Tidy at Heart

26/10/2026

Have you looked into capsule wardrobes only to wonder how to get this perfect little selection of items from the crisp white collared shirt, the fitted blazer to the stylish heels to work for you?

I recently came across Erica Ball Style (YouTube). Her presentation ‘How to find a Capsule wardrobe that works for you’ intrigued me but I was a little sceptical I had maybe seen it all before

Erica stated capsule wardrobes often fail if it doesn’t work for you, your body or your lifestyle. Reflecting my experience, she pointed out instagram or Pinterest posts suggest a strict list of 10-20 items but this doesn’t necessarily work, as one size doesn’t fit all

She refreshingly introduced the idea that a capsule wardrobe is the just foundation on which you build your wardrobe, it’s not your entire wardrobe. It should be versatile, built on neutral colours, cross the seasons and shift from day to night. It is the building blocks to reflect your own personal style - not something where each and every woman can buy a set list of items and look and feel great

So, why hasn’t a capsule wardrobe worked for you?
Often the pieces suggested don’t fit everyone's style. Generally they follow a generic checklist that doesn’t feel like you, doesn’t make you feel good and doesn’t suit your lifestyle

Mistakes we make filling our wardrobes
Impulse, bargains and aspirational buys often become wasted time and money because when things don’t feel right we go back to our usual, frequently worn pieces and they just take up space and add to decision fatigue and overwhelm
💡You don’t need more clothes - you need the right foundation

Too many clothes so getting dressed feels stressful, overwhelming, takes too long and you still doesn't’ feel right or you don’t like the fit
💡Key is to build intentionality - make it quick, easy and fun

You keep buying the wrong thing - or at least things that are wrong for you
Without clarity on your personal style everything becomes a guess
💡Understand your personal style and body shape

You have nothing to wear
You likely have lots of clothes but nothing works together especially if you like statement pieces such as colour, pattern or interesting silhouettes
💡You need to balance foundation and statement

How do you build a capsule that works for you?

Define your unique personal style
Look at the pieces in your wardrobe you wear most - accessories, colour, individual pieces, silhouette, fit - these are the elements or qualities you can apply to other pieces or purchases

Better understand your body
What silhouettes, fit and styles do you like. Look at your body shape, consider the features want to hide or emphasise

Consider your lifestyle
Do you work from home, have children, active - certain pieces will not work with that lifestyle such as blazers, heels, silk. You need a wardrobe that is practical, easy, needs little decision making, grab and go, lots of use
Your wardrobe should match your real life not the life you imagine, fantasise or had ten years ago

Build a versatile foundation
Daytime to evening, works across seasons and occasions, not full of one wear items or with one outfit. Another stylist I've worked with uses the 'Rule of 3' - everything you buy should go with at least 3 other pieces in your closet

Neutrals don't have to be boring so dont automatically think black, white and grey.
Your neutrals could be navy, blush, greens, camel - whatever works for you, a basic colour that works with everything

What are the missing gaps?
For example, If you have a casual style make sure foot wear reflects comfort - ie ballet flat, pump
Create a shopping list based on your style and what you need to complete it
No more guessing, impulse or scrolling. Be more intentional. This doesn’t mean restriction, its actually more freedom - freedom from overwhelm and fatigue, wasting money and time

If you’ve tried a capsule wardrobe and it hasn’t worked it doesn’t mean it doesn’t work - it means you weren’t building it based on you, you were maybe focusing on a generic list that was restrictive, full of must haves and basic neutrals. A wardrobe is not a one size fits all

Erica Ball recommends 12 basic essentials - based on you. This is not a universal list, you need consider what each item represents for you - your style, taste, what feels comfortable, what you like

Everyday bottom
i.e. jeans no embellishment, medium to dark colour. Consider silhouette, fit, low or high rise

Short sleeve elevated top
i.e. neutral solid colour t shirt, colour of your choice, versatile. Consider silhouette, fit - relaxed, fitted, neckline - round, v, boat, sleeves - cap, sleeveless, regular

A blouse
dressier, not necessarily a blouse but more polished than a t shirt, can wear a jacket over. Consider fabric, colour, texture, dress up day to evening

Lightweight sweater
fine knit, versatile, multi season. Consider silhouette, fit -loose/fitted, neckline, colour (solid)

Lightweight jacket
Could be a denim jacket, leather, blazer. Consider personal style, lifestyle, fits well, day to night

Skirt
Not a skirt wearer? What’s your version - trouser / wide leg pant. Consider length - mini/maxi, colour (should work with other colours), fabric, across seasons, day to night, with/out tights, dressier

Day to night dress
Your version of a one piece, maybe a jumpsuit? Consider style - floral, solid, fabric, fit, sleeve length, neckline

Lightweight layer
i.e. cardigan, jacket, blazer. Consider style, lifestyle, solid neutral, styled feel, versatile

Trousers
Solid colour, your neutral, consider silhouette, rise, fit, width

Long sleeve elevated top
Possibly shirt, long sleeve t shirt, hoodie. Polished, casual feel, neckline, fit, versatile

Comfortable closed toe shoe i.e. sneakers, ballet pump

Crossbody bag
Consider size - not too big or small, functional, versatile (goes with most outfits), texture, colour, day to night

Many suggest a capsule is all you need - a limited number of pieces you interchange and usually a limited colour palette. This doesn’t have to be the case. You don’t have to restrict yourself to these 12 pieces they are the foundation, the building blocks you add statement pieces, layers to to create your own personal style - your wardrobe to fit your body and your life

During your next decluttering session or shopping trip, bear this in mind. Be mindful what you add to your wardrobe and how that item works for you, your body shape and your lifestyle. And just maybe you’ll create a wardrobe that suits every part of you and you love and wear every part of it

22/10/2026

Dealing with Unwanted Clothes - Alternative Ways to Sell

Online selling offers the potential of making a good return on your clothes, particularly certain styles or desirable brands but can be time consuming and require some effort. If you are looking for an alternative then read on

Car Boot
Doing a car boot sale can be great fun, especially if you do with friend/family
Usually an early start - anytime from 6am
Weather can alter the experience hugely - go prepared for everything!
Check that event is going ahead prior to departing
Have a supply of change, maybe some carrier bags, a camping chair
Think about how you’ll display items - clothes rail, table, boxes or just a blanket will do
Get everything out from the start and rotate things throughout the day
Be ready to ask people to wait until you have things out fully - they're very eager to rummage
Be prepared to haggle - people want a real bargain but hopefully this means you won’t take your stuff home
Be prepared you may only make a small return on individual items, though at the end of it you may come home with a decent amount of cash
Bear in mind entry costs and any spending you may be tempted to do
Take your own drinks and snacks to avoid unnecessary costs and eating into your profits
Doing with someone means you can take that essential toilet break
Have a plan for anything you don't sell

Vintage/Second hand stores
Independent vintage and preloved shops may buy select items directly for cash/store credit
Research online, check rules/expectations, items/brands accepted

Cash for Clothes
Check online for locations. Check for restrictions and the price paid per kilo. Be prepared for a relatively small return
Items are often individually checked - can be time consuming and some items may be rejected, don’t get offended. Have a back up plan for rejected items
This service has mixed reviews from users

In Store Exchanges
Some stores, e.g. River Island, Zara, H&M and M&S/Oxfam exchange second hand clothing for a voucher
Check for restrictions and any standards being applied
Check voucher details - expiry dates or restrictions ie ‘spend £X get 10% off / £5 off £25 spend’. Make sure it works for you

20/10/2026

Dealing with Unwanted Clothes - Online Selling

So you want to make some money from your unwanted clothes

Before you start
Make sure youre willing to invest the time and effort into selling items
Items are in clean and good condition
You can store things until sold
Understand how and where to post

There are so many sites to choose from, research is essential to see which site suits you best. Vinted is one of the most popular sites and with good reason - selling is quick and easy

Think about your buyer - age, style, budget, brand
Check similar items on sale, be seasonal, pitch yourself accordingly
Be realistic, too expensive and you may not sell
Check site rules - do fees apply or limits on number of listings?
Check postage and how costs are covered
Is face to face contact required? Are you happy to do this?

Provide detailed descriptions - brand names, condition (excellent, rarely worn, worn once, labels attached etc), specific details ie frills, pockets
Clear sizing information (esp if non standard or fits a certain way)
Use keywords - vintage, designer, wedding, prom
Mention if from a smoke free/pet free home
Provide clear, bright photos - varied angles, focusing on different aspects of the garment, show brand labels/logos/tags
Model garments if you wish (don’t need to show face)
Be aware of background in your photos

Bundle selling items
Create bundles - ie 3 items in one post, group children's clothes by age
Can be easier and quicker than individual item sales
Check if others doing this on site of choice
Bundling can attract lower price than selling individually
Photo - snap shot of items laid out featuring best pieces or individual photos depending on bundle. Detail clothing and brands in description

Be upfront about any damage, missing pieces, marks or requiried repair
Detail the damage so buyers can make informed decisions
Provide photo and reflect damage in the price

Boost your seller rating
Be honest about the item condition
Maintain good communication with buyers
Posting promptly, send photo proof of postage / confirmation message
Communicate anything affecting sale or purchase
Leave reviews of sellers once you have received your feedback

19/10/2026

I'm desperately trying to hold off from putting the heating on as once I take that step it seems such a long time til it gets switched off

Read this Ideal Mome article for ways to warm your home without cranking up the thermostat

As for me, I've putty curtains back up in the dining room (I take them down during the warmer months), changed cushions and throws for snugglier versions, and switched over my wardrobe. Not yet switched to my thicker duvet but I'm counting the weeks

How do you prepare for the change of season and when are you planning on switching the heating on?

I asked the experts for their advice on how to keep my house warmer for longer without having to rely on my central heating too soon

16/10/2026

Feel anxious and overwhelmed by too much stuff?
Embarrassed by your cluttered home?
Want to reduce, simplify and make life easier?
Don't know where to start?

I offer a supportive, non-judgemental, friendly service that will give hands-on, practical help to get your clutter under control

To find out more about Tidy at Heart, how I can help you and to arrange a free, no obligation consultation contact me on
07788 263309
or visit

15/10/2026

Dealing with Unwanted Clothes

Charity Donations
Sign up to Gift Aid as a UK tax payer, so they can reclaim tax on a donation (25p on every £1)
Choose a charity close to your heart or simply one that's local - reason doesn't matter
Ensure donations are clean and in good condition
Bag/band pairs, fold coordinating items together
Be upfront if items are damaged/incomplete
Don't donate out of season
Be aware charity shops pay to dispose of items they can't sell

Charity Shop Drop Off
Ideally drop off the same day
Check opening times and when donations are accepted - many don't want at the end of the day
Are there restrictions on what’s accepted? Some may limit certain types of donation if overwhelmed, many don't accept electrical items or furniture. Check before you make the trip
Is it easy to park to make your donation?

DropPoint.co.uk
Connects you to various verified UK charities and community groups locally or nationally
Uses local DropPoints, national drops may require a low cost shipment fee
Allows you to search according to the item you wish to donate - can search for specifically mens, women's or children's clothes (also not just clothes!)

Door Drop Charity Bags
These bags are posted through your door and collected a few days later. All you have to do is fill it!
You can check online if they are authentic, where the donations go and what percentage actually makes its way to the charity
Check what is accepted and stick to the guidelines. Unauthorised items may end up in the bin or your bag may be rejected
Leave out on correct day by time specified and where clearly visible
If you have a large donation you may be able to arrange for a van to come and collect - but make this worthwhile. Check websites for this service

Clothing Banks
Found at most supermarkets
High proportion goes overseas with some remaining in the UK if this is important to you for example, in terms of carbon footprint
Easy deposit so can be dealt with within few hours of your clear out
Never leave donations on floor around container - these will not necessarily be collected by the charity and may be collected by refuse lorry

Look out for topical charity collections on social media or local press. For example, the war in Ukraine led to a number of individuals, schools or centres collecting donations and acting as the go between for collecting and delivering

Think closer to home
Donate to friends, family, schools, nursery or refuge
Find clothing exchange events online, swap unwanted garments for something preloved

13/10/2026

So you’ve decluttered your wardrobe and are left with a pile of clothes you no longer want … now what?

You have three ways to proceed - donate, sell, dispose

Are the items suitable condition for sale or donation?
Is it clean and in good condition?
Is there damage, staining, pieces missing?
Can it be repaired?
Would I be happy to buy it in its current condition? If not, maybe no one else will

Clothes can be sold or donated with damage but it’s VITAL to be upfront about any issues. A charity shop or buyer may be happy to take and repair themselves, or advertise accordingly

💡Remember: charity shops have to pay to dispose of items they cannot sell so be honest about condition before donating

Is selling or donating right for you?
If clothes are suitable to pass on, think about how you’d like to go about it

Do I have time, energy and inclination to sell my clothes?
Can I have make time to answer messages, make deliveries?
Can I store items until they're sold?
Am I comfortable to have contact with buyers?
Are you happy to get no financial return?
Do I want these things out of my home straight away?

There’s no right or wrong choice - the best option is the one that works for you

Before you head to the dustbin ...
If something isn’t suitable for selling or donation, don’t automatically head for the bin, try to make this the last resort

Can you alter or customise an item? Clothing may reach the end of its life but can still be used in different ways

For example, shorten trousers into shorts, add patches to disguise damage,
repurpose as cleaning clothes, art resources, create cushion covers or bunting

Over the next few days, I will be posting tips on ways to make money from unwanted clothes but don't worry, if that feels like too much effort then I will also be sharing some tips on how to be a great donator 💜

08/10/2026

The onset of Autumn is a great time to declutter and switch over your wardrobe. Here are a few tips for getting it done

Clear your bed so you have a space to work on, bags for unwanted items
Have breaks when a small task/ section is completed
Don't empty all your clothes onto your bed at once, this could leave you overwhelmed, demotivated and wishing you hadn't started
Tackle one area or category at a time

Choose which way works best for you to make the job manageable, there's no right or wrong way, we're all different
👚 Declutter by category - collate like items so you can see exactly what you have. For example trousers, dresses etc. Don't move on to the next category until you've finished
👕 Declutter by area - tackle each drawer, hanging space or shelf separately. Again don't move on until you've finished

However you do it, as you consider each item ask yourself the following:
Do I like it? Do I feel good in it?
Does it fit well? Do I have that things goes with it?
Does it suit me and my current style? Is it practical?
Will I wear it?

Answer 'Yes', then fold / hang and put away
Organise in a way that works for you, make it easy to view and access clothes and simple to maintain
Think of grouping like items and organise by colour for an eye catching wardrobe

Answer 'No', decide how you'll deal with it - donate, sell, repurpose (or in as few cases as possible bin it)

Anything you bag up for charity - don't delay take it the same day / within 24 hours
Selling? Get pictures done and get it advertised then find a suitable place to store until you sell it and set a time limit. If items don't sell be prepared to donate and free up space
More on selling and donating to follow - watch for future posts!

Some items may be suitable to repurpose as cleaning cloths, dusters, and depending on your skill set - draught excluders, cushion covers, patchwork blanket, tote bags

Items you want to keep but need repair/alteration? Consider if you'll really do this and get on it asap. If you'll just put to the back of the cupboard and forget, then sell/donate with clear indication of any damage. Others may be perfectly happy/able to do repairs

Keeping for a slimmer/curvier you? Keep this section of your wardrobe to a minimum. Think motivation not demoralisation. Storage space is valuable, and life is too short, to hold onto things you can't wear, torment you or make you feel bad about yourself

If unsure hang onto for a limited time (3 months?) and review

Pack and store out of season clothes away, freeing your wardrobe for current, daily wear

It's okay, as a last resort, to put items in the bin or for fabric recycling if they are damaged beyond repair or in too poor condition to make use of in another way - whilst its great to try and do the right thing remember you can only do your best with the options available. Maybe find a way to offset the waste by doing another sustainable action, such as being mindful of about future purchases

Next week join me as we look at how to deal with unwanted clothes

06/10/2026

What's your wardrobe like?

Many of you may be surprised but I am definitely a B and not an A

I know where everything is, everything is neat and organised, items are grouped and I love a bit of colour coding. I have a few smart, practical storage boxes but am not someone who meticulously rolls or folds everything from t-shirts down to underwear because frankly this takes a lot of time and energy and doesn't suit the way my wardrobe works for me or how I live

I have recently had a brutal declutter where I finally removed some clothes I'd been holding onto that no longer fit or hadn't worn for ages, so don't be too hard on yourself if you're finding it hard too part with some things ... you're not alone

I'd love to hear about your wardrobe style, how much of your wardrobe you realistically use and how you'd like to improve it. If you're planning a declutter then look out for Tidy at Hearts focus on sorting your closet over the coming weeks

If you'd like help getting your wardrobe organised and are struggling to get started or can't face it alone then get in touch - I'd love to help 💜

02/10/2026

Autumn is taking hold after a sunny hurrah last week, its time for the biannual clothing switch

Why your wardrobe should be organised seasonally

Rotating clothes seasonally and reviewing my wardrobe makes life easier
My wardrobe isn’t overflowing or stuffed full of clothes I can’t wear
Everything in there is seasonally appropriate
Everything has earned its place ... it's comfortable, I like it, I want to wear it and its seasonally appropriate
Deciding daily outfits can be quicker and easier, reducing that feeling of having lots of clothes but nothing to wear and reducing decision fatigue

Lets get started

Think where you’ll store out of season clothes and make sure storage is suitable
Set aside some time when the weather changes
Use a flat clear space ie your bed as a sorting station

The switchover is a good opportunity for a declutter

Go through your wardrobe and pull out anything you can immediately decide you're getting rid of
This will be anything you no longer like, doesn’t fit, is damaged/stained, won’t do another season
Add to a donations bag or for sale box- deal with asap

Identify crossover items, those you will continue to use over the coming months ie pieces for layering, these can be checked over and put away in your wardrobe

Remove items unsuitable for the coming season
Inspect each item - any repairs, stains to be removed, is it clean?
Wash or dry clean, hand wash or repair before packing away, spray with a laundry mist to keep smelling fresh/use cedar balls
Pack away in your choice of storage in sections (trousers, jumpers, beachwear etc) to make access easier for next year
When packing clothes make sure they are clean and folded neatly

Unpack your current season wardrobe
Spot check items
You may find that you packed away clothes you now feel differently about. Have a declutter removing anything you no longer like, won’t wear for doesn’t fit
Assess what you have and what, if anything, you need
Rewash, iron or treat clothes if necessary

Organise your wardrobe, use slim line hangers, fold neatly and maximise storage
Continue to review what’s in your wardrobe and be mindful what or how much you add in
Dont forget shoes, accessories and coats