My Closet

At just about every speaking engagement I attend and every time I take on a new client, I get asked if I’m “that organized”.  The answer is yes.  I was born this way and putting things into containers.  I could go on and on, but instead I will show you my personal closet and what I have done to make it organized.  It’s a reach in closet, a little under five feet wide and just a few feet deep.  I need to tell you that because I’ve maximized every nook and cranny.  I also want you to keep in mind that all of the organization solutions I’ve installed can easily be moved to another location when we move.

On the right hand side of the closet I added a hanging shoe rack.  While it would ideally hold one pair of shoes per compartment, I have a few placed in each.  I wear Toms or ballet flats usually so they are lightweight and small enough to easily fit a few in.  In the sum me, my sandals occupy these spaces.

About 12 inches from the ceiling, I installed a shelf.  It holds my rarely worn shoes (wedding, cocktail, etc).  I also have some hats up there, my cowboy boots and so on.  If I don’t have to access it frequently, I store it in a plastic container and get it out of my way.

Under the shelf I “installed” a set of lights.  They click on with a button and they illuminate the closet so I can find what I’m looking for.  They are just held onto the shelf with zip ties.  Not glamorous, but it works and it cost $10.

I have a jewelry organizer hanging in between my clothes.  I don’t put my really nice things in here but I do keep my “costume” jewelry, prayer beads, and so on.  It helps keep it within sight so I can easily add it to an outfit.

I have one bar to hang clothes on.  Part of it is shirt height and there are a few inches on either end of the car that allow me to hang  long items.

On the left hand side I installed a hook.  I use it to hang a belt organizer that in turns houses all my belts.  Again, it’s not beautiful, but it does the trick and I can see what I have.  Therefore, I wear what I have.

On the bottom of the shelf, I have one shoe shelf.  I use this for my bulkier shoes, boat shoes, boots and sneakers.  Some tall purses sit next to the shelf.

Under neath the hanging clothes, I have a few shelves of folded clothes. Tee shirts, long sleeve tees, and sweater all “live” here.  I also have four drawers that hold all of my workout gear.

So as you can see, you can get creative and really make the most of a small space.  The smaller closet size keeps me organized and it ensures I wear everything I have, I can see what I own and I don’t over do on shopping.