Are you a jewelry hoarder? Now I don’t mean that you qualify for the TV show “Hoarders” BUT you have a lot and most of it is tucked away, right? I have to admit that I have lots of jewelry. I have always been an impulse shopper and as a result, I would see something that went with an outfit and I would buy it. The problem is that when I got rid of the outfit, I never got rid of the jewelry.
I have basic pieces that I wear all of the time. Why? Mainly because they are hanging on the wall next to my dresser or they are sitting on top of the dresser.
In my business, I help women (and men) organize their physical space so they can maximize their time; I thought it was time I practiced what I preached.
In an effort to find a necklace that my husband gave me for our first Christmas, 15 years ago, I ended up organizing my jewelry. I used some tips from Inkwell Press.
Step #1: Gather all your jewelry together. My work spot was the bed which let me lay out all of my jewelry.
Step #2: Sort through your jewelry by type (rings, bracelets, necklaces, etc.) and group them together. I was amazed at how many things I had – some were still in boxes waiting to be worn.
Step #3 – I will admit that this is the toughest step. This is where you are going to start purging your collection. Ask yourself three questions:
- Do I love it?
- Is it in style?
- Will I wear it?
If the answer is no to any of these – then it needs to leave your collection and head to the donation pile. I will admit there are pieces that hold sentimental value that you don’t want to part with. If a piece has sentimental value, showcase it rather than keeping it hidden in a box. How about having it remade into something new or add it to your wearing rotation. I have some of my special pieces in a corner cabinet in my living room where each family member who has died has their own shelf. I am thinking about changing it to a shadow box that I can hang on the wall.
Step #4 – Now, it is time to group your pieces by type and store them in a way that allows you to see them. I love the picture frame one that lets you see your organized pieces as you get dressed. If you see them, you are more likely to wear them!
What is your best tip for keeping your jewelry organized and ready to wear? Share it with us…
Have a ThirtyOne-derful day!
Hope Wissel 