From Marianne: The Real Problem Is Not My Closet. It's My Social Life. 👗

Every time I try to clean out my closet, I run into the same problem: I like my clothes. A lot.

I have dresses I’d buy all over again. Jackets that still look great. Pants that finally fit better now that I’ve lost a few pounds. This is not helpful when the goal is to get rid of things. I’ve already done the responsible closet edits, thanks to my helpful daughters. I’ve removed the things that don’t fit, don’t flatter me, or make me ask, Who bought this?

What’s left now is pretty good. Too good. Which is why I know that the real problem is not my closet. It’s my social life.

I keep buying clothes for the woman I imagine I am. She goes to fancy dinners, she attends events. She wears a fabulous dress in the middle of the week.

The actual me is in jeans, an oversized shirt, carpenter pants, a loose T-shirt, or a skort if it’s hot. Most days, I’m in athleisure, in my morning workout clothes all day. 

I do get invited places. I could go out more. I just prefer staying casual with friends closeby. My idea of a big night is a movie, and jeans are more than adequate for watching Nicole Kidman remind me how much I love the cinema.

So now I’ve made myself a promise: I’m going to wear the clothes. All of them. Even if the occasion doesn’t always fit the outfit.

If you see me at the dry cleaner in a great dress, mind your own business. If I’m overdressed at the butcher shop, let it go. If I show up at the plant store looking like I’m headed to cocktails, please understand: I’m not showing off. I’m trying to use up my wardrobe.

And honestly, every time I wear something I forgot I owned, it feels like I went shopping, only cheaper.