This skirt, from a thrift store, is one of my most favorite summer items. It is expensive to dry clean, so I tend to not wear it as much as I should. Another lesson from this closet experiment: I need to spend more time wearing the things I like the best. What am I saving them for?

The chain around my neck is meant to be worn as a belt. I like how big and bright it is. And it matches my favorite gold shoes. For the most part, I held on to my accessories—I've learned that the right jewelry goes a long way to elevating a so-so ensemble.

This dress is a little too bridal for the office. (A colleague said to me, "Getting married today?") But I love how it fits and I feel good in it. So it's staying.

This green skirt by Tracy Feith has been a favorite for many years. Sadly, he's not designing any more. Tracy, come back! I need you!

This Joseph skirt was a major thrift-store find. When I wore it recently, I realized I need to have it taken in a little. A tailor you trust is a key element in any closet experiment. (Also, until I did this experiment, I had no idea how often I wear gold. Gold!)

I was wearing this skirt when I met Bill Clinton. It was winter and I paired it with a purple turtleneck sweater. Still proud of that look. 

These blue-and-pink Fendi loafers were the real treasure from my closet project. I bought them years ago, half a size too small because I loved them so much (come on, don't tell me you've never done that). And then I never wore them because I worried they would hurt my feet. But I did have them stretched three times. So when I finally pulled them out and wore them here, I was thrilled to discover that they are completely comfortable. Yay!

The ruffles on this TSE cardigan keep it interesting. I don't wear white that often—note to self: Put this sweater into heavier rotation!