Fresh Start for Autumn: How to Edit and Refresh Your Closet 

Photo: Courtesy of California Closets

As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to change, fall brings a natural opportunity to reset—not just your routines, but also your wardrobe. Before you rush out to buy the latest trends, take a moment to look at what’s already in your closet. A thoughtful edit can help you rediscover pieces you love, let go of what no longer serves you and make space for the items that will carry you stylishly through the season.

We all dream of a closet that feels organized, inspiring and easy to use. But if you’re holding on to jeans that might fit again one day or a sweater with sentimental value that you never wear, it’s time for a reset. By approaching your closet with a clear mind (and leaving the guilt at the door), you’ll create a wardrobe and space that truly works for you right now.

Here are four simple steps to give your closet the fall refresh it deserves.

Photo: Courtesy of California Closets

Pull It All Out

Yes, everything. Take a few hours—or even a full afternoon if your closet is large—and remove every item. Include seasonal pieces you’ve tucked away, shoes hiding in the back and items stored in drawers or bins. Seeing it all in one place helps you get a clear picture of what you own and where you may be duplicating (how many black cardigans do you really need?).

As you go through each piece, create piles to donate, sell, tailor, or keep. Ask yourself:

• Do I love it?
• Does it fit and flatter me right now?
• Do I feel confident wearing it?
• Have I worn it in the last year?

If the answer is no, it’s time to part ways.

Photo: Courtesy of California Closets

Streamline & Let Go

Keep what you love, wear often and feel good in. Donate gently used items you no longer reach for and toss anything that’s damaged beyond repair. If you want to make a little extra cash, try selling through online platforms, local consignment shops, or even a neighborhood swap group. Pro tip: put that money aside for intentional fall wardrobe upgrades.

Photo: Courtesy of California Closets

Organize with Intention

Now that you’ve edited down, it’s time to organize. Group items by type (jeans, blouses, sweaters) or by color—whichever makes getting dressed easier for you. If you’re short on space, store out-of-season clothes elsewhere so your fall favorites are front and center.

This is also the moment to think about how your closet functions. Do you need more shelving? Better lighting? A place for accessories? Even small changes, like matching hangers or drawer dividers, can make a big difference in how your closet looks and feels. When everything has a home, you’ll not only stay organized—you’ll actually enjoy the space.

Photo: Courtesy of California Closets

Reinvest & Refresh Thoughtfully

Here’s the fun part: shopping! But instead of rushing out and grabbing whatever looks good in the moment, take a strategic approach. Make a list of true gaps in your wardrobe—maybe a classic trench coat, versatile boots, or updated denim—and shop with intention. Build your foundation with quality basics, then sprinkle in a few trend-forward pieces that give your fall wardrobe personality.

Pro tip: Try the “one in, one out” rule. For every new piece you add, let one go. This keeps your closet in balance.

Photo: Courtesy of California Closets

Keep the Momentum Going

A closet edit isn’t just for fall—it’s a habit worth repeating a couple times a year. Remember, most of us wear 20% of our clothes 80% of the time. The goal is to curate a closet full of pieces you love, that fit your life and that make choosing an outfit feel effortless.

This season, give yourself the gift of a closet that feels fresh, functional and inspiring. You’ll not only save time getting dressed—you’ll step into the season ahead with confidence.

Lora Covington is a senior designer with California Closets. Specializing in customized closets, storage and organizational materials, California Closets has been delivering design solutions for clients for over four decades. View their profile or contact California Closets directly at 303.754.0415 to set up an appointment.

Content for this article is provided by California Closets.