As I enter the midpoint of my 40s, I find myself in a dilemma that can only be described as a midlife closet crisis. Two decades of accumulating clothes have left me drowning in a sea of fabric, each garment whispering tales of my past adventures and fashion fiascos.
But amidst my closet chaos, I know I can redefine my relationship with clothing and create a more minimalist wardrobe that I will truly love. Thus, I’m ready to embark on a challenge known as Project 333. Brace yourselves folks, for this journey promises to be a rollercoaster ride of self-discovery as I attempt to redefine my relationship with clothing and live a more minimalist life.
What is Project 333?
Project 333 is a minimalist fashion challenge where participants choose 33 items of clothing to wear exclusively for three months, promoting simplicity and intentionality in dressing. The goal is to streamline one’s wardrobe, cultivate a sense of simplicity, and focus on using and enjoying a small selection of garments. If you want to know everything there is to know about Project 333, you can buy the book, or borrow it from the library, Courtney Carver’s book – Project 333.
Currently, my closet is bursting at the seams with relics of yesteryear – starting with the late 90s! There’s that black and gold dress, untouched by human hands since its purchase seven years ago – still clinging to its purchase tag. And let’s not forget the countless number of jeans still awaiting the day I shed those extra pounds and grant them a chance to be worn again.
As I write this, the realization dawns upon me like a bolt of lightning: no wonder I’ve become a master of the phrase “I have nothing to wear,” or why packing for trips feels like an endless job, often prompting me to begin weeks ahead or just purchasing new outfits.
But fear not, dear friends, for Project 333 is my beacon of hope. With it as a guide, I shall emerge from the depths of my wardrobe chaos and embrace a newfound sense of intentionality. Soon, I shall stand before my closet and confidently say, “Today, my dear garments, which lucky ensemble shall earn the honor of adorning my fabulous self?” – lol.
Join me, fellow fashion friends, as we navigate the treacherous waters of a wardrobe overhaul.
Welcome to my Project 333 Attempt!
As I get ready to embark on this journey, I’m brimming with both excitement and apprehension. Letting go of pieces that have shaped my identity for years will undoubtedly be a process. Yet, the promise of cultivating a more intentional, curated wardrobe is irresistibly appealing.
So how to get started….
I’ll adhere to Courtney’s guidelines from her book, but for my first three-month stint, some adjustments may be in order. Being a newcomer to this challenge, my first step will involve taking stock of my closet, initiating a decluttering spree, and giving away items not needed. I’ll kick things off by parting ways with garments that don’t currently fit and anything that still has its price tag attached—farewell, black and gold dress, your time in the closet is up. Next, I’ll bid adieu to items I know I rarely wear or simply don’t fancy. Anything that I’m not quite ready to part with will find its temporary home in storage bins. It’s crucial to approach this task with a positive mindset, avoiding unnecessary dread or complication—after all, if it feels like a chore, it won’t get done.
My Rules
- Items can be changed every three months.
- The closet can have 33 clothing items.
- These items are not counted as part of the 33 clothing items –jewelry, accessories (belts, scarfs, etc), undergarments, sleepwear, in-home lounge wear, workout clothing, socks, and shoes.
- Once 33 clothing items have been chosen, box up the remining items, seal them with tape, write the date, and put it out of sight.
Tips: Keep in mind that you’re crafting a wardrobe that will accompany you through all aspects of life for the next three months—be it work, play, or leisure. If during this time your chosen clothing items don’t fit well or just aren’t working for you, don’t hesitate to swap them out. Also, grant yourself the flexibility to buy up to 3 new pieces of clothing during this period to keep your wardrobe fresh and functional, and to keep yourself happy.
Come along for the ride and share your experiences with me. Whether you’re currently undertaking this journey or have already completed it, drop a comment below, and let’s exchange insights. Together, let’s motivate and uplift each other as we navigate this journey.
Freedomvistajourney.com participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase and/or subscribe. However, this does not impact our personal opinions. Thank you.