Let’s have a real talk about our closets. If you’re like me, opening your closet doors might often lead to a sigh of “I have nothing to wear” — and isn’t it ironic how that comes from a closet packed full of clothes?

As we’re nearing the end of the year, I think it’s the perfect time for us to step back and declutter. A fresh start for the new year sounds delightful, doesn’t it?

Let’s walk through 30 things you can remove from your wardrobe today to make your closet feel lighter, fresher, and truly ready for whatever the new year has to offer.

On a side note, I’ve had a number of people mention to me in the video comments that people should just get rid of everything they don’t wear. However, that’s easier said than done. Oftentimes, we have so many items in our wardrobes that it can be overwhelming to sort through them all!

But I’m here for you! I understand the struggle, and that’s why I’ve included this in a long, easy-to-digest list. You can go through this list one by one or choose one area from the list to focus on that you’re inspired to tackle.

If you feel like you need more help, I’d like to invite you to join my fashion community, Style Uncorked, where we take this and many other fashion dilemmas in a warm and friendly environment.

1. Clothes That No Longer Fit

Holding onto clothes that no longer fit can be tempting, especially if our weight tends to fluctuate. But keeping these items can make your closet feel crowded with “what-ifs” rather than what actually works.

If you haven’t worn them in over a year, it’s time to let them go. Freeing up this space allows you to see and appreciate the clothes that fit and flatter your current shape. Plus, it reduces the daily stress of sorting through pieces that just don’t work anymore.

2. Unworn Shoes

We all love shoes, but having pairs that we don’t wear just takes up valuable space that could be used for shoes that we actually enjoy wearing. Whether they’re uncomfortable or just out of style, unworn shoes serve no purpose other than collecting dust.

If they’re gorgeous but painful, it’s better to admit they don’t belong in your life. Consider donating or selling them—someone else might find them just right. By decluttering your shoe collection, you make room for footwear that combines both style and comfort.

3. Outdated Trends

It’s tough to part with items that were once in vogue, especially if you spent a good amount of money on them. However, clinging to outdated trends can make your wardrobe feel dated and disconnected.

If you can’t see yourself wearing a piece in the current fashion cycle, it’s probably time to let it go. This doesn’t mean you can’t keep a few vintage or retro pieces that cycle back into style, but clearing out the majority frees up space for modern pieces that elevate your current style.

4. Worn Out Basics

Basics like T-shirts, jeans, and sweaters are the foundation of a versatile wardrobe, but they also see the most wear. Over time, they can become stained, stretched out, or threadbare.

Regularly assess these essentials and remove those that are past their prime. This not only tidies up your drawers and shelves but also gives you a clear idea of what basics you need to replace. Keeping your foundational pieces in good condition ensures you always have something great to build outfits upon.

5. Dresses from Past Events

Event-specific dresses often hold sentimental value but little practical use after the occasion has passed. If you haven’t worn a dress in over two years, it’s unlikely that you’ll wear it again.

Dresses for weddings, parties, or other formal occasions can take up considerable closet space. Selling or donating these dresses can help someone else enjoy their special day without breaking the bank. Plus, it simplifies your choices when the next event rolls around.

6. Multiple Black Trousers

Black trousers are a wardrobe staple, but too many similar pairs can clutter your closet. Examine your collection and keep only those that fit well and are in good condition.

Often, we keep multiple pairs out of habit or fear of not having enough, but this can lead to decision fatigue each morning. Streamlining your options will make it easier to choose an outfit and ensure you feel confident in your selection. Plus, it leaves you space to add variety with different colors or cuts that may be more flattering.

7. Unused Handbags

Like shoes, handbags are often difficult to part with, especially if they are expensive or are designer. However, keeping bags you no longer use takes up space and can add to a feeling of clutter.

Assess which bags you have used in the past year and consider letting go of those that didn’t make the cut. You can sell high-value items online or donate them to charity. This decluttering effort can refresh your accessory collection and make your daily choices easier.

8. Jewelry You Don’t Wear

Jewelry has a way of accumulating, from gifts to impulse buys. Take time to sort through your collection and set aside pieces that no longer reflect your style or that you simply never choose to wear.

This decluttering can make your favorite pieces stand out more and saves time when accessorizing. Donating or repurposing old jewelry can also be a creative way to update your collection without buying new pieces.

9. Excess Scarves

Scarves can be tricky to store and easy to accumulate. If you have scarves that are too small, scratchy, or just not your style, it’s time to reconsider their place in your wardrobe. Keeping only the scarves you love and wear makes it easier to see your options and actually use them.

Donate the rest to charity or consider giving them to friends who might appreciate them. This not only frees up space but also ensures your accessories are useful and loved.

10. Old Belts

Belts are another accessory that can easily become outdated or worn out. Check your collection for any that are cracked, stretched, or simply haven’t been worn in years. Keeping up-to-date with belt trends can be as simple as maintaining a few classic, high-quality pieces that coordinate with most outfits.

By minimizing your belt collection, you streamline your styling choices and maintain a cleaner, more organized wardrobe.

11. Single Socks and Worn-Out Hosiery

We all have that drawer with single socks waiting for their partners or hosiery that has seen better days. Take a moment to clear out these mismatched and worn-out pieces. Not only does it tidy up your drawer, but it also prevents the frustration of finding these useless pairs when you’re rushing to get dressed.

Commit to buying quality replacements as needed, but only in quantities that you’ll actually use. This keeps your sock and hosiery drawer manageable and functional.

12. Uncomfortable Lingerie

Comfort should be a priority when it comes to lingerie. If bras or underwear aren’t fitting properly, it can affect how you feel all day. Organizing your lingerie drawer by removing items that pinch, twist, or are worn-out can make a significant difference in your daily comfort and confidence.

Consider a professional fitting to replace key pieces—it’s an investment in your comfort and health.

13. Formal Wear That You Don’t Re-wear

Formal wear often represents a significant investment and can be hard to part with. However, if pieces are no longer in style or haven’t been worn in recent years, they’re likely just taking up space.

Explore options for selling or donating these items, possibly to organizations that provide prom or formal wear to those in need. This declutters your space and helps someone else enjoy their special occasion without the expense.

14. Tired Swimwear

Swimwear fabric can degrade quickly, especially with regular exposure to chlorine and sun. Inspect your swimwear for any signs of wear, such as sagging, fading, or elastic degradation.

Keeping fresh, well-fitting swimwear not only looks better but also ensures comfort and proper coverage when you’re enjoying the beach or pool. Replace old pieces judiciously, choosing quality that will withstand the elements and frequent use.

15. Duplicate Items

While it’s tempting to buy multiples of an item you love, over time, this can lead to a surplus of very similar pieces. Evaluate these duplicates critically—keep the best and donate the rest. This not only frees up closet space but also simplifies your decision-making process each morning.

It’s better to have a few items that you adore and wear regularly than multiple pieces that just fill your closet without adding value to your wardrobe.

16. Promotional T-Shirts

Freebies and promotional T-shirts often accumulate without us even noticing. We love receiving them, but after the high of getting something “free” wears off, what do you do with all of these promo tees? While they’re great for dirty work or exercise, too many can clutter your space.

Keep one or two for messy chores and donate the rest. This frees up drawer space for clothing you choose intentionally and enjoy wearing more often.

17. Out of Style Coats

Outerwear is bulky and takes up a lot of closet space. Review your coat collection at the change of seasons and decide which ones you haven’t worn in the last year. Donate these to clear up space and to help someone else keep warm.

This also makes your coat selection process quicker and more enjoyable, ensuring you only keep what you love and use.

18. Mismatched Gloves

Like single socks, mismatched gloves serve no purpose. If you’ve lost one and the other has been sitting unused, it’s time to let it go.

This declutters your entryway or coat closet, making it easier to grab what you need without sifting through incomplete pairs.

19. Faded or Pilled Leggings

Leggings are comfortable and versatile, but they can show wear quickly, especially between the thighs. If your leggings are pilled, faded, or have lost their shape, replace them with high-quality ones that will hold up better over time.

This ensures you always look polished and feel comfortable, whether you’re at the gym or running errands.

20. Old Wedding Attire

That one bridesmaid dress you swore you’d wear again? We both know it’s not happening.

Wedding and bridesmaid dresses are often only worn once. If you’re holding onto old gowns that you’ll realistically never wear again, consider donating them. Organizations exist that turn these dresses into angel gowns for infants or provide them to those who can’t afford a wedding/bridesmaid dress.

21. Items With Bad Memories

I used to have a beautiful black dress with gold buttons and white color and cuffs. Then I had to attend a very sad double funeral, and I wore the dress that day. After that, I couldn’t bring myself to wear the dress again - it was locked in with those sad memories. If you have any of those items in your wardrobe, it might be time to let them go.

Clothing should make you feel good. If certain pieces bring back unhappy memories every time you see them, sell or donate them to someone who doesn’t have those memories attached. Clearing these items can be emotionally freeing and can transform your closet into a truly happy space.

22. Impulse Buys

Those spur-of-the-moment purchases can be fun at the moment, but if they don’t fit into your wardrobe, they’re just taking up space.

We all make quick decisions sometimes that don’t work out. If clothes bought on impulse are gathering dust, they’re probably not right for you. Give yourself permission to let these go. Selling or donating impulse buys can recoup some of their cost and clear out space for items that better suit your style and needs.

23. Clothes That Need Repair

If you have clothes that are damaged but fixable, set a deadline for getting them repaired.

If you don’t see yourself making the effort soon, it might be better to donate them to someone who will. This declutters your closet and ensures everything you have is ready to wear.

24. Gifts You’ve Never Liked

It’s the thought that counts, right?

It’s hard to part with gifts, but holding onto items you never wear doesn’t help anyone. Consider passing these items on to someone who will appreciate them or donate them to charity. This makes your wardrobe more personal and focused on what you truly love.

25. Out of Season Items

Rotating clothes by season keeps your closet functional and manageable. Store off-season items properly and make them less accessible, keeping your current season’s clothing front and center.

This helps maintain a tidy closet and makes daily outfit selections easier.

26. Too-Tight Jeans

I know many women who won’t give up their too-tight jeans because they don’t want to go up a size. And if this is you, you’re spending 15 minutes squeezing into the jeans, you have to lay down on the bed to button them and zip them up, and you make sure you’re not going anywhere to sit for a long time or eat a big meal. But those too-tight jeans don’t look as good as you think! Give up the size that is on the tag and go for jeans that fit your body.

Denim should make you feel confident and comfortable. If jeans are too tight, it’s unlikely that you’ll wear them often.

Opt for well-fitting jeans that flatter your current figure. This boosts your confidence and ensures you’re comfortable in your outfits.

27. Overworn Pajamas

Are you sleeping in ratty old t-shirts (maybe even those promo tees I mentioned in number 16!), pajama pants with holes in the crotch, or flannel nightgowns that are so threadbare they’re now see-through? Take that as a sign it’s time to upgrade your pajamas!

Refreshing your sleepwear can have a surprisingly positive effect on your nighttime routine. Good-quality sleepwear can improve your sleep quality and how you feel about yourself at home.

28. Holiday-Specific Items

I know, I know—holiday sweaters are fun!

Holiday-specific clothing can be fun but often isn’t versatile. If you find you’re only wearing these items once a year, it might be time to pare down. Keep a few favorites and donate the rest to make room for more versatile pieces that can celebrate the season without being limited to a single holiday.

29. Unused Athletic Wear

Evaluate your athletic wear for items you no longer use. If your style or workout routine has changed, it’s likely some pieces aren’t being worn.

Keep what fits your current activities and lifestyle, and donate the rest to clear space for gear that matches your current needs.

30. Fashion Mistakes

First of all, know that WE HAVE ALL MADE MANY FASHION MISTAKES! But that doesn’t mean they need to rule your closet.

Sometimes, what looks great in the store doesn’t translate to everyday wear. If you have items that just don’t work, allow yourself to let them go.

This clears mental and physical space and helps you refine your personal style without clinging to past mistakes.

Final Thoughts

There we have it, my friend—30 things to clear out for a fresh, happy closet that truly reflects your style. What did you think of this list? Which items are you ready to say goodbye to? Let me know in the comments; I love hearing from you and sharing this journey of style together.

Cheers to a fabulous and clutter-free new year!