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TONY editor Beth Greenfield was in desperate need of a closet makeover. Her two side-by-side New York–size closets were a “total wreck.” “My hanging clothes were packed way too tightly together, and I had to take everything out of the bottom just to find one item,” she admits.
Enter Allison Berlin, stylist and founder of Style Made Simple (stylemadesimple.net), who believes you should clean out your closet at least once or twice a year. “It’s a relief to be able to find things, plus you’ll get ready faster,” she says. Berlin analyzed Greenfield’s wardrobe and weeded out dated, too small and “never should have bought it” items.
Greenfield’s closet stretches all the way to the ceiling, but she wasn’t utilizing the empty area up top. Berlin said to stack out-of-season clothes and rarely used items at the top, and stash often-worn things on lower shelves. “I always just wore what was accessible because I couldn’t bear to dig,” Greenfield confesses.
When seasons change, switch clothes to bins so they stay dust-free. Transfer wool sweaters from shelves (hangers make them lose shape) into storage containers, and add a small cedar block to keep them smelling fresh and prevent moths ($3 each at containerstore.com)).
Hanging Space Bags ($10 at $10 at containerstore.com) are great for storing bulky items like comforters. Use a vacuum to reduce the volume by up to 75 percent and to protect items from insects, dust and mildew.
If you’re really space-challenged, use a service like Manhattan Mini Storage (starting at $34 per month, 800-786-7243).
“Working with limited room means you need to find creative ways to make everything fit,” Berlin says. Hang short items in one group and long pieces in another to create extra storage space beneath the shorter section. Berlin also suggests color-coordinating each section to make matching outfits—and taking inventory—easier.
Of the results, Greenfield has this to say, “It makes me want to go into my closet, whereas before the thought filled me with dread.”
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