Old houses usually weren't built with such specialty rooms, and people placed their clothing in wardrobes or armoires. Even today there are sometimes apartments or homes which do not have space for built-in closets, so it is necessary to purchase a wardrobe.

What would be the best wardrobe for your living area?

Frankly, you can put any closet organization system in your living area, even if you don't have a specific roomto put it in! Simply secure the rails or shelves to the walls as you would have done in the closet.

But a wardrobe complete with decorative doors to block off the view of the items within is the most popular way to go.

These wardrobes, or armoires, are usually made of wood. Depending on your price range you can get them in metal, plastic, particle board, pressed wood and solid wood.

Explore the world of antiques

Antique armoires are in demand, but they can run into considerable sums of money. If you're interested in acquiring an antique armoire (an antique is defined as an item that is over 100 years old), then make sure you go through a reputable dealer.

When you think of antique furniture such as armoires, don't think just of the classics from England such as those designed by Chippendale, Sheraton and Hepplewhite (the "big three" of British furniture makers). There's many an American antique armoire designer who deserves to be discovered. Do some research into furniture history in various countries and you'll be glad you did.

But, if you're not in to antiques then there are plenty of modern day armoires to meet your needs, offered by a plethora of companies. You can search the web and find practically any design ever made.

If you like the look of metal, you can acquire extremely ornate and exotic white metal armoires, imported from India.

There's nothing to beat mahogany or maple for classic elegance

The classic elegance of wood will never go out of style, of course. Solid wood armoires are expensive, but they add such a look of elegance to your home, as well as assisting you to keep your clothes in style, that they can be well worth the price.

Any armoire you purchase must fit into your home's decor. You'll want to give a thought to the finish, and where you'll place it, as it won't be easily moved once you do so. Make sure you buy as much quality as you can afford, so that the armoire will last for a lifetime.