How to Navigate a Closet Clean-Out When Your Body Has Changed
Clothes are more than just fabric — they’re a daily reminder of how we feel about ourselves. When something doesn’t fit, it’s easy to spiral into self-criticism, frustration, or even shame. But here’s the truth: your body is not the problem. The clothes are.
The way clothing fits can make or break how you feel about your body in a given moment. That’s why creating a closet that works for you right now — not the “old you” or the “goal you” — is one of the most powerful things you can do to support your body image. Comfort isn’t a luxury; it’s foundational. Sometimes that even means sizing up — not because your body is wrong, but because you deserve to feel good in what you wear.
If your body has changed, or you’re entering a new season of life, here’s how to navigate a closet clean-out step by step:
1. Remove everything that doesn’t fit you right now
Clothes that pinch, pull, or don’t zip up are not motivators — they’re daily reminders of what your body “isn’t.” You don’t need that energy every morning.
Take out anything that doesn’t fit your current body.
If you’re not ready to donate or sell it yet, that’s okay — place it in a bin, a garbage bag, or under-bed storage.
The goal is to get it out of your visual space where you get dressed. Your closet should only hold clothing that works for you today.
2. Start dreaming about what you want to wear
This is the fun part: imagining what’s next for your wardrobe.
Follow influencers with body types similar to yours. It’s easier to picture how clothing might look on you when you see it on a body like your own.
Create a Pinterest board or phone album for outfit inspiration. Screenshot looks that feel stylish, comfortable, and you.
Pay attention to what draws you in. Are you loving tailored blazers, cozy cardigans, wide-leg jeans? Save it all.
3. Make a list of the “holes” in your wardrobe
Instead of buying random pieces on impulse, think about what you actually need.
What does your typical week look like?
Do you need outfits for work, school drop-off, date nights, workouts, or lounging at home?
Write down the gaps so you can shop intentionally instead of feeling overwhelmed.
4. Purchase (or rent!) with kindness — not pressure
Now it’s time to fill those wardrobe holes. This step can feel tricky, so set yourself up for success:
Shop second-hand, online, or in-store depending on your budget. Thrifting, renting, or using resale sites are all great options.
Bring a supportive friend who makes you feel good about yourself.
Do it in short bursts — don’t force yourself into an all-day marathon.
Expect returns — lots of them. This isn’t a “you” thing, it’s just how shopping works.
Why this matters
When you open your closet in the morning, you deserve to see clothes that fit and feel good — not a lineup of “maybes” and “somedays.” This is not about giving up on your goals or saying you’ll never change again. It’s about meeting yourself where you are, right now, with compassion and care.
When you prioritize comfort, your body image has space to breathe. Getting dressed becomes less about judgment and more about self-expression — and that can change your whole day.
If this feels overwhelming… you’re not alone.
Changing your wardrobe can bring up a lot of feelings about your body — grief, frustration, even fear. If you’re struggling to trust your body or feel at peace in it, you don’t have to do it alone.
I work 1:1 with women to heal their relationship with food, body, and self-image. If this is something you’re craving support with, book a free discovery call to chat with Tory.
