanship and fabrics always last longer."

3. DON'T SHOP FOR THE BEAUTIFUL BUT IMPRACTICAL

Oprah: "I was at Bergdorf Goodman one day, coming up the escalator. And these boots said, 'Helloooo, Opraaaaah.' But did I wear them once? No. I bought them because they were beautiful—because I wanted to look at them."

Adam Says: "I call this trophy shopping. Before you buy, take stock of your closet: What are you missing? Shop for those pieces before impractical items. As for 'closet jewelry'? Hang a few gorgeous items on your closet door, just to make yourself smile."

MY THOUGHTS

i wish i can say i am not guilty.  there was a time i looked around my house and i hated myself. for accumulating so much, for getting things that were not really needed.  i've long since given up those things that cluttered my life.  but i still have a lot to let go of.  a garage sale - that's what i need to plan for.