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Decluttering often seems like a cleansing ritual that gives you a fresh start. But let’s be honest: you probably regret tossing out a piece of clothing that would have been good for an occasion. It may have been a move towards minimalism or an inspiration from Marie Kondo. Whatever the reason, there is no going back once that donation bag is gone. Here are some items people wish they’d kept.
Denim Jackets
Denim jackets have the magical ability to come in and out of fashion every few years. So if you donated yours in a decluttering frenzy, you’re not the only one who wishes you’d held on to it.
Vintage Band Tees
There was a time when concert merch was just another shirt to throw on your dresser. Today, vintage band tees have reached iconic status—anyone from teenagers at music festivals to adults living a second life through their glory days wears them. A quick check on eBay reveals that these once-forgotten gems are selling for hundreds. The shirt you bought for $20 at a concert is suddenly a hot item. What a missed opportunity!
Your “Ugly” Christmas Sweater
Do you recall when that Christmas sweater was the worst thing in your wardrobe? Fast forward to today, and ugly sweater parties are now a sport. With that ridiculous reindeer design your grandma knitted, you could’ve been the life of the party, but now it’s probably warming a thrift store mannequin.
High School Letterman Jackets
Letterman jackets are more than just clothes; they’re memories stitched into fabric, even if they might not fit anymore. Many people wish they hadn’t given theirs away, decades later. And even if nostalgia wasn’t enough, these jackets have been revived, with even high-fashion brands trying to copy the style, so much for thinking you’ve ‘outgrown’ it.
Overalls
In the 1990s, they were everywhere, then, poof, overalls were gone. Fast forward a few years down the road, and they’re at it again, taking over the feeds of influencers. If you parted ways with your overalls back then, you’re probably side-eyeing every Instagram post with them now.
Designer Sneakers
If you bought those limited-edition kicks on a whim, you might have made a pretty penny on them today. Sneakers are no longer just casual; they’re investment pieces in a booming resale market.
Old Halloween Costumes
The one-and-done flapper dress or pirate getup is surprisingly in demand. Once they’ve made their ‘spooktacular’ debut, these costumes will often get a second lease on life as themed party wear, film props, or just plain strange collectibles.
Chunky Knitted Sweaters
Those oversized, handmade sweaters have a way of saying cozy vibes. Unfortunately, they also scream that they’re too bulky during decluttering sprees. But come winter, many often long for the thick, warm hug of yarn they donated last year.
Graphic Hoodies
You may have felt you had to outgrow a skateboarding logo or a fandom hoodie at some point. However, graphic hoodies have now become a fashion statement. They’re cool, comfy when paired with sleek accessories, and if you still have them, a lot cheaper than the new ones.
Leather Jackets
Like a fine wine, leather jackets age like the ultimate cool kid clothing item. Even if they weren’t practical back then, today they look effortless. So, if you gave up your vintage leather jacket, which is a sought-after item that people pay big bucks for, you might be kicking yourself.
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How to Declutter Your Kitchen: 20 Items You Must Toss
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Tamara White is the creator and founder of The Thrifty Apartment, a home decor and DIY blog that focuses on affordable and budget-friendly home decorating ideas and projects. Tamara documents her home improvement journey, love of thrifting, tips for space optimization, and creating beautiful spaces.