Tired of standing in front of your closest every morning, trying to decide what to wear?
What if I told you there’s an easy way to double your wardrobe in size, while also weaving threads of friendship with your roommates?
Never running out of clothing options is a dream for an indecisive dresser like myself, and swapping clothes is a catalyst for building deeper connections in your apartment.
If you're hesitant about sharing your closet space, read on to discover how this aspect of cohabitation can bring you and your roommates closer together in more ways than you might imagine (and help you gain access to that cute new sweater they bought last week).
First impressions
Moving into a new apartment and living with strangers can be a daunting experience. But if I've learned anything in the past three years in three different residences, it’s that nothing brings people closer together than a common enemy — in this case, it’s being underdressed.
This is the first step in kickstarting your friendships. You might borrow each other's clothing one night, allowing you to try new looks and experiment with your style. Being the first to start a conversation is the best way to encourage a friendship, and it can lead to interesting discussions about fashion trends, personal expression and an appreciation for diverse tastes.
Sustainability can start on a random Sunday
As someone who could be considered a hoarder of clothing, I know what it's like to have an attachment to an old garment that hasn't been worn in years. In a world taken over by fast fashion, this is your chance to give those jeans at the back of your wardrobe another life.
Gather your roommates and your unworn clothing for a mini thrift exchange! Order some takeout and auction those clothes off to each other — it's time for someone else to love that top as much as you once did.
The 3 Cs: Consultation, confidence, customization
Getting ready to go out is a group effort, and you always need a second person's opinion — if you're borrowing someone's clothing, you already know it is a tried and true hit.
Expression through personal style will always be something I value. You can figure out a lot about a person from the cut of pants they wear.
Sharing a closet not only gives you a newfound appreciation for unique pieces, but also builds trust and respect between roommates. Knowing that your belongings are in safe hands is an often overlooked, yet essential part of growing closer.
Closet crime and punishment
We all know by now that rent prices in Vancouver are criminal, but the closet space we get in return should be on the "Most Wanted" list. As a team-building exercise, you can join forces and have discussions about organizational methods, space-saving strategies and ways to declutter.
Whether this shared "closet" is a bunch of storage cartons from Ikea or a cabinet in your kitchen, you will need the space, and working together to optimize it can develop a sense of teamwork and harmony.
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