Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the number of clothes in your closet?
It can be hard to keep track of all our items, and maintaining an organized wardrobe is even more challenging.
Learn how many clothes the average woman should have and determine if it is time for you to declutter.
Average Wardrobe Size of American Women
According to a survey, the average American woman has 103 items in her wardrobe.
This number includes all types of clothing, from casual wear to formal attire. Surprisingly, this number is on the high side compared to other countries, including Germany and Japan, which had lower averages of about 67 pieces.
It is important to remember that this survey does not account for the number of items stored away in closets or drawers but gives an overall statistical estimation of how much wardrobes have grown in size over time.
The Relationship Between Age and Wardrobe Size
Another interesting survey finding was the difference between average wardrobe sizes for different age groups.
Women aged 18–24 had an average of 109 pieces, while women aged 65+ had 56 items.
This could be explained by generational trends in fashion, decreased physical activity, and the need for formal clothing later in life.
Cost vs. Quality: What’s Better for Your Closet?
There’s no easy answer to this question. While it’s tempting to buy cheaper pieces with the idea of “more is better,” that isn’t always the right approach.
Instead, look for items that will last longer and provide more variety throughout the year. Quality materials and construction can often save you money in long-term wardrobe costs – you won’t need to replace worn-out clothes as often!
Tips for Cutting Down on Clothing and Shopping More Mindfully
Shopping for clothes can become a reflexive activity, but learning to shop more mindfully can help avoid overbuying.
Before purchasing new items, take stock of what you already have in your closet and ask yourself if the item will contribute meaningfully to your wardrobe.
Also, invest in timeless basics, so you always have something classic and versatile to wear – that way, you won’t feel compelled to buy affordable trend pieces that will go out of style next season.
How to Declutter Your Wardrobe: A Step-by-Step Guide
An organized and thoughtful wardrobe can help you save time and money.
To declutter your wardrobe, create a “keep” pile and a “donate” pile to better visualize what stays in and goes out. Next, decide which clothes do not fit you anymore and create a separate “sell” pile if items are new or in good condition.
Finally, after the sorting process ends, store clothing according to use — e.g., everyday wear vs. formal wear — so that outfits are easy to find when needed.
