Spring Cleaning
As the blossoms of Spring beckon, the age-old urge for a seasonal rejuvenation emerges. It's the desire to witness the vibrant hues of our wardrobe mirroring the brightness of springtime. If you've found yourself facing organizing roadblocks in the past or are eager to embrace a fresh perspective, why not collaborate with a wardrobe consultant and stylist? Unleash a revitalized sense of style that perfectly complements the warmer days ahead.
Jack Bartholet conducted the following Q&A with Ariella Greenberg (@ariellablairewear) who embraces the philosophy: Life Is Easier When You’re Dressed Well and Organized to Perfection! Get to know Ariella this season and your spring cleaning will thank you.
Ariella Greenberg is a professional organizer who runs her own styling & personal shopping business. Graduated from FIT with a degree in Fashion Merchandising Management, it was there Ariella’s love for fashion bloomed. Fast forward to today, Ariella assists clients in organizing anything in their homes, from offices and storage units, to packing for vacations or business trips, and planning the appropriate wardrobe. Not just for the parents, she does the entire family (men, women & children) with styling & organizing consisting of determining the entire family’s needs and finding just the right items required to achieve the perfect look. With over 10 years of experience in this business, Ariella has developed the keen ability to fully understand the client’s needs and wants, making sure they come to fruition.
What are the key benefits of spring cleaning and organizing your closet with the help of a personal shopper stylist?
The key benefit of having a stylist clean & organize your wardrobe is a stylist assists with the process of decluttering while keeping them in the loop of what looks best on them based on their style & the current trend of the season.
How can a personal shopper/stylist such as yourself assist individuals in identifying and decluttering items in their wardrobe during a spring cleaning session?
A stylist helps clients determine what works best for their figure while keeping in mind their personal style. I help my clients stay up to date and at the same time, I love making sure they feel their best selves. It’s important for a stylist to be able to recognize one’s style and comfort zone while cleaning out their wardrobe.
What are the current fashion trends for the upcoming spring season, and how can individuals incorporate them into their wardrobe during the organizing process?
Business Casual, High Rise Trousers, Chic Sportswear, Polo Shirts & Sweaters, White Dresses, Florals, & Metallics. My ideal vision of incorporating these upcoming spring fashion trends is to eliminate all garments that are outdated and not complimentary to one’s body figure or color palette.
Can you share some tips for creating a functional and stylish capsule wardrobe for spring?
You put together a collection of clothing that works together and you base it off your personal style. Mixing & Matching is key. It is always best to work with timeless pieces that you feel will never be outdated.
When it comes to organizing accessories, what advice do you have for maximizing space?
Clear storage containers are best for accessories. You don’t want to have your accessories floating around. It gets messy looking and takes up space when it’s just lying around. Picking the right size storage containers is key. A measuring tape has become my best friend. I always measure the space of the area I’d like the accessories to be placed. Based off the measurements and the particular items, I look for the proper storage container. Having the correct size is key in terms of maximizing space.
How can individuals determine which clothing items to keep, donate, or repurpose during their closet organization efforts?
If a client has not worn an item in the past two years (I like to be generous) and it’s outdated, then it’s time to let go. If a client does not feel their best self in an item, then it should also be donated. I feel it’s most important for people to keep what they love and feel great in. If not, then why keep it?
Are there any innovative storage solutions or organizational tools you recommend for optimizing closet space?
The best way to maximize closet space is first deciding what you will hang and what will be folded. For hanging, I love using velvet thin hangers. For folding, I highly suggest the Marie Kondo style. It’s easy, looks nice and maximizes space.
What are the common mistakes people make when organizing their closets, and how can they avoid them?
The biggest mistake I often see is people not purging! You must let go of any item that does not compliment your body. If you are not getting rid of what is not needed, then how do you expect to get organized?!
How do seasonal transitions impact the way we organize our closets, and what adjustments should be made for the spring season?
Sort & Declutter Seasonal items. When preparing for the spring season, it’s time to put away all winter pieces. Any jackets, heavy sweaters, heavy dresses or pants should all be put away. It’s important to pay attention to weight and fabric contents. I work together with my clients on making the decision of what will be worn in Spring/Summer vs. fall/Winter.
Can you provide some guidance on coordinating outfits and creating a versatile wardrobe for various spring occasions?
Focus on basic, staple pieces that will be timeless. Think about your lifestyle. At the same time, don’t be afraid to branch out and try something new. I love picking out an item that my client would never have picked out, and then hearing how much they love the item!
Do you have any color palette recommendations?
Color palettes are very personal. I always say you first start with basics & neutrals then add pops of color that work best for one’s coloring. Focus on what you gravitate to most and don’t be afraid to add in some color.
How can individuals maintain the organization of their closets beyond the initial spring cleaning, and do you have any long-term tips for wardrobe management?
Try cleaning your closet out regularly so it doesn’t get to the point where it’s super unorganized and overwhelming. After the big spring cleaning, we make sure everything has a home. When finished with an item/garment, put it back in its place as soon as it’s cleaned.
Contributor — Jack Bartholet | Lifestyle Consultant
Jack effortlessly transitions from the entertainment industry to the world of luxury hospitality and travel, bringing a rich background of collaboration with celebrated artists and extensive personal travel experiences. When not consulting, he can be seen onstage with cabaret and theatre performances. Jack's enduring passion centers on fostering a sense of belonging for LGBTQ travelers wherever their journey takes them.