Organizing His and Hers Sections in a Shared Custom Closet

Do you and your partner have to shuffle through a cluttered closet and struggle to find what you need? Maybe your jackets end up mixed with their blazers, or your shoes mysteriously vanish under a pile of sweaters. Many of my clients find that a disorganized shared custom closet can lead to daily frustration, wasted time, and disagreements over space.

A custom closet organization system maximizes storage and helps you keep track of your belongings with ease. Here are some of the ways you and your partner can work together to create a closet that meets both of your needs:

• Assessing needs and space
• Designing the layout
• Choosing smart storage solutions
• Implementing a system for organization
• Maintaining an organized closet

Let’s look at each of these steps in order so you can feel confident about your custom closet renovation project.

Before diving into getting organized, take stock of what you and your partner actually own. Decluttering is the first step to making over your closet system. Go through your wardrobes together and remove anything that no longer fits, is worn out, or simply isn’t needed. If an item hasn’t been worn in a year, it’s likely time to donate it. Be honest about what you actually wear to avoid holding onto things “just in case.”

Once you’ve narrowed everything down, think about how to divide the space fairly. If both of you have a similar number of clothing items, an even split makes sense. However, if one person has more suits, dresses, or shoes, the layout should reflect those needs. The key is to make sure everything fits comfortably without feeling cramped so both partners have enough room for their essentials.

A shared custom closet should have separate spaces for each person while still feeling and looking cohesive. Creating designated sections helps keep things organized and prevents clothing from getting mixed up.

• Separate But Cohesive: While it’s important to have clear his-and-hers sections, the closet should still look and feel unified. Using matching storage solutions, like coordinating baskets or color-coded hangers, can help maintain a similar look for both sides of the closet.
• Storage Solutions: Keep everything organized by assigning separate hanging rods, shelving units, and drawers to each person. This makes it so there’s no confusion over where things belong.
• Personalized Touches: Add a personal flair to each section while keeping it all cohesive. Consider using different-colored bins, monogrammed storage, or designated display areas for favorite accessories.

Making the most of your closet space requires smart storage solutions. These additions will help keep everything in its place and easy to find.

• Double Hanging Rods: Install one hanging rod a few feet above the other to make use of the available space for shirts, blouses, and pants. This setup allows for better organization and means that shorter garments don’t take up unnecessary vertical space.
• Drawer Dividers: Use dividers to separate accessories, socks, and undergarments. Keeping small items compartmentalized makes it easier to grab what you need without rummaging through clutter.
• Shoe Racks & Shelves: Customize shoe storage based on individual needs. Tall shelving is great for boots, while slanted racks or cubbies work well for sneakers, heels, and everyday shoes.
• Accessory Stations: Create designated areas for belts, ties, jewelry, and handbags using hooks, trays, and pull-out organizers. Keeping these items visible prevents them from getting lost in drawers.
• Over-the-Door Organizers: Make use of often-overlooked space by adding over-the-door storage for scarves, small bags, or seasonal accessories. This keeps frequently used items within reach.
• Pull-Out Baskets: Install slide-out baskets for storing folded clothes, gym wear, or miscellaneous items. These provide flexible storage and are easy to access when needed.
• Wall-Mounted Hooks & Pegs: Use wall space efficiently by installing hooks or pegboards for hats, bags, or frequently worn jackets to keep essentials off the floor and within easy reach.
• Slim Hangers: Swap out bulky plastic or wooden hangers for slim, space-saving ones. These create a uniform look and free up valuable hanging space.
• Sliding or Foldable Storage Bins: Store off-season clothing in bins that can be neatly tucked under shelves or stacked in less frequently accessed areas. This keeps everyday essentials front and center.
  

Once your closet is set up, having a system in place will keep things running smoothly. Without a clear organizational method, even the best-designed space can quickly become messy again. A little planning goes a long way to creating an uncluttered, functional layout.

• Labeling & Sections: Use labels, drawer organizers, or dividers to clearly define each person’s space. This prevents clothing and accessories from getting mixed up and makes it easier to maintain order. You can also assign specific areas for different types of clothing, such as a section for work attire, casual wear, or special occasion outfits.
• Color Coordination: Organizing clothing by color or category makes your closet look neater and makes getting dressed more efficient. Group similar colors together to create a seamless look. Consider sorting items by shade within each category; you can line them up from light to dark or in rainbow order, for example, depending on what you have.
• Rotation Strategy: Since space is often limited, store off-season clothing on higher shelves or less accessible areas and swap them out as the seasons change. Use vacuum-sealed bags, labeled storage bins, or under-bed organizers to keep out-of-season items protected and out of the way.