Shave? Check. Shower? Check. Dressed? Check… with me in 5 minutes once I figure out what the heck I’m supposed to wear, and find two matching socks. Sound familiar?

This was an all too common routine every morning as I struggled to figure out what goes with what, so as to not look like a fool at the office. And don’t even get me started on the whole sock conundrum either. It was incredible how often I’d peer into my closet filled with clothes, but felt like there was nothing to wear. 

Eventually I had had enough, and decided it was time to simplify my wardrobe. 

Now, a fair warning that a simplified wardrobe is definitely not for everyone. If your style is an important part of who you are, and you value having a unique and diverse wardrobe, then I say embrace it!  Admittedly, I am often called out for being boring as a result of my less-than-exciting selection of wearable fabrics.

Despite this, I still find great value in the reduced stress and time saved each morning. I can put that time and brain power to better use on something else… like figuring out what to automate next! If you’re thinking a simplified wardrobe might be a good fit for you, then read on for some tips on how to get started!

There are two main aspects of a simplified wardrobe: the clothing, and how it is organized. It is possible to do one and not the other, and some of you may find that simply organizing your clothing in a logical manner will allow you to keep your colorful wardrobe, but still reduce the time spent outfit picking or sock searching. Let us know in the comments what combinations work best for you!

Clothing

The very first thing I simplified were my socks. This was as easy as picking my favorite type of sock from my drawer, buying more of them, and donating the other types of socks. Now I only have one type of sock for daily wear. I do still have a variety of dress socks and such, but they are put to the side and are seldom worn.

I never have to worry about finding a matching sock ever again! Moreover, I don’t have to choose between the softer socks versus the ones that are a different material, but they are all equally the best. 

This simple change has saved me about 10-30 seconds a day!

Not impressed? Well on top of the time saved, I no longer have to use any brainpower because I don’t have a reason to choose between two of the same socks. This is a big win for me because there is only so much energy your brain has for decisions throughout the day. 

Organization

Here is a video that can explain this better than I can: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V3CLRL32Mcw

Essentially, you will be able to eliminate any time/stress by following a simple routine. I’m sure you have important routines in your day, so no need to step on any toes, but making simple tweaks can help out your routine tremendously.

Also, think more about: Quality > Quantity (except with large quantity of same quality item to reduce washes)

Choose a base color for matching so you know ahead of time what your color will be for the day.

Ready – Set – Automate!

Let’s start your simplified wardrobe today:

  1. Make a quick trip to the store and replace your current socks with ‘automated’ ones
  2. Go through your closet and donate anything that you haven’t worn in a year
  3. Create a system to organize the clothing and have a simple routine each day
  4. Enjoy the freedom of multiple decisions and extra time

 

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