Interior designer Brian Gluckstein often says that an organized closet makes life easier. His approach goes beyond tidiness—it’s about creating systems that feel good to live with every day. From seasonal clothing storage to drawer dividers and baskets, Brian shares his favourite closet organization tips for keeping a space neat, functional, and pleasing to the eye.

Maximizing Closet Efficiency

Do you have any tips for organizing a closet for maximum efficiency?
I like to start by organizing my clothes by season, then by category, and finally by colour. That means all my t-shirts are together, then shirts, then pants, and so on, with each group arranged from light to dark. It makes the closet easier to navigate, and visually it feels calm and orderly. In homes where the closet is a pass-through between the bedroom and bathroom, applying these closet organization tips makes the space feel intentional and enjoyable.

Footwear Organization

How do you like to organize your footwear?
I separate casual and formal shoes. The pairs I wear most often—like sneakers or everyday shoes—are kept in the hall closet so they’re easy to grab. My dress shoes stay in the bedroom closet. The more formal the shoe, the higher the shelf it goes on, since I don’t need to reach for those as often. It’s a system that keeps the shoes I use daily within easy access while still giving everything a place.

Drawer Storage

Do you have any tips for organizing closet drawers?
Dividers are one of my most practical closet organization tips. They keep things neat and prevent items from tangling together. Drawers are great for smaller pieces like socks, belts, or accessories. I prefer rolling belts and storing them in a drawer rather than hanging them. When every item has a designated spot, you save time and keep things looking tidy.

Shelf Storage

Any other tips for organizing shelves?
Baskets and trays are excellent for corralling items and keeping shelves clean. I wear most of my wardrobe throughout the year, but I’ll use baskets on higher shelves for seasonal items that I won’t need for a while. It’s a simple solution that keeps everything accessible but avoids clutter.

Decluttering Strategies

Do you have any rules for decluttering?
I try to keep up with decluttering regularly, but the real key is to establish good habits. My rule is “one in, one out.” Whenever I bring something new into my closet, I remove something else. This keeps the volume manageable and curbs the temptation to shop unnecessarily. It’s a mindful approach that helps maintain order and prevents waste.

For Brian Gluckstein, an organized closet is about more than storage—it’s about creating a space that feels intentional and easy to use. With smart closet organization tips like seasonal sorting, drawer dividers, baskets, and the “one in, one out” rule, you can create a wardrobe system that’s functional, clutter-free, and enjoyable to live with.

Photography by A Plus Creative