How to stay organised in a small wardrobe! Is it possible?
Do you have a wardrobe that you gingerly twist the doorknob and wait for an avalanche of shoes, scarves or whatever to spill out? While we all might aspire to the palatial walk-ins but not all have one so every inch of space is crucial and organisation is key.
Are you tired of having the constant struggle of never being able to find anything or you just don’t know what to wear? Since the contents of your wardrobe will determine your style and maybe it’s time to become more intentional about how you present yourself each day, and really who wants to struggle each morning with getting up and not knowing what to wear?
Just because something cost a lot, or looks amazing on someone else, doesn’t mean that it is the right fit for you. Think of your wardrobe as a well-curated boutique, and fill it only with items that you truly love that reflect your ‘authentic style’.
I spend many a day in wardrobes, putting outfits together, culling those outfits that aren’t the right fit for clients, finding out what is needed for the wardrobe to function successfully and most importantly giving style advice. Here’s what my ladies have said about their experience of a Wardrobe Audit.
Going into new seasons is a perfect time to overhaul your wardrobe, read on for a breakdown of some tips ;
Start Fresh!
Do not underestimate the power of a good editing session. Too much clutter is the enemy of a well-organised space, so you’ll want to review the entire contents of your wardrobe, and do your best to keep only what you actually use, need and love. When editing don’t forget the size of your space and your lifestyle. Think about how you spend your time and whether what you have in your wardrobe is relevant to your lifestyle. Just because you’ve had it for years there may just be another way to wear it. This could be where you need my help!
Edit Like Crazy!
This is your opportunity to start fresh, start by removing everything from your wardrobe. Really. Every. Single. Thing. Put the time aside, the space aside. Use your bed for the platform.
Relocate any random items that have found their way into your wardrobe or that could live somewhere else. It’s quite amazing what I find in wardrobes, vacuum cleaners, extra bedding, certificates or sentimental items. Keep this space for your shoes or accessories.
Think Smart Storage!
In deciding how to set up and store things, consider how frequently you use them. Try to keep everyday essential items front and centre for easy access, and formal, seasonal and occasional items in the back of the wardrobe or on a high shelf. Even better if you have another storage option, you can store bulky coats and seasonal items there. A great way to maximise storage in a tight space – go Vertical, it won’t cost a lot to add a few shelves and can work wonders in maximising a tiny wardrobe.
A nice way to create a streamlined look is by using uniform hangers (it’s time to ditch the horrible drycleaning hanger) and arrange your items by type, style and colour. Look for Velvet hangers because they maximise space and prevent slipping. Try shelf dividers to keep stacks of folded jeans or sweaters from toppling over.
LOOKING AFTER YOUR ACCESSORIES!
- Small Accessories: Use nice open bins or baskets to hold accessories i.e. gloves, scarves etc. Try and stay with one colour and style of bin to keep everything looking clean and streamlined.
- Shoe Storage: Display shoes on open shelving, shoe racks or cubbies so you can see what you’ve got. If you like to keep your shoes in their box and you have space, take a photo of the shoe and place the image on the outside so they are easy to get to. Formal or occasional shoes can be stored and stacked in boxes. Jandals, sandals and sneakers work well in a round basket on the floor for easy access. An over the door shoe holder can be an option if you are really stuck for space.
- Handbags: Handbags can be hung on sturdy hooks and clutches, and small evening bags can be stored in labeled bins or baskets. I use a shelf to line up my larger handbags, stuffing them is a great way of keeping them in shape or use dividers to keep them upright.
- Hats: Caps are best stacked in an open bin or basket for easy access. Larger hats work well on hooks so they remain visible and easy to grab.
- Jewellery: There are jewellery drawer organisers you can use, personally if I had mine closed away I wouldn’t wear it. I have mine hanging on a jewellery roll up fabric hook so if I needed to I can pack it up and go. You can simply just put small hooks around to hang necklaces and small ceramic dishes for earrings and bracelets etc.
I am a Passionate Partner for a brand that has some beautiful storage baskets, and ceramic dishes for small items (all ethically made in Bangladesh). If you would like more information please email me.
I hope you have enjoyed these ideas on how to maximise space, it is my job, you can see my Wardrobe Services here.
Until my next blog.
Yours in Style,
Johanna-May xx