On a recent episode of The Apprentice, Donald Trump rewarded the latest team of winners with the opportunity to dress some disadvantaged men in some fine casual and business clothes. When all was said and done, it was touching television. Clothes really do help improve self-esteem when you're climbing the ladder of success. And face it, clothes really do make an important presentation at a company, attending a business meeting, or even during a job interview.
Even the Style Network, dressbarn and Viactive are sponsoring a Send One Suit Week to benefit Dress for Success.
"Giving as a trend never goes out of style" -- Niecy Nash, host of Clean House.
I've noticed over the years that clients have an easier time "letting go" of their unused wardrobe IF the items go to a needy cause and a personal connection is made. Last week, OrganizingLA provided some closet-clearing tips to a "Big Four" accounting firm here in Los Angeles for their "Professional Clothes Drive." Employees were encouraged to donate casual and professional clothes to benefit a local charity who in turn provides services to all those seeking recovery from alcoholism and substance abuse. The charity offers clients a fresh set of clothes and a place to rejoin the workforce.
Three OrganizingLA Quick Tips for Clearing Your Closet - And Helping Others:
The 15 Minute Rule: If you want to make a difference in your closet and don’t have a lot of time, set a time limit and “go shopping” for things that are ready to be donated. But keep your focus on this specific task and don’t allow yourself to be distracted. Turn the phone off, don't answer the door and play your favorite iTune. It helps if you can carefully choose a friend to help you clean out your clothes closet. You’ll want a person who will constructively criticize your taste, but with a sense of humor to make it fun.
Suits That Are No Longer Suit-able: Nostalgia’s tug is strong— but use this opportunity to clear out the larger key pieces such as men’s suits, ties, dark belts and dress shoes. For women, perhaps you have a dress-for-success ensemble that isn’t suitable for your current work environment—why not donate it along with some sensible low-pumps and simple jewelry?
Avoid keeping items in your closet as a banner of your achievements. The Professional Clothes Drive honors needy individuals with basic essentials and you’ll want to donate good, clean, gently-used or new clothing. You’ll feel better knowing your unwanted clothes will benefit others with a fresh set of confidence.
We wanted to share these tips here on the Blog. They were designed for a quick review of your closet-- and to give your space a 15-minute make-over. Some will find 15-minutes helpful, but you may want to schedule a few 15-minute sessions. You can bring in OrganizingLA for a closet organizing session, too. If you have a "dress for success" story you'd like to share with readers, please post a comment below or write us!
