Declutter your closet: 12 Things to get rid of right now

I decided to be intentional about what I keep in my closet, and in this post, I’m sharing 12 things you should get rid of to declutter your closet right now.

If you have a closet full of clothes but still feel like you have nothing to wear, trust me—you’re not just indecisive. That’s your subconscious trying to tell you something. Most likely, it’s telling you that your wardrobe is full of pieces that don’t actually serve you anymore.

Decluttering your closet isn’t just about tossing out random items. It’s about making space for clothes you love, that fit well, and that match your current style and lifestyle. Building a functional closet isn’t about quantity, it’s about curating the right pieces that make getting dressed feel easy, not overwhelming.

Let’s jump into it.

1. Clothes That Don’t Match Your Ideal Style

One of the most effective ways to declutter your closet is to get rid of clothes that no longer reflect your ideal style. When I transitioned from my early 20s to my early 30s, I realized how much my style had evolved. Suddenly, all those ripped jeans, tiny crop tops, and mini denim skirts just didn’t feel like “me” anymore.

Holding on to clothes that don’t align with who you are now just clutters your space and makes getting dressed feel like a chore. Let them go. Your closet should reflect the current you, not a past version you’ve outgrown.

2. Clothes That No Longer Fit

Let’s be honest: we’ve all held on to something that doesn’t fit anymore. I had this pair of black jeans I absolutely loved. They were snug, flattering, and made me feel cute… five years ago. But three dress sizes later and a baby down the line, they just didn’t serve me anymore.

I kept telling myself I’d lose a few pounds and fit back into them. But eventually, I had to face the truth: my body had changed, and that’s okay. Don’t let your closet become a shrine to who you “used to be.” Be realistic. If it hasn’t fit in over a year and you’re not actively working toward that size, it’s time to let it go.

3. Uncomfortable Shoes

At this stage in my life, comfort comes first. I used to keep a collection of gorgeous heels—some I had never even worn, but they all had one thing in common: I couldn’t walk in them for more than 10 minutes. What’s the point of keeping shoes that torture you?

So, I made a choice. I got rid of all the heels that gave me blisters, pinched my toes, or made my back hurt. Now, I only keep shoes I can actually live in stylish and comfortable. Trust me, your feet will thank you.

4. Clothes You’ve Outgrown Emotionally or Mentally

Decluttering your closet isn’t just about fit, it’s also about emotional fit. There are clothes we’ve outgrown mentally. Maybe it’s that super corporate blazer from a job you hated or a party dress that reminds you of a time you’d rather not revisit.

It’s okay to release clothing that no longer aligns with who you are or where you’re going. Don’t carry emotional baggage in your wardrobe.

5. Clothes You Haven’t Worn in a Year

If you haven’t reached for it in the past year, chances are you’re not going to wear it. I know, it’s hard, especially when you spent good money on something. But think about it: if it’s been sitting untouched for over 12 months, why keep it?

There are a few exceptions like special occasion pieces or seasonal outerwear, but most things should be worn and loved regularly. If they’re not, let them go. Someone else might love it more than you do.

If you keep buying stuff you never wear, you might be a hoarder. Check out this post on 10 early signs that you may be a hoarder.

6. Worn-Out Undies

We all have that one pair of undies that are super comfy but completely stretched out and barely holding on. Maybe it’s got a hole (or two) or the waistband is more of a suggestion than a structure.

Throw them out. Fresh, good-quality undergarments can seriously boost your confidence and comfort. Your top drawer deserves better.

7. Gifts You’ve Never Worn

It’s okay to let go of gifts. Seriously. Just because someone gave it to you doesn’t mean you’re required to keep it forever. Last year, I let go of this beautiful pink and orange summer dress my friend got me for my birthday. It was stunning! but it just didn’t fit me right. The top dug into my chest and gave me side-boob.

I kept it for years out of guilt, but I never wore it. Now I’ve realized that letting it go doesn’t mean I love my friend any less, it just means I’m making space for what truly fits me.

8. Clothes You’ll Likely Wear Once

That dress you bought for a wedding three years ago? The one you might wear again if a similar event comes up? Yeah—time to be honest. If you’re not excited to re-wear it, or if it’s been hanging there “just in case,” it’s probably taking up valuable space.

Occasional wear has its place, but if you have too many “one-hit wonders,” it might be time to donate or sell them. A minimalist approach works wonders here.

9. Worn-Out Clothes

Not everything deserves to be mended. If something is stained beyond help, has holes in weird places, or just looks tired, let it go! Holding on to worn-out clothes makes your wardrobe feel more chaotic than it needs to be.

Your closet should feel like a boutique, not a thrift store clearance bin.

10. Trendy Pieces That Have Fizzled Out

Trendy fashion can be fun, but it can also leave you with a closet full of stuff you don’t wear once the hype dies down. I’ve learned to shop more intentionally, choosing classic pieces that I’ll wear for the next five to ten years.

If your wardrobe is overloaded with fast-fashion trends from two summers ago that you haven’t touched since, it’s time to declutter your closet and make room for timeless staples.

11. Sentimental Pieces You’re Afraid to Let Go Of

We all have that hoodie from college or a t-shirt from an old vacation that holds memories. But if it’s not something you wear, consider preserving the memory in a different way, like taking a photo or making a memory quilt, rather than keeping it buried in your closet.

Clothing should serve your present, not just your past.

12. Multiples of the Same Item

Guilty as charged. I used to buy the same style of shirt in five different colors because it was “safe.” But then I realized I was only wearing two of them, and the rest were collecting dust.

Duplicates aren’t always helpful. Be selective. Keep what you actually wear and love, and donate the rest.

Decluttering your closet isn’t a one-time thing it’s an ongoing practice of checking in with yourself, your lifestyle, and your needs. When your wardrobe is clean, functional, and filled only with things you love, getting dressed becomes a joy instead of a struggle.

So grab a trash bag (or three) and start making space. You deserve a closet that works for you, not against you.