Many closets hold onto outdated habits that make organizing a constant battle. You might find yourself stuck in routines that actually add to the clutter instead of cutting it down.
Breaking these retro closet habits can help you create a space that’s easier to navigate and more enjoyable to use every day. Changing how you manage your closet can save you time and frustration while freshening up your style.
Keeping outdated shoulder pads
If you’re still holding onto those chunky ’80s shoulder pads, it might be time to rethink that. Shoulder pads aren’t off the table, but the oversized, boxy ones can make your look feel stuck in the past.
These days, shoulder pads are more about subtle structure than loud statements. Try swapping out old, bulky pads for sleek, modern shapes that add a clean edge without overwhelming your outfit.
Updating this detail will instantly freshen your wardrobe and keep your style feeling current without losing that retro vibe.
Holding onto worn-out bell-bottom jeans
You might have a pair of bell-bottom jeans that you just can’t part with. But if they’re faded, torn, or stretched out, they’re holding back your style more than helping it.
Bell bottoms are back, but the key is to rock fresh, well-fitting pairs. Old, worn-out jeans won’t give you the chic retro vibe you want.
Consider donating or repurposing them instead. Your closet will thank you for the upgrade.
Hoarding neon-colored windbreakers
You might have a bunch of neon windbreakers tucked away, thinking they’ll make a comeback. But holding onto every bright jacket can quickly clutter your closet.
Neon windbreakers are cool, but trends change fast. Keep a few favorites and let go of the rest to free up space and keep your closet manageable.
Plus, too many neon pieces can make it harder to mix and match outfits. Focus on what you actually wear instead of what you might wear someday.
Stashing VHS tapes for decor
If you still have old VHS tapes cluttering your closet, using them as decor might seem like a fun idea. But stashing them just for looks can quickly turn into more mess.
Instead of hiding tapes away, think about whether you really want them on display or if they’re just taking up space. VHS tapes can be repurposed creatively, but keep in mind they can look bulky and outdated if tossed around randomly.
Try organizing or upcycling them into neat storage or craft projects instead of using them as simple decor pieces. This way, your space stays cleaner and more functional.
Clinging to heavy polyester fabrics
If you’re still holding onto heavy polyester clothes, it might be time to rethink that habit. Polyester tends to build up static, making your clothes stick together or cling uncomfortably to your skin.
Wearing or storing these fabrics without proper care can leave you dealing with that annoying snap and pop. Try switching to lighter, natural fibers or using anti-static tricks when you do wear polyester to keep things fresh and comfortable.
Saving cheesy graphic tees from the 90s
You might have some cringe-worthy 90s graphic tees tucked away. Instead of tossing them, try giving them new life. These shirts can be great for layering or casual weekend wear.
If the design feels too bold or outdated, pair your tee with neutral pieces. This balances the look without losing the vintage vibe. Remember, 90s graphic tees have a nostalgic charm, even the cheesiest ones.
Stockpiling bulky platform shoes
You might be holding onto those chunky platform shoes thinking they’ll come back in style. The problem? They take up way more space than they’re worth.
Platform shoes are heavy and often awkward to store, which can mess up your closet organization. Instead of keeping every pair, consider keeping only the ones you actually wear. This frees up space and keeps your shoe area manageable.
If you really love platforms, store them thoughtfully—maybe on a dedicated shelf or clear box—so they don’t overwhelm your other shoes.
Cluttering with beaded curtain dividers
Using beaded curtain dividers in your closet might seem like a fun way to add a retro touch. However, if you rely on them too much, they can actually make your space feel cluttered and messy.
Because beaded curtains don’t fully close, your stuff can peek through, which defeats the purpose of hiding clutter.
If you want to keep the look without the mess, try pairing these curtains with better storage solutions. That way, your closet stays stylish and organized.
More from Cultivated Comfort:
- 7 Retro Home Features That Builders Should Bring Back
- 7 Antique Finds That Are Surprisingly Valuable Today
- 7 Forgotten Vacation Spots Your Parents Probably Loved
- 6 Boomer China Patterns That Are Selling Like Crazy Online
As a mom of three busy boys, I know how chaotic life can get — but I’ve learned that it’s possible to create a beautiful, cozy home even with kids running around. That’s why I started Cultivated Comfort — to share practical tips, simple systems, and a little encouragement for parents like me who want to make their home feel warm, inviting, and effortlessly stylish. Whether it’s managing toy chaos, streamlining everyday routines, or finding little moments of calm, I’m here to help you simplify your space and create a sense of comfort.
But home is just part of the story. I’m also passionate about seeing the world and creating beautiful meals to share with the people I love. Through Cultivated Comfort, I share my journey of balancing motherhood with building a home that feels rich and peaceful — and finding joy in exploring new places and flavors along the way.
