Spring’s right around the corner, and that means it’s time for an annual closet cleanout. If it feels like your space is bursting at the seams, don’t fret.
Julie Onstat is a design consultant for California Closets – a premier designer and installer of custom, luxury storage solutions for residential homes. Working in the Oklahoma branch, Onstat shares her advice for making the primary closet stylish and functional.
“You’ll really appreciate your life and what you have when you know exactly where and what everything is [in your closet],” she says.
Declutter Your Wardrobe
Photos of professionally designed closets tend to have one thing in common: zero visual clutter.
“My No. 1 rule is just have less stuff. There’s no amount of organization, there’s no system I can design for you that will be easy to maintain if [the closet] is filled to the brim,” she says.
A good way to start decluttering is by getting rid of clothing that doesn’t fit. Next, see if there are duplicates or similar pieces you can pare down. If there are a lot of items to sort through, focus on one area at a time and take breaks.
Create Zones
Once you’ve freed up space, think about dividing your closet into designated zones for certain items, like formal wear, shoes and everyday pieces. While creating these zones, consider your daily routine and which items you’ll need most.
“Focus on building a system that works with how you navigate the getting ready process,” Onstat says. “If you wear dresses twice a month and jeans every day, keep your jeans in a place that’s easier to reach.”
Pick Practical Storage Solutions
Keeping your closet organized long-term comes down to creating a realistic system that you’ll be able to maintain.
“Design systems don’t work when you rely on motivation alone. We want to make sure everything that’s included in the design is manageable,” explains Onstat.
To decide which storage solutions will work best for you, identify your pain points. If your open shelving always looks messy, consider closed-storage, such as bins and baskets. If you want to spend less time hanging your clothes, see if you can replace some of your closet rods with a dresser.
Think Vertically
Vertical storage solutions can help you maximize limited closet space. Over-the-door racks and wall hooks are great options for hanging hats, neckties, jewelry and purses without taking up floor space.
Thinking vertically can also help with optimizing existing cabinetry and shelving.
“A lot of times people have very tall shelf spaces that aren’t adjustable… Adding a riser and getting two rows of shoes onto a shelf as opposed to one is really helpful,” says Onstat.
Add the Finishing Touches
Remember that a closet isn’t just for storing your items; it’s a space for starting and ending your day. Displaying sentimental keepsakes, hanging up wall art, or applying a fresh coat of paint can make the space feel more personal and inviting. For a final touch, Onstat recommends investing in matching hangers.
She also encourages her clients to not be afraid to “do something a little bit differently,” in their own home.
“I love helping people work through the design process… and creating a foundation for someone to maintain their own system,” she says. “It’s a time where we can be creative and think outside the box.”
