Changing Seasonal Wardrobes
I have put this off like the plague, but it is time to pack up some of my summer clothes to make way for Winter! During seasonal transition times, it can be so easy to just run out and buy a bunch of new clothes for the season ahead. But you can make the transition smooth when you take your time to rethink what you already have.
I’m washing all of my clothes, so I can go through everything. I get excited when it comes time to swap seasons because it means I can figure out what clothing items are working for me and what I could upcycle into something entirely new.
Here are a few tips for the changing fashion season!
To start, wash everything that is dirty and get it hung up or put away neatly to be able to go through with ease. I always gather seasonal items into a bag to store in my closet, or you could use a cardboard box or other storage bin.
Next, pull out any item of clothing that you didn’t wear over the Spring/Summer months…or things you only wore a couple of times that got pushed to the back of your closet. These items are perfect for upcycling into something new, so don’t throw them out. You could donate some of them if you want or give them to a friend to wear, but if you are like me…set those pieces aside to make into something new.
Anything that needs mended for the Winter months should be gathered up next! I have a dress that lost a button, so I’m going to sew the button back on. Also anything with holes or stains can go in the bag to be altered later. Those items are perfect for applique and lace, or mend tears with a zig zag stitch. Do you know I actually used to throw things away if buttons came off…when all I had to do was sew the buttons back on? SHAME!
Unpack winter clothing from last season and get it ready to wear. I am getting out my sweaters this week and washing those as well. I also just washed my old winter coat to be reworn. I bought it two years ago, and it is still in perfect condition! If you want to spruce up an old faux fur or wool coat, consider sewing on patches for a trendy look so it will be like new!
Another step here is to figure out what warm weather items you want to keep in your wardrobe for the cold months. T shirts can be worn in layers or worn as pj’s, or you could always add long sleeves or layer turtlenecks underneath. I stopped wearing shorts in my teen years, so my pants easily transition for year round wear. Pants and skirts made with super lightweight fabric might have to sit out the cold months though, so get them out of rotation.
As a final step, you could check for gaps in your wardrobe and pick up a few items. Thrifting is a great option, try Poshmark for a sweet deal. This year I bought a few basic long sleeve t shirts and turtlenecks for layering, and a couple of pairs of jeans. I also got a faux fur jacket for the mild winter days, because my old coat is really puffy and only works for those super cold temps.
Now you have a bag or bin full of clothes that are dying to be made into something new! And you are ready for Winter…bonus pack! I guess I better get back to my own wardrobe now…those clothes are not going to wash themselves! LOL! 😂
