How to organise your closet like a pro

A well organised closet makes it much easier for you to choose an outfit and dress up in the morning; will help keep your clothes fresh and in good condition; will bring order which ultimately makes your wardrobe experience less stressful. With the right approach, organizing your closet can become a satisfying and efficient task. A well-organized closet not only saves you time when dressing and enhances your overall living space, it will help you shop purposefully and will make you avoid impulses buys. By clearly seeing all you have, you will be able to assess what else you really need and what you don’t.

In the below article, I will explain practical steps and tips to help you master the art of closet organization.

1.     Assess and Declutter: 

Begin by taking everything out of your closet one item at the time to assess them individually. Sort through your clothes, shoes, accessories, and any other items stored in the closet. Ask yourself if each item is still useful, fits well, and brings you joy. Then create three piles: Donate pile (no longer fit, doesn’t fit body shape or personal colour, outdated, don’t like the item); Maybe pile (like the item but not sure how to style it) and Keep pile (you wear often and want to keep). Then donate clothes that you no longer use or doesn’t fit well.

2.     Categorize Items: 

Once you've decluttered, categorize your remaining items. Common categories include tops, bottoms, dresses, outerwear, shoes, accessories, and special occasion items. Sorting your items into categories makes it easier to find what you need and prevents clutter from accumulating. Then divide each category by seasons (winter/autumn vs spring/summer). I usually prefer to have my tops on the top rack and the bottom on a lower rack. That way I have a clear view of what I have. Include also your dresses and layers and then arrange them by colours.

3.     Invest in Storage Solutions: 

Investing in the right storage solutions can maximize the space in your closet and keep it organized. Consider using a combination of hangers, shelves, bins, baskets, and drawer organizers. Utilize vertical space with hanging organizers or shelving units to store items like handbags, hats, shoes, or folded clothes. You will need some sort of storage to keep away previous seasons clothes, so you have only the current one on hand.

4.     Utilize Hangers Wisely: 

Choose the appropriate hangers for different types of clothing. Use sturdy wooden or padded hangers for heavy items like coats and jackets to maintain their shape. Slim velvet hangers are ideal for delicate garments like blouses and dresses as they prevent slipping and creasing. Also, Also, group similar items together on hangers to create a cohesive look. I personally prefer to hang all my clothes for the current season and fold and store clothes that I don’t need immediately.

5.     Implement a Color-Coding System: 

Organizing your clothes by colour not only looks visually appealing but also makes it easier to locate specific items. And as I mentioned before, you will be able to assess what you already have and what you need. If you have way too much navy t-shirt and no white, then it’s time for you to head to the shops. Also, arrange your clothing from light to dark or follow a rainbow spectrum. This simple yet effective technique saves time and adds a touch of elegance to your closet.

6.     Maximize Shelf Space: 

Make the most of shelf space by folding clothes neatly and stacking them according to category. You can use shelf dividers to keep stacks of clothes upright and prevent them from toppling over. To make your folding look neater, you can buy online a folding board. Clear storage bins or baskets are perfect for storing small items like scarves, belts, or socks, keeping them visible and accessible.

7.     Store Seasonal Items:

Rotate your wardrobe seasonally to free up space and keep your closet clutter-free. Store off-season clothing and accessories in labelled bins or vacuum-sealed bags. Consider utilizing under-bed storage or a separate closet space for seasonal items to optimize space in your main closet but especially to make sure that you can see exactly what you have. With too many items in your closet you won’t be able to see your options and choose a proper outfit.  

8.     Maintain Regular Maintenance: 

Maintain your organized closet by adopting a habit of regular maintenance. Set aside a few minutes each week to tidy up and reorganize items as needed. Return items to their designated places after each use to prevent clutter from accumulating. Periodically review your wardrobe and declutter items that are no longer needed.

9.     Make Use of Door Space: 

Don't overlook the back of your closet door as valuable storage space. Install hooks or over-the-door organizers to hang robes, bags, or accessories. This maximizes space while keeping frequently used items within easy reach.

10.  Personalize Your Space: 

Lastly, personalize your closet space to reflect your style and personality. Add decorative touches like wallpaper, artwork, or inspirational quotes to make the space inviting. Incorporate storage solutions that cater to your specific needs and lifestyle, whether it's a designated area for workout gear or a shoe rack for your extensive collection.

Organizing your closet may seem like a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can be both achievable and rewarding. By following these practical steps and tips, you can transform your closet into a functional and stylish space that enhances your daily routine. Remember, organization is an ongoing process, so stay committed to maintaining your organized closet for a clutter-free and stress-free lifestyle.