Wardrobe Audit: Your First Step to a Cleaner Closet

When you start a wardrobe audit, you’re taking a close look at every piece of clothing to decide what stays, what goes, and why. Also known as a closet review, it helps you spot gaps, duplicate items, and pieces that no longer fit your style. By the end of the process you’ll have a clearer picture of what you actually wear day‑to‑day.

Key Concepts That Shape a Successful Audit

A solid audit often leans on a capsule wardrobe, a curated collection of versatile pieces that mix and match easily. This framework lets you see if you have too many variations of the same item or if you’re missing essential basics. Pairing that with the 90/90 decluttering rule, which suggests you keep only items you’ve worn in the past 90 days and could see yourself wearing in the next 90, gives you a practical filter for tough decisions.

Color coordination is another piece of the puzzle. The outfit color rule, a simple 60‑30‑10 formula that balances dominant, secondary, and accent hues, can guide you toward a more cohesive look while you trim excess pieces. When you apply this rule during your audit, you’ll notice which colors dominate your closet and which are under‑represented, helping you plan future purchases more intentionally.

Beyond the core ideas, think about shoe counts, after‑5 dress codes, and seasonal swaps. Knowing how many pairs of shoes you truly need, or what “smart‑casual” means for your after‑work events, prevents you from hoarding items that rarely see the light of day. Combining these related concepts makes the audit feel less like a chore and more like a strategic makeover.

Below you’ll find a curated selection of articles that break down each step, from applying the 90/90 rule to mastering the outfit color rule, and from building a 33‑piece capsule to choosing the right shoes for a minimalist closet. Dive in to get actionable tips, real‑world examples, and easy checklists that will help you finish your wardrobe audit with confidence.

12‑12‑12 Decluttering Rule Explained for a Capsule Wardrobe

Posted by Eamon Lockridge on Oct, 23 2025

12‑12‑12 Decluttering Rule Explained for a Capsule Wardrobe
Learn the 12‑12‑12 rule for decluttering and how it creates a streamlined capsule wardrobe. Follow a clear step‑by‑step guide, see real examples, and avoid common pitfalls.