We may receive a portion of the sale if you purchase a product through a link in this article.
The new year is the best time to update the wardrobe for 2026. While resolutions and fresh starts can seem overwhelming, revamping your closet is an easy, fulfilling way to let go of the past and set the tone for the coming year. It’s about choosing to shop with purpose, getting your style right, and making sure your wardrobe truly supports your lifestyle. I also use this time to let go of pieces that no longer align with my goals or my lifestyle.
Whether you’re taking on a complete closet clean or focusing on a few key updates, these 2026 closet update tips will help your closet work for you, not against you in the year(s) ahead.
Before You Begin
A 2026 wardrobe update is 10 times easier if you have a goal in mind. Think or journal about the following before diving into shopping or cleaning.
- Your purchase method: Do you lean toward “No Buy January,” skip fast fashion, or are you simply too serious about each purchase?
- How Does your style change for the rest of your life? Are you entering motherhood and need functional pieces, or are you advancing in your career and looking for supportive clothing next chapter?
- Ways to challenge your style: Do you want to experiment with colors and patterns, or go back to clean, high-end basics?
- Your pieces: What items in your closet do you reach for again and again—the black leggings that always feel flattering, or the classic white pants that never fail?
Cleaning tips and tricks
- Unload and sort: Remove everything from your closet, put it on your bed or on the floor, and re-hang or rearrange the pieces you really want to keep. The rest can be donated or resold.
- Follow the one-year rule: If you haven’t worn something in the past year, it’s time to let it go.
- Adopt a single entry, single exit method: Every time you bring a new piece into your wardrobe, get rid of another item. This keeps your closet organized and purposeful.
With these simple procedures, you create the perfect foundation for the next step: simple exchanges that elevate your 2026 wardrobe and make dressing effortless.
2026 Bedding Update: 5 Easy Upscale Wardrobe Makeovers
Outside: Yellow or Discolored White Teeth
In: Bright White Teeth
A fresh white t-shirt instantly sharpens an outfit. Choose a structured cotton or a heavier weight that holds its shape and layers well. If your pants are clean and bright, your whole outfit feels stylish and a little more put together. If you find a tee you like, buy two to three to keep it clean, and each tee gets a little wear.
Check Out: Pilled, Stretchy Sweaters
In: High Quality Medium Sweaters
Letting go of sweaters can be difficult, but the truth is that they are one of the hardest pieces to take care of, so a refresh every few years is necessary. A few well-made fabrics in neutral tones will outlast a drawer full of worn-out options. Look for natural fibers and timeless cuts and colors that age well. Think back to your wardrobe goals: do you want five trendy, affordable sweaters to throw away by the end of 2026, or two or three pieces of cashmere or wool that will last for years?
Output: Best Jeans
In: Fit-Forward Jeans
Denim should feel current without depending on the trend. Prioritize fit, height, and length over any silhouette that dominates the moment. If your skinny jeans don’t fit you anymore, don’t put them together in hopes that they will come back in style. Build your wardrobe with 2-3 pairs that are timeless and go with everything.
Out: Worn Gym Clothes
In: New, Perfect Fit Sets
If being more active is one of your goals, this is a great 2026 wardrobe update that can help you achieve your goals. When you feel confident, you do better, so don’t hesitate to replace your old black leggings with a new pair (even if you buy the same pair again). It’s not a flashy purchase, but it’s one of the best exchanges you can make. In addition, a new set is a great motivation to work.
Out: Falling shoes
In: Fewer, Better Pairs
Shoes anchor every outfit, so if your wardrobe is feeling refreshed, it’s time to update your shoes. Investing in a small rotation of high-quality pairs elevates even a simple look and ensures they’ll last a long time. I love a trendy shoe as much as anyone, but after a year, I always make myself let go of pairs that show significant wear. Basically like sneakers and loafers, I stick to neutral colors that resist trends and go with everything.
Which 2026 wardrobe change is first on your list?