Closet Solutions from Dwell Magazine

Choosing a closet system to organize your clothes, shoes and accessories isn't as easy as you might think. There are so many choices. Wire or wood? Adjustable or fixed? Expose or hide the hardware? Expensive or thrifty? The June issue of Dwell featured expert professional organizer Standolyn Robertson commenting alongside Dwell editors on closet systems. Together, they run through 5 major closet organization systems, giving a down-and-dirty look into each, making your decision much easier. We found some useful tidbits of info we'd like to pass along about each:

1. Ubik by Poliform: You can microorganize your shirts with individual shirt slots, but overall this is one sleek system best fit for an investor.

2. Elfa by The Container Store: If you're like me, you can't go into The Container Store without spending a pretty penny and leaving with an armful. That being said, I've never purchased anything from the Elfa system. If you're more concerned with cost, ease of installation and organization than looks, Elfa's exposed hardware and wire bins won't bother you much. It's often on sale, too.

3. Selectives by ClosetMaid: Great for small spaces, this system requires some time to assemble. If you're thrifty and don't mind rolling up your sleeves, then go for it. This one's a good match for you.

4. Gliss 5th by Molteni & C: This freestanding wardrobe is an option for those with little or no closet space. But unlike many other armoires, its guts are customizable and doors open 165 degrees to get into those hard-to-reach places.

5. Stolmen by IKEA: If you're the nomad type or living in temporary housing this system makes for a great solution. It's not ideal for those with high ceilings since it mounts vertically from floor to ceiling rather than on the wall. The upside: it's IKEA, so it's very affordable.