Hello organistas! Who else looks forward to autumn? I love the crisp leaves and cosy evenings by the fire. September means shorter days, cooler temperatures and time to switch over your wardrobe from summer to autumn. As the seasons change, it’s time to bid farewell to the lightweight summer outfits and welcome warmer sweaters and jackets. Organising your wardrobe for the autumn switchover can seem like a daunting task, but with a little organisation, you create a seamless transition between seasons. In this blog, I’ll share practical tips and tricks to make the process easier and ensure your wardrobe is ready for the cooler months ahead.
Tips for Storing Summer Clothes
As the days grow shorter and the temperature begins to drop, it’s time to switch your summer wardrobe and make space for cozy autumn attire. I recommend storing your summer clothes during the off-season to make sure they are properly protected and to make space for the current season. Here are tips for storing summer clothes:
1. Clean Thoroughly:
Before storing your summer clothes, make sure they’re clean. Launder or dry clean each item according to the care instructions on the label. Storing clothes with dirt, oils, or stains can lead to permanent damage over time. Also, while everything is out of the wardrobe, take the opportunity to dust and clean so that you can add clothes back into a new space. Get rid of any dust, cobwebs and check for any signs of moths.
2. Inspect for Damage:
Take a close look at your summer clothes for any signs of damage. Mend loose seams, replace missing buttons, and address minor repairs. This means that your clothes are ready to wear when summer comes around again!
3. Sort and Categorise:
Organise your summer clothes into categories such as dresses, shorts, swimwear, and tops. This makes it easier to find specific items when you retrieve them later. Use labeled boxes or bins for each category to keep things neat and organised.
4. Use Proper Storage Containers:
Invest in breathable and moisture-resistant storage containers. Opt for fabric storage bags to allow your clothes to breathe while protecting them from dust and pests. If you are storing longer term I love Really Useful Boxes, and if you are short of space vacuum-sealed bags are a definite favourite.
5. Fold or Hang Appropriately:
Organistas, if there are any wire hangers left in your wardrobe, get them out! I love those thin velvet hangers as they save space. I love curved knitwear hangers as they look after your stretchy fabrics. Fold clothes that are prone to stretching to prevent them from losing their shape. Hang items that wrinkle easily, such as dresses and blouses, so they will be ready to wear next summer.
6. Use Cedar or Lavender Sachets:
To keep pests away (especially pesky moths!), try placing cedar or lavender sachets in your storage containers. These natural options are effective at repelling insects and preventing musty odours. I love Total Wardrobe Care and there are loads of great options on Amazon.
7. Store in a Cool, Dark Place:
Choose a cool, dark, and dry storage location for your summer clothes. Avoid areas that are exposed to direct sunlight, as prolonged exposure can cause colours to fade. A closet, under-bed storage, or a dedicated storage space are all good options.
9. Label Your Containers:
I really recommend plastic boxes for storage with a lid so you can keep everything safe. Label each storage container with the category of clothing it contains. This step will save you time and effort when you’re looking for specific items next summer.
Tips for the Autumn Wardrobe Switchover
Now you’ve stored your summer clothes away and cleaned out your wardrobe, it is time to look at your your autumn pieces.
1. Sort and Declutter Your Autumn Wardrobe
Before you organise your autumn wardrobe, it is time to sort through your items from last year. Remove items that no longer fit, are out of style, or haven’t been worn in the past year. Separate items you want to keep, donate, or discard. If you have time, try everything on to check if you still love them. This clears space and makes it easier to see what you really need.
2. Clean, Repair, and Replace
When you’re putting clothes, shoes and accessories back into your wardrobe, make sure it is in great condition. If it isn’t, fix it or clean it before it goes back in.
3. Transitional Dressing
Autumn weather can be unpredictable, so focus on versatile pieces for layering. Cardigans, lightweight sweaters, and scarves are great options to keep you comfortable in varying temperatures. Keep versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched, such as neutral sweaters, cardigans, and jeans. You can also switch sandals for closed toe shoes and boots.
Make eco-conscious choices by upcycling or repurposing summer clothes into autumn attire. This promotes sustainability and reduces clothing waste.
4. Storage
For autumn clothes, you’ll have a lot of chunky pieces like knitwear which are best folded and stored on a shelf or try a plastic box where you can see what is inside it, there are some great clothes storage boxes with view panels. I also invest in jumper hangers for finer knits. You can keep rotating your wardrobe as the weather gets cooler. So as it gets to winter, you might look to store your thinner jumpers to make way for cosier pieces. You can organise similar items together or in colours, whichever works for you. Label everything to make is easier to identify contents.
5. Autumn Hacks:
Autumn is all about layering, so organise your wardrobe with this in mind. Place lighter pieces like thin sweaters and long-sleeve tops towards the front, followed by heavier items like chunky knitwear and coats. This arrangement allows you to easily create outfits by grabbing items from different layers.
6. Color Coding:
Consider organising your wardrobe by colour. This simple technique not only looks visually appealing but also helps you locate specific items quickly. Arrange your clothes from light to dark shades, making it easier to coordinate outfits and spot gaps in your fall wardrobe.
5. Write a List Of Anything to Replace
A decluttered wardrobe not only makes it easier to find what you’re looking for but also helps you assess what items you truly need for the upcoming season. Once your wardrobe is organised, give it a final once-over. Ensure everything is in its designated place, and you’re ready to embrace the autumn season in style. This is a great time to look at anything you might need to replace, including knitwear, accessories or basics.
Make sure you schedule a day to do this so you have plenty of time. You’ll get your time back with an organised wardrobe! Remember, a well-curated wardrobe simplifies your daily routine and allows you to make the most of your autumn fashion choices.
Here are some links to my favourite wardrobe organisation products below:
Hangers:
Slim line velvet – try TKMAXX
Or Amazon here.
Non slip knitwear hangers at Total Wardrobe Care here.
Moths: Total wardrobe care also have very effective moth deterrent and treatments here.
Boxes:
If you’d like help organising your wardrobe, I’d love to help. You can read a Wardrobe Clear Out case study with Claire aka NakedPRGirl here.