Decluttering Your Closet with Color in Mind

The new year is always a time when we feel inspired to refresh our homes and organize our spaces. Oftentimes, that takes the form of decluttering a junk drawer, reorganizing bathroom toiletries, or taking a very serious look at our closet.

Recently, Kristina and I had the pleasure of having our color analysis done by Celia Ridley from House of Color Greenville, and it was such an illuminating experience for us. We realized that many of the colors we naturally gravitate toward in our wardrobe actually fall within our color season, which is winter. Kristina and I are both winters, but different kinds. I am a winter jewel tone, or sprinter-winter leaning slightly toward spring. Kristina is a burnished or sultry winter, which means she shines in smoky, deeper, darker colors (which also happen to be her favorites).

Matina’s Closet Cleanout

So naturally, when I recently had the itch to declutter my closet, I decided to use my new color palette that Celia gifted us as a guide. I wanted to see if the clothing I didn’t often reach for was actually outside of my color season.

I was surprised—but also not surprised—to discover that the burnt oranges, yellows, and light pastel pinks in the warmer family were exactly the colors I avoided wearing. Even though those clothes were still in good condition, I gave myself permission to set them aside and remove them from my closet.

Next, I organized my clothing by the items I use most frequently so they would be easily accessible. Now I know how many pieces I have in each category and what staple items I might need to replace to continue building my capsule wardrobe.

Celia’s Expert Insight

Celia says that if we shop within our color palette, it becomes easier to be stylish and mix and match because all the colors naturally go together. For favorites that are not a part of my winter palette, for example, olive green pants, she recommends pairing with pieces that are, for example, a burgundy top, keeping the winter colors closest to my face. Using the palettes she gave us helps me gauge what colors will pair harmoniously and how to style colors that aren’t in my season.

Emotional Connection

This process was really exciting for us, and I honestly feel like it helped me detach emotionally from my clothing. Clothing has always been emotional for me. I hold on to the memories that each piece represents— first date, job interview, special event, etc. That’s why, when I’m in the mood to live more minimally and declutter (and my desire to let go of items is stronger than my tendency to hold onto sentimental clothing), I often focus my energy by starting in the closet. When I am in a mindset of wanting to simplify my daily life, it makes it a little easier for me to make quick decisions about what to keep without getting lost in nostalgia or memories tied to specific outfits.

Clothing Swap

Another thing I plan to do is separate clothing that’s still in good condition but just not my colors, and host a clothing swap with my friends. Clothing swaps are one of my favorite ways to get unique, well-loved pieces that have already stood the test of time. I also love thrifting luxury pieces. You can tell when something has been used but is still in pristine condition and going to last. Some of my favorite clothing has come from either thrift stores, friends, or my mom shopping for me.

For my clothing swap, I’m planning a brunch with my friends where we can wear pajamas, sip mimosas, and share our goals for the year while we “shop” from items we’ve each let go of, picking up a few new wardrobe pieces. All the remaining items will be donated to the Safe Harbor Resale Shop, which helps provide services for survivors of domestic abuse and their children.

What are you decluttering this season? Is it your pantry, your garage, your attic? Now that the holiday décor is organized, the rest of your space might be asking for a little TLC, too.

Whether you’re doing it yourself or need a little help, feel free to reach out. We also have a Getting Organized Guide that can help you create a plan and stay organized.

And if you need support, our team would be honored to help you refresh your home for 2026.