I adore shopping, but I often find myself making impulse buys, particularly with clothing and accessories. This habit leads to constant closet cleanouts and guilt over unnecessary purchases.
To tackle this, I'm trying the five-five rule to prevent clutter from accumulating. The idea is straightforward: consider if an item can pair with five items already in your wardrobe and if you'll still appreciate it in five years. If you can't answer clearly, it's best to leave it behind.
This strategy is favored by professional organizers for its effectiveness in reducing consumption and simplifying decluttering efforts. Here's how to incorporate it into your shopping routine this year.
Understanding the Five-Five Rule and Its Impact on Clutter
I first learned about this proactive decluttering technique from a luxury fashion and lifestyle influencer on YouTube. She applies the rule for significant wardrobe investments, helping her avoid the pitfalls of luxury shopping.
For special events, she assesses whether an item could serve at least five different occasions, effectively steering clear of one-time-wear purchases. It's an excellent method to declutter while also saving money.
This rule applies beyond just high-priced items. As a professional organizer explains, this cart-editing technique effectively curbs clothing overconsumption.
'The 5-5 rule is a fantastic approach to achieving clothing sustainability. Any step toward reducing our overall consumption, especially regarding fast fashion, benefits the environment,' she notes.
'I find that when I invest in quality clothing, I tend to keep it longer. I also hang onto pricier items more than cheaper, poorly made ones. I embrace minimalism in my wardrobe, owning little but wearing it until it's worn out.'
Applying the Rule to Your Closet or Home
This method helps eliminate clothing clutter before it builds up, saving you time and money.
Similar to the capsule decluttering method, evaluating whether a new piece can be styled with at least five other items is quite manageable. If you can't immediately think of five outfits, it's likely best to skip it.
For instance, while window shopping with friends (a risky endeavor), I spotted a high-quality white shirt. Instantly, I envisioned it pairing with more than five outfits. As a solid basic, it felt like a safe choice for future wear, so I bought it.
Conversely, when trying on a dress, I struggled to identify five accessories that would sufficiently differentiate it for five occasions beyond an upcoming holiday, so the dress went back on the rack, saving me over $100. Looking back, I doubt I would've cherished it in five years.
I apply this principle to accessories too, especially shoes and jewelry (my true weakness). I only purchase those I envision wearing frequently, which significantly eases the strain on my wallet for pricier items.
Tips for Mastering the 5-5 Rule
For the five-five method to effectively curb closet clutter, establish firm guidelines to overcome poor habits and minimize spending.
A professional organizer suggests four essential steps for this shopping strategy:
- Assess your current items: 'If you already own something similar, it's a sign you probably don't need it,' she says. This also helps optimize storage and avoid duplicates. I achieve this by rotating seasonal wardrobes and utilizing underbed storage bags to create space in my compact closet.
- Focus on what you wear: 'Choose pieces that align with your everyday style and wardrobe,' she advises. 'If it doesn't complement what you typically reach for, it likely won't see much wear.' I reflect on which items have remained in my closet the longest when deciding if I'll still love a new piece in five years. If it shares characteristics with my most-loved items, such as style or color, it's likely to become a staple.
- Implement the one-in-one-out rule: 'When acquiring new pieces, donate one existing item,' she recommends. 'This keeps your closet from overflowing and ensures you retain what you truly use and love.' I've also tested a one-in-two-out rule, which has been beneficial for gradual decluttering with minimal effort.
- Think carefully: Finally, she echoes the advice of the influencer: 'Before purchasing, visualize five occasions you'd wear it. If you can't come up with them, it's probably best to forgo the purchase.'
Shopping Suggestions
All prices were accurate at publication.
Pack of two
These under-bed storage bags on wheels are convenient to access and provide ventilation to keep items fresh, ideal for seasonal clothing transitions.
Three sizes
For non-hangable items like sweaters, use zippered boxes with clear fronts for easy visibility and protection from damage. Pairing with scented sachets keeps them smelling delightful for months.
Pack of 12
I appreciate layered hangers for maximizing space in my compact closet and simplifying my morning routine. Uniform hangers also reduce visual clutter.
Space-saving essential
Vacuum bags are perfect for seasonal items, ensuring clothing and linens remain safe from pests and moisture while conserving storage space.
36 washes
These EWG-certified laundry pods offer a healthier option for your laundry routine, protecting clothes from wear by delivering a precise dose every time.
Nine million copies sold
This acclaimed book by Marie Kondo distills decluttering wisdom into 200 pages that are engaging and accessible for readers of all ages.
Meet the Experts
Cathy co-founded The Uncluttered Life and the Declutter Deck, recently highlighted in FabFitFun. She is also a certified expert in the KonMari method.
Olivia is the Owner and Lead Organizer at a home organizing company in Mandeville, LA. Her team has worked with over 500 clients to organize and declutter their homes.
The five-five rule is an effective, low-effort method to embrace underconsumption without completely giving up shopping. Pair it with the six questions to consider before making a purchase for a well-curated closet.
