Spring Cleaning

"I look forward to spring cleaning and putting things in their place. It's therapeutic for me." - Kimora Lee Simmons

Spring has sprung! I absolutely love spring. It is the start of a new season, and to warmer days! I prepare for this moment in many ways. One of my favorites activities is spring cleaning! As you all know I'm a huge neat freak, and cleaning is something I take very seriously. I typically clean out my closet each quarter, just to make sure everything is in tip top shape.

Today I'm sharing my tips and tricks for the ultimate closet clean out!

  1. Toss. Donate. Sell. Keep. This is a phrase I live by when I'm cleaning out my closet. I create four piles and indicate which item goes into the category. The Toss category is for any item that is worn out and no longer worth keeping. These items are typically damaged or broken beyond repair. Donate are for the pieces that have been used, but are still in decent condition. These items can certainly be worn again but may not be worth re-selling. The Sell pile is perfect for gently used pieces. I get amazing luck on selling my purses that are in excellent condition! My favorite pile is the Keep! When I see what I'm left with in my wardrobe, it gives me a great idea of items that need to be replaced. I make a list of my must-haves and begin updating my closet. Also, I uncover some amazing pieces that suddenly appear during my closet clean out :) 
  2. When was the last time you wore it? My ultimate rule of thumb is, if I haven't worn the piece in the last 6 months, it has no place in my closet. If there are items that are collecting dust let it go. With these items you can donate or re-sell them if you find that you're not getting much use out of it anymore.
  3. Check the fit! If the piece doesn't fit get rid of it! When the article of clothing is too tight, there is no sense in trying to hold onto it. Also, if the item is too big, take the piece to a local seamstress and see if alterations can be made. I've done this for a few items that I really love and didn't want to get rid of. 
  4. Does the piece match your current style? My style has changed and evolved over the years. It's really important to acquire and keep quality pieces that fit your lifestyle. If an item doesn't match my current style, out it goes!

What are some of your tips for spring cleaning your home?

XO, Analise

Shine Bright

Shine bright like a diamond ...

I have a few pieces of precious jewelry, that I'm always making sure are taken care of properly.  When I was a little girl my parents gifted me a pair gorgeous gold hoop earrings, and I took so much pride in keeping them safe. Over the years I was gifted jewelry, and purchased some amazing pieces myself as I got older. Yet, my engagement ring was one that was super memorable, and of course the most expensive thing I've worn on a daily basis. When I received my engagement ring from G, I knew I'd had to take care of this gorgeous piece! Below are some ways I take care of my delicate and precious jewelry to ensure that they always shine bright.

  • Do not shower in your jewelry. This one is a biggie. I use soaps that exfoliate my skin, and those little beads can be in a killer on your jewelry! I do not shower in any of my earrings, or jewelry. Also, I am always super paranoid that something may go down the drain!
  • Try not to apply any lotions, oils, or creams while wearing your rings. I'll never forget the time that I forgot to take off my rings, and my lotion got all in the nooks and crannies. It was a pain getting that lotion out, and it also create a haze over your jewels or stones. So, be safe and take off your rings when applying any lotions or creams.
  • Remove your rings before you cook. You definitely do not want food particles stuck in your rings. Also, if you are using utensils and lifting pots and pans, be cautious to not bang up your rings in the process. Often times, I place my rings in a holder while I'm cooking up some goodies in the kitchen.
  • Take off any jewelry when you go to sleep and put it in a safe place. I keep a ring holder on my nightstand, and are the last thing I take off before bed. Also, my father gifted me a 4 foot tall jewelry stand a few years ago, and it's one of my favorite items. It's perfect because it keeps all of my jewelry together and safe. I keep everything in there - bracelets, watches, earrings, etc., and it is stored securely.
  • Make an appointment with a local jewelry shop, or where you purchased your item to have it cleaned and inspected regularly. My jeweler recommends that I come into the shop about 4 times a year (once a quarter), to have my ring inspected and cleaned. They check for loose stones, and ensure that the ring is secure and good to go! G will receive an email notification when it is time for me to get my rings inspection. Also, my jeweler will clean any of my items for free as long as I bring them in with my engagement ring and wedding band!

** Pro Tip: Can't make it to jeweler regularly? You can use white toothpaste, hot water, and a toothbrush to clean your jewelry! Or you can sub out the toothpaste, and use dishwashing liquid (AJAX or Dawn) and hot water. Works like a charm! Also, there is the Connoisseurs Diamond Dazzle Stick Jewelry Cleaner and it is pretty amazing! You can even carry it on the go! :)

What are some ways you take care of your jewelry? 

XO, Analise

 

Photo Credit: Shannon Moffit Photography