It’s that time of year again. Pull out your Maxi dresses, sandals, and straw hats. Over the last two years so much has changed, and maybe you have as well. You may be looking to start fresh and build a new wardrobe. Well, you’ve found the right place to start. Building a summer capsule wardrobe that is effortless and chic may seem a bit overwhelming to you. Don’t get your panties in a bunch, I am going to show you how to do it.
If you’re reading this, you’ve decided you want a simple summer wardrobe. You may be sick of looking in your closet feeling you have nothing to wear. Buidling a summer capsule wardrobe is all about dressing for your lifestyle and feeling confident. The purpose is to have a cohesive collection of pieces that are interchangeable. This will be a guide on how to create your own summer capsule wardrobe.
Why should you build a summer capsule wardrobe?
It is no surprise that the fashion industry has a huge impact on the global environment. Fashion fast brands are creating so much chemical waste including overuse of water and pesticides.
You might be thinking ok, how this affects me?
Well, as you can see with the various climate changes the world is already starting to become impacted. For example, the severe Texas snowstorm in 2021, people lost their lives sadly. Many believe global warming is to blame for this unexplained occurrence.
Lastly, think about your pockets. Every day fast fashion brands come out with thousands of new items. Following trends can be exhausting, from wearing chokers to low rise jeans. These trends come and go. As a result, we end up spending more money and impulse buying. I’m on a debt free journey as I write this, so I don’t have time for that lol. Building a summer capsule wardrobe allows us to save money and use the interchangeable pieces in our wardrobe to create various outfits.
Five Tips for building the best summer capsule wardrobe
First, I am going to give five tips to consider before we build our summer capsule wardrobe.
- First you might be thinking, how many pieces should be in this summer capsule wardrobe? Your capsule should consist of 20 to 35 items. If you have a problem with over consumption, then count your shoes and handbags as well.
- When building a wardrobe keep in mind hot and humid or how cool your summer season is. I know for me summers can be very hot and humid in Jersey. With that in mind I only wear lightweight items.
- Have an idea of what colors you want to include in your summer capsule. This will make the decision process easier when adding pieces to your closet.
- Know what styles fit your body best. Nothing worse than trying the latest trendy dress and realizing you don’t like the Instagram models. Its best to wear things that are figure flattering, so stick to what works best for you.
- Shop your own closet. Many of your spring pieces may easily transition to your summer capsule wardrobe. Don’t feel the need to go out and buy a whole new wardrobe.
Summer Capsule Wardrobe 2022: What to wear
Summer Capsule Wardrobe: Tops
- A lightweight linen V-neck t-shirt is my favorite item to wear in the summer. It is simple to style and cooling to the body during humid summers.
2. I love bodysuits, they just give an outfit a nice clean look. Bodysuits can be dressed up with a silk skirt or dressed down with a pair of denim shorts. If you don’t have at least, one please go order one after your done reading this blog post.
3. A cropped linen button down top it a must this summer. It can be worn over ribbed high neck crop top or under a bralette. It can be dress up or down.
4. You can’t go wrong with a neutral striped shirt sleeve shirt. The outfit possibilities are endless. It’s a great option for a causal look when running errands or coffee shop.
5. Let’s once and for all stop spreading the myth that black makes you sweat more. You may be wondering why I choose a black t-shirt as a summer capsule must. Well, it’s because black is one of the colors that keeps you cool. It absorbs heat from the sun. Keep in mind it also absorbs the heat from your body.
Outerwear
- An oversized blazer is a great way to add dimension to your outfit. A black blazer it great for evening looks, it’s so flattering. Add a blazer with your wrap skirt and a low heel and you’re ready for brunch. Throwing it over your shoulders makes it look more expensive. Your summer capsule wardrobe needs this.
2. Sometimes it can get a bit chilly at night, and especially by the ocean. A denim jacket/shirt is an absolute lifesaver. It’s the perfect addition to throw on during a cool summer night. Pair with a Striped shirt and a tailored short.
3. If you’re like me you get a bit cold when out to lunch or dinner. They turn the air up so high, and you wish you had something on to warm up, try a silk blend cardigan-sweater. It’s very comfortable but also sweat-wicking and breathable.
Dresses
- A puff sleeve dress just makes me feel so confident and chic. I love the silhouette; it is very flattering figure flattering. You don’t need to add many accessories with this one. Very Effortless.
2. We all need a little black dress in our closet. Its an easy evening look to wear that requires little thought. Pair with your favorite pumps and a blazer over the shoulders, you’re ready to stun ’em.
3. A shirt dress is a go to casual chic look to wear. You can wear it with a belt to show your shape and add a low heel. Wear it without a belt and a pair of your favorite trainers and a straw bag for a causal look.
4. Every summer I am all about the bold, bright colors. A bold colored dress with a flattering silhouette is the perfect addition to your summer capsule wardrobe.
Bottoms
- It may be way too hot for jeans but instead try a pair of straight leg chino or linen straight leg cropped pant. Either choose creates a light, loose, airy look.
2. Tailored shorts makes a look so chic yet effortless. You can easily pair a belt and a linen shirt tucked in for an evening look.
3. I love the versatility of a silk skirt it is something that can be taken from day into night. For a causal look pair with a collared V-neck top and your favorite trainers.
4. Everyone has at least one pair of denim shorts. Denim shorts or something that is so easy to throw on with a V-neck tank top and no dad sandals.
Shoes and Accessories
- A pair of Dad sandals are a trend I love. Pair them with any tailored pieces or any more feminine softer pieces like a puff sleeve dress.
2. I love a low strappy heel (no more than 3 in) there is just something about it that really makes an evening outfit sexy.
3. Trainers are a must for a summer capsule wardrobe. Try a low top less chunky trainer, it will go well with dresses and skirts. This creates a balanced look; the chunky dad sneakers don’t match well with skirts and dresses. Personally, I wear a lot of dresses and skirts in the summer.
4. Finally, don’t forget your straw handbag. Any voluminous tote bag to carry your everyday essentials is perfect if you like larger bags. In addition, I love a leather crossbody to finish my look.
5. Don’t forget your favorite pair of sunnies and a straw hat to complete your capsule.
Budget friendly Summer Capsule Wardrobe
Most items I have showed above are from H&M. It is a very affordable brand that sells a mix of trendy and timeless pieces. For the price and the quality its unmatched in my opinion. Especially for a fast fashion brand. Let’s not forget that they have a conscious collection all about remaining sustainable to better the global environment. That’s a plus!