2021: Time for closet detox

You have just returned from New Year holidays and embraced work with elan. 

However, if the past few weeks of house parties entailed unapologetic sequins and skinny latex pants, then the post-celebration phase calls for reconfiguring your closet and investing in pieces which are functional, forgiving and seasonless. 

Your 2021 closet may be brimming with earthy linens, comfy cotton and hand-woven khadi in voluminous, slouchy, and breathable shapes as well as silhouettes.  

Be mindful 

Designer Anjali Patel Mehta of label Verandah observed that if you do not love something and if you do not want to repeat it then there is no point keeping it. 

The designer is currently editing her own wardrobe in which she plans to retain her pieces from her favourite Parisian indie brands, besides sporty items which complement her athletic lifestyle. 

"Closet detox in 2021 is all about mindfulness. I am rethinking my shoe collection currently as I have many. I had to keep all my jackets as they are timeless. Then there are pieces which I plan to give away that I do not need and are in good condition," said the investment banker turned designer, who donated her banking wardrobe to charity a few years ago. 

Invest, do not buy

Priyanka Modi, Founder & Creative Director, AMPM said, "In a world that has been increasingly forcing 'more and fast' upon us, my only advice would be to invest, not buy. Consciousness becomes invaluable when our choices have real impacts. Be it on the people that make them, our consumption patterns or even the planet at large.

A contemporary wardrobe should comprise locally crafted clothes that are timeless and versatile. A wardrobe where repair and reuse are key and longevity is given precedence over trends."

2021: Year of closet reboot 

Designer Shruti Sancheti hailed 2021 as the year of a closet reboot. "2020 has taught us a lot and our perspective on everything - from responsible buying to sustainability - has changed. I would say, keep pieces which you actually require and throw away clothes which make no sense. In fact, be more compassionate while editing your closet, for instance, give away pieces, like a warm jacket to someone, who needs it in the cold Delhi winters. The golden rule is - if there is something in the closet, which you have not worn in a long time, then it makes total sense to get rid of it unless it is an heirloom piece or something of a sentimental value," she said.

Buy in moderation 

Designer Nimish Shah recommended moderate buying. "Restoring old clothes and recontextualising them with new additions like buttons etc is the way to go. Also, it is imperative to buy things which are truly special. Moreover, supporting local businesses is crucial. Avoid purchasing items just because they are from a certain brand or label. All in all, one needs a grown-up approach to cultivating one's closet in the new year," said Nimish. 

Embrace fun streetwear 

Designer Arpita Mehta opined, "With people gradually making some movement, it is time to resume dressing up in clothes that we have been deprived of over the last year! I think we can definitely look forward to fun streetwear, stylised light occasion wear and comfortable workwear in 2021".