The very first thing you must do is look. Really look at each pair of shoes. Most of times, we don't really pay much attention to our shoes once we bring them home in the store, after which we wonder how we ended up having a closet full of black shoes but not the best pair to wear with those new capris. To clear out your shoes, take a look at each pair carefully and ask yourself the next questions:
1. Does this pair of shoes fit well?
This may be the hardest question for women to answer. All of us have that fabulous pair of shoes that feel great as long as we do not have to stand for extended than ten minutes. You realize, the Oprah shoes (I bet she never walks through the mall within the shoes she wears on her show). I still possess a few of these not-so-comfortable-but-really-cute shoes in my closet, but I have gotten rid of the ones that continuously rub my heels or give me blisters. Good shoes should fit well. Really uncomfortable shoes have to go.
2. Do I like these shoes?
We often hold on to shoes (or clothes) that are “just okay” using the idea that some day they will look different on us (or we will look different in them). That never happens. If you don't really like this pair of shoes or have another pair that look better, let this pair go.
3. Do these shoes match or coordinate with current clothes in my wardrobe?
I'd a buddy in college who bought her shoes first and then outfits to match. Unless you have a large amount of time to shop, I don't advise this method.
Your shoes should coordinate using the colors and style of your current wardrobe. You might need to have your own fashion show. If those brown boots don't go with anything you own, it is time to let them go.
4. Do these shoes have to be cleaned or repaired?
All shoes should be clean and in good condition. Is the cost of repair worth the cost you paid for the shoes? Are you really going to obtain the repairs done? Be honest. If the answer to either question isn't any, let this pair go.
5. Do these shoes reflect the image I want to portray?
Shoes (like clothes) possess a “shelf life” of three to five years unless they're super trendy. Colors and styles change. A lot. Even when the style or color comes back (and it will take 10-15 years), something is going to be different. If your shoes are outdated, let them go.
Your shoes (as well as your clothes) tell the world who you are. What do your shoes say about you? Is that message still accurate? Do you have to say goodbye to styles that no longer reflect you or your lifestyle? If you still have that perfect pair of shoes to dance the night away but you are in bed by ten, then it's time to let them go.
Once you have cleared shoes from your closet, what would you do together? What about the “sentimental favorites?” First of all, it is okay to help keep a few pairs of shoes that are unique, expensive, or hold a memory for you personally. We all have those shoes. Yes, I still have my satin wedding shoes. I'm waiting to dye-them-to-match as a future bridesmaid. Either limit the number of shoes or the space they occupy.
You've several options for shoes that do not make the cut. Damaged or well-worn shoes should be thrown away. “Gently used” shoes can be donated for your favorite charity or a friend or relative with the same sized foot. Still others could be sold on the web.
Clearing out your shoes can be a rewarding experience. Fewer pairs of shoes mean that you're surrounded by only shoes you truly love--those that fit your feet as well as your lifestyle. You may now even possess a reason to go shoe shopping. Just ensure that your new shoes fit exactly the same criteria .