THE CLOSET

I designed my closet using IKEA’s Elvarli storage system planning tool. It was frustrating to navigate at first, but once I got the hang of it, I was cooking with gas. The nice thing about this system is you can build it in any available space - along a wall, within an entire room, or in an existing closet space. It has a handsome, minimalist look, perfect for open plan storage. You can choose the number of sections, rods, drawers and shelves. There are two options for length and depth, and two finishes to choose from. The drawers are self-closing.

I first had to carefully measure the available space I had to work with and plan according to my needs. In addition to ample storage, I made sure the top of the dresser section could double as a standing desk. My seasonal shoes are stored two by two (and yes I have storage for overflow, even though I do try to have restraint with my shoe collection). As much as I love building IKEA furniture, this system was beyond my skill set so I booked assembly service through Task Rabbit.

For me, the right hangers are the most crucial finishing touches for closet organization. I try to keep my hangers as uniform as possible, but you gotta get the right hanger for the job. It is also important for hangers to be durable. I use slim non-slip velvet hangers to allow for more space and less slippage. I use thick wooden hangers for heavier items like coats, wooden clip hangers for suits and sets, and small wood and metal clip hangers for bottoms. It seems like a no brainer, but I have seen some chaotic closet situations that could be solved with the right hangers.

Also, you can get clever with boot hooks, S-hooks, and carabiners. In summer, I store my tall boots away in bins, but in winter I hang my boots from clips so they don’t flop all over the floor. I like to keep everything off the floor of my closet so I can easily vacuum away the dust bunnies. I also use boot clips for hanging scarves since they’ll crease if I store them folded. I use S-hooks for bags and necklaces. I recently replaced my utilitarian steel S-hooks with a way prettier brass version. I use a 6.5’’ jumbo carabiner for buckle belts and scrunchies. For rope belts, I loop them on a closet rod.

I admit I didn’t finish Marie Kondo’s book, but one thing I recall her recommending is to hang clothing by type and then by weight, from light to heavy. (ie tank tops, short sleeves, long sleeves / cotton, linen, wool). I kind of try my best to order my hung clothing in this way. Be sure you fold your knits or hang them from the center so they don’t stretch out of shape or get shoulder bumps.

The IKEA Skubb organizers fit the Elvarli drawers perfectly and they are a must in my wardrobe for keeping my undies, socks, swimwear, workout wear, pjs, etc stored neatly.

Lastly, I needed place to sit on while I put on my shoes. I wanted a cute vintage stool like the very ones that drew the ire of SSENSE writer, Max Lakin, late last year. Did you know some vintage furniture dealers sell antique milking stools for $4,000? Udderly ridiculous! You can find them on Etsy for under $200. The one I chose is a half circle which saves space by fitting flat against a wall.

Hangers are linked below.
Velvet hangers, $24 for 100

Suit hangers, $19 for 10

Bamboo coat hangers, $28 for 12

Clip hangers, $19 for 10

Click the images below to shop everything else you need for a ship shape closet.