I’ve served as a Fashion Editor for ten years—here are my tips and tricks for a…

      The start of a new year resembles the flipping of a new page. With this sentiment often comes the motivation to establish new objectives, explore new hobbies, or even let go of some unproductive habits. Another approach to enter the new year with renewed purpose is to examine your possibly overflowing wardrobe and remove items that have been gathering dust for a while. Out with the old, in with the new! Personally, I need to heed my own suggestion, as my wardrobe is currently overflowing. I have numerous duplicates, an odd assortment of seasonal items (my bikinis and scarves are oddly juxtaposed), some of which could be stored away until needed, and a few garments that no longer feel like "me." If you're also gazing at your crammed wardrobe, rail, or dresser with similar concern, welcome; you’re in good company.

      This is where the process becomes invigorating. By committing to a wardrobe cleanse, you possess all the control. Discarding items that no longer benefit you will feel akin to shedding a layer of skin and will create significant space for you to appreciate the clothes, shoes, and accessories that you genuinely love but may not wear as often as you'd like.

      I enjoy performing a yearly wardrobe refresh, and this January, I'm planning to dedicate a chilly Sunday indoors to tackle this task. As someone with a decade of experience as a fashion editor, I see myself as quite skilled at this, but I wanted some insider tips from a personal shopper who specializes in wardrobe-refresh sessions. I reached out to London-based personal stylist Kate Lauren to gain her insights, tricks, and strategies. In summary, she shares her expertise on how to rejuvenate your wardrobe and utilize what you currently own while recognizing any gaps, enabling you to make deliberate and smart shopping choices going forward.

      **Personal shopper, stylist, and wardrobe expert, Kate Lauren.**

      Eager to revise your wardrobe for 2026? The moment is now! Continue reading for our guide, tips, and hacks to kickstart the process, along with some shopping recommendations to make your wardrobe look fabulous for the year ahead.

      1. **How Do I Prepare for a Wardrobe Clean-Out This January?**

      To begin, allocate ample time for this task, and I recommend not tackling it in the evening. Working in daylight will help you see everything clearly. It sets a positive, calming atmosphere and allows you to properly try on each piece. "I always emphasize that preparation starts mentally, not physically," Lauren advises. "Approach it with a clear objective, be it to create more space, develop a cohesive wardrobe, or identify gaps—having a goal keeps decisions streamlined and minimizes overwhelm." She suggests observing which pieces you frequently reach for and their significance. "These items reveal far more about your personal style than those left untouched." Investing in a portable rail will assist in the editing process, as you'll be able to move things around.

      "A clear mind, good lighting, and a full-length mirror significantly impact the outcome," Lauren says. Consider playing some mellow music, lighting a candle, and making it an enjoyable experience. This time is for you and should feel positive, fun, and productive.

      2. **Are There Rules, Methods, or Systems for a Successful Wardrobe Clean-Out?**

      It’s essential to reflect on whether all items in your wardrobe are serving you well. If not, they are simply taking up space. Lauren has a distinctive technique she refers to as "3 Ways She Stays." "I guide my clients to determine that each item can be styled in at least three different ways for at least three different occasions—be it work, weekends, evenings, or travel," she observes. "This method ensures each piece truly works hard for you. Typically, we only wear about 20% of our wardrobe. Using the '3 Ways She Stays' technique during a clean-out helps identify which items merit retention, which need styling assistance, and which can be let go."

      3. **How Do I Know What to Keep?**

      This is where the temporary rail becomes beneficial. Bring forward any pieces you wear frequently and adore. Lauren offers valuable advice: "What you choose to keep should align with your lifestyle rather than nostalgia or guilt. Retain items that fit well, feel comfortable, and boost your confidence upon wearing them." These pieces should ignite joy and epitomize your personal style. Embrace and utilize them; you've invested in them for a reason, so cherish them.

      4. **What Items Do I Throw Away?**

      "Start by parting with anything that's damaged beyond repair or no longer fits comfortably," advises Lauren. "Clothing that makes you feel self-conscious or constricted typically doesn't deserve a second chance, no matter how beautiful it may have once been." If there’s something you haven’t worn in years, ponder the reason. If it holds sentimental value, keep it in a safe spot that doesn’t clutter your working wardrobe. However, if it