Fed up with that overflowing wardrobe? Put order on closet chaos

Overflowing wardrobe? Sam Wylie-Harris has seven simple steps for making the most of your hanging space

Wouldn't you love to have your own personal wardrobe wizard?

Someone who isn’t fazed by messy stacks of sweaters and shirts caught up with strappy tops.

Who will put an end to the shocking pink dress that’s never seen the light of day yet always manages to get snagged by the little black sequin number as you rustle through your crowded closet (and then bemoan the fact you have nothing to wear!).

Someone who’ll wave a magic wand and turn closet chaos into a calm, orderly space!

Sadly, cavernous walk-in wardrobes aren’t a practical option for many of us.

But with a little know-how and imagination, it is possible to make the most of the hanging space you do have. Time-saving wardrobe hacks will not only transform your clothes cupboard but curb those frustrating “haven’t got a clue what to wear” mornings.

Take your hanging space from messy to meticulous with these seven steps…

CLEAROUT TIME

Take everything out before you get started. You need to dress down before you can dress up — and the start of a new decade is a perfect excuse to take everything out of your closet and have a good sift through.

If you haven’t worn an item for years, are pretending that “bad buy” will one day suddenly fit/appeal, or it’s simply not wearable any more — bag it up. The charity shop or clothes recycling centre will thank you.

THINK VERTICALLY

Next, you can start with reorganising how the space is used.

If you have a tall wardrobe, you can steal some extra space by installing a second rail (budget allowing) for short hanging garments, or a box storage unit where practical.

You’ll be amazed how many T-shirts, folded jeans, socks and smalls you can place in a chest and if you get one on casters, it’ll be easy to move.

Otherwise, if you need to house your collection of maxi dresses, pleated skirts and that statement trench, use space-saving closet hangers, four-bar trouser hangers and add-on skirt hangers for smart ways to make the most of the height.

SPACE ABOVE

If you don’t have floor-to-ceiling fitted cupboards, chances are there’s a gap which you could use for additional clothes baskets, or garment bags which can be laid flat with special occasion wear and hat boxes.

Can’t quite reach? Invest ina two-step safety ladder with anti-slip treads.

STREAMLINE HANGERS

If you are someone who has a cache of wooden coat hangers or a penchant for padded satin ones, now’s the time to make a clean slate and trade them in for ultra-thin, space-saving hangers.

Not nearly as glamorous in the style stakes, we know, but a calculated closet is a fast-track for freeing up space and keeping things orderly — and helping you find that work-appropriate or date-night dress without any stress.

ORGANISE ACCESSORIES

Even though it’s tempting to throw those ballet flats and cross-body bags on the floor, this wastes valuable space which can be used to store heavier items.

Hanging shoe organisers can also be used for items like sunglasses, belts, chunky jewellery, scarves and anything that can be rolled up and tucked inside.

FREESTANDING FUN

We love the idea of freestanding clothes rails and canvas wardrobes. Not only are they practical and affordable, they can be sturdy enough to hold a winter or summer wardrobe.

You can even make a showcase of them in a boutique-like way and hang evening wear or holiday wear.

Who isn’t seduced by the idea of an Insta-worthy clothes rail with your favourite kaftan, swimwear, beach bag and collection of flip-flops to inspire your next dream holiday?

DOUBLE-DUTY DOORS

The genius of an over-door hanger or hook rack is firstly there’s no drilling, and they potentially make use of space that would otherwise be going totally spare.

Use them for robes, ties, or even your favourite frock, hair accessories and other knick-knacks.