Gone are the days when the 'walk-in closet' indicated luxury. Today's closets are status symbols. Today, those who can afford the space are turning extra bedrooms into spacious private lounges custom designed to display their ever-growing collection of shoes, handbags and designer goods. Many of these mimic the look of boutiques, displaying shoes and handbags in the same manner a store would.

Brilliant Asylum has been torturing me with dreamy closets any woman would be happy to own. Some are grand salons with windows, task lighting and wainscoting. Eva Jeanbart-Lorenzotti's closet is bountiful and looks as though it belongs to a colorful woman full of life (and it does). Something about her assembly of accessories and colorful clothing tells me she's been around the world and carefully built a collection of beloved pieces. 

Mariah Carey's closet on the other hand takes the cake. It looks like a chic European showroom. Chandeliers and chaise lounges included. But it is so spot-on perfect that I suspect it was created specifically for this photo shoot by her stylist and PR department, not carefully cultivated with years of time. It seems a bit contrived and impersonal (even if it is fabulous to look at) for someone as unstable as a Mariah Carey. I'd be dishonest if I didn't admit I would love a closet this spacious and perfect looking. But I'd be sure to add some personal flourishes.

For me a closet ought to be well lit, elegant, organized, spacious and possessing a bit of whimsy (who says I can't dangle a chandelier in there?). And windows bringing in natural light are a must if you can swing it. But it should also reflect the personality and loves of the owner. After all, this is your personal wardrobe.

Interestingly, size isn't always indicative of luxury. Jordan from Oh Happy Day proudly displays her gorgeous closet. Living in SF's Bay area where square footage is at a premium, she's converted an armoire into a work of art. Wallpapering the interior and painting it a glossy white add to the glamorous effect. Jordan proves that style comes in many shapes and sizes. Her block-print wallpaper makes her creation look every bit as good as this closet featured in an issue of Domino. (bottom image). I especially like how she used the suitcases as home accessories. It gives the room an air of excitement, as though she might jet off to Prague at any moment. And notice her efficient use of space for her shoes and (fabulous knee-high) boots. Everything just fits so perfectly. Jordan, I love what you've done with the place.

Whatever your preference, remember that the closet is your special space to do with as you wish. (Just ask my husband!) It's worth it to spend a weekend or two turning it into a special space that serves your needs. Don't be afraid to go too far with your design, after all, the only one you really need to please is you.