10 Smart Ways to Illuminate Your Dark Closet

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Imagine this: with the click of a switch, your shoe collection is on full display under a flood of ambient LED lighting. Whether Manolo Blahnik gets a feverish 50 percent of your income—or you’re more of a Zara patron—each outfit accessory you own is instantly elevated under the right lighting.

In fact, when it comes to closet space, artful illumination goes beyond mere aesthetics. “There’s a psychological aspect at play,” says New York City–based designer Blair Moore. “A beautifully lit space can inspire you to dress up, even in an era dominated by athleisure wear. Accent lighting, in particular, enhances this experience, urging you to present your best self.” In other words, who needs a therapist when your closet is its own clinic for self-actualization?

When it comes to deploying tasteful lighting that creates that coveted boutique look, it’s not simply a matter of throwing something with a bulb on the ceiling. “It’s vital to consider both interior millwork lighting and ambient lighting when designing a closet,” says Philadelphia-based designer Kaitlyn Murphy of Marguerite Rodgers. “When lighting is overhead, and a homeowner is standing between that lighting and their clothes, the clothes would be in shadow, but if they incorporate lighting into the millwork itself, their clothes will never be in shadow.”

Depending on the design of a closet’s interior, there are a few different closet lighting techniques one can use to achieve this. “Vertical lighting on both sides allows the area to be evenly lit if the beam angle meets in the middle and the stretch isn’t too wide,” Murphy explains. “This is also the most flexible option, as shelves and rods can be rearranged and therefore not interfere with the lights.”

On the other hand, horizontal shelving lights will provide illumination on each ledge and can get pricey unless the shelves are turned see-through with a glass insert so that the light can extend beyond the individual shelf. “There are a variety of ways to continue to make these shelves adjustable,” she adds, “but often having them fixed is the economical way to go.”

Lighting temperature, too, plays into creating ambiance. Both Moore and Murphy say they stick to 2700K. “It consistently provides warm, inviting light,” Murphy explains. “Avoid anything higher, as it tends to be colder and bluer, which can strain your eyes.” You’ll also want to consider features like motion sensors and smart lighting that automatically turns on and off at certain times of the day for a streamlined experience, if it would be helpful.

Ready to give your curated wardrobe pieces their moment in the spotlight? These 10 closet lighting ideas will transform your space into a luxurious haven fit for designer wear. With smart technology and chic new design options, you’re sure to find the perfect luminaries for your space. What a bright idea!

Add LED Strip Lights

LED (or light-emitting diode) lights are long-lasting, energy-efficient semiconductor devices that generate a minimal amount of heat even placed behind glass cabinet doors. Their most popular rendition comes in the form of strip lights, which can be placed under shelves to highlight special items like purses or heels. “In a walk-in closet with clothes behind cabinetry, install tape lighting in all hanging spaces to illuminate dark corners,” Moore advises. “This not only elevates your wardrobe experience but also helps you rediscover pieces you may have otherwise forgotten.”

For sloped ceilings, Moore opts for gimbal recessed lighting. “It’s extremely versatile,” she explains. “You can also orient the light to illuminate cabinetry if interior cabinet lighting isn’t feasible, providing a practical workaround.”

Install Recessed Puck Lighting

Another option is puck lights, oval or round-shaped LED lights that have a more focused beam and are often mounted around the cabinetry’s top perimeter. “While there’s a time and place for all types of decorative lighting, sometimes tape lighting, table lamps, and recessed cans are all you need,” Moore says.

She advises renovators to opt for three-inch recessed cans, which she says only look good when strategically (and consistently) placed a few inches apart. “While functional, they can appear unattractive if installed too close together,” she advises. Murphy also says she likes to use puck lights over a dresser or surface that displays jewelry, watches, or other catch-alls. Puck lights come in many forms, containing rechargeable batteries or a wall outlet, as well as connected to a smart app.

Add Ribbon Lighting Beneath Your Closet Rod

Another way to provide visibility on the clothes placed on a hanger is to run recessed ribbon lighting along the length of the closet rod, beneath it. Doing so brings style and sophistication to a space not usually in the limelight. If you want to get really extra, ditch the original clothes rod and opt for one with a built-in light, like Alcon Lighting’s Rotatable LED Lighted Closet Rod, for seamless integration.

Install Track Lighting or Light Bars

Due to its increased versatility and an increase in options, track lighting is making a comeback in recent years. Track lighting is a lighting fixture that uses a track or rail to connect individual lights that can be adjusted to different angles and positions. The track can be mounted on the wall or ceiling, and can run lengthwise down beams or crosswise across rafters or joists. The lights can be directed in any direction, making them ideal for closets as they often have specific focal points, whether it’s a spot in front of the full-length mirror or a certain jewelry drawer you’re always squinting into.

Bring in Sconces

A particularly stunning pair of surface-mounted sconces add warmth and elegance to a space not usually given such considerations. Whether you hang one on both sides of a vanity or on a blank wall, a sconce is sure to cast a warm glow and create a lived-in feel. Hot tip: A general rule for sconces stipulates that they should be installed between 60” to 72” from the floor to the center of the junction box.

Illuminate the Closet Base

Just as illuminating the base of a bed can create the illusion that it’s floating, adding a skirting and baseboard LED lights to the base of your closet or or wall trim, can frame the room and give it a contemporary look.

Bring in a Statement Chandelier or Pendant Light

Give your closet a touch of glamour by bringing in a hanging pendant light. “A fun chandelier over an island or folding table can also be special and unexpected,” Murphy adds. “For instance, we love the Stuart Haygarth Optical Tinted chandelier, made from sunglasses.”

As for finding the right fixture for your space, Moore says the size of the chandelier should match the size of your closet. “If you opt for a chandelier, consider smaller pendants with flair,” she explains. “Your closet is a great space to have fun with lighting and make it a true reflection of your style.”

Hang a String of Twinkly Lights

Decorating the closet of a child (or adult, for that matter) who doesn’t always want to be in the here and now? Consider adding twinkly lights for a whimsical feel. These magical lights come in a variety of shapes, colors and styles, ranging from classic LED white bulbs to rainbow lights that can change color with the click of a button. They can be wound up and placed in a mason jar or simply strung across the closet. While they don’t portend to provide the most robust lighting, they add a touch of otherworldliness to any space.

Incorporate Dimmer Switches

A dimmer switch can be a more permanent fixture that seamlessly integrates into the space and offers a range of lighting options for any time or mood. “I recommend installing all lighting on dimmer switches, allowing you to create the perfect ambiance from morning to night.” Moore says.

Let in Natural Light

Natural light is an important part of layered lighting, so if you have a window, don’t let this luxury go to waste, says Murphy. “Natural lighting in a dressing room is always a plus because, after all, you will likely be leaving your home and stepping into the daylight,” she adds. “So, deciphering between your navy and black shoes is important.”

For Murray, however, “the optimal use of natural light depends on your closet’s layout and chosen finishes,” she notes, adding that the direction your closet faces affects the quality of light, whether it’s harsh or soft sunlight. “Some closets benefit from a dark and moody ambiance, while others are elevated by a bank of windows that allow natural light to flood in.”

Depending on its placement, a window can be embellished by a light and airy curtain or blackout shade for added layering.

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