Plan the perfect wardrobe

Keep clothes in great condition and ready to grab and go in the mornings in a well-organised wardrobe

Start by clearing out any clothes, shoes and accessories that you haven't worn in the last year (but don't be forced into chucking out pieces with sentimental value!). A full wardrobe will never be a tidy one as there's no space for new things.

Be ruthless. Ask yourself, 'Does it fit?' 'Does it suit me?' 'Will I wear it?' 'Is it still in good condition?' Take clean, serviceable clothes to the charity shop or try www.recyclethis.co.uk for unusual ideas to transform unwanted clothing and shoes. Don't forget the kids' dressing-up box either - short dresses, frilly nightdresses and suit jackets are perfect. Cut items that are too long with pinking shears for a quick fix.

Find new homes for suitcases, the ironing board and any other rogue wardrobe contents, and keep only the things that belong, clothes, shoes and accessories, in there.

Shoe boxes
Use hard-to-reach high shelves for unseasonal shoes, kept in boxes. Wipe shoes clean before stuffing with tissue paper. Line short boots with cardboard cuffs, and lay knee-length boots flat.

Accessories
Keep scarves, belts and gloves in drawers with internal dividers, with gym kit, beach and nightwear folded in storage boxes.

Posh frocks
Full-length evening or party dresses are best stored folded as the weight from beading or sequins can distort the shoulders or stretch straps if hung.

Hangers
Linen and cotton clothes can go on wooden or plastic hangers, while silk or satins are best on padded hangers that will be softer on the delicate fabric. Skirts should be hung from pegged hangers with felt pads on the pegs to prevent marks.

Make use of dead space, the back of a door can be a wasted space unless it's made useful with hooks, pin boards for beaded jewellery or rails for ties.

Keep track of small items by putting them in containers so they don't get lost all around the house. Lidded wicker baskets are perfect for things like hair bands and grips, earrings and cuff links.

Top Tip
Keep your clothes pristine for longer after dry-cleaning. Remove the plastic bag, which can trap moisture, and re-hang clothes on thick wooden hangers.

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