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8 Ways to Update Stuff That’s Just Taking Up Space in Your Closet

published Aug 9, 2019
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Current organization trends say that if you don’t love something, you should let it go. We’re going to go a little against the grain here and say that if you don’t love it, you should update it. After all, the piece ended up in your your closet for a reason, right? Here are some of our favorite ways to add new life to those items so they become the first things you reach for.

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Paint plain clothes

Fabric paint tends to make people think of elementary school art class, but it could be just what your closet is missing. Try out different paint techniques on some less-loved pieces for a truly one-of-a-kind outfit. On my blog, ctrl + curate, I used blue paint on an oversized tunic.

Credit: BlissMakes

Weave a design into a canvas tote

At first glance, it looks like Kristin of BlissMakes painted her purse, but if you peer closely, it’s all woven! Any kind of perforated closet staple is the perfect weaving canvas for an easy update.

Credit: Club Crafted

Zhuzh up a hat

Give your beach hat vacation vibes with a colorful new band. Holly of Club Crafted embroidered hers in stunning rainbow. You can also use ribbon or rope.

Switch up the buttons on button-ups

I spied the cutest DIY over at A Beautiful Mess. Laura transformed her basic button-up into a conversation piece with a few button swaps and paint.

Do arts and crafts on hair clips

Statement clips are having a moment, but can be a little pricey for a hair accessory. Reach for a blank barrette, dig into your craft supplies, and let your creativity go wild instead! I incorporated rattan and seashells for a modern mermaid take. 

Put a side stripe on jeans

Emma of Paper & Stitch thrifted a great pair of jeans, but wanted to take them to the next level. She attached a velvet racing stripe, and now they look like they came from a high-end boutique. The best part? Her tutorial is no-sew!

Credit: Aww Sam

Just add patches

Another high-impact, no-sew option? Patches. Etsy has a slew of embroidered, sequined, beaded, and even mirrored ones. Sam of Aww Sam used patches on some boots and slippers. They also work on jackets, pockets, purses, and just about anything, really.

Credit: Studio DIY

Attach charms for a temporary change

If paint and patches are a little too permanent for you, try a few DIY charms. Kelly of Studio DIY shared how she made a faux leather palm tree to give a standard straw bag some more personality.