You don't have to be Oprah to have a designer closet. It may be hidden behind closed doors, but the closet can combine organization with high style. A closet redo starts with sorting your wardrobe and getting rid of those items you never wear. Then, you're ready for a closet makeover. Whether you've got an old-fashioned, tiny cupboard or an up-to-date, spacious walk-in, there are plenty of ways to turn it into the closet of your dreams. Does this Spark an idea?
Use All the Space
Customize your closet's organization by using every inch of available space. Divide and conquer by allotting sections for different types of clothing. Use traditional high rods for dresses and double-hung ones for skirts, pants and shirts. If there's room, build cubbies for shoes and purses. Add open shelves for flat items, such as sweaters. The high rods should be from 43 to 60 inches from the floor. If you're using double-hung rods, place lower rods about 42 inches from the floor and add the top double-hung rod at least 36 inches above the lower one. Place all the rods at least 12 inches from the back of the closet to allow adequate clearance for clothes hangers.
Categories
Categorize you belongings. Hang all the skirts together, grouped by color. Do the same with dresses, blouses and pants. Break up suits, and store the suit jacket with other jackets and the suit skirt with your other skirts. Suddenly, you'll see new and attractive outfits you never realized you had.
Built-In Dresser
A built-in dresser is very useful in the closet, especially if you don't have a lot of room in your bedroom for furniture. You can store underwear and socks in it. For fun, place family photos and a small vase of flowers on the top.
Don't Forget the Extras
The extras can make all the difference in a closet. Install a full-length mirror on the back of the closet door so you can get the whole picture once you're dressed. Add a beautiful frame around a standard cork bulletin board, and fill with your jewelry hanging on decorative push pins. Enhance the designer look of your closet. Paint the walls a favorite color, and accessorize with wooden or plastic hangers that are all alike. Install good lighting, but also add a table lamp if you have room. It will give a flattering glow for experimenting with outfits and jewelry. If you have to a really large closet, a small island in the middle will give you extra storage and ample room to coordinate items. A laundry hamper and fold-down ironing board are useful extras.
Professional Help
You can also get some professional help with your closet. Hire a personal organizer to help you get your stuff in order, and you may see a lot more room in that closet. Then, have a closet company install shelves and cabinets customized for your needs.
Tags: inches from, with your, your closet, back closet, from floor, have room, high rods