Do You Need a Bigger Closet … or a Smaller Wardrobe?

That’s the question that crosses your mind every time you stand in front of your wardrobe closet trying to put clothes away or deciding what to wear. You need more room, right? Or are you trying to fit too much in?

One important point to keep in mind is the design of the closet itself. Most homes have what we call the barebones closet—a hanging rod and a shelf that’s been a home building staple for 100 years. Even in contemporary homes, typical closet spaces are still designed for the smaller wardrobes of 50 years ago.

What we see in our clients’ closets today reflects a dramatic shift in the “average” wardrobe. Everything from the number of dresses to how many pairs of shoes we own has changed significantly, reflecting a new age of diverse styles and greater affordability. On the average, women own about 30 pairs of shoes—which means that some of us own 100 or more! We have fewer dresses and a lot more separates—shirts, skirts, pants and jackets—than in generations past. We maintain wardrobes for work, working out and going out. Times have changed, but our closets have not.

So what do you do about it?

We’ve put together a little closet challenge to help you figure things out. Your answers to the questions could reveal some of the best options you have for managing your wardrobe.

Closet Quiz

Do You Need More Space or Less Stuff?

Respond with “Yes” or “No” to the following questions, then check your official results at the end.

1. Does your entire wardrobe currently live within your personal closet?
2. Can you find exactly what you need every morning in two minutes or less?
3. Do you wear at least 50% of the clothes you own?
4. When you buy something new, do you automatically make room for it by letting go of something else?
5. Do you buy items specifically to coordinate with other items in your wardrobe?
6. Does your clothing stay wrinkle-free when it’s in the closet?
7. Do you switch handbags depending on the outfit you select?
8. Is everything in your closet clearly visible?
9. In your closet, is there “a place for everything, and everything in its place”?
10. Is everything you need within easy reach?
11. Do you have room to store all of your shoes neatly on shelves or in boxes, without needing to stash any under the bed?
12. Do you stack your folded shirts no higher than six?
13. Does your clothing stay on the hangers, with adequate space between each item?
14. Are you willing to part with anything in your closet right now?
15. Are you able to put aside sentimental considerations when deciding to get rid of something?

SCORING: Count up the answers to which you responded “Yes”

13-15: You are deeply in touch with your wardrobe and may just need a little more space optimization for your passion.

9-12: Things are in pretty good shape; keep an eye on that space-to-shopping ratio, though. More stuff needs more space!

5-8: We’re thinking you won’t be finding Narnia anytime soon. Keep in mind that a custom closet design will make the space you have much more efficient.

0-4: Hmmm. No wonder you’re looking for help. Bonus points, though, for coming to the right place! Time to find more space or contact your local Closet Factory designer for an organizational design.