There’s a good chance that right now, in your closet, there are more than a few articles of clothing that haven’t seen the light of day in months, maybe even years. Maybe you haven’t gotten around to finding a new home for them. Or, you’re avoiding parting with them for one reason or another. Either way, you know in your hearts of hearts—some things have got to go. Organizing your closet can be more freeing than daunting, plus, you have the opportunity to make space for new looks to go with whatever era you’re owning. Here are a few strategies for finally letting go of those clothes you never wear.

1. For the “I Don’t Know Where to Start”: The Marie Kondo Method

If you’re struggling with just getting around to organizing your closet or feel overwhelmed at the thought, Marie Kondo’s approach is a great way for every entry-level organizer. It’s simple. Start by gathering all your clothes from every corner of your home and throwing them in a pile. This includes items stored in closets, drawers, and even under the bed. Then, instead of tackling your clothes all at once, break things down by sorting them by category. Begin with tops, then move on to bottoms, dresses, outerwear, and finally, accessories.

Now, the fun part. Take each item in your hands and hold it up to assess it individually. This step is important, as it allows you to connect with each piece and decide whether it truly brings you joy. Basically, does it ignite some sort of feeling in you that would inspire you to keep it, not just because it exists or is only sentimental? If it does not, it’s time to let it go.

Before parting ways with items that don’t spark joy, take a moment to thank them for their service. This gesture of gratitude can help you let go with a sense of appreciation rather than guilt. Then, Once you’ve sorted through all your clothes and identified the items that no longer bring you joy, it’s time to discard or donate them.

2. For the “I Just Don’t Have Time”: The Hanger Test

Your life is busy, and right now, there are a million and one other things you’d rather prioritize. We’ve got you. This is a sneaky little trick to separate the wardrobe winners from the clutter culprits. If going through your closet all at once just isn’t going to happen, this lets you tackle it over a whole year. First, turn all your hangers backward so they face the opposite direction. Then, as you wear each item and return it to its rightful place, flip the hanger around. After a few weeks or months, or even a year—why not, take a peek at which hangers are still facing the wrong way?

What do you see? Those are the pieces that have been lurking in the shadows of your closet, untouched and unloved. This now lets you identify the pieces that no longer serve you, and you can make an honest decision to make space for the clothes that you actually use.

3. For the “I’d Rather be at Brunch”: Host a Clothing Swap Party

You might be the type that gives a serious side eye to someone who says they find happiness in organizing. That’s just not you—you’d rather be doing literally anything else. So, what if you made it into an activity that doubles as an excuse to hang out with your besties? Fire up the group text and announce you’re hosting a clothing swap party. You likely have friends who are in a similar situation.

Queue up a playlist, pour up some mimosas, set out some finger foods and invite some friends over to bring over the clothes they’re trying to get rid of. Set them up in piles with each person at a pile that isn’t theirs. Then, starting with your first song on the playlist, everyone can focus on one pile at a time, speed-dating style—and the shopping spree begins. At the end of each song, rotate. Whatever is left gets donated. It’s a chance for you and your fashion-forward friends to raid each other’s closets in search of hidden gems. That dress you wore once to a wedding? Someone else’s new favorite cocktail attire. Those jeans that no longer fit quite right? Someone else’s go-to weekend staple.