Minimize and Accessorize | Family Economics

By Cathe Holden

Digging through my closet, I often find apparel that I rarely wear, whether because of style (but I still love the color or pattern), size (I tend to change clothing size up and down) or quality, (an item that barely made it past the drying cycle without hems unstitching or the knit unraveling, but I can’t bring myself to throw it out.) For some reason, it’s hard to part with clothes, but in an effort to be thrifty, I have been pulling items that are still in fashion and good condition, but rarely worn, and taking them to the consignment boutique in town.

I have been donating the other unworn clothing but when there’s a piece that I think I'd miss, but never plan to wear, I try to find a way to somehow incorporate it back into my wardrobe whether by repurposing a blouse into a scarf, the beautiful buttons into jewelry or simply tucking the piece into my fabric stash for later crafting items such as a pretty journal cover or throw pillow cover, depending on the size. I’ve even made lavender and rice heating pads from repurposed pants.

While minimizing the quantity of clothes in my closet, I have gravitated towards higher quality pieces in neutral styles and colors and bumping up the accessorizing factor a few notches for little to no cost.

Scarves are a great focal point to most any outfit; a small, lightweight neck scarf in the warmer weather and a heavier knitted scarf or wrap on colder days. Embellish your scarf with a handmade brooch crafted from a beautiful vintage button or chunky earring.

With a few found items you can create unique and interesting jewelry such as a necklace fashioned from vintage drapery rings or men’s cufflinks. Use simple wire and beads to form a bird nest pendant or brooch or ring. Dig around in your jewelry box of costume jewelry and remake your own custom piece from parts of necklaces and earrings you rarely wear.

It’s going to feel great when you keep it simple, accessorize big and save money and closet space at the same time.