By Sally, Professional Home Organiser at Serene Space by Sally, Cheshire
Transitioning your wardrobe for the colder months doesn’t have to be a stressful task. With a little planning, it can actually feel quite therapeutic, like you’re preparing your home and self for a new, cosier season.
Here’s how to do it, step by step.
1. Start With a Clear-Out: Be Honest With Yourself
Before you even begin packing away your summer clothes, now is the perfect time to be a bit ruthless. Ask yourself:
- Did I wear this at all this summer?
- Does it still fit well and feel like “me”?
- Is it damaged or stained beyond repair?
Create four piles: Keep, Donate, Sell, and Recycle. The idea isn’t to throw everything away but to be intentional about what stays in your wardrobe. If this part feels overwhelming, you’re not alone. This is exactly the kind of support I offer in my wardrobe detox service. Sometimes a second pair of eyes makes all the difference.
2. Clean and Store Your Summer Clothes Properly
The biggest mistake people make is stuffing summer clothes into a bag and forgetting about them until next year, often finding them creased, musty or worse.Instead, try this:
- Wash and dry everything before storing. Even clothes that don’t look dirty can attract moths if they’ve been worn.
- Fold items neatly, or use vacuum storage bags for space saving.
- Label boxes or bags clearly (e.g., “Summer Tops”, “Swimwear”, “Holiday Clothes”).
- Store smartly: under-bed storage, top shelves of wardrobes, or labelled boxes in the loft all work well. Just keep them away from damp.
Bonus tip: Pop a few lavender sachets or cedarwood balls into your storage boxes to keep moths and musty smells away.
3. Refresh and Rearrange for Autumn/Winter
Now you’ve made space, it’s time to organise your winter clothes.
Take everything out of your wardrobe.
- Group by type: jumpers, coats, jeans, boots, scarves etc.
- Check for repairs needed (missing buttons, zips that stick).
- Give your wardrobe a quick clean, wipe down shelves, hoover the floor, freshen it up.
Then, organise it in a way that works for you. This will look different for everyone, but here are some ideas:
- Zone by activity: workwear, loungewear, going-out outfits.
- Use uniform hangers to create a sense of calm and space.
- Keep most-used items at eye level, and occasional wear (e.g., occasion dresses or ski gear) tucked further back or higher up.
If ADHD or executive dysfunction makes this part feel like a mountain, try doing it in 10–15 minute bursts, or focus on one small section (just shoes or just knitwear) at a time.
4. Make a Mini Seasonal Capsule Wardrobe
A great way to feel more in control of your wardrobe is to create a mini “capsule” for the season – a collection of versatile, well-loved pieces that work together.
Ask yourself:
- What do I wear on repeat?
- What layers well?
- What makes me feel confident and comfortable?
Your capsule could include:
- 2–3 jumpers
- 2 pairs of jeans
- 1 smart coat
- 1 waterproof jacket
- 2 pairs of boots (one for rain, one for style!)
- A couple of cosy accessories
You don’t need a huge wardrobe, just the right one for your lifestyle.
5. Let Go of Guilt and Embrace Space
So many of my clients tell me they feel guilty letting go of clothes that no longer serve them. Maybe they spent a lot on them, or hoped they’d wear them “one day”. But clearing space isn’t wasteful, it’s freeing. You’re making space for the you you are now.
And when your wardrobe reflects your lifestyle, getting dressed each morning becomes a whole lot easier (and more enjoyable).
Need a Hand? You Don’t Have to Do It Alone
If all of this sounds lovely but completely unachievable, don’t worry. That’s exactly why I offer my Wardrobe Detox and Seasonal Switch service across Cheshire.
Whether you need full support, a gentle nudge, or just someone to help you start, I’d love to help you reclaim a sense of calm and order in your wardrobe.
You can find out more about my services here.
Final Thought
Remember: a tidy wardrobe isn’t about perfection. Your wardrobe should support your life, not stress you out. Taking a few hours now to prepare for the colder months ahead will save you time, energy and stress down the line.
