Create a Calming Closet: My Take on Project 333
Have you ever stood in front of a packed closet and thought, “I have nothing to wear”? You’re not alone. Many of us are overwhelmed by decision fatigue when it comes to getting dressed—too many options, too much clutter, and yet very few things that actually work for our bodies, lifestyles, and style goals.
That’s why I decided to dive into Project 333—a minimalist wardrobe experiment created by Courtney Carver that invites you to wear just 33 items for 3 months. Sounds extreme? Maybe. But as I discovered, the results are surprisingly freeing.
What Is Project 333?
The original Project 333 challenge is simple:
Choose 33 items to wear for the next 3 months.
This includes clothing, accessories, jewelry, outerwear, and shoes.
It does not include: underwear, loungewear, sleepwear, or workout clothes (unless you wear them as everyday clothes).
But here’s the beauty of it: you get to make your own rules.
I love that Courtney encourages us to treat this as an experiment, not a restriction. That mindset really resonated with me. I’ve built a wardrobe I enjoy and feel confident in—so scaling down to just 33 items felt like the right challenge, but I also gave myself the flexibility to customize it to fit my lifestyle here in Arizona.
Why I’m Doing This
On a recent road trip, I listened to the audiobook version of Project 333 and was deeply inspired. It’s not just about curating your closet—it’s about clearing the mental clutter. A smaller wardrobe helps you clarify your personal style, eliminate what doesn’t serve you, and reclaim your time and energy for more important things.
This experiment isn’t about perfection or self-denial—it’s about intention. And it’s about discovering that less really can be more… not just in your closet, but in every area of your life.
My Personal Project 333 Rules
For my summer season capsule (July through September), I’ve chosen:
22 clothing items
6 pairs of shoes
4 pieces of jewelry
1 handbag
This version reflects my needs, climate, and lifestyle here in Arizona. I didn’t feel the need to eliminate handbags or jewelry, but I know plenty of people who do! Some keep their capsule to just clothing and shoes. Others add in accessories but exclude weather-specific items like coats. There’s no one “right” way to do this.
My 33-Piece Summer Capsule
Here’s a peek into what made the cut for me this season:
Clothing (22 pieces)
3 short-sleeve t-shirts
3 sleeveless/short sleeve blouses
1 long-sleeve blouse
2 denim jackets
1 lightweight blazer
6 dresses
1 jumpsuit
1 pairs of casusal pants
4 pairs of jeans (from casual to more elevated)
Shoes (6 pairs)
Mary Jane ballet flats
Wedge pumps
Suede mules
Straw heeled slides
Suede sandal slides
Novelty sneakers
Jewelry (4 pieces, earrings)
Simple silver hoops
Large silver hoops
Large gold hoops
Crystal studs
Handbag (1 piece)
Neutral leather tote bag that works day to night
These pieces give me everything I need for casual errands, polished workdays, and the occasional night out. And even though I’ve dramatically reduced the number of items in my closet, I’ve actually increased my style clarity and outfit options by focusing on versatile, well-loved pieces.
What I’ve Learned (So Far)
A smaller wardrobe can be more expressive, not less.
I’m more likely to wear things that make me feel great—because I’m not distracted by the “meh” items.
Getting dressed is faster, easier, and more joyful.
I shop less because I already like what I have.
Ready to Try Project 333?
You don’t have to do it exactly like me—or Courtney, for that matter. Start with 33-ish items. Or 44. Or 25. Choose 3 months—or just one. Exclude categories that don’t feel relevant. Make it your own.
And if the idea of pulling 33 items feels overwhelming, just start by removing the things you don’t love. That alone can be transformative.
Watch the Video
Want to see how my capsule came together and check out a few outfit combos? Watch the full video here:
👉 Watch: Create a Calming Closet: How to Use Project 333 to Clear the Chaos in Your Life