5 Keys to an Uncluttered Closet

Our experts offer these helpful tips for your closet makeover.

1. VISIBILITY IS KEY

​When everything is easy to see, clothes are always at hand, so you know your options. Getting dressed becomes a soothing exercise instead of a treasure hunt. 

2. PARE DOWN

​To enhance visibility, reduce the number of items in your closet and store those items in the best order. You’ll know you’ve reached the right number of “keepers” once you have space between all hangers—breathing room, so to speak. When you remove the clutter and chaos, you’ll discover there’s more space for what belongs in your closet. Organize your closet and discover what you didn’t even know you had lost. 

3. GO FOR UNIFORMITY

Use all the same hangers, the same boxes, the same baskets, and so on. Whether you like neutral hues or bright colors, containers of the same material give closets a sense of harmony. Whatever the storage solution, it can reflect your style. From black leather to bright florals, containers can be masculine or feminine, modern or rustic, subtle or playful. 

4. USE AN ADJUSTMENT SYSTEM

Both designers agree that adjustable systems give homeowners the flexibility they need to keep closets working as their needs shift. For example, a change in season may require 
different shelves, since sweaters take up more room than summer shirts. 

5. SPOTLIGHT YOUR SHOES

Give shoes their own space, either on shelves above lower-hanging clothes or, if you have the room, in rows from top to bottom.