“I’ll slim into it.” “It’s an old friend.” “I can’t throw it out. It cost a lot of money.”

These are just some of the excuses we make for keeping clothes in our wardrobes that should long since have been elevated to the great garment cemetery in the sky.

There is nothing more dispiriting than looking in the underwear drawer and seeing heaps of dingy bras and greying knickers; not a good way to start the day. Throw them out, and treat yourself to some new, pretty undies. You’ll be surprised at how they lift your spirits first thing in the morning.

Have you clothes in the wardrobe that are several sizes too small, but one day, you think, you’ll be able to squeeze into them again? Forget it! When that time comes they’re likely to look dated and tired. So, throw them out. If you happen to have some classic garments that truly won’t date, then archive them.

Once you’ve cleared the wardrobe of shoes and clothes that are shabby, old-fashioned, or the wrong size you’ll be able to see more clearly what you need to bring it up to date. A few well-chosen accessories could do the trick- a fantastic belt, new shoes or a wonderful scarf.

If you find it difficult to be objective about your wardrobe enlist the help of your House of Color consultant. They have no hang-ups about what you paid or where you wore any garment. They can help you clear the clutter and suggest ways of updating what’s left. Make 2008 a clutter free year.