overwhelming: first the tops, then the bottoms and then the shoes... well the shoes can wait... I did say baby steps so let’s not get too crazy.The rules to an efficient de-cluttering are simple:Rule #1 - Has it been hanging there for 6 months or more without seeing the light of day? If the answer is "yes" then it has got to go. If you haven't pulled that piece out of the closet for 180 days, then it does not deserve a spot in your closet anymore! We all have pieces that we hope will fit again or come back in style... but come on; if it is not something that a tailor can fix, let it go.Rule #2 - Labels, labels, labels - Designer pieces are the hardest to give up! I see them like trophies I have collected during my style hunting trips, but the fact that it is high end doesn't mean it's gonna look good. I realized I was a grown up the day I gave away a Catherine Malandrino shirt... it still hurts to think about it, so I keep a picture of me wearing it to remind myself why it was no good. Don't hold on to items just because of the name on the label.Rule #3 - Trends - Not because jumper suits are in right now it means that you have to throw away everything you own. Don't be swayed too much by what trends are in or out - trends cycle go by so fast that before you know it, your skinny jeans will be back in style. If you love it, looks good on you and its reasonably classic and in style (no acid wash jeans please) you can keep it.
Rule #4 - Store bulky items elsewhere - I'm a Miami local so I don't have too much winter clothes, but I know many hunters go through all the seasons and finding storage can be a hassle. To keep your closet organized put your winter items away (under the bed, basement, back of the closet or at mom's house like i do) so they're not the first things you see in your closet when looking for a spring outfit.Rule #5 - Restocking - this is the fun part; now we get to go shopping... but be careful don't go to crazy. Before impulse-purchasing the latest spring must-haves, take stock of the basics you might be lacking and buy foundation items, like white tanks, jeans and cardigans. I like to splurge on jackets that will help me look slimmer and accessories and shoes that can easily make a boring t-shirt and jeans fun and totally newRule #6 - Swap, swap, swap! - What to do with the things your no longer want?... easy... if you are 
in Miami come with me to Swap Miami on May 22nd and swap away with fellow hunters, all leftovers will be donated to charity.Not in Miami? Hold a swap party amongst your friends... I know you've been eyeing those earrings she no longer wears... so make some cocktails, play some music and let the swapping begin!The key to de-cluttering is simple... always remember, it’s better to have 10 classic pieces in your closet that you can put on at any moment and feel great about, than having 40 so-so pieces that make you feel mediocre.I have to go restock now, so until next time...stay fabulous!!XOXOThe Style Hunter
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