HG Openhouse Blog

A couple of cool rainy days here in New England combined with some savvy marketing from the fashion industry and a style quiz got me thinking about my fall wardrobe. Which of course means the inevitable change-of-season bedroom closet overhaul. I figure that some of you are thinking about this too, maybe for your kids or yourself, and probably looking forward to it as much as the last snowfall in March.

If your bedroom closet is a disorganized, undecorated disaster then the chore is always one to be dreaded but it doesn’t have to be that way. A beautifully decorated, and organized closet, like this one shown on Oprah, is a joy to work in and might even make laundry day more fun. Instead of thinking about your closet as a giant storage box, think of it as your fashion boutique.

Everything in your boutique should be the “perfect” size for you. It should reflect your unique style. It should be clean and in good condition ready to be put on in a moment’s notice. Your boutique should have colors and shapes that flatter you and that mix and match. And accessories should be easily seen and accessed. Now, let’s look at how you can make this dream a reality:

1. Take a good look at your closet as it is now. Are there any “technical” problems with your closet? A poor layout, not enough hanging space, lack of shelving or drawers? Lack of good lighting? What changes would you make to your closet to make it more functional?
2. How is your closet decorated? Does it complement your bedroom decor when you open the door? Would you be comfortable if guests looked inside?
3. What’s in your closet? Most people wear 20% of the clothes hanging in their closet is that true for you? Does your wardrobe reflect your current size, figure and lifestyle or is it a museum for clothing from years past?
4. Are there non-fashion items in your closet? The broken sewing machine, the never-used exercise equipment, an old lampshade? Do these things deserve a place in your boutique?

A simple and inexpensive place to begin your closet make-over can simply be to purchase uniform hangers. Classic wooden hangers are my personal choice but if space is an issue try the new thin flocked hangers that come in a wonderful range of colors.

A fellow blogger, Tracy Buxton, decorated her closet with some inspiration quotes which I think is a really neat idea. She has a framed print hung over her shoe rack which says, “Put your best foot forward”. What quotes would inpsire you when you open your closet door?

Now it’s your turn. Based on the amount of work your closet needs, take an afternoon or a weekend to work on your closet redecorating.

1. Empty your closet completely and give it a thorough clean (it’s not often that happens)
2. Complete any installation or repairs that are needed.
3. Add a coat of paint or some wallpaper. A closet is a great place to paint a fun, upbeat color that may be too much if it was a whole room. Or add a dramatic wallpaper on the wall above the top shelf.
4. Choose your favorite outfits and put those in your closet first. Now, look at what clothing is left and decide if any of it is worth saving (remember, it didn’t make the first cut). Plan to donate or trash the remaining clothing (could be up to 80%) that you truly don’t or shouldn’t wear. Put items that belong elsewhere, elsewhere.
5. Accessorize with decorative boxes, hooks, and containers as needed for storing accessories and add any other personal touches to make you smile.

So,what decorative delights are hidden behind your bedroom closet doors?