There’s nothing like spotting that perfect pair of shoes to add to your collection. Sadly, the lift that you get when you go through the checkout is often replaced by a sinking feeling when you get home, and realise that there’s nowhere to put them!
Not all of us can have an incredible shoe closet like the women in Sex and the City. If shoe storage is a problem for you, you’re not alone. Whether your shoes are in a pile at the bottom of your closet or arranged in pairs under your bed, we can all agree that this leads to clutter.
But worry no more! We have the perfect tips for decluttering and shoe storage – and it won’t take up your whole weekend. In just an hour, you can streamline your footwear so that you’ll know exactly where to look for that perfect pair.
ALSO SEE: The Best Way To Store Shoes And Declutter
So, where to start? Begin by gathering all your shoes together so you face up to just how many pairs you have. If you drill down to absolute basics you really only need four pairs: smart heels, smart pumps, casual lace-ups and boots (and perhaps those sneakers). Get into the mindset that everything else is extra. Of course you’ll keep more than that, but make sure they earn their space.
Then get sorting. Place your shoes in to three categories: Keep, Mend and Out. It won’t take long to get things in order…
ALSO SEE: Top Tips For Wardrobe Decluttering
Here’s how to declutter your hallway and shoe storage space in one hour
1. Show no mercy
This is the part where you need to be brutally honest with yourself and, ideally practical. Identify the keepers to make it seem effortless and less daunting. Take a minute and start throwing out the shoes you no longer wear and don’t need. The ones that are no longer a good fit and are giving you foot ache, needs to go – no matter the price tag.
2. Make some money
Selling your old shoes (aka thrifting) couldn’t be easier. Websites like Yaga will get you started on cashing in on your clutter. Feeling generous? Vintage With Love combines fashion and charity into one fun event, a vintage fashion sale! All proceeds are donated to literacy charities. Find out more here.
3. Stick to the 12 month rule
Haven’t worn them in a year? Then what are they still doing in your closet? This should be a good indication that they no longer serve their purpose and are just filling up much needed space. Only keep ones you’d be happy to wear right now, regardless of the occasion.
ALSO SEE: How To Style Up Older Wardrobe Essentials
4. Don’t duplicate
Got ten pairs of similar black shoes and boots? Narrow it down to two or three pairs and choose according to the heel, design and comfort. Ditch the rest.
5. Opt for versatile colours
When it is time to go and find that new pair of heels, make sure you go for a pair that will work with lots of different outfits and colours. This will eliminate you buying a colourful shoe for each outfit you have.
Top Tip: By sticking to neutral tones like tans, beige and black you will get more for your money and save on space.
6. Fix them up
Back to wardrobe maintenance – if you’re not getting rid of it, fix it. All the shoes that need to be repaired, should be taken to a cobbler.
Top Tip: To make heels last longer, keep the heel vertical as you walk. It’s easier if you shorten your stride.
7. Store them clearly
Visibility and access are key. If you’re using shelves to store your shoes, pack them from heel to toe to create more space. If you have clear plastic boxes, stack them on top of each other in rows. The bottom of your wardrobe is still a suitable place to assemble your shoes – as long as they’re not stacked on top of each other.
8. Get creative with display cabinets
Re-think your usual display cabinets into your very own shoe closet, and with some creativity you can totally reinvent the traditional method of displaying those dated plates into a modern centrepiece for any bedroom.
Remember, organising doesn’t always mean hiding away your prize possessions!
ALSO SEE: Wardrobe Decluttering And Styling Tips From The Experts
