What is a capsule wardrobe?
Digging through your closet for the perfect outfit can get old. Especially if you have years’ worth of multiple-wear pieces taking up precious closet space. Perhaps you’re familiar with the minimalist movement and wonder how you can apply it to your clothes. Enter the capsule wardrobe.
A year-round capsule wardrobe distills your closet into 25-50 of your most beloved, well-fitting and high-quality pieces of clothing. However, if you live somewhere with varying temperatures throughout the year, you may need season-specific capsule wardrobes.
Below, we share some of our recommendations for a capsule wardrobe for the summer.
Why create a capsule wardrobe?
This concept is the brainchild of fashion designer Susie Faux. In the 1970s, Faux lamented how people had too many cheap, poorly constructed articles of clothing. She believed a capsule wardrobe could help people curate a collection of high-quality clothes meant to last for years.
Now, decades later, textile waste is on the rise. Several eco-conscious dressers have invested in capsule wardrobes as a way to protect the environment, decrease clutter and only utilize high-quality pieces.
What you need in a summer capsule wardrobe
Since you want your wardrobe to last more than one season, aim for classic pieces and avoid trends. Patterns like stripes, polka dots and a subtle animal print look great, no matter the era.
Also, try to stick with a neutral color palette. Doing so will simplify getting ready in the morning and help you look put together.
Finally, pay attention to texture. Neutral doesn’t have to mean boring. Keep an eye out for interesting hemlines, hardware like grommets or buckles and unique details such as ruffles.
Here are some clothing articles to consider for a succinct and chic summer wardrobe.
T-shirts
Not all t-shirts are created equal. Look into soft, 100% cotton shirts to round out your closet.
Joie Darlina Linen Long-Sleeve Top: available at Saks Fifth Avenue
These breezy linen tops are breathable, making them perfect for warm weather. We recommend the white for summertime, but there’s no harm in snagging one of the black tees, too.
Tommy Hilfiger Tie-Front T-Shirt: available at Macy’s
With its cuffed sleeves and tiny Tommy Hilfiger logo, this white t-shirt is a perfect classic with a twist. If you don’t want to limit yourself to white, you can also pick navy blue and pink.
Adicolor Classics Trefoil Tee: available at Adidas
If you’re craving a graphic tee, why not go for a timeless design? The Adidas logo is sure to level up your look. Available in black and in white.
Shorts
In the hot summer weather, you need to have shorts. But you don’t have to limit yourself to denim cutoffs.
Levi’s Women’s Mid-Length Shorts: available at Macy’s
Levi’s is a well-loved brand, and for a good reason. These shorts are comfortable without being too short and come in a wide array of washes.
Brunello Cucinelli Garment Dyed Monili Tab Shorts: available at Saks Fifth Avenue
These are your go-to dress-up shorts. The clay color is subtle enough to pair with anything, and the belted waistline is great for a cinched silhouette.
Tommy Hilfiger Utility Romper: available at Macy’s
While these aren’t exactly shorts, rompers make getting dressed fun and easy. And these will go with any accessory, whether casual or formal.
Dresses
Feel the breeze on your legs with a few summer dresses. Have something casual, something formal and something in between.
Tommy Hilfiger Cotton Tiered Midi Dress: available at Macy’s
Achieve an elegant, soft look with this cotton dress. Whether you’re going to a wedding or lounging beachside, this dress will look lovely with heels or a casual flat.
Michael Kors Striped Stretch Cotton Poplin Shirtdress: available at Michael Kors
No summer wardrobe is complete without a shirt dress, or two. This bright, menswear-inspired look is great on its own or layered for a more formal appearance.
Adicolor Classics Roll-Up Sleeve Tee Dress: available at Adidas
Get sporty with this Adidas dress, which features a classic logo and three stripes down the sleeve. The extra relaxed fit works for regular, casual wear.
Swimwear
You likely only need one swimsuit for a summer capsule, maybe two maximum.
La Blanca Island Goddess Off-The-Shoulder Ruffled Swimsuit: available at Macy’s
Show off some shoulder with this flattering one-piece that’s great for all ages and body types. The lace cutout at the back adds a fun touch to this classic swimwear cut.
Michael Kors Striped Monokini: available at Michael Kors
The chain link decal adds a unique look to this otherwise classic, striped monokini. Sport this ultimate summer combo of Maritime and white with a fun beach towel.
Island Escape Push-Up Tankini Top & Bikini Bottoms: available at Macy’s
This Island Escape tankini is appealing without being too bulky. While there are few different color schemes to choose from, we recommend black and white.
Footwear
Shoes are essential for tying an outfit together. If you are working with a budget, this is the best area to splurge.
Miu Miu Leather Sneakers: available at Saks Fifth Avenue
Sneakers are the ultimate workhorse of your shoe collection. You’ll feel sleek in these leather Miu Miu sneakers, which sport the Saks logo along the soles and tongue of the shoe.
MICHAEL Michael Kors Amelia Mules: available at Michael Kors and Macy’s
Upgrade from flip-flops with this elegant pair of mules. These Michael Kors mules are comfortable, sophisticated and lend a polished feel to any summer ensemble.
Naturalizer Lincoln Thong Sandals: available at Macy’s
Thong sandals are a must for the summer. Walk in comfort and style with the Naturalizer sandals. The thick soles make them great for all-day wear. While black is a go-to, we recommend the Bamboo Tan Leather or White Snake Leather for something a little different.
Ola Faleti is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money
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