A new year for me always means it's time to SHOP! I get sort of bored over the holidays and like to look for new things that will jump-start my wardrobe. But my closet is only so big, and after the addition of my holiday dresses (I think I bought the entire clearance rack at BCBG) and Christmas gifts, fitting a few new trend items into my space is next to impossible – unless I stage a closet cleanout! Closet cleanouts are easier than you think, especially when you have a few tricks for maximizing space.

First, go through your wardrobe and pull out everything you haven't worn in ages. Try it on (with a friend) and figure out if there is any way to wear the item more. My styling assistant Jeska and I tackle my closet regularly, and it always amazes me how she'll see a fresh twist on an old item (how you could belt it, alter it...). She's also an extremely honest friend who will tell me to donate something that just isn't working. So invite your fave gal pal over, grab a bottle of wine and get to work.

Next, update your hangers. I recently bought all new hangers (the thin, velvet kind, I found them at HomeSense) and sorted my closet into categories. The thin hangers allow you to fit two closets of clothing into one (I swear!), and placing clothes into categories helps with that early AM or panic PM dressing.

To sort your shoes and make room for more, swing by Home Outfitters and pick up clear, stackable shoeboxes. I put my out-of-season shoes on the bottom, in-season on top, and then my new favourite shoes are displayed in my bedroom (who says shoes can't be décor?). I alternate these top-pick shoes regularly so I don't neglect any of my footwear.

My final tip for maximizing closet space is actually out of the closet. Try placing a door overhang hook on a bedroom or closet door and hang 1-2 outfits here (perhaps something you love but don't remember to wear). Rotate this every week and you'll be reminded to keep your closet tidy, organized and free for new purchases!