It's Time to Get Rid of Your "Sad Underwear"
From Cluttered to Curated
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I have the unusual distinction of having organized a lot of underwear drawers, so I happen to know that most of them could use a little love. Let’s get down to business and give your underwear drawer the fresh start it deserves. This feel good makeover can be completed in fifteen minutes or less (#15minwin). Let’s do it:
Step One: Gather the Goods
Collect all of your undergarments into a central location. Make sure to check the laundry so you can have an accurate count. Separate into piles by type: one pile for underwear, one for bras, and one for any other undergarments you find.
Step Two: Ditch the Duds
If you’re currently in possession of old, ratty undergarments that make you feel sad, today is your day to start fresh. Grab a bag and fill it with anything that has seen better days, doesn’t fit properly, or just feels meh.
Reminder: your bras should feel comfortable and look smooth and flattering in the clothes you wear. If the straps hurt, the fabric itches, or you just don’t wear them, let them go. Likewise, racy numbers you got from a bachelorette party or wedding shower that just aren’t your style should be passed on. Keep only what’s comfortable and in good condition.
Once you’ve completed editing, wipe down your underwear drawer and set up your underwear, bras, and daily-use items so you can see all of your everyday basics at a glance. Drawer dividers help create an instant feeling of order. Camisoles, slips, and shapewear for special events can be stored together in a less-accessible drawer if you don’t have space, or even tucked in a labeled bin or basket in your closet.
Step Three: Dispose Responsibly
Repeat after me: undergarments don’t belong in the trash! New underwear or bras in great condition can be donated. Anything with stains, holes or warped padding or underwire can be dropped off at your local textile-recycling center. Just search for “Textile recycling near me” to find the most convenient drop off option. Other resources linked below:
The Bra Recyclers: A company that recycles bras and donates to women in need globally.
Planet Aid: Accepts textiles in any condition, including underwear, and recycles them into new products.
The Undie Chest: A non-profit organization that collects new and gently used bras, underwear, and socks to distribute to those in need, helping to reduce waste while supporting underserved communities.
Ridwell: A subscription service that picks up hard-to-recycle items, including textiles like underwear, and ensures they are recycled properly. Use this link for a free month on me!
Bonus: Invest in Fewer, Better Undergarments
If you were particularly ruthless, or just short on what you need, now’s the time to fill in any gaps. I personally like to find a style of everyday underwear I like and buy ten pairs (5 nude, 5 black). Undergarments are so personal, so please take the time to identify styles and textures that feel good to you before investing. A few brands I recommend:
Negative - a minimalist line founded by women for women. Negative undergarments are super luxurious and chic while remaining practical for everyday. Bestsellers linked here. I’ve also got my eye on this cami and boyfriend short for sleep.
Skims - this collection comes in inclusive sizes and colors and I love how comfortable everything is. This is the only strapless bra I will wear and this bodysuit is a great layering staple.
More Like This
Watching: Sue Bird: In the Clutch. Oh, how I love a sports documentary even though I do not play a single sport. Watch on Netflix.
Reading: 10x is Easier Than 2x by Dan Sullivan and Benjamin Hardy.
Wearing on Repeat: The search is over! Frank and Eileen has truly nailed the perfect relaxed button-up shirt, and I wear mine constantly. They rarely go on sale, but they’ve given me a code you can use (SUMMER50) for $50 off any full price items through September 1st. Browse here.
Everyday Tote: This roomy, best-selling tote can fit my laptop, daily essentials, and sometimes even my groceries! 15SHIRA for 15% off this, or anything you love at Freda Salvador (one of my fave small, local, female-founded brands). Linked here.
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I should know this, having worn bras now for over 55 years, but what are the reasons it's suggested we replenish every 6 months to a year? I have a couple (same design) that are obviously too large so must replace. I've lost weight so hook on the last hook instead of the first. They show no sign of stress. I vacillate between 11 bras so no one bra gets too much wear. Chantelle makes a decent quality bra for the price. I have no complaints about structure or designs. Is 6 - 12 months arbitrary or is there some scientific thinking behind it?
I’m an organizing expert and author/writer as well. I recently decided to step back from in home organizing because I was burned out. After some time to reflect, I realized it was the clutter aspect of it that was so draining—-the physical clutter and its related mental/emotional causes. I’m very sensitive to the energy of it all and was carrying it with me. But I don’t want to give up working with people entirely. So my business coach and I have been thinking through a coaching model. Reading this newsletter and seeing your products, offers, and overall business structure is so inspiring and soul stirring—-it resonates deeply. Now my mind is spinning with ideas and I feel energized again. Thank you!!