It's time for another Tear Sheet Tuesday where the tears are never sad, just the basis for inspiration. Today's tears are a collage of sorts. The fun dress shape and typography were torn from the pages of Metropolis (because they send me free magazines ;) along with one of my very own closet renderings. The image of the dress + the idea of customization inspire me to write about the one area that everyone can and should customize, your closet!
I think a luxurious closet is any gal's version of the man cave. It's a space that must be completely personalized and, of course, you must feel pampered in it or else you won't keep it neat ;). THIS closet pic below is consistently one of the most popular on my Pinterest. If you've been following The Big Move you know I am currently in the midst of a ginormous condo makeover and I CANNOT wait to get to the closet!
If you've been thinking about customizing your own dream closet considering these closet design tips will get you on your way to divine.
How's it Hanging?
The first thing you need to do is take a look at your stuff. The second is to get rid of (any means possible) anything you truthfully have not touched in a year. I'm being generous here, what with the seasons and all... Really do it. Less is now. Once this is done, look at what you've got left. Some people hang, some fold. Marie Kondo famed author of The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing
If you're a fan of folding, you can do it like this. I recommend it. I do it myself and have been for a year and a half. It works and you can see all your stuff so you don't end up wearing the same three pairs of undies over and over because you didn't see and forgot about the other 30, right? Kondo is quirky, no doubt, but she has a point and it has worked for me with a few tweaks.
In your closet, you'll need to allocate space for double hanging (shirts, shorts, skirts, folded over slacks), medium hanging (dresses, robes), and long hanging for long dresses. Figure out, based on what you have left after step one, how much you need of each.
The Shoes & the Bags
You'll find an abundance of shoe organization situations out there but my favorite is shelves plain and simple. I'm not a fan of the slanty shelves simply because they take up more space and well frankly, they are only good for shoes. If you opt for an open shelf unit, make sure you've got plenty of shelves spaced approx. 8 or so inches apart. Different types of shoes will require different spacing so adjustable/removable shelves are perfect. Shelving is the most versatile storage option. You can also combine shoes and handbags in this area.
How About Some More Shelves?
Some people gonna be folders, especially for items like sweaters and maybe jeans so if you are a folder make sure you plan for enough shelving. Keep in mind that shelves are less expensive than drawers and you can always use containers or baskets on shelves to group smaller items and make them look neat and tidy.
Drawers
If you have space, every closet definitely warrants a few drawers. Take into account drawers you have outside the closet in your dresser. If you have enough (who ever does?) you may be good to go (not). One thing to remember about drawers is that they are the easiest way to add $$$$$ to the cost of your closet.
Hamper Options
Sometimes there's room for the hamper in your bathroom but if not, you can always leave space for one in your closet. I love to locate them at the end against a wall for easy access. This one is from Dot & Bo and doubles as extra storage. Whatever I'm designing I always look for products and methods that are versatile. It's nice to have choices, no?
Light it Luxuriously
When you're in the closet it always helps to see what you're doing and today there are SO many lighting choices including recessed ceiling fixtures (hi hats), track lighting and even concealed LED lighting in your closet rod! My favorite idea for lighting is a girly chandelier or ceiling fixture. I guess I'm shy because that is the only place I'd have one.
That lighted closet rod is pretty awesome too. It's LED lighting inserted right into the center to offer a nice even light all the way through your closet. No more navy vs black issue for the well lit walk-in!
Sometimes a Lady Just Needs to Sit Down
If you have the space a seating situation is a must! Not only is is convenient for putting your shoes on it can also be a lovely accent piece to play off of that fabulous light fixture. Why can't we aim for beautiful as well as functional?
So there you have it! If there's anything here that inspires you to dig into your closet I'd be happy to collaborate with you! Please comment below and don't forget to subscribe to my blog so you never miss a beat. xoxo