Just Throw It In The Bag

Every now and then there comes a time when your closet just can't take it anymore. When all the closet organization and space saving hangers aren't enough, it's time do you a little summer sweep out. It's time to get rid of anything in your closet that doesn't fit quite right, is totally worn out, or you never got around to wearing (because it's not really your style or you have to lose 25 lbs just to squeeze into it). So gather your things, bag them, and send them off to your local Salvation Army or Goodwill (or your sister, girlfriend or cousin who can't wait to get their hands on your stuff anyway). All the more room for all the new stuff that's about to hit the scene for Fall.

OK, They Got Me

I can't resist infomercials. I often have to restrain myself from picking up the phone and ordering The Instyler (knowing full well it's not going to both straighten and curl my hair at the same time). Hey, the Windsor Pilates videos do actually work (I broke down and ordered those on an early morning like 5 years ago). And who doesn't want to treat their clothing well by steaming instead of ironing for just two easy payments? One hundred dollars and two large steamers later, I rarely use the main steamer (but do have a lot less closet space) but the awkward travel steamer does come in handy. Save yourself the trouble and treat your clothing well for just $40 with the new Rowenta First Class travel iron. You can actually iron and steam your clothing and it's small enough where you would actually take it with you traveling (1.65lbs). Where was this iron when I was reaching for my wallet at 2AM to buy the Tobi Steamer?

Closet Shopping: Host A Clothing Swap Party

If you've picked up any fashion magazine in the last month the reoccurring theme has been to use what you already have in your closet to create new looks (obviously a direct indicator of the economy-surprise, we're in a recession). I certainly agree, now is the time to assess what you currently own and possibly add in a couple key elements to update the look (i.e. a new pair of boots, statement jewelry). You should by all means shop your closet for new looks but wouldn't it be way more fun to shop the closets of your friends and fashionable family members? And while you're at it, why not make a party out the entire event. Now is as good a time as ever to rummage through your stuff, keep what you like and pull out what you don't (maybe it's not that you don't like the stuff but maybe haven't worn it in 5 years or have to lose 10 lbs to fit into it). Have a select group of friends (around 3-6) do the same and have your own clothing swap party. My friend C.C. has been hosting this kind of party for years (and boy does she know how to party). All the leftover clothing can be donated to your local Goodwill or Salvation Army. I love any excuse to get together and have fun (getting together and getting free stuff, even better). So for a instant party recipe bring on the clothes (accessories, whatever), add hors d'oeuvres, a signature drink and simmer.

Trapped In The Closet: Get your closet in order

Happy Halloween my pretties! Every year I wait until the last possible minute to think about a Halloween costume. I'm not really into the store bought costume (there's usually nothing good or cheap enough left for procrastinators), so I always end up scanning my closet looking for something I can develop into decent Halloween attire. Thanks to my addiction to vintage shopping and a little creativity, I succeeded (this year I'll be a 1920's Flapper-not original, but cute). But nothing is scarier than an overly crowded, unorganized closet. However, this year's search was a lot easier because about a month ago with the help of the Home Shopping Network (HSN), I decided to take closet organization into my own hands. Never mind why or how I found out about anything offered on HSN, just know they sell the best hangers I've seen in my life. Joy Mangano Huggable Hangers will change the way you feel about your closet. They create much more space, clothes don't fall off (due to the velvety texture), and they give your closet the appearance of a chic boutique. But beware, there are imitators that I have bought and then promptly returned due to flimsy quality. I know they're just hangers but after all, presentation is everything.

psst..http://www.hsn.com/ offers a 15% discount for those new to the site using coupon code C56574

NOW available at TARGET!