Creative (And Cute) Ways to Organize Your Shoes

Photo by: Lucas Allen

Create a Tidy and Discreet Shoe Library

1. BOOKCASE Repurpose a standard open bookcase as a shoe rack. Make sure the shelves are at least a foot deep to accommodate the average shoe box. (Boot boxes are about twice that size and can be shelved sideways.) Billy Bookcases, $50 each, ikea.com

2. MATCHING BOXES Stored in identical boxes in a calming hue, your eclectic shoe collection takes on a Zen-like order. Kvarnvik Boxes, $10... more 

Photo by: Lucas Allen

Create a Tidy and Discreet Shoe Library

1. BOOKCASE Repurpose a standard open bookcase as a shoe rack. Make sure the shelves are at least a foot deep to accommodate the average shoe box. (Boot boxes are about twice that size and can be shelved sideways.) Billy Bookcases, $50 each, ikea.com

2. MATCHING BOXES Stored in identical boxes in a calming hue, your eclectic shoe collection takes on a Zen-like order. Kvarnvik Boxes, $10 each, ikea.com

3. CAMERA The fastest way to find the pair you're looking for: Label the outward-facing end of each shoe box with a snapshot of the pair inside. (Shoot flats from above and heels in profile.)

4. CURTAINS AND ROD It's a grown-up take on that old college trick: Just hide your stuff behind a curtain-in a weighty fabric, it's surprisingly chic. Lindon Street Ellis Grommet Window Panel (40" X 84"), $18, jcp.com

CUSTOMIZE IT! A white-and-cream palette in a mix of plush materials is an easy way to make any space look opulent. less