Your Comprehensive Guide to Buying the Perfect Wardrobe: Types, Styles, Sizes and More

Investing in a new wardrobe provides you with the perfect excuse to revamp your space and get creative with your bedroom storage solutions. It may also give you the inspiration you have been waiting for to finally de-clutter and reorganise your clothing, footwear, and accessories.

Whether you are looking to spruce up your space or if you have just moved into a new home, selecting the perfect wardrobe will make a huge difference to the overall look and feel of your bedroom. There are several things to consider when choosing the best closet to suit your needs, including budget, décor style, functionality, and the size of the area available to you.

With a multitude of wardrobe types, styles, and sizes on the market, it may be a little daunting when you first set out wardrobe shopping. However, never fear; we are on hand to help guide you through the process.

In this blog, we will examine the different wardrobe types, and discuss the most important things to consider when selecting the perfect one for your home.

Types of wardrobes

A wardrobe is not just a place to hang your clothes. It is a highly functional piece of furniture, and it also contributes to the overall aesthetic of your space.

Freestanding wardrobes

Freestanding wardrobes have long been a favourite on the market as they are versatile and will work in most spaces. They can also be moved throughout the home, which makes them a popular option if you occasionally like to change the layout of a room or if you like to switch things up every now and then.

They can also be dismantled and taken with you if you ever decide to move house. Freestanding closets come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colours, from classic to contemporary, so no matter what your style is, you will have no problem finding one to suit your space.

Mirrored wardrobes

Mirrored wardrobes are a popular choice with a variety of room layouts and design styles as they serve a dual function, offering both storage and reflection. They work very well in smaller rooms, as the reflection off the mirror can create the illusion of a larger space. They are also a great choice for those looking for a full-length mirror option.

Sliding door wardrobes

Sliding door wardrobes are sleek and sophisticated and provide the perfect solution if you want to save on space. They are available in both built-in and free-standing options and are found across a variety of décor styles.

Fitted or built-in wardrobes

Fitted or built-in wardrobes are an excellent option for those tight on space or for those looking to maximise their storage space. They provide a contemporary, streamlined look and can be built from floor to ceiling. They are a great way to utilise any awkward spaces, and they can be designed to fit around uneven walls and sloped ceilings. However, in general, they are more expensive than freestanding options as they require a professional to design and fit them.

Walk-in wardrobes

Every person’s dream! A walk-in wardrobe provides you with the ultimate in luxury storage for your clothes, shoes, bags, accessories, make-up, grooming station, and more. The layout of a walk-in closet makes your personalised clothing items instantly visible and accessible, and it provides you with the ideal mix of drawers, shelving, and hanging space.

Wardrobe styles

Whether you are a fan of traditional style closets or prefer the retro vibe, they come in all the popular styles.

Traditional

In general, traditional closets are made from wood, and they provide a warm, cosy feel. They can be streamlined, or they can feature ornate mouldings and carvings.

Contemporary

Contemporary wardrobes create a minimalist feel, and they are characterised by sleek features and clean lines. These modern-type armoires will work in both large and small spaces and feature a variety of modern materials, such as copper or glass.

Industrial

If solid and sleek is the look you are after, then the industrial closet may be the one for you. These closets incorporate materials such as reclaimed wood and metal.

Scandinavian

The elegant and simplistic Scandinavian design works very well in a wide variety of homes. This is due to the use of neutral, light colours, clean lines, and natural materials.

When choosing your style of wardrobe, you may also consider the overall look you are aiming for. For example, closets without handles will work well with contemporary designs, and sliding wardrobes will work well with minimalist décor styles.

On the other hand, a more traditional or classic style closet may feature detailed handle options. The colour of your armoire will greatly impact the look and feel of your room and space, so opt for a shade that speaks to you, as you will most likely be utilising this piece of furniture for quite some time.

Choosing the right wardrobe size

The size of the wardrobe you choose will depend on the space available to you. Your ideal wardrobe should be proportional to your room and give you enough space to be able to store your belongings comfortably.

Make a note of the ideal measurements for your wardrobe, including the maximum and minimum length, width, depth, and height for the wardrobe space. Remember, where your wardrobe is not a custom-made piece, check if it is being delivered pre-assembled, or flat-packed.

In cases where it is already assembled make sure that the dimensions of the wardrobe will fit the dimensions of your door frame.

Single wardrobes

If your room is small, then a single wardrobe may be the ideal choice for you. Typically measuring from 40 cm – 60 cm in width, these wardrobes will help to maximise the storage area for those with limited space. You can increase storage space by choosing a taller one, and you can save on room space by selecting a closet with sliding doors.

Double wardrobes

The double wardrobe is the standard size for most bedrooms. Ranging from 70 cm – 100 cm in width. This wardrobe will provide most bedrooms with ample storage space for belongings.

Triple or large wardrobes

A triple or large wardrobe is ideal if you have a bigger space. They provide you with additional storage and are ideal for those with a larger clothing collection. They generally start from 120cm in width and their size allows items to be instantly visible and accessible.

Additional considerations when choosing a wardrobe

Once you have made your decision on the type, size, and style of closet you are choosing, there are a few final items to add to your wardrobe checklist to find the perfect wardrobe for your home.

Make sure to measure before you buy wardrobes

As with all furniture, taking the measurements of your room and your available space should be your first step when you begin the process to buy wardrobes. Your two considerations will be the size of your bedroom and the size of the wardrobe itself, and both are important when you are selecting the best wardrobe for your space.

When you are measuring your bedroom for closets, you will want to make sure that there is enough space for the actual piece of furniture, of course, but you also need enough space to comfortably move around. If you are opting for a wardrobe with doors that open out, you will need to take that into consideration as well — and if you are short on space, you might opt for sliding door wardrobes instead.

Similarly, if you are thinking about buying wardrobes with drawers or mirrored doors, you need to make additional considerations in terms of measurements. Wardrobes with drawers obviously need space to pull the drawers out and access the clothing within. And if you choose a wardrobe with a mirrored door, you want room to be able to step back and look at your outfit in full.

Decide on your bedroom storage needs

When you are choosing the right wardrobe for your bedroom, it makes sense to think about what types of clothing you plan to keep in it so you can figure out your storage needs.

If you have a number of long coats or dresses, then drawers that take up space at the bottom of your wardrobe will not allow your clothes to hang to their full lengths. However, if you are using your wardrobe to organise shoes, bedding, and other items that you can’t hang, then drawers and shelves might be a great addition.

Wardrobes also come in a variety of widths. And as we learned earlier you can choose from single, double, triple, or even quadruple wardrobes, depending on the amount of storage space you need.

When you are getting ready to buy wardrobes, you may want to do so in conjunction with selecting your other bedroom storage solutions — like nightstands, dressers, chests of drawers, and blanket boxes — to make sure that you have everything you need to keep your clothes and belongings safely and neatly organised.

Think about the perfect wardrobe style and material

Most wardrobes have a similar look. Almost all wardrobes are made of wood, and obviously they all have a rectangular shape. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some stylistic choice when you’re selecting the best wardrobe for your bedroom. Choose from traditional or modern wardrobe designs, and buy wardrobes that are perfectly suited for your decor style.

Many wardrobes are part of larger bedroom furniture collections. This means you can buy wardrobes that match your bed, nightstands, and other essential bedroom pieces. If you want the ideal bedroom setup without any hassle, shop from a range to ensure easy coordination.

Of course, if a bedroom collection doesn’t have exactly what you’re looking for, or if you’re after a more eclectic look, you have plenty of standalone wardrobe options as well. Whether you prefer a crisp white-painted finish, stately mahogany construction, or a lovely two-tone design, you can shop wardrobes that will meet all your needs.

Choosing the perfect wardrobe for your space ultimately comes down to individual taste. However, you will need to consider the type, style, and size of the wardrobe prior to selecting the most suitable one for your home. By using our comprehensive guide to wardrobe shopping, you will be well on your way to selecting your dream closet that offers a mix of both functionality and fabulousness.

Happy shopping, your ultimate wardrobe awaits!

Ready to transform your bedroom into a sanctuary? Don’t stop at your wardrobe! Dive into our Ultimate Bedroom Furniture Guide for comprehensive insights and expert advice on choosing the perfect pieces for your space. Discover everything you need to know about buying bedroom furniture and create a room that is not just comfortable but truly your own.