Creating a color-organized closet gives your wardrobe a polished look while making it easy to find what you need. However, maintaining that organization can be more challenging than anticipated.
After being inspired by stunning closet images online, I decided to try color organizing my wardrobe. Yet, keeping it orderly proved tough, especially as my collection grew to include more neutral tones.
With some practical strategies, I've finally managed to keep my color-organized closet not only stylish but also practical. Here's how I do it.
Maintaining a Color-Organized Closet
If you thought organizing your closet by color would be a breeze, you might be surprised at the complexities involved. Once I found a system, assembling outfits became much more efficient.
1. Group Clothes by Type and Color
Initially, I made the mistake of sorting my clothes solely by color. This led to endless searching for a specific item. I quickly realized the importance of categorizing my wardrobe into color groups and then further organizing by type—pants, skirts, tops, etc. This approach streamlined my closet's layout.
2. Arrange Clothes in Rainbow Order
There are various methods for organizing colors, but I found that following the rainbow made the process simple and intuitive. Starting with reds and moving through ROYGBIV, I place my neutrals on the right, where I can easily access them.
3. Sort Neutral Colors by Tone
Many believe color organizing is only for those with vibrant wardrobes. Even with a neutral-heavy collection, I found it advantageous. I arranged my blacks and browns from dark to light, paying attention to undertones, which helps when coordinating outfits.
4. Use Neutral Hangers for a Clean Look
From my experience with professional organizers, I learned that neutral velvet hangers are an excellent choice. They're slim yet sturdy, allowing my clothing colors to stand out without adding visual clutter. Hangers shouldn't steal the spotlight—your clothes should.
Wooden hangers could work similarly, but they might take up more space, making them less ideal for compact closets.
Velvet Slimline Hangers | $30.35 for 50 at Amazon
Velvet hangers are essential for keeping clothes secure while maximizing space.
5. Color Coordinate Shoes and Accessories
Initially, I focused on clothing aesthetics but quickly realized that functionality is key. I neglected to organize my shoes and accessories, leading to challenges when completing outfits. I now arrange shoes from light to dark and group accessories by color, making it easier to find what I need.
For a larger shoe collection, shoe bins, like these from The Container Store, may offer a better solution.
For accessories, I use colored boxes to consolidate similar items, such as a brown bin for belts and totes and a black bin for scarves. If you have space, consider custom drawers for neat storage.
Stackable Accessory Bins | $9.99-$19.99 at The Container Store
These bins are ideal for keeping your accessories organized and within reach.
6. Separate Formal and Casual Attire
I've always found it helpful to keep formal and casual outfits apart. Since I wear formal items less frequently, mixing them with everyday clothing can create confusion. If you have the space, you can dedicate separate areas in your closet for each type.
Clothing Rack Dividers | $16.99 at Amazon
These dividers work well for keeping different clothing types organized.
7. Organize Patterns by Dominant Color
Color organizing can be tricky with patterned garments. A straightforward solution is to place them according to their dominant color. For example, a floral black dress belongs with other black items. Alternatively, you can adjust your color sequence to accommodate two-color pieces.
FAQs
Is Organizing a Closet by Color Better?
Ultimately, it depends on personal choice, but color organization can streamline outfit assembly. It allows for quicker access to color-coordinated items and can inspire fresh combinations. Plus, a visually appealing setup motivates you to keep it tidy.
What's the Best Color Order for a Closet?
Using a rainbow arrangement (ROYGBIV) is a popular method for color organizing, providing clarity without much thought. Alternatively, sorting from light to dark can create a stunning aesthetic, though it may reduce visual contrast for quick identification.
Maintaining a color-organized closet enables you to efficiently use your existing garments, creating defined zones without needing additional dividers. Be open to modifying your categories and shifting colors around to ensure the setup remains practical for your wardrobe.
