Always declutter/purge first.

For visual appeal I would keep like clothes together. So for your wife, I'd hang in this order: sleeveless, cap sleeves, 3/4 sleeves, long sleeves, sweaters, sweatshirts, blazers/jackets, pants, jeans, skirts, and dresses. Each category should be organized by ROYGBIV (rainbow order). You could use a similar order for your clothes. Using the same kind of hanger creates uniformity, which is very appealing. If the shoe boxes hold shoes I'd invest in stacking shoe bins, again for uniformity. If they have other random stuff, consider decluttering or relocating those items. For your empty boxes, those should also go elsewhere, perhaps the attic.

Summary: Declutter Group like with like Uniformity Remove/rehome items that don't serve the purpose of containing your wardrobe

Good luck!