04 August 2008

Closet systems

Here's a great video on closet systems and what to look for... whether you're going to DIY or get a custom closet built. (the video's a bit slow at the beginning, but has helpful info towards the middle) Enjoy!

15 July 2008

Those great clothes you wear often.

Most of us have clothes we *really* like wearing… ones that make us feel good. Not only are they comfortable, but we rock those outfits because they fit us just right! We wear them over n' over again.

Take care of them, and they’ll last longer. Buy similar clothes – maybe it’s a good idea to stick with the same brands or styles. And always remember to use a Rag Tag to make sure you’re not being seen in them too often ;)

08 July 2008

eBay, my new friend

I've sold my first thing on eBay! I had a pair of Pradas I hardly ever wore. They were just sitting in my closet collecting very expensive dust. I finally decided to do something about them! I posted them on eBay and they got snatched up! I'm thrilled. And I can honestly say, I don't miss them one bit. Aahhh, it feels good to purge.

(Yes, this is one of my expensive & irrational purchases that never got used. See my last post.)

06 July 2008

The super expensive garment you never wear

Am I the only one who has done this?

...drop a few bills on something you love in the store, and take it home to never wear it again? Then, to make matters worse, you hold on to it forever hoping the magic will come back (which of course it never does).

Our bodies don't change that much… our tastes don’t change that much… why do we think we’ll eventually like it? And sometimes fashion changes enough over time that it's no longer in style. We end up donating it. How sad. (I just wanted to rant a bit)

29 June 2008

Walk of Shame

The idea of the Rag Tag started when I didn’t want to get caught wearing the same clothes too soon. Now... the Walk of Shame is a whole other matter. When you’re forced to wear the same thing two days in a row, the Rag Tag can’t help you there honey!

26 June 2008

Clean out that closet

Ok, Spring is over, but it's never too late to clean out that closet.

Step 1 Identify
-Check your Rag Tags to know what you no longer wear
-What doesn't fit you anymore
-What is no longer your style
-What is out of style!

Step 2 Get it out of your house
-Donate... there are many shelters that would love to have your clothes!
-Sell on eBay or at a consignment shop (best for high-end clothes because they sell better)
-Swap... attend a clothing swap and pick up "new" clothes
-Give to friends & family

Step 3 Organize what you have left
-Get rid of bad hangers
-Throw away empty cleaners bags and other trash that just seems to accumulate in all of our closets over time
-See video posted on 17 June for more organization tips

Step 4 Marvel at your roomy & organized closet!
(yes, it's that easy!)

24 June 2008

Gentle wash

Hands down... hand washing your precious & delicate clothes is the best way to clean them. There are many benefits to taking good care of your clothes. The most obvious is that they'll last longer. Secondly, it could save you money by not having to spend $ on dry cleaning or machine washing (when that's an option). But something more subtle happens when you hand wash them... you feel with your hands that you're taking good care of them... you handle them with care. This, my friends, helps you appreciate them. And that feeling will transfer to when you wear them out. It's a great cycle! (no pun intended)

As you can see in the video, all you need is a basin, water, a cleanser, and a towel. In terms of cleansers, there are several options. Of course, many swear by Woolite, but now there are many eco-friendly products if you're into the "green thing". Personally, I use Ecover and it works great! For more ideas on green products, click here.

Happy washing!

18 June 2008

Consignment shops

A great way to make room in your closet, get $ for your clothes, be green by recycling/reusing, and best of all... with little effort on your part.

How it works:
1. Identify the clothes that no longer fit you or your needs. (Note: Clothes should be in very good condition, and the higher-end brands sell better.)
2. Drop them off at your local consignment shop. You'll sign an agreement. They'll display your clothes for a couple of months and do all the selling!
3. When your garments sell, they split the revenue with you. It's that easy! (If your clothes don't sell, they give them back to you @ no fee.)

Consignment shops are also a great way to pick up “new” clothes... until you're tired of them and return them to the consignment shop for some $$. Round and round the clothes go. And it’s great for the environment!

If you're in SF, try my favorite consignment shop Cris on Polk. They have beautiful clothes and even carry couture. Enjoy!

15 June 2008

The best shopping in NYC!



If you're like me, you like to find great clothes at reasonable prices. This is heaven on earth for shoppers... Century 21 Department Store in NYC. You can find every day clothes (think $15 for a cute top) and incredible designer stuff (think casual jacket for $650) at greatly reduced prices. And to top it off, the store is huge! Happy shopping!