How to Make a Summer Capsule Wardrobe

Everything you need to know about how to make a summer capsule wardrobe!

Summer is just about here and that means it’s time to start thinking about your summer wardrobe. If you’ve been reading the blog for a while then you know that I am a huge fan of having a capsule wardrobe. Even if you tend to go for trendy styles or more colorful looks it’s important to have basics that you can use to complete your outfit. Not only that but having pieces that you can mix and match easily makes getting dressed each day so much easier. This is especially important if you’re someone that struggles with figuring out what to wear in the morning.

Not sure what a capsule wardrobe is? Check out this post for more information and why I think everyone needs one!

How to Make a Summer Capsule Wardrobe

Tops

I always start off my capsule wardrobe posts by talking about the tops that you need in your closet. For me, having enough tops to choose from is essential. In my opinion, you can get away with having just a few bottoms but it’s important to have a few different basic tops that you can mix and match with your other pieces.

For all of my capsule posts, I encourage my readers to stick with neutral shades. I know it sounds boring. Especially when you know that I absolutely love incorporating color into my wardrobe. After you build out your capsule wardrobe you can add in colorful or patterned pieces.

Basic Tank

I don’t know about you but I pretty much live in tank tops when it’s hot outside. All you need to look chic and put together is a basic white tank, some gold jewelry, and your favorite pair of shorts. Don’t underestimate the power of accessories they can really change up how your entire outfit looks!

Dressy Short Sleeve Top

I always like to make sure that I have a blouse in my wardrobe for when I need to look a little more dressed up. When choosing a blouse for your capsule go for classic styles that you can have in your closet for years to come.

Linen Button Down

When it’s hot outside fabrics like linen can be a total life saver! I love to have a button-down top in my closet to wear on cooler summer days or as a cover-up at the beach. You can leave it long and loose or tie it up for a different look.

Graphic Tee

Graphic tees are always a staple in my closet. I love them because they add some personality to your style yet go with so many different pieces that are already in your wardrobe!

Bottoms

Linen pants

Linen pants are a must-have in the summertime. They are so versatile as you can wear them for the beach or out on a dinner date. I prefer a wide leg style but find a style that you’re most comfortable in and stick with that!

Denim Shorts

I think that it goes without saying that denim shorts are a must in the summer. I prefer a mid to high-waisted style and a little distressing. These short from Abercrombie would be the perfect addition to any capsule!

Dressy Shorts

I love to have a pair of shorts in a different fabric other than denim for days I want to look a little more dressed up. Paper bag shorts and tailored shorts are my favorite styles. All you need to do is add a body suit and cute sandals!

Mini, Midi, or Maxi Skirt of Choice

It’s always nice to have a neutral skirt in a style that you feel comfortable in for the summer months. Since it’s summer I would go for a loose-fitting skirt or something that is made with a light breathable fabric. Pair your skirt with a graphic tee, crop top, or bodysuit.

Dresses

I needed to include dresses in this summer capsule wardrobe collection because I pretty much live in them during the summer months. My favorite summer dresses are flowy and comfortable. Although, I have taken a liking to more bodycon shirt dresses over the past year because of the more casual and street style look.

Swimwear

You can’t do summer without swimwear. I decided to include swimwear in this summer capsule wardrobe collection because I would assume at some point you’re gonna need it! While I tend to go for more colorful swim options having a classic bathing suit in your collection is always a good thing.

As you can see above I included a two-piece suit (one in black and one in brown) as well as two one-piece suits (one in white and one in black). I also made sure that they were in silhouettes that are timeless and comfortable to wear. When picking out a bathing suit go with a style that makes you feel the most comfortable. By the way, there’s no need to have four suits in your collection although I would at least have two.

Accessories

You know how I feel about accessories! They like the icing on top of a cake. Not completely necessary but they add something special to your overall look!

Here are a few essential accessories for the summer that will help you to complete your entire outfit.

Sunglasses

It goes without saying that a good pair of sunglasses is a must not only in the summer but all year round. Right now my favorite brand is Prive Reaxu. They make affordable stylish glasses that are 100% UVA/UVB and polarized. I love a classic aviator style or these black sunnies. So chic and they won’t go out of style.

Hoops

Hoop earrings are a classic jewelry staple. I tend to go for larger hoops in gold but small ones can make a statement too! When picking out a gold hoop earring try to go for something gold plated or filled. These from Monica Vinader are a little on the pricy side but so worth it for the quality. Not willing to spend over $100? Check out Ettika for some amazing affordable yet quality pieces! P.S. I’m an ambassador for Monica Vinader so you can get 20% off your entire order with this code US20RAFINSIDER-E02A!

Straw Bag

A straw bag is perfect for the summer because you can take it on your beach vacation or use it to run errands.

Layered necklace

Necklaces are another must-have item for your capsule collection. Lately, I’ve been loving dainty pieces that you can layer. These types of necklaces will never go out of style and look good with nearly everything!

Beach bag

If you’re heading to the beach this summer you need to have a bag big enough for all of your things! This pink crochet bag is perfect because it’ll fit your towel and all of your beach necessities. Plus, the fact that it’s crochet means it won’t collect sand at the bottom of the bag! If you’re willing to splurge the Marc Jacobs Tote is another stylish option.

Shoes

If you’re looking to only have a few pairs of shoes in your wardrobe for summer then these are the styles that you need.

White Sneakers

White sneakers go with pretty much any and everything in your closet. You can pair them with shorts, skirts, and even floral dresses. I prefer to go for a pair that is all white without any other designs for a fresh look. Puma, Adidas, Converse, and Keds all make classic white sneakers that you can pair with anything!

Flip Flops

If you’re heading to the beach then you need a pair of flip-flops. While you could go for an inexpensive pair from Old Navy why not pick out something more stylish? That way if you need to go from the beach to dinner you’ll have something simple yet chic to wear!

Dressy Sandals

For the occasions when you need something dressier pick up a pair of nude or white-heeled sandals. I found these braided ones from Target and was so impressed with how comfortable they are. Not to mention they can go with almost any outfit!

Hats

Since hats offer sun protection I wanted to include them in my summer capsule wardrobe. I would recommend two styles for the summer. A baseball cap or a straw hat. They both provide sun protection and can be worn to the beach or by the pool. I personally love to have both and switch them out depending on my mood.

Outerwear

I’ll admit that I don’t really wear jackets too often during the summer. But for those of you in a cooler climate or for cooler summer nights these are the pieces that you should consider having in your wardrobe. A denim jacket, lightweight sweater, or a linen blazer. Choose a high-quality piece that you feel comfortable in so you can have it in your wardrobe for years to come.

There it is dazzling babes! Everything you need to make a summer capsule wardrobe!

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Do you have a capsule wardrobe? If so drop your top tips for creating one in the comments below! And make sure to stay tuned for next week’s post on how to start building your capsule wardrobe!