Marie Kondo’s method for tidying up is becoming well known in households around the world. Since her new TV show Tidying up with Marie Kondo aired on Netflix, she has inspired many to embark on decluttering their homes.
The KonMari Method……
Marie Kondo’s approach to tidying is known as The KonMari Method. It works on the principal of keeping things that spark joy for you and letting go of the things that don’t.
I recently decided to apply the KonMari method to my own clothes. Her method encouraged me to be more mindful and appreciate and enjoy my belongings.
Marie Kondo’s method for tidying up suggests you start with your clothing before moving onto books, paper, miscellaneous items and finally sentimental items.
Spark Joy……
When I first looked at my clothes, I thought nothing here really sparks joy for me. They are simply a necessity. They don’t make me excited and silently squeal on the inside for joy when I see them. I wondered if Marie Kondo’s method of finding joy in my clothes was going to work for me.
But then I thought of whether they sparked joy in other ways. Not having to leave the house naked definitely sparks joy, so I thank my clothes for that. Some of my clothes are more comfortable to wear than others. Having clothes to wear that fit well and are comfortable, sparks joy.
When I took all of my clothes out and piled them on the bed and started going through them one by one I realised some of my clothes definitely make me feel happier when I wear them then others.
Changing old habits with Marie Kondo’s method of tidying……
Surprisingly a lot of these such items were outfits I was keeping for special occasions, events or going out. The clothes I chose to wear each day tended not to be as nice. So I thought, why should I wear less flattering clothes simply because I am at home, why not wear my favourite clothes everyday.
So now I do. At first my son questioned me saying, “Mum, where are you going?” I reply that I am not going anywhere. He responds with a look of confusion on his face, saying, “But you are all dressed up”. To be honest I certainly wasn’t dressed to the nines but had decided to wear a pretty sundress instead of faded shorts and a daggy t-shirt.
These comments made me aware that my family was used to seeing me a certain way. Basically, not at my best. I take pride in my appearance when I go out, so why not when I am at home as well.
Now I’m not saying to go about your housework in your best evening dress and your favourite stiletto heels! But ditch the old rags and wear something you love. Doing so has also changed the way I feel. My mood is lighter and happier when I’m dressed nicely even if it is just to watch a movie on the couch with my family.
Continuing through the generations……
Growing up I was taught to keep my nicest clothes for going out. The others were for you to wear at home. Just as many people keep the good china for guests and not daily use. I think this way of thinking was passed on from previous generations when times were tough and things weren’t always readily available.
With today’s manufacturing boom, millions of items at varying prices are available on a day to day basis and there is less fear of going without. Clothing has also become incredibly cheap.
I realised I was teaching my son to think this way about his own clothes. Keep your best for going out and wear the others at home. I made a conscious decision to stop enforcing this method of thinking onto him and let him choose what he would like to wear and when. Now all his clothes are put in together and he wears what he likes whenever he likes.
During my closet clean out, I said goodbye to any clothes that had seen better days. Those that had holes, were faded, out of shape, had hot or itchy fabric, or that I didn’t like to wear for one reason or another. This left me with the best of what I had.
Choose quality over quantity……
Using Marie Kondo’s method and taking the time to ask the question, “Does this item spark joy?” has also changed the way I shop. I’ve stopped choosing quantity over quality. Generally, clothes made from better quality materials tend to cost a little more than mass produced items made with poor quality materials.
Some clothing my seem like an incredibly cheap bargain, but most times you will find they don’t last as long. In the end costing you money in the long run when you have to replace them.
The fabrics tend to fade quicker, stitching comes apart and they loose their shape. I might pay a little more for a dress I truly love but I know I will wear it more often than if I was to purchase something cheaper I don’t like as much and that wont wear as well.
20% of our clothes 80% of the time……
Marie Kondo’s method for tidying clothes has also helped me to keep the amount of clothing I have in the closet under control. I don’t have more than I need and clothes I don’t love.
Additionally, now when I buy a nice new shirt I enjoy wearing it at home and not just when I go out.
Studies suggest we wear 20% of our clothing 80% of the time. I totally agree with that statement. I tend to reach for the same clothes on a daily basis while the rest sit there neatly folded awaiting their turn. Now, I don’t shop for clothes as often any more. Which has been great financially as I’m not making unnecessary purchases.
If I feel I need a particular item for an occasion or change of season, I can easily see what I have already and check if I have something similar I can wear. If not, I can head to the store knowing exactly what I need to purchase.
Marie Kondo’s method for tidying up has helped me change my clothing habits for the better. To be more conscious about the purchases I make and appreciate the things I have.
Looking into a neatly organised closet where I can easily see and find the clothes I love to wear definitely sparks joy!
Elegant – Organised – Stylish – Functional
Organised Chic’
