As we close 2023 and get ready to begin a new year, many Southern Californians are getting cozy and considering how to make their custom closet systems reflect the cooler weather. Since I live and work in the region, I know there won’t be any snow during our mild winter, but that doesn’t mean your wardrobe and the way you store it shouldn’t change a bit.
Here are some ways I recommend getting your custom closet ready for winter:
- Declutter for the new year ahead
- Rotate your wardrobe
- Use closet accessories to maximize your storage potential
- Add better lighting to your closet
If you’re ready to get your closet whipped into shape for the winter, keep reading.
Declutter for the New Year Ahead
In addition to late December being the start of winter, it’s also the time of year to begin preparing for the new year. As the new year begins, it’s a great time to review your wardrobe and accessories. Many of my clients start off a new year resolving to “finally get organized,” and this is something you might strive to accomplish in your closet system.
Pull everything out of your closet, if you can, and put aside anything you’re not wearing and haven’t worn in the last year or so. You might also look to see what you have duplicates - or triplicates - of. For example, if you have three black blouses, assuming you don’t wear them as part of a work uniform, you might consider letting go of the oldest or least comfortable one. Even if you can part with 10 or 12 items this way, you’ll be freeing up some room in your closet.
Anything you don’t want anymore, put in a box to go to your favorite thrift store or charity. Alternatively, if you have someone in your family or circle of friends who might benefit from something, put it aside for them. Just try not to put it back in the closet, as it will likely end up back on the hanging rod, and you will forget to take it out later. Blogger Jo-Lynne Shane has some additional tips on clearing the clutter out of your custom closet.
Rotate Your Wardrobe
While we aren’t going to get snow and ice here in our neck of the woods, it can still be helpful to rotate your wardrobe. Even if everything you own fits in the closet, rotating what’s handy and accessible allows you to see your wardrobe with fresh eyes and can make it more fun and creative to put outfits together.
Anything strappy, sleeveless, or otherwise not likely to be worn in the winter can be packed away. You won’t want to put away everything light and cool, however; we will still have plenty of warm days, and besides, short sleeves and even short skirts can be layered. Packing away some of your summer clothes is a good way to make more room in your closet, and you’ll also enjoy taking them back out again when the weather warms up. The Spruce offers some tips on how to safely and sensibly store summer clothes over the winter.
Use Closet Accessories to Maximize Your Storage Potential
While you’re updating your closet for the season, this is a good time to upgrade some of your storage accessories. Changing up the closet organizers you’re using can help you maintain a neater, tidier closet overall and can also make it simpler to find what you need when you need it.
If you’re moving sweaters and scarves front-and-center in your closet, you might consider using drawers, shelves, baskets, or bins to hold these items, as that is usually better for heavier knit fabrics than hanging them. Hooks are also good for hoodie sweatshirts and light jackets. Your shoe rack might also need upgrading if you’re now storing boots and other sturdy shoes rather than strappy sandals.
Add Better Lighting to Your Closet
My last tip is to think about upgrading your closet lighting. The nights are longer, and it’s possible you’re getting ready in the morning while it’s still quite dark out. Make sure your custom closet system is well-lit. LED strips are a great way to add lighting without having to put in a new fixture. You might also consider overhead lighting or even a cozy lamp to brighten up the space.
Conclusion
Getting your closet in good order before or at the start of the new year is a great way to prepare for the cozy winter weather and also to start off the new year on the right foot. I recommend decluttering, rotating out your summer clothes, making the most of your storage space with accessories, and checking out your closet lighting to make sure it’s up to the task at hand. My team is always available for consultations and questions, so get in touch if you need us!