Over time, our wardrobes can become stuffed to bursting with clothing we no longer love to wear. It could be trousers that don’t fit so well as they used to, or prints that no longer suit our colouring, or even lower quality pieces that simply haven’t lasted as well as hoped. As a result, every time you fling open the doors or pull open a drawer, you can’t help feeling as though you have nothing to wear – even when there seems to be a lot to choose from

With the sky having turned a little grey, this is the perfect time to rethink your clothing collection. Follow our simple tips for a fresh, beautifully organised wardrobe filled with pieces you love. After clearing, cleaning, and adding a few high quality, versatile garments, you’ll be able to dress with ease and confidence once lockdown is over. Roll up your sleeves and get ready to step outdoors with your head held high...

Rediscover your clothing

Take everything out of your wardrobe and drawers and lay it on your bed, then start by separating the must-keep clothing from the things you’re unsure about. Set aside any items you love and wear often, then try on the rest. Ask yourself: Does it fit? Is it comfortable? Have I worn it recently? Will I wear it again? Does it need repairing?

If you find pieces of clothing that fit and feel comfortable, and that you think you might wear in the future, put them on the ‘maybe’ pile.

Recycle unwanted garments

Anything leftover should be placed firmly on the ‘no’ pile, but that certainly doesn’t mean throwing them in the bin! There are lots of ways to give new lives to the clothes you no longer want or wear.

Anything leftover should be placed firmly on the ‘no’ pile, but that certainly doesn’t mean throwing them in the bin! There are lots of ways to give new lives to the clothes you no longer want or wear. Quality investment pieces can be sold; clean, wearable garments can be donated; damaged clothes and accessories can be repaired; and anything too old or worn can be cut into cloths, cushions and rag rugs. You can even unravel old knitwear into balls of yarn for craft projects.

Reflect on your collection

You should be left with clothing you love and know you’ll wear, along with a selection of garments that need fixing or haven’t been worn for a while. Put everything back into your wardrobe, organising by type and by colour, ensuring that everything you have is visible without needing to rummage. This makes dressing in the morning easier, and will help you to spot any gaps in your collection.

Rethink your wardrobe

Adding a few timeless pieces in high quality fabrics will make the clothing you already own to go further, allowing you to turn that beautiful, long-forgotten skirt or comfy top into brand new outfits. For example, simple but beautifully fitting trousers and a few essential tops could help you to get more wear out of printed pieces, while a new print might breathe life into a collection of quality basics.

Here are a few suggestions to get started…

A classic jacket

Our Classic Herringbone Jacket looks tailored, but is actually designed for all-day comfort. It’s crafted from supersoft jersey with a stretch lining, so it’s lovely and light and really easy to wear. Wear it with jeans, shirts, dresses – anything!

An essential top

This cleverly designed Supersoft Crossover Top is all about the details. It has a flattering crossover hem and smoothing double lined front, ensuring a smooth finish and a comfortable fit. It’s great paired with printed skirts and trousers that you haven’t worn for a while, or simply matched with a pair of jeans on laid-back days.

Your perfect-fit trousers

Every woman should have a go-to pair of trousers. These Smart Uncrushable Trousers feature an elasticated back and flat front for a smart look yet a comfortable fit, which makes them an absolute joy to wear. They’re available in two shades; get both to go with every top in your wardrobe.

A statement print

If you already have a wardrobe full of essentials and neutral colours, think about adding a burst of colour. A vibrant print in your favourite spring shades is a wonderful way to show off your style and brighten up your day. Pair with your neutral staples or coordinate with a complementary colour.

Ready to add some new pieces to your collection? Start by browsing our absolute essentials: high quality, carefully designed items that no wardrobe should be without.