August: The Perfect Time to Revamp Your Wardrobe—What to Toss First

The Benefits of a Seasonal Closet Swap

As the days grow shorter and the air cools, it's the perfect time to shift your focus from summer to fall. This transition is not just about changing the weather but also about refreshing your wardrobe. By using the tail end of summer to make space for what you actually love wearing, you can create a more organized and functional closet.

The seasonal swap method is a great way to keep your closet tidy and ready for the cooler days ahead. According to professional organizers, even if your closet is large, editing it now will free up mental space and make your daily routine easier. From stretched-out swimwear to those “just in case” sundresses you never wear, there are several items that experts suggest you can let go of this month.

Meet the Experts

Courtney Cummings, a professional organizer and founder of The Stylish Organizer, emphasizes the importance of evaluating your closet on a quarterly basis as the seasons change. She believes that the end of the summer is an ideal time to examine your summer wardrobe and accessories. Similarly, Katy Wells, a decluttering expert and host of The Maximized Minimalist podcast, suggests that mid to late August offers a natural reset for shifting from summer to fall organization.

Items to Purge from Your Closet in August

Decluttering your closet can make you feel better by removing items that don’t match your style or fit your body. An abundance of clothing and accessories that don’t serve you can lead to difficulties when trying to get ready for the day. Here are some specific categories to consider:

Sweat-Stained Summer Clothing

Summer fabrics often see their fair share of wear and tear. Depending on where you live and what you like to do, hot and humid weather can leave your clothes with unsightly sweat stains. While there are laundry tricks to remove tough stains, sometimes garments are beyond saving. In such cases, it’s time to say goodbye. However, don’t just toss those stained tees in the trash. Research local textile recycling facilities or organizations that take fabric donations, such as animal shelters and pet rescue charities.

Broken Beach Bags

Inspect your summer bags for any signs of damage. If your go-to beach bag is broken and unusable, it’s time to invest in something new. Ripped handles and broken pockets reduce functionality and make things more difficult. Set yourself up for success by shopping end-of-year sales to score a new bag for next year’s sandy season. As for the old bag, depending on the fabric or materials, you can cut up strips to use as rags for cleaning or try to find a textile recycling center in your city.

Ill-Fitting Swimsuits

Your swimwear should make you feel confident in and out of the water. If your trusty favorite suit is no longer hugging your body the way it used to, it may be time to get rid of it. Careful washing is essential to maintain the integrity of your swimsuits. If you don’t wash them properly, elastic bands can fail, spandex bottoms become less firm, and the constant contact with salt, sand, and chlorine can wreak havoc.

Unworn or Worn-Out Sandals

Check your summer shoe collection for any sandals you skipped all season. If you always reached for other pairs, that’s a sign they’re ready to move on. Try the shoes on and note any that don’t feel great when you put them on. Shoes in good condition can be donated, but you may need to toss any that are beyond repair.

Duplicate Summer Dresses

Summer dresses that never left the hanger are another clutter culprit. If you didn’t choose them when the weather was perfect for them, chances are they’re not a favorite. In some cases, you may have near-duplicate summer dresses, and you may find yourself consistently choosing the more comfortable one.

Unused Accessories

Create a pile of seasonal accessories you never grabbed for the last few months, like hats, jewelry, or sunglasses that just weren’t comfortable, easy to use, or your style anymore. Pieces from a past job, a different phase of motherhood, or a hobby you’re no longer doing should go. Your closet should reflect the life you’re living now, not the version of you from ten years ago.

How to Declutter Your Closet Daily

On decluttering without overwhelm, Katy Wells suggests starting with a quick check-in with your space. It’s a habit, not a project. While you’re getting dressed, notice what you skipped over again—and make one decision. One piece that’s not serving you? Out it goes. Setting up a visible, accessible donation bin inside or near your closet can make these daily audits easier.

When doing a clutter audit, pick one item and ask yourself the following questions: Does this item make you feel guilty? Have you worn this lately? These questions can help you identify items that are no longer serving you. Letting go creates space for what actually works.