The Capsule Closet Manual: How to Get Started
- by CJLA Admin
Carly Jean Los Angeles started in 2015 with three simple goals: help women feel as beautiful as they already are, simplify the shopping + getting ready process, and provide beautiful, quality pieces that can be worn in any season of life! A way to achieve this is through creating a functional capsule closet!
If you have been around for any amount of time, you have probably heard us say "capsule" A LOT around here, but maybe you aren't even quite sure what a capsule is and why it's so important??
A CJLA capsule is a collection of clothing comprised of multiple basic pieces that can be mixed, matched, and used to create ENDLESS everyday outfits.
The core elements are classic pieces that won't go out of style and can mix and match with the other items in your closet! These core pieces will last for YEARS and will always fit and feel great!
So now that you know what a CJLA capsule is, let's talk about how to start one! A basic CJLA capsule is comprised of 1). Multiple CJLA basics 2). CJLA denim 3). A few seasonal layering pieces 4). Accessories that can be mixed and matched! Now let's break those down!
1. Multiple CJLA basics
We recommend having a 2-3 tank tops, short sleeve tops, and long sleeves! These will work to wear by themselves or for layering, depending on the season! Basics will never go out of style and truly help create endless outfits! You will never again say that you have nothing to wear!
2. CJLA Denim
No capsule is complete without denim that you feel AMAZING in. You are going to want to have a dark wash, light wash, and black pair of denim! These options can change up your look and work for multiple occasions!
Whether you purchase distressed denim or not might change based on your lifestyle! For instance, if you are a working professional, you are going to need dressier pants to wear into the office whereas if you are a stay at home mom or work a more casual job, you can probably wear jeans with some distressing! CJLA is KNOWN for our denim because no matter what style you get, it will without a doubt, be the comfiest, softest denim you will ever put on. PLUS they are all SUPER flattering and versatile for any and all occasions!
3. Layering Pieces
Pieces that you can layer are KEY to a functional capsule wardrobe because it's truly the best way to change up your looks, mix and match, + have a capsule that lasts through all seasons of the year! We recommend always having a denim jacket, cardigan, and button down tops on hand!
4. Accessories + Add-ons
Items like dresses, skirts, jewelry, hats, and shoes complete your capsule and make it unique to who YOU are and what you like, based on the occasion!
Still Need Help? We GOT you.
1. Get expert advice.
We are here to help! Send us a DM, message on LiveChat, text, or email to get recommendations and personal styling advice from us! That's why we are here!
2. Utilize our website.
We have tabs on the website with a few example of capsules that could fit your lifestyle and style preference!
3. Tune into try-ons on Instagram and the app.
Every week you have access to personal styling sessions from girls on the CJLA Team with different styles, perspectives and sizes to help you feel confident when shopping while also getting styling tips and outfit ideas!
This is a HUGE resource for you, that is FREE on our site! Add to cart and save for reference + even examples of sample capsules!
Now that you know what a capsule is and how to get started, what are you waiting for? It's time to start simplifying your life with timeless, comfortable, versatile, and beautiful pieces by shopping CJLA! If you have any additional questions, please don't hesitate to reach out on our instagram, email, or LiveChat on our website!
I think my wardrobe is 90% CJLA now as everything I’ve collected from there all works together so well. It makes getting dress for any event so quick and easy now. Everything g is so comfortable and looks so classy even if it’s meant to be casual. I love everything I have CJLA!
Sent here from @cjlagirls😊
Learning how to create a capsule wardrobe from Carly Jean has been an absolute gamechanger for me since I found you back in 2017! It’s taught me how to create outfits that look put together without wasting money on pieces I only wear once or twice. A lot of the clothes I’ve bought from CJLA have been in rotation from working full time in an office, work from home, pregnancy, and postpartum! A huge thank you to your team for the amazing tryons and customer service too!!
I feel like I could blindfold my eyes and pick out two CJLA items and they would somehow magically mix and match! I have been faithful for going on three years now and just can’t get enough! If you haven’t tried CJLA you have to start now!
I’ve always pinned capsule wardrobe ideas but always found it difficult to source the items from the image because I either didn’t know where to look or couldn’t afford what I could find. CJLA has taken the stress and guess work out of curating the perfect capsule wardrobe for anyone. I’m loving the pieces I have and look forward to growing my wardrobe with more CJLA!!
Love my CJLA pieces! Always so versatile throughout all seasons!