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Ever since I moved to the Big Apple, I’ve struggled to optimize my closet. I’ve never not had a hallway closet or extra storage in my home—I’m a born and bred Southern who’s *only* lived in large spaces. So, it’s not an exaggeration to say it’s been a huge adjustment. But I’m anything if not resourceful. In the three years since becoming a New Yorker, I’ve learned how to maximize my itty bitty closet to fit all my sweaters, sneakers, and skirts.
How did I do it, you ask? Well, there are a few handy organization hacks that’ll instantly transform your chaotic mess of a closet into a perfectly organized wardrobe. Most of these neat tips are cost-effective and affordable—some are DIY too! Ready to zhuzh up your closet? The 411 guide to organizing your closet lies below.
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Closet Organization Hacks
Why do you need a tidy closet? Well, overstuffed cabinets and packed shelves can make your daily dress routine super chaotic and time-consuming. No one needs that challenge every morning. So, it’s paramount that closets are nice and organized.
Naturally, organizing your closets sounds like a headache, especially if you have hella clothes like moi. Luckily, there are closet organization hacks that make organizing super easy! My favorite hack is to separate closets by season. You shouldn’t have both your winter and summer clothes stacked next to each other if the temperatures are below freezing. Storing your out-of-season items in a modular bin—one small enough to fit under your bed—frees up some necessary closet space.
Another tip is to do a routine overhaul. Do you really need five pairs of white T-shirts? Try auditing your wardrobe every couple of months to determine which pair of clothing isn’t worn often. You don’t need to have that gray sweater gathering dust in your closet when you can donate it to your local consignment shop or family friend.
Install a Wall Shelf
The number of wall shelves I have in my room is astronomical. They’re space savers that double as decor. Use your wall shelves to hold miscellaneous items like books or to show off the prettiest accents or pictures in your bedroom. Wall shelves come in a variety of colors and styles, from boxy cubes to simple wood shelves to fit any aesthetic and style.
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Get Creative With Bulky Clothes
I love, love fall and winter but sweaters take up so much space! Which is why I stopped hanging them and instead rolled them up in modular plastic shelves. You can even use shoe organizers like this neat shoe cabinet from Ikea (see below) to hold your sweaters. Just roll them up super finely and tuck them away. The result? A less bulky and crowded closet.
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Store Small Items in a Vanity
The biggest game changer in optimizing my closet was buying a vanity organizer. They come in different forms, from a rounded turntable for easy accessibility to multi-compartment boxes to hold both small and large accessories. My vanities only hold my makeup and brushes, but they store many smaller items, like jewelry, hair accessories, and wallets too.
Etsy
Personalized Elegant Tempered Glass Metal Trim Makeup Cosmetic Organizer Storage Box
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Try a Clothing Rack
A clothing rack is a great option for those whose closet is already packed to the brim. It’s basically a closet but portable and keeps your clothes wrinkle-free. Plus, they operate as decor and add personality to your living space.
Clothing racks come in different sizes and forms to fit your space needs. Larger free standing racks have different compartments for your shirts, pants, shoes, and purses. Smaller ones (like below) are compact enough to store a few garments but won’t overcrowd your small room.
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Use Low-Profile Hangers
A small but effective change to freeing space in your closet. Low-profile hangers are slim and less bulky than standard hangers to fit more seamlessly in your closet. I know a hanger doesn’t seem like a necessary change, but trust me. Swapping your plastic hanger for a non-slip velvet low-profile one will do *wonders* for your closet.
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Maximize Your Space with Our Inspired Closet Solutions
Ultimately, this is your closet, meaning if you prefer it to be messy, who am I to judge? The best closets, truthfully, are those with personality and these organizing hacks can style your space. Remember, a clothing rack and vanity are organizers, but they’re also decor too. Use these wardrobe tips to make your home ~yours~. You’ll be living in it, after all.
Shop our range of home decor for more inspo and quality pieces you can’t miss!
