The Art of Layering

Prepping Your Closet for Cooler Days

With the first days of fall officially upon us, it’s time to transition your wardrobe from summer’s breezy fabrics to the rich, layered looks of autumn. One of the keys to mastering fall fashion is the art of layering, and your closet should be just as ready to embrace the season. A thoughtfully designed closet can make all the difference, ensuring that your layering essentials are easy to access, organized, and stored in a way that maximizes both space and style.

Start with the Essentials:
Keep transitional pieces—like lightweight sweaters, tailored blazers, and crisp button-down shirts—front and center in your closet. These are the foundation of any fall wardrobe and should be easy to grab for layering on cooler days. If you have a custom closet, consider installing double hanging rods for your most-used layering items, like knits and outerwear. For accessories such as scarves or thinner cardigans, built-in pull-out racks allow for easy access without cluttering your hanging space.

Create a Layering Station:
Dedicate a specific section of your closet for your essential layering pieces. This could be a custom shelving area for folded sweaters and turtlenecks, or pull-out drawers designed specifically for autumn’s bulkier items. For those with custom closets, adding a specialized accessory wall or velvet-lined trays for organizing scarves, belts, and gloves can keep everything visible and within reach. Pull-out shelves or cubbies with lighting are perfect for keeping seasonal hats and outerwear accessories easy to grab without digging through piles.

Rotate and Store Wisely:
As fall sets in, it’s the perfect time to swap out those light summer fabrics and bring in the heavier, cozier pieces. Instead of traditional bins or generic solutions, opt for custom cabinetry and high shelves designed to store off-season items. You can tuck away summer dresses and swimsuits in built-in, above-the-rod storage cabinets or even a pull-down hanging system, keeping them neatly tucked away yet still easy to retrieve. Adding a custom, soft-close drawer system for thicker fall scarves, or a cedar-lined closet section for delicate knits, will ensure your clothing is protected while remaining organized.

Stay Stylish Yet Organized:
Layering for fall doesn’t mean a cluttered closet! Invest in custom hooks or integrated pull-out hanging systems for jackets and outer layers. Custom valet rods can also be a fantastic addition, allowing you to plan your layered outfits the night before. For bulkier outerwear like pea coats or trench coats, consider having a section of your closet with deeper hanging space to accommodate them without overcrowding. A dedicated shoe shelf or boot storage area with adjustable shelving will make sure that your favorite fall boots don’t just look good on you, but in your closet too.

By prepping your closet for the layering season with these custom design solutions, you'll not only keep your wardrobe organized and functional but also embrace fall's cozy, chic style with ease!