From Ashes to Action: Decluttering with Purpose
A call-to-action to turn your excess into essentials for those in need; and, my 2025 inspirations.
My heart goes out to all those affected by the devastating fires in Los Angeles right now. The loss of homes, cherished possessions, and lifetimes of memories is saddening.
I know that during such crises, communities coming together can make a meaningful difference. This moment brings into sharp focus the importance of mindful consumption and giving back to our communities.
It's a powerful reminder that our "excess" could be someone else's essential needs.
As we reflect on our own wardrobes and the "someday" pieces that haven't seen the light of day that I referred to in my 2025 style commandments, consider how these items could make a real difference in someone's life right now.
Here are 5 thoughtful steps to declutter and donate:
1. Sort by actual wear frequency - Be honest about what hasn't been worn in the past year. Not two, or three, or…
2. Quality check - Focus on well-maintained, lightly worn items that are still in great condition. Think "Would I feel good giving this to someone who needs it?"
3. Create categories - Organize items by season and type to make the donation process more efficient and helpful for receiving organizations. Some places prefer items packaged in clear bags.
4. Photograph before donating - Document what you're giving away both for personal records and to inspire others to do the same. (Request tax receipts if needed.)
5. Research local donation centers - Look for organizations specifically helping fire victims, as they'll know exactly what's needed most right now.
Donation Resources for LA Wildfire Relief
When clearing out, prioritize clean, gently used, and seasonal items to ensure donations can be put to immediate use.
Los Angeles Donation Organizations:
American Red Cross Los Angeles Region
Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation
St. Vincent de Paul Society
PATH (People Assisting The Homeless)
Other Ways to Help:
Explore more opportunities:
Practical Support:
Masks: Best Masks for Smoke
Air Purifiers: Best Air Purifiers
Giving in NYC: Cold Weather Consideration (NYC):
On my side of things, the freezing temperatures this time of year often tragically claim the lives of homeless individuals overnight. Set aside unused coats to donate to local organizations and shelters to help the homeless survive freezing temperatures.
Post-Purge Organizing:
🔮 Trend Forecasting With Katie Irving: What’s Next for 2025
I met Katie Irving last year, and we clicked instantly. With over a decade at Abercrombie & Fitch and a resume that includes Elie Tahari and heading fashion at trend powerhouse WGSN, Katie now leads Moonshot, a Concept & Innovation Studio redefining how consumer, culture, and trend connect.
Her Moonshot newsletter is a must-read for its insider perspective on clothing innovation and retail’s evolution—it’s astute, refreshing, and seriously fun. And besides all that, she’s kind.
Katie’s latest Retail Renaissance issue dives into:
🛍️ How mid-market brands are bringing emotion and artistry to the masses
🎨 Signals of a creative resurgence in retail
In her Q&A with me, I discuss what’s on my radar for 2025, including the rest of my inspo below.
I dive into the trends and cultural shifts set to reshape the industry and what comes across your feeds as a eshopper. From luxury reinvention to creative momentum, the style game is heating up. I have my 🍿 and am 👀 as the future unfolds.
My 2025 Style Predictions & Inspirations:
Independent Labels: They are rewriting the rules with bold branding and inventive business models, proving they’re a force to watch.
The Luxury Landscape: Creative highs meet consumer reality checks. While campaigns soar (hello, Hermès x indie animators), those climbing price tags are testing even the most loyal shoppers. A wake-up call? Maybe. A chance to rewrite the rules? Absolutely.
Creative Director Shifts: Matthieu Blazy at Chanel and Louise Trotter at Bottega Veneta are making waves. Trotter’s aesthetic aligns with my personal style aspirations because she’s mastered the sweet spot between snug and sophisticated, and and I’m excited. Jonathan Anderson continues to redefine modern design across Loewe, his namesake brand, and collaborations. WWD did a great update on the key designer musical chairs just today.
Inspiration Everywhere: Fashion Weeks in Lagos, China, and beyond bring unmatched creativity. My RV road trip serves up fresh perspectives on style and shopping. SNL clips on TikTok mix comedy and nostalgia. And icons like Jodie Turner-Smith and Tyler, the Creator? Always a vibe.
Women in Sports: Style, identity, and business are converging, creating dynamic opportunities for brands. The packed sports calendar ahead—Super Bowl, NBA All-Star Weekend, World Cup, and 2028 Olympics—offers fertile ground for storytelling and style moments.
Fashion & Tech: Meeting shopper demand for better fit, reliable sizing, and greater transparency—whether through AI, VR, or AR. Plus, personalization and creators/brands delivering fresh, innovative content.
What I’m loving
Caring for your clothes is a top priority (see my 10 Style Commandments), and the Shop Rat newsletter just shared a crowdsourced guide to the best tailors, cobblers, & more in NY/LA. There’s even a Google Doc! Plans to expand next year. 👏 Check out 'The Repair Month Google Doc'—it’s here! The Repair Month Google Doc Is Here!
Closet organizing is VERY much on my brain if you can’t tell.
Paris Men’s Fashion Week is almost here, and KidSuper never misses with the inspired spectacles. From class doodles to wearable daydreams, Colm Dillane’s creative vision is unstoppable. Stay tuned for what’s bound to be another unforgettable moment. 👀✨
Crowd favorite Jonathan Anderson just dropped the women’s utility dressing edit at JW Andersen, a topic I wrote about recently—and it’s divine. And rumor has it…Dior might be next for him.
Caught my 👁️
My style commandments also emphasized intentional consumption and this investigative piece on where your fast fashion returns actually go is a must-read.
Collabs I LOVED 😢
Darren McKoy, the quiet creative force who revitalized Dr. Martens, is stepping down after a decade. From iconic collabs to reeling me back in as a customer, his impact is undeniable. 👏
Man I love that newsroom writing Simone is back (never left??)
Decluttering with purpose. So timely 🙏💛