Too (many) clothes for comfort
By Suzanne Davison
Who has room for skeletons in their closet? I can barely fit in the basics. Everyone feels they could use more closet space, but the reality is that we wear 20 per cent of our clothes 80 per cent of the time. I call the 80 per cent “the untouchables,” which I have divided into three categories:
(1) Clothes Encounters of the Third Size are the clothes that we are a few sizes away from squeezing into, but will fit like a dream right after the next diet.
(2) The Caveat Emptor Collection are the clothes we spent a small fortune on and, because of that, we can’t part with them. But we don’t like them, nor will we wear them.
(3) The Old Faithfuls include the favourite sweater that the moths have enjoyed as much as you. These are the clothes that can no longer be worn because they’re in such terrible shape. However, the distant memory of the joys they brought keeps us from parting with them. Unless you are a teenager who embraces the concept of the floor-drobe, where there is endless space, you need to get organized. Purge like no one is watching. These skeletons need to go!
The balanced sheet
There is something very satisfying about an organized linen closet. Partitions will help you divide and conquer multiple items, or use little tricks such as tucking sheet sets into one pillowcase so you don’t have to send out a search party for a set of matching linens. Do whatever it takes to achieve “Closetopia”—you will never regret the journey.
Mother hubbard has left the building
We put a lot of thought into displaying and organizing our collections and objets, but what about the less-decorative items? Start with what you need, and then remove what you don’t need. This doesn’t include your spouse, pets or children; they will take exception to being organized in this manner. This exercise will help you discern your needs and make you truly wonder why you’re hanging onto those 15 cake plates you received as wedding gifts. Once you begin, who knows what you will find? Jimmy Hoffa, is that you?
Fabulous finds
Del. How about this decadent area carpet (above left) for your closet? Its crystals will outshine even your little black dress!
Suzanne. Perfect for the centre of a walk-in closet. This bench is designed and produced using ribbon-stripe mahogany with maple inlay.
Nancy. Famous for their amazing kitchens, Neff’s all-Canadian-made designs include the most beautiful closets.
Barb. This fabulous Murano glass triple-pendant light will add glamour to a walk-in wardrobe.
Sources: Elte • Creative Custom Furnishings • Neff Kitchens • Hollace Cluny
Designers: Del Weale, Suzanne Davison, Barb Ivey, Nancy Nevile-Smith
Lead Photo: Jim Orgill
