It’s hard to believe it’s been over a year since I turned my spare bedroom into the dream walk-in closet I had always imagined (you can catch up on that transformation here!). Over time, the space has evolved, and I recently finished making some exciting updates—both small and substantial—that have completely revamped the overall vibe of my closet. It’s as if the room took on a whole new energy, which made me want to dive into some much-needed spring cleaning.
But before we get into the process, let’s talk about what made this refresh feel so transformative.
The Power of Paint: Setting the Mood
When I first moved into my apartment, one of the very first things I noticed was how the walls in my closet felt discolored and dull. So, I immediately painted everything a bright, crisp white to bring some life back into the space. But, as time went on, I realized that the bright white didn’t quite capture the mood I was going for. I wanted something that felt warmer, more personal—something that would make the clothes, accessories, and even the furniture pop.
That’s when I decided to go for a subtle but striking change. I chose Benjamin Moore’s Guilford Green for both the walls and the ceiling. It’s a soft, pale green that feels neutral yet inviting, with just the right hint of a tropical vibe. The new color contrasts beautifully with my clothing and rattan furniture, creating a calm yet energizing atmosphere. It also pairs perfectly with my Capiz Scalloped Chandelier, which was the perfect addition for a soft, glowing touch above.
Textures That Tie It All Together
Now that the walls were a soft green, it was time to layer in some textures to elevate the space even further. I decided to keep things simple but impactful with a thick, white curtain for the window. To make the room feel even more spacious, I mounted the curtain as high as possible—something I learned from design tips here and there. The height draws the eye upward, giving the room a grand, airy feel.
I also rolled out a sisal rug. The versatility of sisal is unmatched—it blends seamlessly with almost any aesthetic, whether you want it to be neutral or a bold statement piece. For me, I kept it neutral, letting the clothing, décor, and architectural accents shine. The rug grounds the space and makes the closet feel cozy without competing for attention.
The Practicality of a Custom Closet
When I first moved in, I splurged on a custom closet from The Container Store, using their Elfa system. Looking back, I realize it wasn’t the most luxurious option, but it was practical—and at the time, that was key. I didn’t want to be dealing with piles of clothes and makeshift rolling racks (trust me, I’ve been there). The Elfa system provides a much-needed sense of organization that allows me to easily store everything, from dresses to shoes. While I might go for something more elegant in the future, this closet has been incredibly functional.
But now, with spring upon us, it was time for some seasonal updates. This was less about a deep clean and more about refining the space—getting rid of things that no longer serve me.
Spring Purge: Decluttering the Closet
As anyone who’s gone through a closet overhaul knows, purging is the hardest part. While I already had a pretty well-organized system in place, I still had items that no longer fit my style or my life. I started by letting go of trend-driven pieces that were either outdated or no longer aligned with my personal aesthetic, which is classic, comfortable, and feminine. I also said goodbye to items I hadn’t worn in over a year and clothes that didn’t fit properly anymore.
My goal is to curate a timeless wardrobe that consists of pieces I truly love—staples that can be styled in different ways. It’s all about purchasing items that make me feel good, whether it’s a statement piece or a simple, go-to outfit. This is an ongoing process of refinement that I look forward to.
Maximizing Space: Small Changes, Big Impact
To make the most of the space I had left, I used premium non-slip velvet hangers to hang my clothes. These hangers might be a bit of a challenge when you have a tight closet (they tend to get stuck together), but they’re worth the minor inconvenience because they maximize the closet’s space and create a uniform look. The key to a tidy, organized closet is consistency, and these hangers really help pull everything together.
And then there are the baskets. I can never have too many baskets! I use them for everything—swimsuits, t-shirts (sorted by color), dancewear, and socks. These woven bins help keep things tidy and add texture to the room. For boots, I use plastic bins that are stored on the very top shelf of my closet since I don’t need them often.
Evolving with the Space
Spring cleaning is never truly “finished.” It’s a continuous process, just like personal growth. We’re always evolving, and so is our space. That’s what I love about organizing and refreshing my closet—it allows me to create room for what’s important while shedding the unnecessary. By removing items that no longer serve me, I not only make space for new things but also create a more harmonious environment that reflects who I am right now.
At the end of the day, a closet isn’t just about storage—it’s about creating a space where I can feel inspired every time I walk in. Whether it’s the soft green walls, the strategic use of textures, or the thoughtful organization, each change has made my walk-in closet a place where I feel both grounded and energized. And as the seasons change, so too will my closet. It’s all about making space for what truly matters.
By regularly revisiting and refining this space, I’m reminded that slowing down and being intentional with how I organize my life—not just my clothes—creates an environment that nurtures creativity, style, and balance. And really, what’s more refreshing than that?