For most of us, closet space is always limited, especially in post-war NYC and beyond. When spring comes around and its time to throw out the old and bring in the new, it can be very hard to decide which clothing pieces should make a trip to the dumpster and which should maintain their privileged position on the hanger.

As some are constantly moving, often times from country to country, learning what items to keep and what to chuck is essential to remaining trendy without wasting space or money. In general, functional yet spacious wardrobes save us space and the best way to gain function and space is to organize your wardrobe in a way that suits your style and daily clothing needs.

There are a few things to keep in mind when beginning the process of cleaning out your wardrobe. These three tips will help you on your way to a simpler and space saving wardrobe that is in style and on budget.

1. Is that dress Stella McCartney?

Not all jackets, dresses and shoes are made equal. In most cases, the more money you spend the better quality you get and quality means longevity. Keeping designer items is a good idea for three reasons.

Firstly, these items are often classically styled, especially if in colors such as black, dark brown, camel, and navy blue. The brand oftentimes is not as important as the item itself. Clean, simple lines and patterns ensure that the item will keep you looking trendy into the future.

Secondly, fashion is cyclical. The quality of these items will see them last until they come into fashion again, usually with the added chic of vintage flare.

Thirdly, these are beautifully made items you spent your hard earned money on and they mark an important moment in your fashion evolution so give them the due they deserve.

2. Have you worn that shirt in the last 6 months?

If you don’t wear an item in your wardrobe then don’t keep it, especially if it isn’t designer. Retailers like H&M, Forever 21 and Topshop often sell very trendy items that play on a very specific style of the moment. These items last for a season or two but, when finished, should be replaced with the next big thing.

3. Who are you dressing up for?

Clothes for work, weekends and going out on the town all take up space. Its important to think about how much time you spend doing different activities. Our lives change and we stop doing activities that we once did regularly leaving a pile of unused clothes in our wardrobe. If you have a lot of evening clothes but don’t go out or dress up, then its time to make space by relieving those party dresses of their hangers.

Keep in mind that functional yet spacious wardrobes save us space by eliminating the clutter of unused and undeserving items. So now to the spring cleaning!