Organization–the stylish way.

Decorating is my thing. Organization–not so much.

I love to make rooms pretty, but struggle with bringing order to the often unseen areas of my home. With a new year comes new chances, so I thought it might be fun to look at functional but fashionable ways to organize those unsightly areas that all most of us have.

image via Martha Stewart

If there’s one area in my bedroom that stays in disarray, it’s my jewelry drawer. I love this pretty solution for avoiding jumbled heaps of necklaces and bracelets. Use a combination of teacups and saucers to divide up your pieces. Mix up various china patterns and colors for an eclectic, feminine look.

image via Apartment Therapy

Almost everybody has several of those vases you get from the florist. I always see them lining the shelves of my local Goodwill. They’re actually a wonderful way to display and organize your necklaces. You’ll feel like you’re shopping at a jewelry boutique every time you step into your closet.

image via Country Living

Who knew a great solution for your jewelry storage may be hiding in your shed? Using an old rake to hold and separate necklaces is an inventive way to add some character to your closet.

image via Young House Love

Give your junk drawer (you know you have one–or two!) a face-lift by using baskets and bowls to separate items. Small flower pots are also great to use in drawers for holding random rubber bands, paperclips, etc.

image via Good Housekeeping

Always losing your keys? Place a pretty bowl by your entry door to help keep your sanity and add a little style at the same time.

Cozy Little House blog via Houzz

Think outside the box for cheap and easy organization tools. This creative blogger used a dish rack to hold files and pencils on her desk.

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So, here’s to getting organized in 2011! Make a list of what areas you would like to tackle and take it with you next time you’re scouring the aisles of your Goodwill store. Surprising storage solutions may be staring right at you.

-Emily A. Clark

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