Capsule Do’s and Dont’s
Capsule Defined
In its simplest form, a capsule closet lets you do more w/ less items. It is a curated mix of interchangeable pieces to create so many options. Check out my previous post on the full history and backstory.
If you’re ready to remove the guesswork from getting dressed and pair down your closet to those elevated, versatile basics — keep reading friend.
I’m giving you a quick jumpstart to help you edit your closet, down to the 20% you actually use, wear, and love.
Capsule tip: Start small, start somewhere.
Grab your matcha (or bevvie of choice), notebook, and let’s dive in your closet!
Do’s & Dont’s
I like to remind my clients that Rome wasn’t built overnight. It took time, often years, to accumulate our stuff. Go slow, give yourself grace, don’t expect it to go away overnight. With that said, let’s begin with some helpful advice to lay the groundwork for success in your closet.
It’s a process.
From the edit and elevating your closet (hello white space), to working with what you have while cultivating your style — it takes time.
— DO —
Start with the edit. Decluttering is foundational and non-negotiable. Always work with what you have first.
Create small wins. I swear by my timer trick, I call it 20-minute magic. We all have 20 minutes. Decide to prioritize your closet. Put on your favorite playlist, pick 1 category (be it socks and underwear, athleisure, shoes, etc.), set the timer and go! If you have time and momentum to keep going, do it. If not, pick up where you did the next day, rinse and repeat.
Take time to notice. Notice patterns, silhouettes, fabric, color, repetition, the things you wear over and over. Be a detective in your closet and take time to notice. This will be useful for your capsule list later.
Ask good questions. Would I buy this again? Do I love this or just like it? Is it in good condition? Does this piece reflect the image I want to project? How do I feel when I wear this? Can I wear this 3 ways? Why am I hanging onto this?
Gather inspo. Pinterest, IG, your favorite blogger — these can be great jumping off points to help understand what you love and gravitate toward, and allow you to experiment with pieces that fit your body and lifestyle. It’s all about getting creative and trial and error.
— DON’T —
Go shopping to replace everything. That’s neither sustainable or helpful. Don’t add to the noise. The process begins with subtraction. That’s the first step to providing clarity in your closet.
Take everything out at once. This is the biggest mistake I see with clients. It typically ends in frustration and a big pile on the floor that you will ‘eventually’ get to. Creating small wins, one category at a time makes it doable and actionable.
Copy // paste a generic capsule list. While those lists can be helpful, you need to tailor it to your existing closet and unique needs (lifestyle, climate, body, preferences, etc.)
