My closet makeover
I must thank all of you dedicated readers, once again, for helping to make my blog so successful. As I did last year, I chose five of the most popular blogs as far as page views are concerned and will repost them during this week. I hope that your holidays were wonderful and I wish you all a very Happy New Year and hope that 2011 will be safe, healthy, and prosperous!
In yesterday's blog, I mentioned how I took the time to straighten my closets. I consider myself to be a rather organized individual, so I was a bit alarmed at the disarray I was faced with. I also had a strong motivator in Kevin Sharkey, who contributed the terrific A Dream Closet Makeover, in the February issue of Martha Stewart Living. It's worth looking at. You can also find many other wonderful home design ideas by reading his blog. Tackling a closet is always a much bigger job than anticipated and I suppose I have just been putting it off for too long. With that said, welcome to my closet!
1 As you can see, this closet is way out of control!
2 There were two big closets that needed attention - this is the coat closet.
3 This is where clothing, shoes, and hats are stored.
4 Many dry cleaner bags, diverse hangers, and mixed up categories - no organization at all!
5 So many things were being stored in acid-free boxes. My goal? Get rid of the boxes!!
6 So many shoes - how did so many get here?
7 Shirts, pants, suits, jackets - all confused - how did this happen?
8 Unlike Kevin's closet, there was very little color coordination!
9 Emptying out this closet, made the guest bedroom look as though a cyclone had gone through. It took two whole days of organizing and I'm still not done!
10 These tubs are full of older clothes, shoes, and oddities for donation.
11 The coat closet is looking better with garments hanging on standardized hangers.
12 Another view
13 Each closet cubby now has an identity and a semblance of organization.
14 The shoe shelves are certainly looking better.
15 As you can clearly see, I need a bit more patience to be as neat and organized as Kevin is.
Martha Pins
Martha Tweets
So this is the *real* Martha Stewart organization. . .but I guess at time we all have parts of our lives messy and in need of new ordering. I have to say, Martha, the "before" and "after" are amazing, and what better time to do it than a cold winter weekend.
(I'm one of the blog readers who was skeptical that Kevin's closet was the real thing, but I wrote a comment yesterday giving him full credit for his continuing *real* organization.)
Nothing like beginning the new decade with a well ordered closet!
Posted by: MMC in San Diego | February 3rd, 2010 at 12:54 am
Hi Martha, I am sure Kevin will be a great help. He is amazing and such an inspiration, love his blog.
Good Luck!
Posted by: Rowaida Flayhan | February 3rd, 2010 at 1:48 am
That's a huge job, looks good afterwards though. I'm inspired, I'll tackle mine tomorrow. Thankfully, my chore won't be quite as large as your's was.
Posted by: Frances Jackson | February 3rd, 2010 at 1:52 am
Can't help but chuckle to see that Martha has some messes in her closets.
Keepin' it real, Martha!
Posted by: Clayvessel from Pie in the Sky | February 3rd, 2010 at 2:59 am
That closet was really "unmartha-like" but it is great that you share that side of you! I just love GK, he looks just like old PawPaw.
Posted by: Keith Lee | February 3rd, 2010 at 3:39 am
What a mess Martha!
Pam from California
Posted by: Pam From California | February 3rd, 2010 at 4:05 am
What a wonderful post Martha. I too took the advice of Kevin and got to work on my wardrobes and cupboards. It is so much better when everything is neat and tidy - and so much quicker to find things!
Pru
Posted by: Pru | February 3rd, 2010 at 4:35 am
Wow! (as I giggle!) I do NOT! Feel so bad about my closet now!! I do think though.. I will be not taking pictures before I do my own closet in the very near future.. well maybe just a few of the finished project!! I have to get the kitchen subway tiles up first and a little paiting. Golden buttermilk bisquit!! Sound Familiar? Thanks for sharing Martha!! See you on the 16th of february on the show!
Dan Viger
Maine
Posted by: Daniel Viger | February 3rd, 2010 at 4:49 am
oh martha, shame on you for letting your closets get into such disarray! jokes aside, great reminder to get started on my closets...
Posted by: liisamarja | February 3rd, 2010 at 5:22 am
It's still a mess!
Posted by: joan | February 3rd, 2010 at 5:39 am
I love seeing your messy closet. Makes me feel much better about my closets. Thanks!
Posted by: Robin | February 3rd, 2010 at 6:39 am
Martha, Martha, Martha,
I can't believe it! If I had your money lady (I say that in a nice way), I would have a valet!
You need California Closets to come in now and make a real spectacular bunch of closets for you. I can't afford it, I have no affiiation with any closet company. I do know the work they do is special.
Try it!
D. Redenbach
The Villages, FL
Posted by: Deanna Redenbach | February 3rd, 2010 at 7:02 am
Wow! That's so surprising to me. Even clean it's still a little messy. After seeing this I think I could actually hang out with you and be comfortable. Love ya Martha.
Posted by: Mike | February 3rd, 2010 at 7:28 am
First, I was aghast!! I would have never believed it if you had not shown it to me!! Secondly, I see why. That old, beautiful house has only a few, small closets! You are very "down-to-earth" to show us your human side! Makes me like you even more!
Posted by: Susie Poss | February 3rd, 2010 at 8:17 am
I love the sight of a jumbled closet. It's the sign of a carefree soul and a fun life well lived.
Posted by: Valerie Mutchler | February 3rd, 2010 at 8:46 am
OH MY GOD - you are a mess woman!!!!! All these years you had us all believing you were so organized in EVERY aspect of your life - NOT. I feel so much better now - are you sure this is your closet???
It is true how you can be so organized and the next thing you know it looks like hell. I start off every January cleaning out every closet, drawer and cabinet in the house. My shoes are all organized and everything is arranged by color. It's now February 3rd and things are still in pretty good shape but come July and August when I'm into golf, pool, gardening on top of a full time job look out. Then I'll keep saying to myself I'll get orgainzed soon - Winter project.
Well Martha you made my day (if that is really your closet) you are human
Posted by: Ann | February 3rd, 2010 at 8:50 am
With the help of my organized parents, I have converted my closets into the Sharkey system. I loved that program of his closet conversion on your TV program and intend to read the article in Living. This post is helpful to all of us. Thanks for sharing. The winter is ideal for these projects. I have less stress, more energy and better focus. It really helps with my routines as well as what apparel to add when looking at winter sales. Plus the more you do the better you get at it. The four seasons of the Northeast require so many different kinds of clothes and thus space.
Posted by: Teresa Touey | February 3rd, 2010 at 8:52 am
Wow.... this is the human being Martha...the real side of the modern business woman!!!!! This is the good thing to know...real world people!!!!
Posted by: vera m | February 3rd, 2010 at 8:55 am
You made my morning... you are a real person with a closet that gets a bit messy! Geez... I may be able to let up on the expectations for my own closets with this info.
Keep the blogs coming... I love these peeks into your daily life!
Posted by: Lisa in Huntley | February 3rd, 2010 at 9:11 am
What a refreshing aspect to your life! You too can become a clutterbug. I also enjoyed seeing the angled walls in your guest bedroom and the small carved out spaces for closets. For those of us who live in older homes, we can only drool over Kevin's closet, but we can aspire to yours.
Posted by: Linda | February 3rd, 2010 at 9:27 am
Wow, the new Martha. Thanks for sharing as I am looking at my MESS of a closet.
This reminds me of an old MS Living show that focused on a tour of Turkey Hill. Your home office was piled with boxes, papers, books, files, etc. I remember you saying that this room is kept "behind closed doors"
LOVE the wall color! What is the name?
Brian
Posted by: Brian | February 3rd, 2010 at 9:48 am
The best blog post yet; it beats beautiful photos around the farm, stylish food shots, and all the cute animal pictures! Martha, you're messy!
Posted by: Rhonda Fleming Hayes | February 3rd, 2010 at 9:54 am
She's human!
Posted by: Karen | February 3rd, 2010 at 9:57 am
Looks like my closet! Please give a day-to-day summary of your progress, Martha. Good luck!
Posted by: mayet | February 3rd, 2010 at 10:12 am
Martha, I expected to see Hermes boxes in your closet and I was not disappointed!
Posted by: Mario | February 3rd, 2010 at 10:14 am
Behind-the-scenes! I love it. Thanks, Martha! It takes a lot to show your personal side. AND, it proves that being organized is an on-going project. Organization is a living thing - I'm certain of that.
Posted by: Julie T. | February 3rd, 2010 at 10:16 am
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Hilarious!
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The first time in my life I take a full week off to marathon whiz through my home -- and you're reporting on same such pursuit!
.
On yesterday's blog I jotted on rooms undertaken and asked you if dry oatmeal will really eliminate mice. I'm looking for something other than green pellets which they seem to redeposit under surfaces as their revenge.
.
What REALLY works?
.
Today my goal is to clean and fung shway the upstairs reading room and to empty and refill the brand new media room. It's birch bark wallpaper and birch furniture with Egyptian leaf rug is wasted, covered in photos, newsprint copy and phone wires I actually used as an indoor clothes line last month. Yes, I'm patchworking my life this year to keep up with the rushing flood!
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Your closets aren't so bad. Did I see a Montana cowgirl shirt on the rack?
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Happy Sticking to that Stacking and Stocking!!
The Spencer Household
.
Posted by: Andrea and the Weimaraners | February 3rd, 2010 at 10:24 am
Good Morning,
Organization is difficult at best....but cut yourself some slack...You are an extremely busy woman. I know its difficult buy it is soooooo very nice to walk into an organized closet. When you serve food on a well dressed table it is lovely, but if you serve the same food on paper plates it isn't as appetizing.
Well done....keep going... (((hugs)))
Posted by: Dove1964 | February 3rd, 2010 at 10:27 am
My family calls me Moprah (their combination of Martha Stewart and Oprah), and what's ironic is that I am also trying to organize my bedroom closet. It's about 12' by 12' and has the hanging system in it already. However, it needs organizing and I need something for shoes and handbags. I just had surgery on my left shoulder, so while it is going to be my recuperating project with one arm, do you have any suggestions?
Posted by: Pamela | February 3rd, 2010 at 10:28 am
Martha, You are again inspiring me. Off to clean my closet!
Joan
Hilton New York
Posted by: joan vogt | February 3rd, 2010 at 10:30 am
Hi Martha,
I guess Alexis wasn’t kidding when she said her closets were neater than yours! But they’re looking better. Nice job with the coats and the closet cubby. Is it going to be this neat 6 months from now? Lol. Well thanks for being brave and letting us see how unorganized you can get but you’re a busy lady so you’re entitled. The only thing I recognized was the plaid shirt you wore in Montana. I have a similar one in green that I save for really cold days, so I guess I’ve worn it twice. ha Have fun getting the guest room back in order! Trish
Posted by: Trish | February 3rd, 2010 at 10:41 am
I can so relate! It seems I am forever straightening my closets. Maybe if there were no doors on our closets they would stay organized!
Posted by: maria | February 3rd, 2010 at 10:41 am
Nice to see your really not the super human everyone thinks you are or should be. This looks like a case of too much stuff. I can relate. Send it to Haiti, they need all the clothing they can get.
Posted by: Judy | February 3rd, 2010 at 10:45 am
We own an 1865 B&B with small closets and no storage space. Our bedroom looks very much like your guest room! Terrible! We had more closet/storage space in a 1950's bungalow. Very frustrating. I appreciated a glimpse into your cluttered closets. You've made my day and inspired me to get organized!
Posted by: Judy | February 3rd, 2010 at 10:47 am
That is awesome!!! Thanks for letting us into your closet. It's good to know that even Martha's closets get out of control!!! I bet your cats had something to do with it too!!! What else are they supposed to do while you're out? LOL
Posted by: Julie | February 3rd, 2010 at 10:53 am
Your pictures are astonishing. I would never have believed that MS closets were less than perfection. Thanks for sharing the behind the scenes you and for inspiring my closet work today!
Posted by: Bev | February 3rd, 2010 at 11:04 am
I'm so proud of you for sharing this
peek into your closet! I know it must have taken some courage to show the mess. But it shows us all how very real you are, which I think many people forget. Thank you for that! Looking forward to following your closet efforts!
By the way, you have some beautiful shoes! The shoe-holic in me was drooling!
Posted by: Liren | February 3rd, 2010 at 11:16 am
I'm sure it makes women feel a little better to see that even you let your closets get a tiny bit messy too!
Posted by: Alyzabeth | February 3rd, 2010 at 11:23 am
So glad to see I am not the only on organizing...it seems to be almost all I have been doing lately. I love BEING organized, not so much love for GETTING organized!
Good Job!
Posted by: Alicia | February 3rd, 2010 at 11:30 am
Thanks Martha for a little peek into the organization of your closets!
Posted by: Tara | February 3rd, 2010 at 11:38 am
It would be fascinating to study the psychology behind our relationships with our closets. It's as if they were designed to be traps for chaos and disorganization, simply because you can close the door and forget about what is lurking behind it. But how wonderful it is to open the closet door and know immediately where everything is - even in the pre-dawn hours!
For me, closet cleaning is a spring job and it does take time to get it all organized. But it's so worth it. I think organizing the spaces we don't see all the time is just as important as organizing the public spaces in our homes.
Posted by: Andrew Ritchie | February 3rd, 2010 at 11:39 am
Well, that makes me feel better! I have been trying to clear out my mother's clothes and collectibles as she had been living with us and she past away last fall. Everything in closets and drawers and boxes seem to be taking over the entire rooms.
I feel that there is going to be a Martha Stewart/California Closet product line in the near future - perhaps to be sold at Home Depot?
Martha, could I have a Hermes shopping bag or box for my collection? It's as close as I will get.
Thanks for the inspiration!
Posted by: Barbara Chasse | February 3rd, 2010 at 11:56 am
Good start and good work, but a few thoughts for making your closet work even better for you:
The goal is to be able to see everything at a glance, know where everything is and to be able to get dressed in less than five minutes (special evening dress excepted).
Do group like clothes from light to dark. It allows you to know exactly what you have and where it is. It also lets you see that you already own twenty black shirts and that you don't need to buy another.
If you organize your clothes that way and you see an empty hanger, you are either wearing the garment or it is being cleaned, mended or altered. You will not spend time looking for garments that aren't there.
As for your shoes, it is hard to tell from the photgraphs, but if all your evening shoes, summer shoes and so on are grouped together and then organized from light to dark, you will be able to get dressed more quickly. Also if instead of displaying your shoes side by side, you were to put each pair heel to toe on the shelf, you will be able to fit many more pairs in.
When you are shopping for things you wear all the time, buy them in multiples so you can have them at each of your homes, so you can pack lightly when traveling between them.
Think about how efficently your pantry and garden shed work for you; your closet should be the same.
I hope this is useful to you. You have taught me many things over the years.
Laura
Posted by: Laura Lopata | February 3rd, 2010 at 11:56 am
Wonderful post Martha! My interest peaked when you shared your weekend organizing plans the other day. I am SO glad you posted your before and after photos.
I don't expect you to remember.... but I met you in Chicago at the Macy's book signing last year. I thanked you for your guidance and expertise throughout the years. I explained you were an inspiration to me to begin the organizing business I was planning.
Now I have my first client and my dream helping people and families is slowing unfolding! Thanks for sharing your progress! I'd love to see how you organize the pet's clothings, toys, etc.
Posted by: NeatNicole from Illinois | February 3rd, 2010 at 12:03 pm
Thanks Martha for showing us a new side of the woman! You're busy, we're busy but organizing like this 2-3 times a year makes life better and easier in the long run and benefits others through donation of unused items! Isn't it funny how we use only 6-10 items as regular favorites...?
Posted by: Caren-Marie Michel | February 3rd, 2010 at 12:06 pm
I can relate. This past weekend I ended up spending hours reorganizing my storage closet. Between the Christmas decorations, spring/summer storage, and all the other nick nacks that I didn't have time to store away properly...it piles up fast.
Your end results look great, Martha!
Posted by: Julie | February 3rd, 2010 at 12:09 pm
It's beautiful now.
Posted by: chad | February 3rd, 2010 at 12:11 pm
Dear Martha, thank you for being honest, and thanks for showing your human side. Best wishes for 20010.
Posted by: kitty kat | February 3rd, 2010 at 12:17 pm
Hi Martha - I've been following you on twitter for about a month now and I feel honored that you shared your closets today. I am beginning to believe that behind the great icon, there is a great person too. Thanks!
Posted by: Pam | February 3rd, 2010 at 12:27 pm
Martha, Good for you! And you seemed to have done it without that silly California Closets thing Kevin had to do. Really, I found that Martha segment so off-putting. THIS is what real people do. Congrats on tackling the issue.
Posted by: Keith | February 3rd, 2010 at 12:43 pm
martha????noooo..you are so much organized ..you know what??i cant lie I feel so much better now hhhhhhhhhh.... are you sure this is your closet???good luck;)
Posted by: maha | February 3rd, 2010 at 12:56 pm
Thanks,
I appreciated knowing I am not the only lost soul when it comes to closets.
I hate to say this but when I open my closet I have to be careful that 5 of my husband's (or are they mine) rifles do not fall out on my head.
Same goes for finding those shoes in the back corner----an armory maybe but for shoes---good grief all I dig out are singles.
Posted by: Margie | February 3rd, 2010 at 1:23 pm
Do you need my address so you can send me your old stuff!
Posted by: Patti | February 3rd, 2010 at 1:25 pm
so fun to see your closet Martha! That was incredibly awesome of you to share. I know most of us don't want others to open our closet doors
It is looking great. All your hard work is paying off, and I enjoy seeing the transformation!
Posted by: Wendy (Give Love Create Happiness) | February 3rd, 2010 at 2:16 pm
Even the most organized girl, like I am, can I messy closets. I have been reorganizing my home since the first week of January. Getting there one step at a time. Glad that you showed us your closets. Love the the way it is organized.
Posted by: Hélène | February 3rd, 2010 at 2:38 pm
Martha is a mortal! Wow, I feel so much better about myself. I have to struggle to keep my house from looking like a wreck, but my closet is always immaculate. If I had a walk-in wardrobe, that probably wouldn't be the case.
Posted by: Mr. Xorn | February 3rd, 2010 at 3:13 pm
Oh Martha.
I have always appreciated you, but now I appreciate you more because seeing your closet in need of organization made me feel so...normal!
And knowing that you didn't finish it all in a day...
thank you, thank you, thank you!!
Posted by: Jessica Adams | February 3rd, 2010 at 3:43 pm
Martha,
I am surprised that you let this closet get so sloppy? Actually, I am perplexed. Why didn't you have a organizer come in and help you?
Posted by: Mike | February 3rd, 2010 at 4:30 pm
...looking good, my friend!...looking good! I had to chuckle at the somewhat disarray but in all actuality, life is REAL! The old adage 'if ya' haven't worn something in 2 years or so - give it away' is a good one AND is practical, too! My favorite local donation facility has received many a niceNICE/practically brand-new items from me - I assure you! I'm not even interested in a receipt! I know they will put my varied donations to good use for those in need and am always happy to consider them first and foremost before just downright throwing stuff away.
~
It's funny that you blog today about your recent organizing frenzy, because I have been on a similar roll as well. I've been using a new word in my vocabulary lately - 'innate' - and I've got to tell you, Martha, I am INNATELY organized! I can't help it! The Lord has given me this wonderful gift and it just comes naturally with little to no effort! It is rare that I let things go and get r-e-a-l-l-y out of hand, but if I happen to stumble across an out-of-hand scenario, I can't rest until I tackle the project! Then, oh whay joy!...I LOVE to stand back and open up that closet/cupboard/basement/attic door and just gaze at my own handiwork! (I am a sick but happy soul! [giggle] )
~
Now, THAT, I feel, could be called another one of your 'good things'!
~
=^..^=
Posted by: Cindy Bricker | February 3rd, 2010 at 5:01 pm
Martha- What shoe size do you wear? Because I would love if you donated the pair of shoes in the center front of the 15th picture (they are a beige almost alligator texture). LOVE them!
Posted by: kim | February 3rd, 2010 at 7:01 pm
You have totally surprised me! But how honest of you to show it like it is! I just hired Royal CLoset of Norwalk CT to re-work my guest room closets and hopefully I will get those back in shape soon!
Posted by: Jayne | February 3rd, 2010 at 7:02 pm
Thank you. Now I don't feel so badly about my own disaray. I know that you are human too.
Posted by: elizabeth schiano | February 3rd, 2010 at 7:10 pm
Wow! was I ever shocked to see your closet. Who would have ever thought it would get that way? Wow!
Posted by: julian | February 3rd, 2010 at 7:48 pm
Martha
The Spring is right around the corner. So don't fret there will be time for the closet!! Enjoy be well, and thanks for this glimpse into the closet.
<3 Kristin.
Posted by: kristin Svens | February 3rd, 2010 at 7:57 pm
A messy Martha! Hey...in our busy lives it's allowed from time to time and everyone needs to tackle their closets to restore order. Always hard to get down and do it but sooo worthwhile. I just moved into a new home with a perfect little walk in closet so i am feeling very organized for now.
Good job Martha!
Posted by: sherey | February 3rd, 2010 at 9:00 pm
Glad to see you're human, Martha
Posted by: Nina | February 3rd, 2010 at 9:14 pm
Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha! You ARE human. And I write that w/affection and deep admiration.
Posted by: Stephane | February 3rd, 2010 at 9:15 pm
Hi Martha, WOW! What a wonderful, interesting blog about your 'messy closets'! Who would of thought they would ever get that way, except Alexis! I remember back when you lived at Turkey Hill and Alexis informed us that she had to be the one who cleaned out and reorganized your closets and she did a very efficient job! Oh, isn't life fun!! Your reorganizations looked great and how fun it would be to receive all of those things you were going to get rid of! I don't know how you found time to 'clean' it all up, but I'm very proud of what you did and shared with us! I loved Kevin's closet article in MSL magazine. I think it's easier for him to stay organized because he only wears simple colored shirts and pants as well as simple flat shoes. Great show again today. Loved the great pillows, super craft projects and the wonderful gardening ideas. Another great 'Ask Martha' today. For some reason, your tweet about the phone lines being open was 3 to 4 minutes later on my Twitter site than the one on your site. Maybe it takes that long to show up on the sites of almost 2 million followers. Hope you get to that total soon. Love, Jan
Posted by: Jan Erickson | February 3rd, 2010 at 9:24 pm
WOW. . .. I bet this blog has almost the most of all comments!!
Way to go martha.. .I thought I was the only one with bags, boxes AND
those dry cleaning plastic bags and ugly wire hangers with no clothes attached!!
Looking great .. .thnx again . . .You;re the BEST!
Regards, Nina
Posted by: nina zeumer | February 3rd, 2010 at 10:14 pm
Thank you for sharing the photos. What I find so surprising is that some of the captions are amusing. You seem to have a great sense humor.
Posted by: julia | February 3rd, 2010 at 11:00 pm
It's nice to see you are as normal as the rest of us
Although you have A LOT more in your closet 
But I like it!!!!
Posted by: Christine Kellogg | February 3rd, 2010 at 11:14 pm
Martha,
THANK YOU for showing us how messy you are - everything "Martha Stewart" is so "perfect" and it made me feel better about my life when I see that your actual closet is not "perfect" either. Of course I love the perfection in the magazines and pictures, because they provide so much inspiration, but this blog really helped to bring the inspiration to meld with reality. Thanks!
Posted by: Christy | February 3rd, 2010 at 11:43 pm
Martha, you are a woman of courage --- to open those closet doors and show us those photos. Well, overall, it wasn't so bad. And you revealed how much we gals like shoes 'n stuff. At least nothing fell on you when you opened the closet door, right? Don't you feel lighter after a closet cleaning? Yes! One note --- that is a very good idea to lay large bath towels on that nice white bedspread in the guest room before laying the closet items atop the bed.
Posted by: Penny | February 4th, 2010 at 12:14 am
You might think this is messy, but oh if only my closet were even half as organized! Iyt's so eeasy for me to shut the door and walk away....but I can't have it like that! It's mostly my shoes that get so messy...I need a better way to organize them.
Posted by: La | February 4th, 2010 at 1:18 am
Martha...storing clothing in the plastic dry cleaner bags does not allow your clothing to breath. The bags have been known to trap the chemicals which leads to the discoloration of ones expensive wardrobe.
P.S. I am loving the Dryel system for a quick refresh. One day soon, I hope to acquire the new dryers with the steam features (GE?)
Posted by: Tracy | February 4th, 2010 at 3:14 am
Messy closets are so easy to shut the door upon and ignore, right?! I just got through organizing mine, you really need to have a method to the madness. Good call on the hiring of professional help - looks like you have a TON more to sort through than myself! Good news though, since transforming mine out of it's bottomless-pit-state, life is noticeably less cluttered and crazed
Posted by: Greta | February 4th, 2010 at 3:52 am
I like the changes...getting rid of the boxes is a great idea, although clear ones fit well under hanging clothes when there's space. You might consider utilizing the vertical space in your coats closet. Items that you rarely wear but want to keep work best in the hard to reach spots. Also, I see you have a beautiful glass front cabinet--certainly hats, neatly folded sweaters, special shoes, gloves & scarfs, etc. would look amazing there.
Kevin's closets are incredible, however, men don't have the range of items women have to contend with. It's easier to color-code dress shirts and suits if that is the bulk of your wardrobe. For women, though, I believe keeping the most often worn items prominent (either in a specific closet or within easy reach)--especially everyday & work clothes; then dressier items (not formal wear but items worn for dinner out, theatre, or such); and, lastly, I would have formal-wear or items rarely used placed in the rear or another wardrobe altogether. Within each space I organize like-with-like, works the best for me.
I'm sure your closet will be gorgeous once it's finished. The local charity shop will love your donations also! Just so you know, I've gotten my best organizing tips from your magazines and books over the years. Keep up the great work! All the best-
Posted by: Rachael | February 4th, 2010 at 7:56 am
Thank you for showing us your closet Martha! I never would have thought that you would have a messy closet! thank you for being honest
You're making some good progress!
Leigh
ps - I wish I could go shopping in your closet!
Posted by: Leigh | February 4th, 2010 at 8:25 am
I don't think Martha is following the closet organizing rule of "if you haven't worn something in one year, then get rid of it". It looks like there are enough articles of clothing in that closet that she wouldn't have to rewear anything in a whole year. Even more so in the coat closet. Good luck Martha, you still have more purging to do.
Posted by: Diane Zalusky | February 4th, 2010 at 8:44 am
i love that you shared your less than perfect closet. it's very human, and i think it makes your type of organization and general martha-ness that much more endearing.
this is a re-org job i did at my parents' house that you might be interested in:
http://honeyliving.blogspot.com/2009/03/inspired-by-recent-rash-of-exposed.html
Posted by: honey living | February 4th, 2010 at 9:05 am
Martha you are a brave soul.
Posted by: Susan Leach | February 4th, 2010 at 9:19 am
A couple of weekends ago, I cleaned out every drawer, every closet, every armoire. I took 4 garbage bags of clothes, 5 coats and 22 pairs of shoes to the Goodwill and threw away at least one more bag of stuff that was not donate-able. It felt GREAT to unload. I feel lighter and getting dressed is so much easier.
Sharon
Posted by: Secret Leaves paperworks | February 4th, 2010 at 1:42 pm
MARTHA, I MUST SAY ALSO THAT I FIND IT HARD TOO BELIEVE THAT YOU HAVE ANYTHING MESSY.. BUT WE'RE ALL HUMAN AFTER ALL.. ALSO I AM A SHOE FANATIC.. I HAVE SHOES UNDER MY BED, ALONG THE WALLS OF MY BEDROOM, IN MY BEDROOM CLOSET AND THE SPARE BEDROOM CLOSET, AND IN THE ATTIC, ALL IN BOXES OF COURSE..BUT MY DREAM IS TOO ONE DAY HAVE THEM ORGANIZED LIKE EITHER YOU OR ALEXIS.. I LOVE HER BLOG AND KEVIN'S RIGHT ALONG WITH YOURS....
Posted by: dolly grazionale | February 4th, 2010 at 2:57 pm
LOL your closet is a nice size!! Love the fact you shared this....no one is perfect. As hard as we try !!
All the best,
Kathy
ps no playing with the animals until your closet is cleaned up, you're grounded !! LOL
Posted by: Kathy :) | February 4th, 2010 at 5:31 pm
Martha - holy cow Martha - what a mess - a phrase I thought, after 25 years, I would never get to say.
Posted by: ellen bedell | February 4th, 2010 at 5:36 pm
Wow, you made me feel so much better. I have followed both Kevin's and Alexis' closet projects. I still haven't obtained the perfect closet. I am holding out for your new organization products at Home Depot. I am so hoping that there are some closet design kits available. Something like a California Closet DIY components. I want to rip my small closet apart and start over. Get Kevin and Alexis to help you reorg your closets.
Posted by: Sonja Mandt | February 4th, 2010 at 6:55 pm
Well, I don't have nearly the amount of stuff and my closet isn't very organized, but I promise to work on it.
But I do have a fabulous tip on training husbands and sons not to drop their clothing on the floor of the closet or room that I'd like to share....
Get a cat that likes to poop on any clothing left on the floor.
TMI?
Posted by: Maureen | February 4th, 2010 at 8:19 pm
I was hoping to start reorganizing my closets in the next few days. I plan to sell my home soon and wanted to stage them to look less cluttered and more spacious. I loved seeing that you are just like alot of us, with a closet that gets out of hand like mines are right now. Love the shoes too!!!
Posted by: Cheryl Bousquet | February 5th, 2010 at 12:02 am
I read about your cleaning of the closets, but I never expected you to show the before and after pictures. Wouldn't these be great closets to play dress-up in? I love the glass-front unit. Charming. (See, there are no skeletons in Martha's closet either)
Posted by: Lee | February 5th, 2010 at 3:06 am
Dearest Martha,If my closets were even half that tidy I'd be happy. Yes, it's lovely to have every nook and cranny of our lives well organized, but,there are so many more important things in life to worry about. Thank you for all you have done and continue to do to inspire our creativity and increase our knowledge and awareness of all aspects of this wonderful World. You always have been and continue to be one of my favourite people.
Posted by: Deborah | February 5th, 2010 at 4:28 pm
THANK YOU!! This is so great!! LOL Finally there is something that I do the same way as you - have a disaster closet!! I feel vindicated!
Except I have less closet space and STILL its a mess.
Posted by: Barbara | February 5th, 2010 at 5:43 pm
I cant believe that's your closet. I remember a linen closet you did on the very old show. Anyway I do my closet by type (shirts,skirts, dresses,etc.) and then by color. Light to dark. Have fun mine needs some work too. You know its hard to find what you want....juli
Posted by: juli | February 5th, 2010 at 6:32 pm
I'm SHOCKED!!! my Martha pedestal just crumbled and I'm so glad. I thought your closet would be perfection at its most, but it looks like any other closet I know.
I promise I will now get rid of my 30 year old dresses and the one pair of 40 year old shoes, my daughter's cap and gown and so forth.
Thank you for the insight.
Posted by: Yolanda Revel | February 5th, 2010 at 10:45 pm
Martha, clearly you do not shop often enough at the Goodwill. They have the best organization of clothing at any store, and one can apply those principles to the home closet. Items are arranged by category, then color.
It makes it so easy to select an ensemble for an evening out. Choose a gaily printed skirt in spring colors. Move to the blouse aisle and quickly find a color match in your size.
It leaves plenty of time to peruse the glassware. I always look for 50s pieces by my favorite designer, Miss Freda Diamond.
Posted by: Furry Leaves | February 6th, 2010 at 12:00 am
Hey, I have that same plaid shirt!
Posted by: Bobbi | February 6th, 2010 at 5:59 am
I must say I was surprised to see garments hanging still in the dry cleaners bags! They need to be removed so the clothes can lose that "chemical" smell.
Posted by: Karen Nagle | February 6th, 2010 at 9:43 am
Anyone who lives in an old house knows that those California Closet Perfect Looking Designs just don't fit. I only have 2 closets in my old house -- and the coat closet doesn't even allow for hangers to fit in straight. Most people do not have that many clothes (do they??)Lighten up everyone who chastised; Martha has an incredibly busy schedule - like us all, but she has to get on camera and look good too.
Martha - Thanks for sharing, and keeping it REAL.
-Karen
Posted by: Karen T. | February 6th, 2010 at 1:17 pm
Hi Martha,
On picture 13 I can offer a little tip I learned in the field (California Closets sales and design trainer). Notice how the shirts on the top right stick out further into your room than the clothes under them. If you move the clothes from the bottom section to the top and and the top section to the bottom you will experience a more open feel in the room.
Thank you for sharing your closet. I have seen many closets and it looks pretty normal to me!
Posted by: Barbara Lemke | February 6th, 2010 at 2:15 pm
Martha, I'm shocked!
Get Kevin on it, stat!
Posted by: Patia | February 6th, 2010 at 3:13 pm
Thank you for the tips on his site! I want to see more of your shoes! YOU ARE THE BEST MARTHA!!!
Posted by: handmadecharlotte | February 7th, 2010 at 1:00 pm
I'm always keeping up with my closets. It's so much easier if you just take a look every few weeks or months and discard what you really don't use.
Keeping things neat is simple. Just rememeber the old adage "A place for everything, and everything in its place."
A blogger above mentioned mice! Oh my! You should call an exterminator fast!
Posted by: Nan | February 7th, 2010 at 1:33 pm
Looks like a LOT of stuff that would be much more useful in Haiti than it is here!
Posted by: Cathi | February 8th, 2010 at 2:22 pm
love ya martha! My closet needs a makeover too. Love ya Martha!
Posted by: Star | February 8th, 2010 at 5:38 pm
It is in these tiresome tasks that I'm sure you learn so many of the wonderful tips you share with the world. And I let out a pleasant sigh of relief after seeing how completely normal you are
I'm so glad that you were woman enough to show off your closet before, during and after. So many people on their blogs these days only share pictures of lovely collections or walls or a small counter top in their home, and it isn't often that the real deal makes an appearance. Kudos to you 
I am so happy to see you donating so many things, too!
Posted by: susan | February 8th, 2010 at 8:31 pm
Didn't think it was all that messy and was quite disappointed. I really don't get the majority of these posters either but the Haiti remark made me laugh.
Posted by: jw | February 8th, 2010 at 11:16 pm
Wow Martha! Good job on tackling your closet! I'm an organizational freak so I appreciate you taking a stab at it. I've been thinking of getting to one of my guest closets this week. So many shoes and out of date clothing I'm just dying to get rid of. It clutters my mind!!! LOL Keep working on it, It looks great! Watching you and Russell Simmons right now. Hope I win that sewing machine :0)
Posted by: Michele | February 9th, 2010 at 11:18 am
Martha, thank you for inspiring me to get my closet organized! Regarding the archival boxes, what have you chosen to replace them with? Up until now I had seriously considered storing all of my knits and delicate items that I tend to save for relatively special occasions.
Posted by: arr | February 10th, 2010 at 2:04 am
Thank you Martha for showing that you are just like everyone else! Everyone has closets and rooms that can get out of control sometimes.
Posted by: Jodie Jacobs | February 12th, 2010 at 3:22 pm
It's nice to see you have messes at your house too! Thanks for sharing
Posted by: MarthaAndMe | February 12th, 2010 at 3:36 pm
HI MARTHA
WHATEVER THE CONDITION OF YOUR CLOSET, I REALY LIKE YOU, MARTHA AND I AM ALWAYS INSPIRED BY YOUR GREAT IDEAS.YOU ARE THE BERT WHETHER YOU HAVE A NEAT CLOSET OR A MESSY ONE.THANK YOU FOR SHARING.
MONA,EGYPT.
Posted by: MONA | February 20th, 2010 at 2:45 pm
Hi Martha,
After seeing your closets' "Before" and "After" I'm an even bigger fan than I was before! Thanks so much for opening your personal space to your online community. Your generosity and sense of humor pare even the most daunting task down to size.
Thank you!
Posted by: piano1 | February 24th, 2010 at 12:16 am
I love it. I love the messy photos. You really are human. I just love it. HA!
KC without her band . . .
Posted by: KC Meade | March 6th, 2010 at 5:01 pm
Martha, I would have loved to have been your little assistant on this project.
Posted by: KLBrown | December 30th, 2010 at 12:52 am
I don't think I've EVER seen that many responses to one of your Blogs as this closet one. I don't know why I didn't have anything to say at the time, but...I'd like to see the same closet today, or...as soon as you get time to show us, and I'd like to see how it looked back in February when you finally got it all finished.
But, if you were like me, and had no closets, you wouldn't have one to get disorganized...just a messy room like your guest room during your organizing.
I'm waiting for the next round of pictures from your closet at the end of the year.
Gloria G!!
Posted by: Gloria | December 30th, 2010 at 12:54 am
I recently started a garden blog and have included The Martha Blog in the blogroll. Please reply if you wish to not appear there.
Best Regards,
Mario Mirelez | mirelezm@me.com
Hortus 5
Posted by: Mario Mirelez | December 30th, 2010 at 1:11 am
Not even the home diva is that organized - not even with a staff of 200+...something is amiss! How could this happen, Ms. Stewart? Would love to see the finish product!!! Warmest regards, Ray
Posted by: Ray | December 30th, 2010 at 2:10 am
Dear Martha! You are an amzing and inspiring person to me and to many people around the world! I want to wish you a Happy New Year, may God bless you with good health, peace, happiness, success and prosperity.
Best Wishes,
Rowaida Flayhan
P.S I would love to share with you my Christmas dessert table! http://www.flickr.com/photos/rowaidafl/sets/72157625576339365/
Posted by: Rowaida Flayhan | December 30th, 2010 at 5:09 am
Hi Martha, Thanks for reposting this fun blog post. Thank goodness you have lots of helpers, because I don't see how you could ever do everything there at your fabulous farm, as well as everything with MSLO all by yourself. I've always thought of closets as good places to store things until I have time to deal with them, because I can shut the door! Kevin. you are a great guy! Martha, you are fantastic! It's cold with a little bit of snow and hail here in the Puget Sound area. We had a huge thunderstorm with hail last night and should get sunshine today. Hope you are continuing to have fun at St. Barth's. Jan
Posted by: Jan Erickson | December 30th, 2010 at 11:40 am
Hi Martha,
Trust me, you need probably less than 1/4 of what is hanging in the closets. 1/4 shoes, 1/4 jackets, 1/4 blouses,1/4 sweaters, etc.
From experience, I know this is the only way to go. Just be ruthless.
Susie W.
Posted by: susie | December 30th, 2010 at 12:15 pm
Good time of year to get things straighted up ,thanks Martha ,but where do you get the time to do this ?
Posted by: Betty-Lou | December 30th, 2010 at 4:12 pm
We had much of the same messy closet and home office conditions after pondering around we called in a local service in New York City to help us out with organizing and cleaning up.. They were great!!! Fast affordable and reliable, we are using them again to do organizing of our basement. I think they have a deal on SocialSteals.com, the company website is myalphaliving.com.
http://www.socialsteals.com/nyc/346/?aid=more_steals&sid1=nyc_index.asp
Susan,
New York City
Mom of 3
Posted by: Susan Kerr | December 30th, 2010 at 4:13 pm
Martha,
just loved it, I bet you knew where to look anyway, but it sure feels much better.
Spencer family,
do not leave any food or rubbish around, no cardboard or papers, mice will eat anything, I live in a rural area and I am over cautious because leave a door open in they come, I have to lock down the doggy door as well.
Happy New Year which it is here in Australia.
Posted by: Aussie gal | December 30th, 2010 at 9:57 pm
OMG!! Martha Stewart is human!!! This was an amazing discovery to me!! Thank you so much for sharing your closet! You are juggling how many balls, and this wasn't at this top of your list. I love it! I love the vulnerability! Made my New Year!!
Posted by: Terri | December 30th, 2010 at 10:11 pm
I think you are a first class lady!!! The way you handled yourself when you were imprisoned was so great, especially making crab apple jelly! I love it!!! It's so good to know there are some people who are true to themselves no matter what! I would like to think of myself as one of them. I truly admire you and your talents..you took a humdrum occupation such as being a homemaker and made it into a multi-million dollar business..only someone with true talent could do that...hats off to you!!
Posted by: Arlene Masters | December 30th, 2010 at 10:26 pm
Wait, owners of old houses used furniture called wardrobes, you know those huge cabinets with the mirror-- plus now adays we OWN too much stuff. how many shoes do we need if the shoe doesn't fit? well donate it-- perhaps some one else may find the shoe a perfect fit. If we donate gently used unwanted clothing to a charity it is a win win situation --you have the comfort of knowing the shoe or shirt or suit now has an opportunity to help someone. Stuffed in your closet the clothes Karma isn't working. we know Martha has a big family that may share in the largess of the closet so be it. But waiting for that yard sale that is an undertaking too Habitat for Humanity welcomes household donations of all kinds.
Posted by: kathleen | December 31st, 2010 at 12:04 pm
Martha, you make me feel a little bit better about the major disarray I have going on with my closet. After 6 months of closet clutter spread to several rooms, the carpenter came and built my shelves....now to tend to task, and organize, organize & organize some more. I have donated many boxes of clothes, and I should be ashamed for having so many clothes. I will do better in 2011...Happy New Year to you, your family and wonderful extensive staff....
Posted by: Teresa Emrich | December 31st, 2010 at 5:11 pm
Ok, I may be stating the obvious here, but my guess is that guest room isn't hosting a lot of guests in it's present condition. Why not turn the entire room into a closet? I mean really. How often does a bona fide guest room get used anyway, and I'm sure you have others. The room repurposed as a closet would be utilized much more.
Go for it! You'll love it!
Ellen
Posted by: Nouveau Stitch | December 31st, 2010 at 5:22 pm
Martha, my three daughters and I are using your cookie scoop tonight. We have used them on cake pops and for making hush puppies. Plus, my daughter bought me one for Christmas. I am so excited about all of your baking collection!!!
Posted by: Linda Wynne | December 31st, 2010 at 11:19 pm
Happy New Year Martha, have not been blogging too much of late. Life kinda gets in the way sometimes....
Well look at that closet 'that's a bad thing' lol..... and for those donations you're making I can give you my address....
Seriously....much health and happiness to you...I'd say wealth but I think you've got that covered....:)
All the best,
Kathy
Posted by: Kathy :) | January 1st, 2011 at 2:31 pm
Thanks for motivating me to have a look at our master closet, Martha. My arm and shoulder were badly injured in an accident over a year and a half ago and with additional f/u surgery to repair a torn tendon I still can not reach many things in our closet. While it is fairly well organized, I found S-O many nice shoes and other items I had forgotten I had! Off I go to slip on those satin Natori house slippers - that have never been worn....
BTW I have found your line of craft products S-O everlastingly helpful with rehabbing the use of my dominant hand. The circle cutter is easy to use, as are the various punches. And I found the glitter glue bottles with brush, or pointed tip so much easier to work with. Watching your show and reading your MSLiving magazine each month while I was consigned to two prolonged periods of bed rest kept my spirits up, too.
Posted by: Katie | January 5th, 2011 at 8:59 am
Yea Martha, I love that your closets weren't perfect. You are such a busy person! Thank you for sharing, makes me feel better since I also am working on my closets and organization.
Posted by: Bonnie Smith | January 6th, 2011 at 10:51 pm
Truffles and Caviar, "Oh My." I'm sure I would loose it all. Love the fresh home grown greens, wish I could have those.
Dpopcorn
Posted by: Deanna Redenbach | January 9th, 2011 at 8:24 am
Once I had a detached garage catch on fire from someone's fireworks. It burned up my new BMW (which I couldn't afford), camping gear, bikes, and antique holiday decorations. Sifting through the rubble (for insurance purposes), I realized that stuff is just stuff..and for the most part it can be replaced. When I think about what if I had another fire, what would I grab? it always comes to a strange 3x3" thing of my grandmother's that is covered with shells and bits of coral. She was born, raised and died in Norwich, England and it was one thing I was fascinated with. I'll admit it here...I took it from her home without her knowing when I was making a visit with my mother when I was young. So...when things start piling up, I think about that fire..and start bagging "stuff" up. And I always place my Nannie's treasure where I can see it each day. PS Having a Kindle helps with the book pile up!
Posted by: BeverleyW | February 6th, 2011 at 11:08 pm
Martha,
When you bring clothes home from the dry cleaner, NEVER, EVER store them in the bag. The chemicals used in dry cleaning need to air out. It's best to let them air out for a day to two then put them in a garment bag. You are gonna gas yourself out!
Posted by: Barbara | May 19th, 2011 at 8:34 pm
Hi Martha!
I stubled upon your blog in the afternoon today & been on it since then with little breaks in between
I am so inspired by all that you share & do.
neera
Posted by: neera daulagupu | July 13th, 2011 at 1:24 pm