29 Secrets to a Simpler Life (That You Can Actually Afford!)

Tag : fabric tape

BEDROOM CLOSET
Problem
This master bedroom closet is home to all of the owner's clothesand shoes and is bursting at the seams. She hasn't pruned herwardrobe in ages, shoes are thrown haphazardly on the floor, andshirts are stacked too high and are out of reach. "A disorganizedcloset affects personal style and budget," Alexandra Ryan says. "Ifyou are unable to see your clothes, you forget about them. Youmight feel like you have nothing to wear, or, worse, waste money onthings you don't need."
Solution
* Remove everything from your closet. Paint the interior a colorthat makes you happy. Getting dressed should be joyful.
* Now that everything is out, separate it into piles by clothingtype. Toss wire hangers, rip plastic off dry-cleaning.
* Throw away items that are damaged beyond repair, and donate itemsthat don't fi t or you haven't worn in more than a year.
* If you are having trouble parting with a certain item, remove itfrom your closet and put it in a storage bin, like those shown atthe top of the closet, from The Container Store.
* Invest in new ultra-slim hangers covered in a nonstick velvetthat help keep your clothes in place and that increase your closetreal estate. Organize clothing by color and category.
* T-shirts and workout clothes should be folded neatly and storedon shelves in small piles, organized by color and type of item. Ourteam outfitted the closet with see-through boxes for a crisp, neatlook.
* Do not pile shoes on the floor. Invest in clear shoe boxes so youcan see what you have and keep them orderly.
HOME OFFICE
Problem
Bills are paid and iPods charged, but often papers overrun thedesk, along with wires and computer equipment, leaving hardly anysurface on which to work. "Manage your office," advises Ryan."Don't let your office manage you."
Solution
* Be realistic about just how many rubber bands and binder clipsyou need.
* Invest in a desktop home for supplies, like the multifunctionalpiece shown here.
* Use masking tape or a label maker to label each cable and cord,and gather and attach them to the underside of your desk.
* Store papers in a document box - one drawer for bills, anotherfor papers that need fi ling.
* Hang a bulletin or magnet board for urgent items, so you can seeand attend to them. Use a dry-erase or chalkboard to maintain yourto-do list.
* Choose accessories that reflect your style (bright resinaccessories for creative types; leather ones for thebusiness-minded).
* Supplies that coordinate with your colors will make your workspace seem less busy; most items shown here are from Pottery Barn.
* Paint your backdrop wall a bright color for some pop, especiallyif yours is a small space.