O.k, so closets are not a new trend, and it is absurd to suggest that the modern-day iteration of this ‘table-stakes’ home element is going anywhere. However, it is NOT absurd to admit that closets can elicit strong reactions in people. It makes sense, too. That is where we keep our wardrobes - the clothes, shoes and accessories we’ve carefully selected to represent who we are to the world. We often access them first thing in the morning and return to them at day’s end to get into the pieces in which we can rest and relax, recharging for the next day. We rely on these spaces. If they work well, they’re an ally in keeping us sane and functional. Alternatively, if they’re not organized properly with our needs and tastes in mind, they can add to the stresses of everyday life.
There are closet systems and tools/accessories that run the gamut of style and budget, so you shouldn’t be apprehensive about implementing a new solution if your current closet framework isn’t serving you well. Let’s consider a few things to keep in mind in order to make a closet redesign easier, responsive to your budget, reflect your personal style and easily transition as your tastes and needs change over time.
Things to keep in mind...
It is worth taking stock of what’s really in there and parting with some pieces. Truth be told, most of us could probably be convicted of abandonment if there was a law against leaving behind clothes in our closets that haven’t served us for some time. While we often like to think we’ll have an opportunity to wear that beautiful green dress again that garnered so many compliments...five years ago, by the time that chance rolls around, our style has changed or, perhaps regrettably, our waistline.
Realistically, how do you intend to maintain the space? Do you hate to fold? Then, a solution that includes a lot of shelving and bins that will require you to fold items Marie Kondo-style is not for you. Albeit, you can rarely avoid folding altogether (hello, hanger bumps on your favorite sweater!), but you can certainly minimize that task if that’s not for you.
What will keep the types of clothes you generally use in good condition and not irritate you when you reach for your favorite shirt? For example, do you have a lot of strappy dresses? Then, flocked hangers are your new best friend! On the other hand, if the thought of having to tug to get your best French-cuffed shirt off the hanger irritates your sensibilities, then, wood hangers are are a better bet.
There are BEAUTIFUL luxury accessories and closet systems, but if spending your son’s 529 Plan on a closet solution isn’t realistic for you right now, there are plenty of ways to create a closet space that feels luxe and functional. Target is doing a great job these days of offering stylish, yet affordable accessories. Amazon , of course, is always an easy way to source a wealth of products from around the globe (and easily return them if they don’t work out). And, in terms of closet solutions, there are local and national designers that are willing to work with people with all sorts of budgets to create beautiful, customizable closet systems that will serve you well for a long time to come.
So, go forth and conquer your closet! And, of course, if you need a bit of help in your quest for a better solution, I’m happy to be your knight(ess) in shining armor:)
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