How to Clean Out Your Closet For the New Year — and Then Reward Yourself After

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Look — no one dreads a closet cleanout more than I do. Aside from the fact that it takes both time and a lot of physical effort, I hate getting rid of my clothes. After all, I'm of the belief that everything I own comes with a handful of memories. Like, I graduated college in that pleated, asymmetrical dress; had my first kiss in that graphic tee; and gave a horribly embarrassing presentation in those plaid, high-waisted trousers.

But as much as I hate to throw those pieces away, I'm well aware that some of them have an expiration date. Whether it's because the season's changing, certain trends are retired (for now), or threads are pulling, post-Jan. 1 means it's officially time for a wardrobe haul. And I'm inviting you on my journey.

Below are the 11 items I'm throwing away, but not necessarily into the garbage. There are plenty of places where you can donate to those in need, and you can always sell your threads too — whether it's at your local thrift store or on eBay. Make sure to maintain an ethical sensibility and recognize that just because you're through with a top doesn't mean someone else can't make use of it.

And once that's done, it's time to shop for replacements, which is, of course, the fun part. Because how else would you reward yourself for a job well done? Scroll down to see how I'm refreshing my wardrobe so it's completely ready for the New Year. Who said that Spring was the season for cleaning?

My Chambray Waist-Tie Blouse
Sarah Wasilak

My Chambray Waist-Tie Blouse

Chambray is a mainstay in any girl's closet, but a tie-up blouse works better with a cute pair of cutoffs and sandals. This season we're seeing Western-inspired details and a lot of deep Vs. And denim lends these cuts major casual vibes.

My Asymmetrical Cutout Dress
Sarah Wasilak

My Asymmetrical Cutout Dress

In my opinion, this dress has too much going on. From the high-low design to the cutout details, I can't see myself wearing it under sweaters in the cooler months, or even next Summer. However, I still love the avant-garde appeal of an asymmetrical design, but now we're seeing styles that are less "mullet-like" and more geometric.

My Quirky-Print Dress
Sarah Wasilak

My Quirky-Print Dress

I think that every girl should have a quirky statement sheath dress — a go-to when you want to stand out. But this one isn't exactly the most flattering, and there are plenty of heavier dresses in a range of styles that are appropriate for the season. I'm thinking wrap dresses, crisp collars, or, for the bohemian sort, layers of chiffon.

My Floral Pencil Skirt
Sarah Wasilak

My Floral Pencil Skirt

I never stop wearing floral print. There's really no season I can do without it. Pencil skirts with back slits aren't so trendy anymore, and midi skirts, full skirts in jacquard, and flouncy hemlines are the perfect alternative.

My Graphic Crop Top
Sarah Wasilak

My Graphic Crop Top

Crop tops are my everything, but I can't find anything to wear this one with, and I'd love to stock up on other monochromatic graphic prints that feel just as fun.

My Leopard Flats
Sarah Wasilak

My Leopard Flats

My leopard flats are very worn-in at this point, and while the pointed-toe silhouette is still popular, I prefer a loafer or a chunky sneaker, which would make for a more standout update.