6 Closet Organizing Trends That Are Worth the Hype, Experts Say
These details will streamline your closet—and your routine.
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Just like fashion or interior design, the organizing world sees trends that come and go. Some ideas are brilliant and stand the test of time while others are more of a flash in the Pinterest pan.
Today, with insight from professional organizers, we’re zeroing in on closet organizing trends that truly transform spaces and are worth every bit of effort and investment. From pull-out shoe shelves to strip lighting, let these popular features inspire your next closet overhaul.
Meet Our Expert
Chloe O’Keeffe, design lead at California Closets
Lisa Adams, professional organizer and founder of LA Closet Design
Pull-Out Tables
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A functional flat surface that you can tuck away when it’s not in use? Pure genius, and an excellent way to level up your closet.
“A pull-out packing table offers a compact yet multi-functional surface that can be used for folding clothes, packing for a trip, or even laying out outfit options for the day,” explains Lisa Adams, professional organizer and founder of LA Closet Design. “When not in use? It slides discreetly back into the cabinetry.”
Insertable Drawer Organizers
Don’t forget to tend to the little things you keep in the closet, like jewelry, watches, cufflinks, handkerchiefs, and beyond. Insertable drawer organizers are the perfect solution for keeping these items organized (and untangled).
“These offer a wide range of ways to organize, and can be customized to fit your exact needs,” says Chloe O’Keeffe, design lead at California Closets. “Additional options include little trays that can be layered in for rings, earrings, and watches.”
Strip Lighting
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Strip lighting feels like a fancy add-on, but don’t underestimate just how useful it is. Whether placed along the floors, under shelving, or up above, it lights up dim spaces and makes it easy to find what you’re looking for. Plus, it adds a nice glow that makes your closet feel more polished and thoughtfully designed.
Pull-Out Shoe Shelves
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Instead of a traditional shoe shelf, pull-outs with shoe cubbies function like deep, sliding drawers designed specifically for flats, sneakers, and sandals. “They keep shoes dust-free and neatly concealed while ensuring every pair is easy to grab,” Adams says.
The narrow silhouette is especially great for entryway closets or smaller wardrobes where space is limited. Adams says, “Add cedar inserts to the cubbies to absorb moisture and keep shoes fresh.”
Sleek Shelf Dividers
When your current closet setup doesn’t come with enough compartments, you add your own. “Shelf dividers help separate stacks of folded items—like sweaters or jeans— ensuring they stay upright and neatly organized,” Adams explains. “These can be acrylic, metal, or wood to match the finishes in your space. No more toppling piles!”
She recommends using taller dividers for bulkier items like sweaters and integrating shelving dividers for handbags to prevent scratches and color transfer.
Slim Vertical Storage
Maximizing vertical space is essential when designing a closet, particularly if it’s on the smaller side. For example, “You can place [slim wall storage] behind the swing of a door and instantly utilize that space for hanging coats, shoes, and bags in a mudroom,” O’Keefe says. “You can also use it in a closet for shoes, jewelry, purses, and quick-use items—like the jeans you are going to wear later in the day (and again tomorrow).”
Read the original article on Real Simple
