How to Properly Arrange The Clothes in Your Closet
To optimize the potential of your custom closet space, it is essential that it functions properly for you each day. How can you organize your wardrobe in a way that fits just for you and your daily routine?
Here are a few ideas to start:
- Process of Elimination
- Color Vs. Category
- To Hang or To Fold?
- The Right Hangers
- Never Too Many Shoes
Ready to tame the chaos? Read on to learn more!
But First, Declutter!
Like your fashion sense, your closet is a personal expression of you. You may walk into it like getting ready for opening night each day, or maybe it’s more of a “grab-and-go” experience. Whatever your style or space, your closet needs to be “you” ready every day with the necessary attire and accessories arranged appropriately for your lifestyle.
A simple way to start fresh is to take out the old and unwanted items and either donate, hand them down to a friend, or maybe even try to make a sale. Like TLC’s What Not To Wear host, Stacey London has emphasized “simplify your repeats.”
In other words, if you have "go-to" items that you don't wear anymore, especially if they come in multiples, it's time to downsize. This activity is essential. Letting go of that unworn apparel will help create a refreshing transformation.
Cleaning your closet is the next step. Like the many other spaces and surfaces that need dusting throughout your home, closets often get neglected, especially from the daily traffic. Basic cleaning will prep you to start organizing the clutter. You might even surprise yourself and get your closet clean in a matter of minutes.
The Conundrum: Color Vs. Category
You can’t fail this challenge. Colors often reflect your current mood, as it changes from day to day. Don't be afraid to play with them. Certified professional organizer Amy Trager suggests to color coordinate by category using the ROYGBV rainbow method.
Viewing your clothes, shoes, and accessories in a different formation may help you to see some original ensembles that you never could have imagined before. Also, take notice which color is predominately worn. Those items can be placed at the front of your closet.
In arranging your closets by category, there are a lot of pieces to consider, as it depends on the person: t-shirts, tanks, blouses, dresses, shirts, skirts, sweaters, jackets, and even pajamas. You can also categorize by casual, dressy, or active apparel.
Store off-season items in breathable storage bins or vacuum-sealed bags to prevent the onset of mold. Each approaching season will help you assess what you really want to get rid of or keep. According to HGTV experts, if you haven’t worn something at least a couple of times a year, you may want to reconsider keeping that piece.
To Fold or To Hang?
When it comes to the plethora of garments you might own, space becomes limited fast. But, if you’re not yet ready to pitch that vintage dress or fall sweater, there are practical options for storing your fashionable attire.
MarthaStewart.com notes that "flowy fabrics" should be hung, regardless. In keeping your closet more compact, folding items such as sweaters as well as rolling t-shirts in drawers will provide more space for other must-haves.
A few items you should always consider hanging, include linen, pants, blouses, jackets, and most dresses. When it comes to deciding what to fold: thick sweaters, activewear, and shorts. T-shirts, jeans, and scarves can sway either way.
The Wooden Hanger
Hangers-they normally come in obvious types like plastic and wire. Over time, these types wear out and cannot hold certain garments without slipping off onto the floor. Plastic breaks and wire gets bent out of its original shape, especially with heavier pieces.
A great alternative is the wooden hanger. Wood hangers offer longevity with their durability and muscle. From light clothing to heavy winter coats, they'll support your collection with ease. The better you hang your clothes, the more likely they will stay wrinkle-free and maintain their shape.
Your Right to Shoes
These days, it's safe to say that both men and women own an abundant collection of shoes. Shoes are indispensable. Their daily activity is based mostly on casual, sport, leisure, and dress. They come with as many categories as clothes.
Organizing them is essential and the ladies at The Perennial Style provide a great way to organize your collection with ordinary plastic containers that stack on top of each other. It’s also a good idea to set shoes on the shelf rather than on the floor for added space.
Conclusion
The techniques mentioned above are just a few ideas to ignite the inspiration you might need to begin improving your closet space. Remember, arrange your closet in a way that makes sense to you and don't forget to add in a little personal flair along the way.