When I finally decided to take the plunge and move to Manhattan, I was excited: here I was working in fashion, living my dream in a city I've loved all my life. What was less than thrilling? Realizing my room was supersmall, my closet was about two feet wide, and I had limited room for the clothes I'd accumulated over a lifetime.

So I decided to make it work to the best of my ability, discovering tips and tricks along the way for paring down, storing, and organizing what I had. Read on for what you need to know about being a fashion girl in a small space, because not everyone can have Carrie Bradshaw's closet.

Edit Your Closet

It can be hard to part with certain items, especially if they're attached to memories or something you feel you'll "need" later on. While I started out with the KonMari method [1], only keeping pieces that made me feel happy or joyful, I soon went at it realistically. If it wasn't 100 percent necessary or needed, if it never really fit right, or if I knew deep down I'd never really wear it, it went in the pile.

Sell Your Stuff

After editing down your closet, a great way to earn extra cash is to try to sell your stuff. I've had the most luck with Plato's Closet [2], which typically accepts items from Forever 21, H&M, and the like, but I've also heard great things about Poshmark [3], Buffalo Exchange [4], and The RealReal [5]. There are plenty of resale sites and stores out there — you just have to do some research!

And Donate the Rest

Whatever's left over goes in the donation bin, which is often conveniently located outside of resale places. Stores such as H&M also accept old clothes — from anywhere, in any condition — and sometimes offer discounts in return.

Invest in Basics

Since your plan is to pare down, it's time to invest in a few basics such as different-colored tees, jeans, and blazers. This way, you can mix and match them with what you have, putting together new combos with less stuff. I've also found it challenges you to get creative!

Buy a Bed With Storage Underneath

If you're in the market for a new bed, a good idea is to get one with drawers, which will provide more storage space. Another option is to put the one you have on risers and store bins or shoes underneath.

Make Use of Shelving

Even old bookshelves can hold sweaters, jeans, or bags! Don't feel like showing off what you've got? They also sell foldable drawers, which will easily slide in or out when you need to get something.

Use Investment Items as Decor

Those designer shoes or bags you once spent your whole paycheck on? Sit them on top of books and put them on display! It's a cute decor idea, and it will also make them easy to find later on.

Hang Things From Hooks

Not only are hooks a great way to hang hats, coats, and other accessories, but they're also helpful when planning out tomorrow's outfit, saving you the hassle — and mess! — in the morning.

Add a Clothing Rack

No closet space? Take a page out of a stylist's book and add a clothing rack or even a rod to your room to hang your clothes on. It doesn't have to be fancy, it just has to be practical!

Do Your Laundry

Not having a lot of items in your wardrobe will force you to wash what you do have in a timely manner. And you also don't want an overflowing basket, bag, or — gulp — dirty pile taking up precious space. I've found even two weeks is one week too much (but I also change a lot).

Get Organized

A new apartment means you get to start fresh, which also means it's a good time to get organized. Detangle that jewelry, separate by color, and make things easier to find. Your future self will thank you.