Most often than not, in small apartments are in older homes, wardrobes act as closets, or replace the very tiny ones that are hardly closets at all. Instead of being considered a hassle, a beautiful wardrobe can be the central furniture piece in a room, even more than the bed or desk. Choosing one is a big decorating choice because they often are so large and domineering. However, an all-white option can add a minimal sleekness to your bedroom, especially against a white wall. Though seemingly bland, this monochromatic choice lets your accent pieces stand out above their larger counterpart. A highly detailed piece on the other hand, for example one with intricate carvings or brightly colored, can act as the sole object in the room, eliminating the need for accents of any kind.



Whatever the statement you wish to make—simple and elegant or ethnic and wild—you are sure to find a piece that suits your wants. With styles as wide ranging as the people who choose them, from wood finishes to ethnic detailing, the choice is up to you.

The size of your unit depends on the room where it will be housed and the amount of clothing it will hold. If you are sharing your space with a partner, size especially matters. Double door options can give two people access to one full-length unit, while one person might also choose a double unit but with shelving filling the second half. A unit with doors on both sides allows for access on either side and can be placed in the center of the room, to create a division of space, if one is desired. This option is great for roommates living in a small shared-bedroom or loft space.

How wardrobes are internally arranged are an entirely personal matter, but there are some tricks to organizing them, in order to keep your small space from feeling cramped.

Organizing by color is one option when it comes to arranging your clothing, other options include by sleeve length with a separate section for dresses. To create visual cohesion, some people even opt to coordinate their clothing to their hangers, or use just one color hanger. However, sometimes it is easier to use what's available (and usually that looks like a hodge-podge of hangers from the local dry cleaner). If you lack space for shoes, hang up a shoe organizer; don't have room even for that? Tuck away the shoes that you use the least underneath the bed in regular shoeboxes, or nifty organizers.

Avoid unnecessary mess and rotate out your clothing seasonally, so you have in your wardrobe just what you will be using. Is it summer? You probably don't need the scarves from last winter. Is it frigid outside? Then you can probably pack away the bikinis.

Managing wardrobes, even tiny ones, doesn't have to be a headache. Use tools available to you—hanging closet organizers, baskets, and hooks—to make your small space into a well-functioning haven for everything from your skirts to your jeans.