8 Signs It’s Time to Say Goodbye to That Sentimental Item

You’re feeling the urge to get organized, to clear the clutter, to open up some room in your physical space so that you can welcome in the new — both literally and metaphorically. After all, you’ll definitely have an excuse to go shopping once you’ve responsibly cleared out some older items. But what happens when you realize that sentimental pieces make up some of that so-called clutter? You’ve been thinking for years about whether or not you should hang on to those mementos. It’s tricky!

The final push you’ve been looking for to actually let go of some of that stuff? We’re about to give it to you, and it’s even coming from an expert. “You have permission to let go of old mementos!” encourages MakeSpace organizational partner Lisa Zaslow. “You won’t be audited, and there’s no test. You’ll free up space and will feel lighter when you free yourself of things that have been weighing you down.” Keep scrolling for eight signs that you’re ready to bid a fond farewell to an item you’ve been holding on to.

1. It’s not one of the first things you would grab from your home in an emergency situation. No one likes to think about the worst-case scenario, but, as you learned every time you had to stop, drop, and roll during a school fire drill, it’s important to have a plan just in case. Close your eyes and imagine what handful of stuff you would try to grab as you dash out the door if your home were on fire. If the item in question doesn’t make the cut, you might not actually treasure it as much as you think.

2. You’re not that crazy about the way it looks. Obviously, there’s more to mementos than meets the eye, but aesthetics can be important too, particularly when we’re talking about items that are meant to enhance your home’s decor. Maybe your grandparents gave you that old-school chandelier or your cousin sent you a piece of her art — so nice of them! — but if it doesn’t inspire you to look at it, there’s nothing wrong with considering your options. Is there someone else in the family who might better appreciate the item? Is there a charity related to the gifter’s interests that might appreciate having it donated as part of a fundraising auction?

3. It doesn’t actually bring back that many positive memories. We would never encourage you to part with a piece of family history that’s associated with special memories from your childhood, but we would encourage you to think critically about how many memories said item really brings back. “Put on your thinking cap, and take a clear, objective look at why you are keeping your keepsakes,” Zaslow suggests.

4. It’s not unique to your family or personal history. The odds are pretty good that no one in your family expects you to keep a lamp that your great aunt bought from Target for the rest of your life. If the lamp serves your purposes, that’s great, but you should let go of the expectation that every single item you inherit is meant to become everlasting family memorabilia. An off-the-shelf piece that’s not unique to your history is likely not going to stick around forever.

5. You’re holding on to it for someone else. We commend your generosity, but it’s not your job to hold on to family keepsakes for an indefinite period until your sister has space or your parents are ready to redecorate. If you’re trying to free up space in your own home, you’re allowed to let all relevant parties know that they have a limited window in which to pick up the stuff you’ve been storing. If the items mean enough to them, they’ll find a way to make it work… And if they don’t? It’s time to say a guilt-free goodbye.

6. You’re keeping it out of a sense of guilt. “If an item stirs up negative or difficult emotions, such as sadness, regret, or guilt, it can be even harder to think logically about it,” Zaslow admits. “Making matters even worse, the longer we keep something, the more value we tend to attach to it. Being aware of these tendencies can help you make better decisions about your seemingly sentimental items.” Do what you can to ensure that you’re tackling these decisions when you’re in the best and clearest mindset. If, even then, something you’re saving makes you feel bad, you probably know what needs to be done with it.

7. You’ve never felt particularly inspired to display it. Is that so-called keepsake gathering dust in a storage space or hidden by stacks of other stuff in your “horizontal filing system” (AKA, piling things on every available flat surface)? It doesn’t sound like you’re treating it like a keepsake, does it? If this sounds familiar, you might consider taking photos of the items, then donating, gifting, or otherwise responsibly disposing of them. “Keep the memories and let the objects go,” Zaslow wisely advises.

8. You don’t worry very much about protecting it. It’s not a great sign if that “special” item is in hiding; it’s an even more telling one if you’ve never felt particularly concerned about keeping it safe from water damage, mildew, fire, or theft. “Thinking about putting mementos in the garage?” Zaslow asks. “Think twice. Maybe they aren’t that meaningful to you.”

What was the most sentimental thing you’ve ever decided to part with? Tweet us how you let it go @BritandCo.

(Photos via Getty)

Now that we're nearing the end of winter, it'll soon be time for spring cleaning. But in addition to just breaking out your duster, wiping down your baseboards, or finally tackling that soap scum in your shower, why not organize as well?

Think about it: as you go about your spring cleaning checklist this year, you're probably going to move from one room to another. While you're already getting down and dirty, it can be super helpful to streamline each area of your home.

Not only will you feel fully refreshed (and not like you're simply straightening up clutter), but you'll also make your life easier for all those "Sunday resets" to come this year.

So, whether you choose to start in your bedroom or kitchen, here are our top organizing tips for organizing every room of your house.

Scroll to find out how to best organize every room in your house!

1. Entryway

Max Vakhtbovycn

From work commutes to errand runs, you're probably on the go a lot. Why waste time getting out the door by dealing with a disorganized entryway every single day?

Think of your front door as a "launching pad." In other words, whatever you need to help make leaving and arriving home easier should be right there for simple access.

If you have a closet to work with, that's great. Otherwise, cubbies or even a utility shelf will work. Make sure your most used shoes, coats, and other accessories are neatly stacked, hung, or put away. You can take those heels you only wear for date nights or random extra scarves back to your bedroom.

Then, set up a space for your personal items, like your purse, keys, sunglasses, and any mail you grab on the way in. You'll know exactly where they are the next time you're running late, and you can add personal touches like greenery or artwork to make your launch pad more aesthetically pleasing.

2. Living Room

Martin Lang

Next up is the living room, where you probably spent the bulk of your time with family and friends. This fact means it tends to naturally become the most cluttered room in everyone's home.

If you feel like you're lacking storage, don't forget to utilize vertical space. You can install shelving, for instance, or buy tall open-shelving cabinets that look like built-ins.

Either way, by adding decor pieces, books, or other commonly used items, like speakers and games, you'll infuse the room with more character and dimension while saving floor space.

Don't underestimate the functionality of baskets, either. They're great for holding everything from pet toys to blankets and even magazines or photo albums.

Plus, if you have kids and constantly feel inundated by their toys, say goodbye to the typical storage container solution. Even though it may work for some parents, these containers are still an eyesore and never really leave your line of sight in the living room.

Instead, you can transform an old or thrifted dresser into a toy storage area. Select one that matches your interior design style to keep your space looking clean and uncluttered while allowing your kids to easily grab whatever they want to play with.

3. Bedroom & Closet

Shared or not, the bedroom has a way of collecting clutter like nobody's business. That's why we have to get creative to save space and make our lives easier.

One of the most overlooked areas is right under your bed. You can store anything from hobby items, like art supplies, to seasonal clothing and less frequently worn shoes.

Search for storage containers with wheels under the bed. Or, if your bedframe needs an upgrade, look for one that has drawers!

Anastasia Shuraeva

Then, in your closet, make sure your clothing and accessories are arranged in a way that makes sense.

For example, if you work a corporate job, group all of your business attire, like slacks, blazers, and loafers, in one section to quickly get dressed and go in the morning. The same goes for casual wear, workout attire, and evening wear or pajamas.

Finally, if you have shelving, add labeled bins to store clunkier garments like sweaters and sweatshirts. Any remaining room can be used to hold extra clutter that you clear off horizontal surfaces, like your desk, vanity, or dresser, to make your bedroom feel more light.

4. Bathroom

Kaboompics.com

Last but not least is the dreaded bathroom. This room of the house can become a dumping ground for all sorts of products and beauty tools.

Just like in your living room, you should use any empty wall space to your advantage. Hang up hooks to hold your towels and clothing while you bathe, or use an over-the-door organizer to give your extra towels and robes a home.

Also, if you live with multiple people, it can be helpful to give each family member their own designated cabinet. This will keep everyone's products separate and prevent any from becoming a "junk drawer."

Last but not least, our top tip for keeping your bathroom fresh and organized is to get rid of your personal items on a regular basis. Stop holding onto that old tube of toothpaste that's practically flat or accumulating multiple bottles of face wash.

Rather, go through your products once a month to purge anything that's expired or no longer used. This simple act alone will make a real difference.

Looking for more home & organization tips? Be sure to sign up for our newsletter so you never miss a thing!

Nothing screams springquite like pastel hues, but right now, butter yellow is hot. This season’s crop of dresses is definitely embracing the shade in the best way possible! From breezy sundresses to flirty slips, these butter yellow beauties are simply perfect for donning spring’s “it” color. If you're looking to refresh your wardrobe with a color that feels effortlessly chic, these 12 picks are a must-see!

Scroll on for our 12 favorite stylish butter yellow dresses you can shop now!

J.Crew

J.Crew Cotton Poplin Zip-Up Shirtdress

This shirtdress has the perfect laid-back vibe for your spring weekend 'fits, though it's still polished enough that you could turn it more formal with heels and a sophisticated jewelry stack.

Target

Wild Fable Drop Waist Mini Sundress

This Target dress has our full attention! The drop waist is undeniably flattering on all body types, plus the butter yellow shade is right on point. All for $30?! We're here for it.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie & Fitch Premium Linen Drop-Waist Belted Maxi Dress

This strapless maxi is ideal for this year's Easter plans, as a wedding guest dress, or as a getup for a garden party! The attached belt pulls the look together perfectly.

Urban Outfitters

Amy Lynn Puffball Midi Dress

Along with butter yellow being a huge trend in today's fashion, bubble hems are equally as cool. Combine the two with this adorable tie-strap dress that supplies a super femme feel.

Nordstrom

Petal & Pup Aliyah Cotton Eyelet Maxi Dress

The breezy cotton material this dress is made of makes it so comfy to wear all day long. What's more is it boasts an adorable eyelet pattern for added spring flair! The square neckline is also extremely flattering and will draw all eyes toward you.

Banana Republic

Banana Republic Knit Midi Dress

Inspired by ballet fashion, this "subtly stretchy" midi dress pulls you together without being overly restrictive. The sheer skirt is luckily lined with a mini-length slip that ensures coverage as you move!

Anthropologie

Anthropologie The Tilda Slip Dress

For a fuss-free slip dress, this silky pick from Anthro is the way to go. It's super sleek and chic, so you can dress it up or down with ease. From comfy sneakers to elevated heels, you'll be lookin' oh-so fab!

Free People

Free-est Taking Sides Maxi

The tiered design on this maxi moment is downright whimsical. We'd wear it to a springtime picnic or happy hour to feel like instant royalty! Plus, it's made of cotton, so you won't have to worry about losing that easy, breezy fit you love.

Urban Outfitters

AFRM Vienna Asymmetric Ruffle Maxi Dress

Hello, ruffles! This butter yellow dress is practically covered in 'em, perfect for formal occasions and dinner dates.

Target

Wild Fable Flutter Short Sleeve Maxi A-Line Dress

How dreamy! This maxi that's fitted with flutter sleeves has such a playful and femme effect, which is heightened by the cutie bows atop the shoulders. This pick is another excellent choice for an Easter dress, but it's easily timeless enough to don all spring and summer long!

Nordstrom

WAYF Cara Floral Cap Sleeve Linen Blend Midi Dress

If solids aren't quite your style, this midi is covered in floral motifs to help you embrace the blooms of spring even further. The lace linings around the hem and neckline are irresistibly cute, too!

Free People

Free-est Onda Drop-Waist Long-Sleeve Mini

The combo of the drop waist and three-quarter-length sleeves on this marvelous mini dress lend it such a romantic feel, which is ideal for date nights and cocktails with the gals. We'd let the squared neckline shine by wearing this with our hair up and some kitten heels for added cuteness!

Subscribe to our newsletter to shop more seasonal styles!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Whenever our kitchens are a mess — it tends to feel like a metaphor for our life also being somewhat of a mess. You know the scene: When there are baking dishes and leftovers all over the place, mismatched Tupperware pieces spilling out of your cabinets, restocked pantry goods haphazardly stuffed into the wrong spots... It can be hard to deal when our kitchens are out of sorts.

If you're looking to declutter your kitchen, then you've come to the right place because we rounded up some of the coolest kitchen cabinet organizers and organization inspiration for your own kitchen in 2023. These babies save space without sacrificing style, which will make whipping up those one pot spring dinners way more fun. Keep reading for everything you need to know about how to organize kitchen cabinets.

How To Organize Kitchen Cabinets

Photo by RDNE Stock project

The most important thing to focus on when organizing your kitchen cabinets is maximizing space. That just means making the most of the space that you have, because no matter how big your cabinets are, if they're filled to the brim with items that don't have a dedicated spot, it's going to feel cluttered.

Focus on keeping similar items together, using up vertical space by stacking where you're able (like with bowls or glasses) and making sure that every object has a dedicated space.

Kitchen Cabinet Organization Ideas

Brit + Co

Use your cabinets to hold more than just kitchenware — display books and plants to bring some personality into your kitchen. You don't have to save all the fun for your bedroom and living room!

Image via Beazy/Unsplash.

If you live in a small apartment, or just don't have cabinets, you can still take part in the fun. Use the space above your sink or your countertop to add your own shelves. This is a great option because when you're doing it yourself, you can customize the storage to your needs.

PMQ For Two

If you don't want to stack your plates (or you don't have the room for all the designs to have their own stacks), set them upright instead with a DIY plate rack. (via PMQ For Two)

Brit + Co

Okay, so this one isn't technically cabinet organization, but it will definitely save you room in your cabinets. DIY this wine rack that will move your wine bottles from your cabinets onto the wall and add color to your room at the same time.

The Home Edit's organization tips are totally inspiring thanks to their efficiency and their color. Grabbing bins from somewhere like The Container Store or Target can help you contain your products so they don't end up spread across your shelf, and they also make it easier to stack your items since they won't fall over.

Don't underestimate the power of labels. When you buy your bins, tubs, and other organizers, write what you intend to store inside on all the containers and make sure that the corresponding product is always inside. That way, you'll have one bin of flour instead of multiple half-empty bags. Plus, it just looks prettier!

Image via roam in color/Unsplash.

For a quick update on the system you already have, stack your plates so that like plates are together, with the biggest plates are on the bottom — this will ensure they sit together in a way that takes up the least amount of room.

Make sure all the rims of your glasses are touching when storing them in your cabinets, and when you're organizing mugs, face the handles toward each other so there's less empty space and more room for new mugs. Because let's be honest, we can always buy new mugs.

A Beautiful Mess

Don't forget to use up the space on top of your cabinets too! Grab some baskets to organize new bottles of olive oil, bags of coffee, or cleaning supplies that you get from the store. (via A Beautiful Mess)

Kitchen Cabinet Organizers

If you love to stay hydrated (ie: you have nine water bottles in your cabinet), then you should grab a product like this YouCopia UpSpace Bottle Organizer ($25+). It'll keep all your water bottle snug together so that you have more room for all your mugs. Speaking of...

The great thing about these Better Houseware Undershelf Cup & Mug Hooks ($10 for two) is that since they hook around the top of a shelf, they don't take up any room at the base.

One way to make sure you save room is to use up vertical space instead of horizontal space. That's why we love the Chrome Roll-Out Bakeware Organizer ($66), which stacks all your muffin tins and cookie sheets on their end. Trust us: this will save you tons of room.

Your fruit deserves a comfy spot to hang out in, so grab a Macrame Fruit Hammock ($30) that will keep fruit off the counter. Cute!

The great thing about a container like the Everything Organ Cabinet Depth Pantry Bin ($101+) is that it's clear because you know what you have at all times. You won't have to pull out the bins to see what's inside!

Use an Expandable Countertop Organizer ($38) in your cabinets — or use it on your counter to clear out your cabinets). We love that this pick's expandable because that means you can move it around to different areas, no matter how big the area is.

A pot organizer like this one from MUDEELA ($22) will keep all your pots and pans together, and you won't have to put up with the noise of when they're stacked on top of each other.

You can't forget about the spices! A rack like this Spice Rack($25) will keep all your spices together and make accessing them a whole lot easier.

Some mDesign Metal Pull-Out Baskets ($21) will create organization within your cabinet the way that cubes do. It's like a two-in-one storage space!

Check out our email newsletter for more kitchen cabinet organization ideas, and more cleaning tips and tricks.

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Festival fashion has always been about making a statement, but some trends are best left in the past. Remember the good old days of flower crowns and dip-dyed denim? We hate to break it to you, but certain Coachella staples are starting to feel more costume-y than a cool-girl outfit. If you want to keep your festival looks fresh as ever, it’s time to retire these “outdated” trends and make room for something new.

Scroll on to discover 7 Coachella and festival trends that were once everything to the fashion community, but have since fallen out of style.

1. Studded Denim Shorts

Etsy

One Of A Kind High Waisted Studded Shorts

Studded denim shorts were everywhere in the early 2010s, thanks to festival fashion legends like Kylie Jenner and Vanessa Hudgens. They were truly so edgy, but the excessive embellishments have since fallen out of style.

Levi's

Levi's Baggy Dad Jorts

If you want to go the denim route for a festival ‘fit, you’re better off rocking high-waisted designs or baggy jorts for a more current feel.

Urban Outfitters

Silence + Noise Mona Studded Shoulder Bag

To channel the good old days of festival fashion, you could totally bulk up your Coachella ‘fits with cute studded accessories like hats or purses!

2. Combat Boots

Amazon

Amazon Essentials Lace-Up Combat Boots

Combat boots – you know the ones! They were once the go-to footwear for grungy festival looks, but along with not being super practical for all-day wear, they just add an unnecessarily bulky vibe.

Tecovas

Tecovas The Beth Boots

Instead, cowgirl boots are the “it” shoe to wear to festivals like Coachella. They’re way more comfortable and go with everything from denim shorts to flowy mini dresses!

3. Fringe Tank Tops

Etsy

Fringe Beaded Tie Dye Top

Remember when everyone and their mothers were chopping up their tank tops with fringe hems? We definitely participated in this festival-inspired trend, even tying little plastic beads onto the strands. Oh, take us back!

Urban Outfitters

Urban Outfitters Zolli Embroidered Open-Back Fringe Halter Top

Fringe tank tops were most certainly a symbol of the boho aesthetic that was so big in the 2010s, but they’ve now been eclipsed by sleeker styles.

Free People

We The Free Fringe Out Vegan Suede Jacket

If you still want to embrace the Coachella nostalgia at your next festival, try out a fringy poncho or jacket or a purse for something a little more low-key.

4. Flower Crowns

Etsy

Sun Flower Headband

Nothing screams ‘early Coachella’ more than flower crowns, but this trend came and went so quick. Flower crowns became so overused that they became cliché – LOL.

Free People

Free People So Silk Bandana

Luckily, you can still achieve the carefree vibe without having to put one on! Opt for chicer hair accessories like hair clips, bandanas, or bows. Plus, braided hairstyles can totally replace the need for anything excessive.

5. Gladiator Sandals

DSW

Vintage Foundry Pruitt Sandals

Oh gosh, we totally regret that these were even a fashion trend. Gladiator sandals – especially the knee-high, lace-up versions – were huge at one point, but they’ve since lost their appeal due to their impracticality. Not only are they hard to walk in, they take literal years to put on and take off, and can cause weird tan lines if you’re standing out in the sun for a festival.

Teva

Teva Flatform Mevia Sandals

These days, chunky platform sandals or cowboy boots are more the norm when it comes to festival fashion.

6. Crochet Dresses

ASOS

ASOS Monki Crochet Knitted Mini Dress

While crochet absolutely still has a place in festival fashion, the fully-crocheted maxi and mini dresses that were once all the rage now feel a wee bit overdone – and too closely tied to the ever-popular boho aesthetic of the past decade.

Urban Outfitters

Motel Fulvia Ruffle Trim Slip Mini Dress

Instead, rock some sheer mesh dresses, flowy slip dresses, or lace-trimmed pieces that offer a more modern take on lightweight festival dressing.

7. Tie-Dye Everything

Los Angeles Apparel

Los Angeles Apparel Tie Dye Baby Rib Halter Top

Tie-dye was another huge festival trend. From shirts to shorts, everything was seemingly covered in the pattern around the 2010s. The visually heavy prints now feel pretty costume-like, compared to today’s more-refined festival fashion. Earthy tones and minimalist patterns feel more appropriate for today’s trends.

Subscribe to our newsletter to discover more trends of the past!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

We already know that Netflix's Sirens is all about "socialites, scandal, and power struggles" (Gossip Girl, anyone?), but the streamer finally just announced when we can watch the new show, and it's even sooner than we hoped. In addition to confirming its early summer release date, we also have a first look at stars Meghann Fahy, Julianne Moore, and Kevin Bacon — and it makes me want to watch the show even more than I already did. (And considering the show is produced by Margot Robbie, I already really wanted to watch it). Here's your first look at Netflix's new dark comedy.

Keep reading for the first look at Sirens, coming to Netflix May 22, 2025.

'Sirens' is an "explosive" look at power.

Netflix

In Sirens, Devon (Meghann Fahy) is worried about her sister Simone (Milly Alcock). Or, more specifically, Simone's way-too-close relationship with her boss, socialite Michaela Kell (Julianne Moore). When Devon decides enough is enough, she shows up to set Simone straight, unaware the "explosive" Labor Day weekend at Michaela's "lavish beach estate" will change everything.

"Sirens is an incisive, sexy, and darkly funny exploration of women, power, and class," the show's official logline says. And you know what? That makes for some great TV. The show is executive produced by LuckyChap's Dani Gorin, Tom Ackerley, and Margot Robbie, as well as Colin McKenna.

And the 'Sirens' cast makes it a standout series.

Netflix

In the Sirens first look, we see Meghann Fahy as Devon, armed with what looks like a fruit basket and a scowl. Here's the full Sirens cast list:

  • Meghann Fahy as Devon DeWitt: Simone's concerned and persistent older sister.
  • Julianne Moore as Michaela Kell: a mysterious philanthropist & animal activist and Simone's boss.
  • Milly Alcock as Simone DeWitt: Devon's witty younger sister who works as Michaela's personal assistant.
  • Kevin Bacon as Peter Kell: Michaela's billionaire husband.
  • Glenn Howerton as Ethan Corbin III: the Kells' wealthy, if indulgent, bachelor neighbor
  • Bill Camp as Bruce DeWitt: Devon and Simone's dad who's dealing with a devastating diagnosis.
  • Felix Solis as Jose: the manager, gardener, and head of security of Cliff House.
  • Josh Segarra as Raymond: Devon's on-again-off-again boyfriend.
  • Trevor Salter as Jordan: the very handsome captain of Ethan's yacht.
  • Britne Oldford as Missy: the Kells' seasonal housekeeper.
  • Lauren Weedman as Patrice: the Kells' strictly-business personal chef.
  • Jenn Lyon as Cloe: the meanest member of "The Fates."
  • Erin Neufer as Lisa: a passionate, zealous part of "The Fates" trio.
  • Emily Borromeo as Astrid: the ditzy third member of "The Fates."

Netflix

And Julianne Moore's Michaela is all grace and poise, especially at home in her lavish estate. “This story has a lot of teeth,” series creator Molly Smith Metzler says in an interview with Tudum. “There are real moments of drama, and it’s going to make people uncomfortable. Operatic is a word I like to use to describe it. It’s a true dark comedy — and it’s got a Greek mythology vibe.”

“Julianne’s just the dream for this role because she does feel ethereal,” she continues. “She’s from another kingdom. She is not a normie.”

Here's when you can watch 'Sirens.'

Netflix

Sirens will stream on Netflix starting May 22, 2025.

How many episodes does Sirens on Netflix have?

Netflix

Sirens has five episodes total, all of which will be an hour long.

Where was Sirens filmed?

Netflix

Sirens was announced in February 2024 and began filming in the North Fork of Long Island, New York over the summer of 2024.

Are you excited to watch Sirens this summer? Stay tuned for the latest news and read up on why Apple TV's New Thriller Show Cape Fear Will Hold You Over Until Big Little Lies Season 3.