I documented my entire wardrobe, piece by piece, because it starts with what I have

An unglamorous inventory, with a few thoughts along the way.

When we moved into this house and my friends came over for the first time, they laughed at the size of my wardrobe—mostly because they know how few clothes I actually own. Having too much has never been my thing. I can’t handle the noise. That goes for my wardrobe, but also the rest of my living space. I like things to feel organized, clear. When there’s too much to choose from, I end up wearing the same pieces on repeat anyway.

But it got me wondering—do I really have that little? Or does it just seem that way because of the size of the wardrobe itself?

Either way, I wanted a better sense of what I actually own. A clear overview, but also a way to figure out what kinds of new additions I should be prioritizing to make my wardrobe feel a bit more diverse, more complete. So I documented everything, piece by piece—minus sportswear (unless I wear it on normal days), swimwear, underwear, and socks. Because it only makes sense to start this process—this attempt at finding my way back to personal style—with what’s already in front of me.

Because if I don’t start with what’s already in front of me, I’ll just end up convincing myself I need another pair of shoes.

Tops, t-shirts, shirts, etc.
33 pieces

Some thoughts: This is technically the largest category in my wardrobe, though still small by most standards. Mostly basics—black, white, grey—with the occasional surprise (four pieces in bright azure blue, which feels slightly out of character… but maybe isn’t?).

I have two of some items, like the same t-shirt twice. Which makes me wonder: is that a sign I’ve found what works, or just a lazy fallback? And do I need more than just two white tank tops to get through summer?

There are a few interesting tops in the mix—prints, textures, shapes—but overall, I tend to keep things toned down on the top half. Is that a style choice, or just habit? Something to pay attention to.

Dresses & skirts
8 pieces

Some thoughts: Wow—I own very few dresses, and even fewer skirts. Most of what’s here is REYÈM, which makes sense: I do love dresses, but I also really love being comfortable. These pieces strike that balance.

Still, this category feels... thin. Maybe it’s time to mix things up a little—add something unexpected, or at least less predictable. Something to think about.

Knits
11 pieces

Some thoughts: I have more knitwear than I thought—especially considering how often I end up reaching for the same few pieces. The palette is exactly what you’d expect: mostly black, grey, and other simple tones, plus one striped piece (which always feels harder to wear than it looks—I usually feel too casual in it).

There’s a clear leaning toward simplicity, with a few exceptions: the bedazzled-knit chocolate brown vintage Valentino cardigan. It’s definitely a wildcard—but a good one. Even if I haven’t worn it in a while.

Pants & shorts
15 pieces

Some thoughts: There’s a clear preference for wide fits, soft fabrics, and anything that doesn’t make me feel boxed in. Comfort is non-negotiable.

That said, I’m very short on jeans. Mostly because the styles I do like—raw, unwashed, straight-leg denim—are usually stiff, uncomfortable, and just... hard to wear. So I avoid them. I’m okay with that (for now).

The shorts collection is small but more expressive. The secondhand Comme des Garçons pair I found in Tokyo is totally diaper-shaped and weird, but I love them for exactly that reason. And the SC103 half-black pair? A very recent splurge and I haven’t worn them—but they feel like a good stretch for me.

Altogether, this category feels the most “me” in a functional sense. But maybe that’s also why I don’t push it much. Something to come back to.

Jackets & coats
6 pieces

Some thoughts: How the hell do I get through Dutch winters with only these? I mean—technically, I survive. But still.

There’s one proper puffer, one trench-like raincoat (that isn’t actually waterproof), and a Kassl coat I’ve been wearing as a raincoat, even though it’s slowly falling apart. Plus one chicer cashmere-wool coat I wore almost everyday last winter.

Also: why do I only own one little suede jacket and one blazer? I’m not really a blazer person. I’ve kept it because it’s part of a suit, and a suit might come in handy... someday?

Shoes
12 pairs (and some more)

Some thoughts: Okay, I’m technically lying here—two new pairs are on their way, and a few others didn’t make it into the photo because they’re waiting to be sold. I’m also thinking of letting go of some of the ones above.

If you’re in Amsterdam next weekend: we’re hosting a REYÈM sample sale on the 31st of May and I will be selling some of my personal items. More details soon on the REYÈM Instagram account.

Bags
6 pieces

Some thoughts: Let’s just say I’m not a bag person.

The first SC103 one is definitely my favorite and currently most worn. I need a new laptop/work bag. I don’t really use the macramé one or the little straw basket.

The Bottega is my most recent addition. And the Loewe at the bottom—I've had it for years, bought it at an outlet in New York. Lately, it’s getting a lot of new wear. It ticks all my bag boxes: goes with everything, but somehow still spices up an outfit.

I have a Dior and a Louis Vuitton bag (not pictured) that are waiting to be sold—either at the sample sale or on Vinted.

Belts
2 pieces

Some thoughts: This is obviously a very functional category for me. I can’t get rid of the Y/Project belt, even though I never wear it. And the black one I got from Gimaguas quite recently—it’s my simple, goes-with-everything belt.

So that’s everything—or almost everything. Documenting it like this didn’t spark anything major, but it did give me a clearer overview. A better sense of what I actually wear, what I keep just in case, and what I probably need to let go of. Some pieces photographed were already on the doubt list, but seeing everything laid out makes it easier to let them go.

I’m not making any big resolutions. I’m just noticing. Where the gaps are. What I reach for. What I avoid. What still feels like me—and what maybe never really did.

Anyway, now I know what I’m working with.