4+ Expert Closet Organization Tips for a Boutique-Worthy Wardrobe.

Have you ever scrolled past a photo of a beautiful, boutique-style closet and thought, "Okay, but how do I make that happen in my own home?" That kind of magic isn't only reserved for superstars and store displays; it's what Essence Hill does best. She started Essence of Closets, a national organizing firm that specializes in closets, pantries, attics, concierge moving services, and more, with a reputation for transforming everyday clothing into effortlessly appealing spaces. Oh, and did we mention she is a founding member of our new digital experience and app, The Organizing Society? Basically, we are huge fans.

We just spoke with Essense about closet organization, and trust us you'll want to take notes. She'll share her top tips, go-to solutions, and the story that inspired her to start her organizing business in the first place. Essense explains everything from professional shoe styling to creating a lovely boutique feel, so you can bring a little of her enchantment into your own house. Let's dive in!

Inspiration for Essence of Closets

Essense's love for organizing did not start in a typical way. In actuality, she wasn't very orderly as a child. Her first job, at Finish Line, a shoe store, changed her life.

We had to tuck the shoelaces, make sure every shoe was lined up, and color coordinated," Essense says. "Even at the age of sixteen, it was something that I would never forget. Even as a teenager, I kept all of the boxes organized in my closet at home, just as I did at work.

Her passion grew from there. She remembers falling in love with the wonder of huggable hangers while watching creator and female entrepreneur Joy Mangano on the Home Shopping Network, which sparked her interest in Luxury Italian Modular Wardrobes. That Christmas, she bought a set for everyone in her family, not just herself.

Essense's best storage recommendations.

Handbags

I always put my handbags on display,” Essense says. “The more you see them, the more you want to use them. That’s the whole point: you bought them to wear them!

Shoes

My favorite shoe storage solution is The Container Store's clear shoe boxes. “I’ve been using them since my first closet, and they’ve never let me down,” says Essense.

Of course, not all shoes will fit into those particular containers, thus alternative solutions are required. “For shoes that don’t fit in boxes, I like to display them individually on a shelf or use clear risers to create a boutique-style look,” she adds.

Belts & Ties

I always hang belts and ties whenever possible," Essense explains. “Putting a tie organizer in the same section as suits and blazers makes the most sense.” It's similar to shopping: when everything is grouped together, it's easier to find what you need while putting together an outfit.

Hats

A hat wall is my favorite hat storage solution of all time," Essense claims. "It's as simple as utilizing hooks to hang all of your hats on the wall it makes them a statement piece while keeping them orderly.

Closet Edits: What to Remove Immediately.

What is the first thing to go?" Essense mentioned shoe boxes. “Edit them out immediately.” Aside from that, she recommends removing anything that does not belong in your closet. "When I do client intakes, I usually ask if they have anything from college in their closet. Anything from your wedding?

Her rule is simple: "If you are not actively wearing it on your body, it should not be in your closet." Keepsakes can be stored elsewhere; we'll locate a better location for them.