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First - Has it been in your closet for more than two years without being worn? Unless it's a winter coat you need to keep in case you have to travel from San Diego to Chicago in the winter, a black dress you keep for funerals, or a sentimental piece like a fur coat or wedding dress, it probably has to go!
Second - Does it have resell value? Some women are reselling their gently worn designer fashions at resell shops to get some cash out of the clothes. What will these shops usually take? Very new or vintage, lots of classics - they count on people loosing receipts, gaining weight, or being bored with their clothes or very rich.
Third - Will you donate for the hell of it or for a tax deduction? Frankly, I think giving away without expectations of a tax deduction is the way to go but if you want the deduction, you may think of filling bags or including a fur coat as a way of pumping up the value.
Fourth - Is it classic or clearly out of style? Even your own personal style? Is it part of a phase you went through?
Fifth - Has anyone ever given you a compliment when you wore it? Who was that?
Your mom or best friend probably don't count, but what if HE really loves you in that dress, even though it's getting old, then it's a keeper!
Sixth - Will a change in hem, buttons, or some reworking by a tailor keep a treasured item up to date and give you another year in it, or is that all too much expense and bother? If that skirt is made of a fabric pattern you love, keep it and re-purpose the fabric!
Seventh - Has anyone said, "If you ever give that away, think of me?" Maybe it's time to give that dress away to your best friend who loves it, even if it won't fit her?
Eighth - Is it a uniform you wore? Is it a bridesmaids dress that never did get turned into something wearable again? Generations of bridesmaids have been promising themselves they'd turn theirs into a shorter dress but never do.
Ninth - Is the reason I haven't worn it because I've gained or lost weight? Honestly you can keep it another year, which is about how long it will take you to gain or loose that weight.
Tenth - Is it repairable? Inspect purses and shoes for wear and tear. These two items should be kept pristine or pitched. So resole or have the handles repaired, but if the lining is messy, out it goes - to the trash!
ASK YOUR FRIENDS OVER FOR A TRADING PARTY. Everyone goes through their closet and brings what they want to give away. Take turns choosing one item at a time!
C 2014 Missy Rapport/ Mistress Manifesto All Rights Reserved. Intellectual Property notice.
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