HANGERS
When it comes to hangers, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Since there are a LOT of options out there, I’m here to help highlight what hangers you do and don’t need.
SPACE-SAVING
What are the best hangers for tops? Dresses? Pants? Jackets?
I’m a big fan of velvet slimline hangers (like these) because they maximize space and make a closet look sleek and streamlined. Not only will your items feel less cluttered, the closet will appear more polished. So, if you just want one kind of hanger, opt for velvet.
DECORATIVE
If you're looking to upgrade the look of your space, a slimline metal hanger can be a great space-saving solution that will bring instant sophistication!
WOOD
If you’re willing to splurge, I recommend investing in bamboo or cedar hangers. They’re the most effective at protecting precious pieces like pricey jackets and hard-to-hang pants.
PANTS + SKIRTS
If you have the space, hanging your denim isn’t a bad idea (let’s be honest, it’s easy to lose track of jeans). There are a few denim hanger options: the first is to use clip hangers, which create a boutique-like aesthetic. The second is to use hangers with a dowel bar, which are great for easily grabbing your denim when on the go. Lastly, there’s a Kickstarter for a jean-specific hanger that holds pants by the belt loops so they hang straight down. I think it’s pretty “jeanius!”
NEVER PLASTIC
I don’t recommend plastic hangers for a few reasons. For starters, they tend to have a short lifespan, meaning you have to be replace them frequently (and, that’s definitely not great for the environment). Additionally, plastic hangers don’t hold their shape very well, so if you’re hanging anything heavier than a blouse, you’re going to end up with a droopy hanger. And, lastly, plastic hangers add bulk to your closet, so they aren’t ideal for maximizing space.
Shop all hangers.
HAMPERS
Storage for dirty duds doesn’t have to compromise your dressing room’s glam. If there’s room, I like to hide hampers in a pull-out cabinet. But, even if you don’t have the room for that, you can find stylish solutions for your laundry.
How do you recommend sorting laundry?
I’m so excited to be working on a LA Closet Design hamper (more details coming soon) that will make doing laundry feel a little more luxurious. In the meantime, I recommend using a hamper with separate liners for dry-cleaning and machine wash to keep garments from getting mixed together. I like this beautiful bamboo one from Anthropologie because it can be hung, which means less bending over and this fashionable faux sharkskin one from CB2.
STEAMERS
If you’re still using an unglamorous iron to uncrease your clothes, we need to have an iron intervention. You’re wasting time and energy with that bulky board and antiquated iron! Get yourself a life-saving steamer and you’re world will be flipped upside down.
What’s your favorite steamer?
I like the Conair ExtremeSteam Handheld Steamer. It's the perfect size to store in a cabinet or drawer and it packs some serious power! The best part is this mighty steamer has attachments for maintaining all your garments, and it can easily fit in a carry-on.
HOOKS
Hooks seem like such a simple, pedestrian accessory, but they are a surprisingly handy and versatile necessity!
How do I incorporate hooks into my closet?
Hooks serve several purposes: use them to hang purses to help your best bags keep their shape, drape scarves so they’re easily accessible, or hang jewelry so you can see what you have. Once you start using hooks, you’ll be totally hooked on them! From valet rods to purse hooks, and everything in between, there's no shortage of ways to hang something!
LUGGAGE
I love to travel and I’m fortunate I get to jetset for my job often. For years, I struggled to find the perfect suitcase. There are so many on the market, but I never felt like they catered to the person who essentially wanted a mobile closet. A few years ago, I developed my own line of luggage called LAMove, and traveling has been a breeze ever since!
What’s the best carry-on suitcase?
Call me biased, but I love our LAMove roller bag, a true “mobile closet on wheels.” I partnered with luggage designer and industry innovator Max Mirani to develop a luxurious carry-on that takes into consideration what guys and gals need when on the go. Keeping in mind functionality, efficiency, and style, we created the ultimate suitcase that marries the elegance and efficient organization of wardrobe trunks with the portability demanded by today's travelers. We thought of everything -- from a designated shoe section to a jewelry roll that can be easily detached and used as a clutch or stored in a hotel safe to a heat-resistant pocket for flat irons or curling irons...and much more!
What’s your favorite weekend bag?
I’ve been really into the Gucci Ophidia collection, so the Webbed Suede Duffle Bag definitely has my attention right now. You can’t go wrong with a Louis Vuitton Keepall Bandouliere 55 (after all, LV basically invented luxury luggage). And, a more wallet-friendly option is the Longchamp Le Pliage Expandable Travel Duffel Nylon Weekender.
What’s your go-to luggage for long trips?
I try to take a carry-on whenever possible, but if I really need more space (usually for shoes, of course!), I opt for a hardshell. There’s a reason Tumi is always at the top of travel editors’ lists: they make durable, light and all-around stellar suitcases. I like the Extended Trip Expandable Packing Case (especially in the feminine floral print!). I also adore this marble one and this rosegold one, both from Calpak.
LIGHTING
Lighting is often one of the most overlooked closet essentials. You need to be able to see your prized possessions, right? Think about how much easier it is to get dressed in the morning or put away clothes when you can actually see your wardrobe. So, bright idea...invest in good lighting! Your closet is one area you definitely shouldn't settle for bad fluorescent lighting.
I don’t have great ceiling light in my closet, so how can I maximize the lighting in my closet?
Sometimes we don’t have control over the ceiling light in our closets, so there are a few other ways you can bring brightness in your space. One way to integrate more light is with battery operated LED lighted hanging rods. They turn on at a push of a button and help illuminate those darker areas of the closet. Though relatively inexpensive, they make a big difference. Another tip is to add mirrors. While mirrors don’t actually light your closet, they do disperse and enhance brightness throughout the space. Natural light is always the best form of lighting, so if you have a renovation budget, add some skylights or windows to your dressing room for the ultimate dose of daylight.