I Take Shoes Seriously—5 Satisfying Storage Solutions You Need
Shoes, shoes, shoes! I can't get enough of them. Whether it's ballet pumps, chunky sandals, loafers or an abundance of boots, I probably have a few too many pairs. But the thing is, with a vast shoe collection comes the need to store them all, and this can be a bit of an issue.
If you're in the same position as I am, then I'm here to help. Sure, a rack by the door is an easy option to fling your shoes onto as you walk in the house, but what about all the styles you don't wear as regularly? Surprisingly, there are actually many routes you can take: chic pull-out cabinets, benches with underneath storage, back-of-the-door hangers, under-bed trays, and, if you have the space and funds, a built-in, bespoke wardrobe. Aka, the actual dream.
So, to help you find the most practical and stylish shoe-storage solutions, I've taken some inspiration from some of our favourite fashionable women, along with five options you can shop.
SHOE STORAGE INSPIRATION
Erica Davies's walk-in wardrobe reveal made my heart skip a beat. Using Neville Johnson for a bespoke service, the space, in pink and leopard, is so beautiful.
An open rail is a simple hack to make sure you keep your clothes tidy, and Eleanor Barkes shows how it can also be a way to arrange your shoes.
Is this Barbie's closet? I can't quite get over colour enthusiast Nina Sandbech's incredible hot-pink wardrobe with a perfectly organised shoe wall. Just look at those rainbow boots!
Showing off a customised Tylko cabinet, Charlotte illustrates how chic a storage unit can actually look in your home. The shelves with doors are ideal for storing shoes away.
If you have beautiful designer shoes, the best way to store them is in their dust bags and boxes. Ellie Delphine will definitely want to keep these Versace platforms in top condition—swoon.
FIVE SHOE-STORAGE SOLUTIONS I RATE:
1. Storage Cabinets
As sleek as it is practical, this clever cabinet with extra storage shelves gets our vote.
With all your shoes hidden behind rattan doors, this streamlined cabinet will work in any home.
You've most likely seen the Tylko units on Instagram—an influencer favourite, you can customise the unit to fit your space and style.
Of course IKEA has storage options, and this thin style will work well in smaller homes.
2. Shoe Racks And Benches
With a place to store your shoes by the door and a bench to sit on white you put them on, this simple rack does its job well.
If you prefer your shoes to be tucked away, Tylko's bench with doors could be the way to go.
3. Hanging Storage
A spot to have your favourite shoes on show that will definitely be best for flats.
Hang up muddy boots instead of dragging them all over the floor.
This one is ideal to hang over the back of a door. Tip: Pop it inside the wardrobe door so it's out of sight.
Hook your kicks or heels on this ladder for a unique way to show off your shoes.
4. Under-Bed Storage
If you're tight on space, get some of these discreet under-bed trays and slot them away.
This striped storage bag won't look ugly if it's poking out underneath your bed.
5. Bespoke Wardrobe Storage
Neville Johnson, Bespoke Walk-in Wardrobe
Erica Davies used Neville Johnson to create her dream pink walk-in wardrobe. Pricing depends on your design, so sign up for the bespoke service.
Sharp, Bespoke Walk-In Wardrobe
Another homeware specialist offering customised wardrobes is Sharp. The price will again depend on what you want, so book a free design visit to get planning.
Hammonds, Customised Wardrobe
Hammonds' bespoke wardrobe service can help you re-create that space you have saved on Pinterest.
If you want to try it yourself, IKEA's wardrobes and bookcases could easily be arranged in a way that looks like a walk-in wardrobe—for a lot cheaper, too.
Next Up: Need A Quick Shoe Fix? Here Are The 8 Best Glues For Shoes
Harriet Davey is a freelance fashion editor who has been part of Who What Wear's extended team since 2017. She previously worked in print at Look magazine and has since worked across print, digital and social for many other titles, including British Vogue, Stylist, Grazia, Refinery29 and Marie Claire. Also a stylist, Harriet has had the pleasure of producing cover shoots and editorials along with commercial shoots for brands including Boux Avenue, Watches of Switzerland, Benefit Cosmetics and Revolution. To add to this, Harriet also works in live TV styling for ITV’s This Morning.Back to Who What Wear. With hundreds of published stories on site, Harriet knows what the WWW reader wants. Keeping up to date with the latest It buys and runway trends, she can guarantee to keep you one step ahead of the most stylish people.When not writing or styling, Harriet loves to go shopping (yes, more fashion). If she’s not in a local Hackney bar or restaurant, you can find her forever searching for her next holiday destination.
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