Wardrobe storage solutions

Unless you're lucky enough to have a dedicated dressing room like our style director, a freestanding wardrobe is one of the essential pieces of furniture you'll buy. Here Louise Hilsz shares her advice, plus a roundup of some of our favourite pieces.

Planning is everything

First, think about your storage needs, and do a quick edit of your clothes. For example, do your wear trousers, skirts or dresses that need hanging rails? Or are you more of a T-shirt and jeans girl, which requires shelving? Or is the free-standing wardrobe for seasonal storage, switching from winter to summer? Do you want an accessory wardrobe to store your shoes and handbags? Once you have a clear idea of how the closet needs to work, you can start shopping.

Boheme Home Yuni Arch wardrobe, $1699. Freedom Furniture Raffles Robe, $1699.

Make it a feature

One of the benefits of free-standing versus built-in wardrobes is you can have a little more fun with them. Consider it a feature in your bedroom or spare room. Opt for a coloured cabinet or unusual antique piece or upcycled cabinet. Free-standing wardrobes can also be given decorative handles and a personalised paint finish to suit your decor style.

Shut The Front Door Twinny Locker, $1000. Mr & Mrs Ward Slim Jim Wardrobe, $4030.

create a DISPLAY of art

If you have an open wardrobe, make sure you colour coordinate your clothes for an aesthetically pleasing display in your room. Then, decorate the top of the wardrobe with indoor plants and your favorite ceramics to add to the look.

Ikea Nordkisa Open Wardrobe, $699. French Country Collections Open Shelf Wardrobe, $1190.

Add the finishing touches

Handwoven artisan baskets and mesh drawers are ideal for scarves and accessories and offer some extra storage for folded items like T-shirts and jeans. Finally, make sure you have space for a handheld steamer, it will totally change your morning routine. It heats up quickly and presses those pesky wrinkles, so you can look your best in minutes.

Adairs Barker Storage Basket, from $33. Gorman Full Bloom Hamper, $89. Gabriella Jewellery Box in Blush, $150. Philips Steam & Go Handheld Garment Steamer, $200.