Decluttering Memories From Utah Clothes That Need To Go

My daughter and some friends had come over to look through some old clothes that had been given to us to see if any were old enough to be a statement.

Get our free mobile app

That’s when things got personal.

They had a great time searching through the bags and found what they considered to be some great treasures. Then Unknowingly they wandered into my part of the closet and started to comment on some of my older clothes. Their reactions were priceless: “This is so vintage!” “Wait, you wore this?” “Honestly… kinda iconic.” It was funny when they and I realized that I had kept some of my wardrobe past the age of I guess fashion and it helped me realize a hack that we can use to declutter our sentimental Utah lives:

Like old friends I'd been holding onto clothes, not because I needed them, but because of an emotional connection. And that’s the emotional hack I want to share—especially for those of us in Utah, where sentimentality runs deep and closets double as time capsules. Here are three ways to detangle your emotions from your old clothes.

Create a Mental Expiration Date

If clothes came with expiration dates, decluttering would be easy. But since they don’t, try this: make a mental note—or if you’re a spreadsheet saint, log the year you got each item. If it’s been more than 5–7 years and you haven’t worn it, it’s probably time to let it go. Think of it as emotional food storage: rotate, refresh, release.

Keep Fresh by Staying Curious

You don’t have to chase every trend, but staying aware of what people your age are wearing can help. Browse a few shops, scroll a fashion blog, or just observe what’s showing up at church or Costco. If your item feels out of sync with your current life, it’s easier to say goodbye. Style evolves—so can you.

Check the Fit (Physically and Emotionally)

Bodies change. Seasons shift. And sometimes, the fit that once felt perfect now—doesn't. Try things on with honesty. If it no longer fits your body or your spirit, blame it on the item, it's not you.

Read More: Utah Lands In Top 5 For Safest States In The U.S.

Letting go doesn’t mean forgetting. It means making space—for new memories, new styles, and maybe even a closet that doesn’t require spelunking gear. So next time your daughter says, “This is so vintage,” smile, and consider whether it’s time to pass the hanger.