The concept of hiring someone to help you throw things away seems quite silly, but it was just what this editor needed. A closet packed with outdated clothing was making the daily outfit selection process quite daunting.

Which is why we called in personal stylist Michelle Addison and her Freedom package ($350), a complete wardrobe cleanse. The service includes a home visit, a closet clear out, suggested outfits, and a visual shopping list of what to add to make the most of the current pieces. Suddenly our closet, and our life, felt lighter. She is fast, efficient, helpful, realistic, but not pushy.

So when I said, “That has sentimental value” she let us keep it. And when I said, “That’s a slutty top I used to wear when DJing at rock bars in London,” it went straight into the “donate” pile. —Alexandra Suhner Isenberg

Michelle Addison Personal Style, packages start at $225, www.michelleaddison.com.