Closet Cleanout Guide: How to Minimize Your Closet and Make Money

January is synonymous with organizing and I’m all about it. Whether it’s the influx of new stuff from the holidays or the release of Marie Kondo’s new “Tidying Up” show, I feel like my closet is overflowing with all the things and I’m itching to streamline, organize and keep only what “sparks joy.” (Thanks, Marie!)

I spent last weekend happily clearing out my closet and separating my clothes, handbags and accessories into piles: giveaway, sell and toss (this is the smallest pile typically designated for solo socks). The “sell” pile is by far my favorite – who doesn’t want to make a little bonus money while organizing at the same time? Plus, it’s important to me how the act of donating or selling my clothing has a positive eco-impact.

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It’s no secret that I love to shop at Crossroads Trading to find both on-trend and investment pieces (I talk about this in my recent post, “5 Ways to Buy Designer on Discount), and I’m not alone. I read recently that about 1/3 of women shop secondhand for clothing. As a seller, there’s a huge market to make a little money by selling your previously loved clothing and accessories. Crossroads Trading has a sell by mail option that makes it possible to do that without even leaving your home. I’ve always sold my items in person at a store location, so I was excited to give this a try.

It was so easy to request a Sell By Mail bag online. I received it in the mail days later with a pre-paid shipping return label. Next up: Fill it up, mail it back and wait to receive a shopping credit or check (it’s your choice!). I’m opting for a check this time around.

“When you buy something old and previously-loved, you’re extending its lifespan and reducing its carbon footprint.”

– Emily Farra, Vogue editor

Tips To Help Make the Most from Your Sell By Mail Bag:

1. Only include pieces you’d want to buy. Check for any missing buttons, snags, holes or broken zippers. Make sure everything is freshly laundered and folded. First appearances count, after all!
2. Pay attention to the buying guide. Crossroads Trading outlines the styles and trends they are buying this season which, right now, includes denim, silk, plaid prints, metallic, red, slip dresses, embroidery details and neck scarfs.
3. Keep it on-trend, but don’t forget the classics. Crossroads Trading is known for being a destination for current trends and styles (within a year) so it’s important to keep that in mind when you’re filling your bag. That said, I’ve had success selling classic pieces like a J.Crew blazer with detailing or a BCBG cocktail dress.

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I love a good closet clean-out where I can make a little pocket money to reinvest in clothing for the kids. I also feel good knowing that I can contribute to the eco-friendly secondhand solution and help extend the life of my clothing and accessories.

Are you cleaning out your closet this winter? If so, how and where do you donate or sell your clothing?

XOXO,

Emily

*This post is sponsored by Crossroads Trading. All thoughts and opinions shared here are my own.