Spring Cleaning

Spring cleaning has felt much more like a self-fulfilling prophecy than it has a nod to old house tradition this year, which is probably because the technical initiation of spring has little to do with the meteoric occurrences of this moody planet. But there is something to be said independent of the actual cleaning process that makes simultaneously heavy and light of the annual purge, particularly when it comes to my closet.

For me, each piece of clothing is imbued with memories of our joint capers, and though we may not spend as much time together presently, I’m typically not eager to formally abandon the physical manifestation of those memories. Just because I’m no longer wearing a piece, doesn’t mean I don’t still love it.

But as a loyal supporter of the tenet that if you haven’t worn something in a full year’s time, you should get rid of it, it would be unbecoming to stay attached to pieces just because of the memories they harbor. Especially, I should add, because ultimately, I’m the one harboring their memories. The clothes are just ephemeral talismans. There’s also the reality that I will continue to add a few choice pieces each season.

With that in mind, I spent last Saturday lifting garments off the hangers that litter my closet, and sorting them into three piles: donations, family giveaway, and The RealReal.

I’ve been sending my wares to the luxury consignment site for just over five months and have found the process so easy — you either mail the pieces directly, or schedule an appointment for at-home pickup — that I’ve sent at least three pairs of shoes I wasn’t ready to say goodbye to, and at least one dress that would have been incredibly useful today.

But the real(real) reason I’m particularly pleased with the experience is that it addresses the two fundamental and opposing issues I have with my closet, which is that I love each piece, and simultaneously want to be less attached to my possessions. And the added bonus of making money while making space is a great (if ironic) motivator to pare down the wardrobe, even if I end up finding new pieces to fill that space.

Take the above photographed ivory Isabel Marant sweater, coupled with spring cleaning gloves – I traded in a grey fisherman’s sweater by Marc Jacobs for it. And the black crystal Valentino pumps? I may not have had a lesser version of those, but I did expel a pair of yellow sandals from my closet just last month and though I miss them, I’m confident that the new pumps and I will forge a fresh slew of memories between now and next spring, when we’re ready to consciously uncouple.

Part 1 of 1 in collaboration with The RealReal.

The RealReal is the one of the largest online luxury authenticated consignment stores, selling the likes of Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci up to 90% off. Should you also have an inclination towards fashion, cleaning, and cash, The RealReal is currently offering new consignors a $50 gift card to Neiman Marcus through April 30, and as always, consignors can make up to 70% of the selling price.