Make Room for Fall: A Calm, Step-by-Step Closet Swap

When your closet is still shouting “summer” but the air says “sweater weather,” it’s time for a seasonal swap. This step-by-step routine helps you clear visual clutter, make space for cozy layers, and get dressed faster. You’ll finish with a tidy closet, labeled storage, and a wardrobe that matches the weather.

The 10-Step Fall Closet Swap

1. Pull summer pieces first. Shorts, linen pants, thin tees, summer dresses, and tank tops (the ones you don’t use as base layers).

2. Declutter as you go. Anything you didn’t wear this summer—or don’t see yourself wearing again—goes straight into a donate bag or box.

3. Bring out the cold-weather gear. Sweaters, gloves, scarves, winter coats, thick leggings—get those bins out where you can see everything.

4. Sort by category. Make clear piles on your bed or near your closet: sweaters, pants, dresses/skirts, outerwear, accessories.

5. Declutter again. If you didn’t wear it last winter, it itches, pills, or you don’t love the look—add it to the donate pile.

6. Hang the heavy hitters. Coats, jackets, winter dresses, and anything that creases easily go on hangers for everyday access.

7. Contain the small stuff. Fold pants and sweaters; collect gloves, hats, and scarves in baskets or drawers so they don’t wander.

8. Pack the keepers from summer. Only the summer items you truly love and will wear next year go into your now-empty seasonal bins.

9. Label clearly. If you have only a few clear bins you are keeping in your room or closet, labeling is optional, otherwise LABEL!

10. Enjoy! Step back and admire that organized, weather appropriate closet. You just made mornings more straightforward all winter long.

    
    

Pro Tips

• Donate ASAP: Put the bag in your car today so it actually leaves your house.

• Set a timer: Work in 25-minute bursts; take a 5-minute break between categories.

• One-in, one-out: If a new sweater comes in, let one go. Future-you will thank you. Oly follow this rule if you have a full, complete, but good sized wardrobe. If you have not enough, fill in your closet and don't stress about donating anything. If you have an overflowing closet, maybe follow a one-in, three-out rule.

Ready to Feel Cozy & Organized?

If your closet is still full of summer clothes, consider this your sign. Do your seasonal clothing swap this week—start with Step 1 and set a 25-minute timer. If it feels overwhelming, I can help.

TAKE ACTION: Swap out your seasonal clothes for fall.

Overwhelmed? Fill out my interest form and let's tackle it together!

P.S. What’s the one item you’re most excited to pull out for fall—your coziest sweater, a favorite scarf, or that perfect coat? Tell me in the comments!