Stay stylish in the heat, with a summer capsule wardrobe.
Whether you’re refreshing your entire look or simply adding a few high-quality classics to the rotation, curating a capsule wardrobe is always a wise idea to make your life easier. Not only will you be creating a more environmentally-conscious wardrobe, you’ll also be investing in versatile staples that stand the test of time.
Refresh your wardrobe with breathable fabrics, airier cuts and softer shades designed to make dressing for your Monday to Sunday effortless. The sun is shining, the social season is in full swing – keep reading for the must-have pieces to add to your warm weather rotation.
Here’s how to build a summer wardrobe that can transition seamlessly from season to season.
1. A Classic Shirt
A crisp classic shirt is the summer staple of the moment and can take you from day to night in an instant. Airy linen or cotton styles are light and breathable and they’re perfect as a beach cover-up, but can also be worn tied at the front over a swimsuit, transporting you straight to the local beachside bar. Shirts in neutral colours can work for any occasion and can take you from the beach to a casual shopping day and beyond. On the other hand, a bold shirt in shades like electric blue or bright green can bring a bold pop of colour to the office or your weekend errand run. Pair a bright shirt with dressy shorts or trousers and the latest on-trend heels for a night out.
Style it tucked in for a put-together ensemble, out for a casual, oversized look, or open with a cropped tank underneath. Due to their relaxed silhouettes, versatility, and eternal appeal, the classic shirt has rightfully earned its spot as a summer capsule wardrobe staple.
2. The Midi Dress
The midi dress will never go out of style. The hemline of a midi dress makes it the perfect versatile, in-between style to suit a myriad of occasions. Plus, a look that requires only one item of clothing for a complete outfit gets our tick of approval.
When it comes to midi dresses, the fabric used can dictate the level of formality. Linen in neutral tones is ideal for daytime, yet you can elevate your look simply by adding a statement necklace, an eye-catching belt, and a pair of directional heels. Meanwhile, a silk midi dress or satin slip dress can help you move from an elegant dinner straight to a bar afterwards. A summer capsule wardrobe might incorporate two or three different midi dresses – or more, and can be easily styled for the cooler months too.
3. A Classic Trouser
For the perfect minimal summer aesthetic, you can’t go past a classic trouser. The trouser can transition from office to after hours without interrupting the flow of your day. Choose from slimline or wide-leg silhouettes in high-waisted styles, which offer a polished look. For your summer capsule wardrobe, we recommend classic neutrals like black, white, beige, or even pastels.
For daytime, pair with a blouse, a backless top, or even a t-shirt paired with a dressy closed-toe heel. In the evening, elevate instantly with a classic cropped tee, a silky black camisole, or a printed shirt. To complete the look, add a belt with eye-catching hardware and strappy heels.
4. A Wear Anywhere Top
When it comes to t-shirts and tanks, select versatile fits in high-quality fabrics that stand the test of time. Once you build your summer capsule wardrobe you can always inject more directional and trend-focused pieces into the mix to add depth to your collection.
Start with some basic t-shirts and tanks in classic colours, like white, black, and cream, or go brighter with shades of blue, green, or pink. Aim for a combination of V-neck and classic crew cuts. A versatile striped blue-and-white t-shirt never goes astray, while a streamlined cropped tank is perfect for layering with tailored shorts and a sharp blazer. Transition your look easily from day to night with the addition of a tailored pant or a classic mini skirt and mules to elevate instantly.
5. The Perfect Pair of Shorts
Of course, we can’t talk about a summer capsule wardrobe without mentioning shorts. It’s worthwhile finding a couple of pairs of shorts to see you through the summer months. First, opt for a classic pair of denim shorts for casual days off. These can be found in all different colours and styles and can be taken from day to night easily by styling them with the right accessories.
Next, a pair of tailored shorts are perfect for transitioning to dressier occasions, from long lunches in the sun to afternoon shopping and drinks. A classic pair of tailored shorts in black or white can even be dressed up for dinners and nights out with a heel, a leather bag, and a vibrant red lip.
6. The Stylish Sunglasses
The finishing touch to the perfect warm-weather ready outfit is always sunglasses. Whether you prefer classically cool lenses, directional designs or oversized shades, protect your eyes in style with an array of styles to effortlessly add to the capsule wardrobe rotation. Enduring colours, exquisite materials, and unparalleled craftsmanship guarantee endless wearability wherever your summer takes you.