It's time for cute summer dresses, sleeveless tops, and shorts! 😎
Whether you are going on vacation or staying at home during the summer months, having the perfect outfit at your disposal can be the difference between enjoying your time in the sun or dreading it!
Have no fear; this summer article covers all the ins and outs of what goes into creating a summer capsule wardrobe checklist and will not only make it easier to get ready for any activity – it will make sure you look fabulous too.
I’ve have a capsule wardrobe for fall, winter, and spring, so be sure to check them out too!
Disclosure: Vain Affair is reader-supported. When you buy through affiliate links on our website, we’ll make a small commission, without impacting your price. Thank you. Learn more.
In This Post ➜
- What Should Be in A Summer Capsule Wardrobe?
- Summer Capsule Wardrobe Checklist
- How Many Pieces Are In A Summer Capsule Wardrobe?
- How Do I Build a Summer Capsule Wardrobe?
- How Do You Make a Good Summer Wardrobe?
- How Do You Make a Soft Summer Capsule Wardrobe?
- How Do I Make a Summer Capsule Wardrobe For Mature Women Over 40 Or 50
- What Are Good Places to Shop For A Plus Size Summer Capsule Wardrobe?
- How Can I Create A 10-Piece Summer Capsule Wardrobe?
What Should Be in A Summer Capsule Wardrobe?
A summer capsule wardrobe should include:
- Breathable clothes.
- Basics that can be paired with several pieces to mix and match.
- Some accessories and shoes.
All of which should make you feel comfortable and confident.
We’ll also explore a “niche” summer capsule wardrobe called the soft summer capsule wardrobe. This wardrobe includes earthy tones and neutral pieces that fall under the above mentioned categories.
Summer Capsule Wardrobe Checklist
This summer capsule wardrobe is filled with endless outfit possibilities.
Once you know how to create one capsule wardrobe, you’ll be able to translate the structure into other seasons, so make sure to take notes since this summer capsule wardrobe checklist will be your perfect guide.
Style Tip: Keep a consistent color theme in your wardrobe. I highly recommend neutral colors, such as white, beige, brown, gray, and black. These colors never go out of style! I recommend it for all capsule wardrobes.
- Sleeveless Tops – Think of tank tops or camisoles. These are perfect for warm weather, day or night activities, and most importantly, to mix and match.
☀️ Shop Sleeveless Tops ☀️
- Skechers: Forever Diamond Tank – This tank features a soft moisture-wicking and quick-drying GO DRI® fabric, round neckline and a Skechers® diamond graphic logo front.
- Woman Within: Sleeveless Fit-And-Flare Tunic Top – A long and flowing feminine tank top with front and back godets for shape.
- Land’s End: Women’s Sleeveless Supima Cotton Polo Shirt – Made with the world’s finest cotton, the Supima® sleeveless polos feel silky smooth and resist wrinkles, pilling and shrinkage
- Old Navy: V-Neck Sleeveless Satin Top for Women
- Old Navy: Rib-Knit Tank Top for Women
- Old Navy: Fitted Sleeveless Linen-Blend V-Neck Top for Women
- dickies: Women’s Knit Tube Top, Black
- dickies: Women’s Chain Lake Cropped Tank Top, Black
- dickies: Women’s Graphic Tank Top, Dark Brown
- dhgate: Prrra Summer White Women Tops Tees Crop Top
- dhgate: Women’s tanks summer stripe fashion sexy crop top
- dhgate: Designer womens vest t-shirt sweater
- White T-Shirt – The perfect classic to have available for any laidback look.
☀️ Shop White T-Shirt ☀️
- Woman Within: Drapey V-Neck Tee – This ultra-soft tee is bound to become a staple in your wardrobe. Featuring a relaxed silhouette, V-neckline and short set-in sleeves.
- maurices: Brookside Ruffle Sleeve Tee – Lightweight textured tee with an easy fit and a ruffle sleeve that gives just the right coverage for work.
- Soft Surroundings: Isabel Pima Tee – With ready-for-anything versatility, our V-neck short sleeved top, with curved high-low hem, side slits, and forward-shifting side seams that slim the silhouette.
- Blair: Essential Knit Crochet-Trim Tee – The V-neckline is highlighted by pretty crochet trim.
- Macy’s: Stretch Knit T-Shirt
- Macy’s: Women’s The One Organic Rib Crew Short Sleeve T-shirt
- Macy’s: Short Sleeve Scoop Neck Top, Created for Macy’s
- White Button-Down Shirt – The dressier version of the white t-shirt. You will be able to wear this to a museum, brunch, or dinner date.
☀️ Shop White Button-Down Shirt ☀️
- Woman Within: Boyfriend Shirt Tunic – Stylish and easy to wear, our boyfriend tunic shirt will quickly become your go-to, everyday staple.
- Soft Surroundings: Keystone Shirt – Effortless shirt is lightweight and comfy with a bit of stretch and a touch of smocking at the back yoke for extra drape and ease.
- Poshmark: Classic white shirt Evan-Picone – Crisp tailored white wardrobe staple. Front and back darts for tailored fit. Single button cuff closure.
- Bergdorf Goodman: Slim-Fitted Button-Front Shirt
- Bergdorf Goodman: Poplin Button-Down Wrap Shirt
- Bergdorf Goodman: Button-Down Poplin Shirt
- Lightweight Knit – This is a lightweight coverup for those breezy summer afternoons or any heavy AC.
☀️ Shop Lightweight Knit ☀️
- VETTA: The Waffle V-Neck Oversized Sweater – Wear this sweater open as slouchy cardigan, giving a cool look to any outfit. You can also wear it buttoned up with the V-neck in the front or back, layered over a top or on its own
- Woman Within: Boyfriend Cardigan – Basic button front placket, V-neckline. Ribbing at front patch pockets, neckline, placket, sleeves, and bottom hem.
- Sketchers: SKECHLUXE Restful Crew – This sweatshirt features a SKECHLUXE™ soft and silky French terry knit fabric, crew neck, long raglan sleeves and ruched details.
- EGO: HIGH WAIST KNITTED CYCLE SHORT IN BROWN RIBBED KNIT
- EGO: ZIP DETAIL LONG SLEEVE CONTOUR DETAIL JUMPSUIT IN CREAM KNIT
- EGO: LONG SLEEVE BACKLESS BODYCON MINI DRESS IN BLACK KNIT
- Summer Dresses – Think colorful patterns or classic cuts in every length. Whether it is mini, midi, or maxi, a dress is a MUST for any capsule wardrobe.
☀️ Shop Summer Dresses ☀️
- MICHAEL KORS: Eyelet Cotton Halter Dress – An easy yet elegant choice for your next vacation, this maxi dress is cut for a loose fit from eyelet cotton in a tiered silhouette that falls to pretty scalloping at the hem.
- Uniqlo: V-Neck 3/4-Sleeve Flare Dress – Smooth 100% rayon tiered dress with a flattering V-neck and drawstring waist lets you adjust the fit.
- Kohl’s: LC Lauren Conrad Polka-Dot Ruffle Faux-Wrap Dress – Turn on the charm in this women’s LC Lauren Conrad faux-wrap dress, featuring a pretty print, ruffled trim and a maxi length.
- Jane: Ruffle Gathered Detail Cross Front Dress – Features a high neckline, short flared sleeves, tie waist, A-line silhouette, and mid-calf length.
- Forever 21: Tiered Eyelet Midi Dress
- Forever 21: Tiered Fit & Flare Dress
- Forever 21: Linen-Blend Tiered Mini Dress
- dhgate: Women Casual Dresses Classic Knit Dress
- dhgate: Summer luxury brand designer slim body
- dhgate: ZSIIBO Sexy Women Summer Dress Bandage Bodycon
- Romper – A great all-in-one outfit that is ready to go with the perfect shoes (be it flats or heels)
☀️ Shop Romper ☀️
- Show Me Your Mumu: Horton Romper – This oversized linen romper is perfect for warm weather, her lightweight linen fabric lends a breezy feel, and her front buttons allow you to wear her buttoned up or unbuttoned for a more relaxed look.
- Women Within: Jersey Knit Romper – Take your beach-day style to the next level with our playful and on-trend jersey knit romper.
- Aeropostale: Lace Tie-Back Romper – Flowy and feminine, this breezy romper begs to be paired with sparkly jewelry and strappy sandals.
- Denim Jacket – A heavier version of the lightweight knits that serves a similar purpose.
☀️ Shop Denim Jacket ☀️
- Neiman Marcus: Frame Le Vintage Faded Denim Jacket – This classic fit FRAME “Le Vintage” jacket in a faded, black wash denim is so chic!
- Jane: Distressed Raw Hem Buttons Denim Jacket – This adorable Distressed Denim Jacket is the perfect look this season. This is easily paired with your favorite outfit.
- Woman Within: Classic Denim Jacket – This is one of those must-have closet mainstays that you’ll hang onto for years. Pair over almost everything in your wardrobe from dresses to skirts & of course the denim-on-denim look.
- Linen Blazer – This secret weapon will instantly elevate any look, whether it is a summer dress or a white button-down with jeans.
☀️ Shop Linen Blazer ☀️
- Woman Within: Linen Blazer – Stay cool & look polished in our 9-to-5 summer must-have. Notch collar, 2 button closure, besom pockets, vented sleeves with button.
- Bloomingdale’s: Free People Crosby Oversized Pinstripe Blazer – Polished and chic linen blend blazer with classic thin pinstripes.
- Macy’s: Women’s Linen Double-Breasted Blazer – Layer up in style with LEYDEN’s linen blazer, featuring a double-breasted design.
- Shorts – The go-to for those extra hot days!
☀️ Shop Shorts ☀️
- Aeropostale: Seriously Stretchy Low-Rise Denim Midi Shorts – A dreamy wash, the perfect amount of destruction and a so-comfy fit — must be our Seriously Stretchy midis!
- Pretty Little Thing: CHOCOLATE BROWN POCKET DETAIL CARGO SHORTS – Featuring a chocolate brown material with a pocket detail, I am obsessed.
- Nautica: 3.5″ NAUTICA JEANS CO. MID-RISE FLIP-HEM SHORT – Cut from stretch-cotton twill, this mid-rise short is the perfect style for a chill day at home or out with a couple of friends.
- Trousers – Summer evenings tend to be cooler, and having some breathable trousers to wear for a night walk or dinner date is perfect.
☀️ Shop Trousers ☀️
- Blair: Crinkle Cotton Pull-On Pants – Pants take a hands-off approach to ironing, in a beautiful textural finish that looks great and feels casually cool.
- Woman Within: Modern Stretch Chino – Stretch chinos with slightly relaxed fit and flat, non-elastic waistband. Zip/button fly. Belt loops, side slash pockets, and back pockets.
- M.M. Lafleur: The Madelyn Pant – Double-Faced Linen – Thoughtful design elements like the elastic waist, relaxed leg, and patch pockets work in tandem to create an easy-yet-elevated silhouette, while the Italian-made double-face linen keeps you cool.
- Swimsuit – It is not summer without some water. Whether it’s a lake or the ocean, a swimsuit is a summer capsule staple.
☀️ Shop Swimsuit ☀️
- Pretty Little Thing: BLACK ONE SHOULDER SCUBA SWIMSUIT – A simple black swimsuit is essential in every doll’s vacay wardrobe. Featuring a black scuba material with a one-shoulder design and a flattering fit.
- Woman Within: Sarong Front One Piece Swimsuit – Fully lined swimsuit with Power Mesh tummy-control front lining
- Macy’s: Ruffle Plunge Underwire Tummy Control One-Piece Swimsuit – A glam ruffle detail draws the eye on this sleek one-piece by DKNY, a style that fits & flatters in all the right places with its slimming features and solid hue.
- Jeans – These are perfect for long road trips, running errands, or plane rides.
☀️ Shop Jeans ☀️
- Neiman Marcus: The Ex-Boyfriend Distressed Slim Jeans – AG “The Ex-Boyfriend” jeans in Aroma light indigo wash denim is the classic jeans that are wardrobe staples.
- Woman Within: Bootcut Stretch Jean – These classic five-pocket jeans are made from stretch cotton for a great fit that moves with your body.
- Uniqlo: Distressed Ultra Stretch Skinny High-Rise Jeans – High waist and tapered cut for a leg-lengthening effect. Back pocket size and placement designed for a flattering back view.
- White Sneakers – Everyone’s go-to walking shoe that is both trendy and sleek. It will make any outfit feel effortless yet put together.
☀️ Shop White Sneakers ☀️
- Tory Burch: HOWELL COURT SNEAKER – A classic court sneaker, updated for superior comfort, fit and flexibility. The Howell has the look of a Seventies tennis shoe, with our signature design elements.
- Etsy: Air Platform Sneakers – Cute platform sneakers for height and comfort!
- Etsy: Vulcanized Platform Sneakers Platform Shoes – Super chic platform sneakers that you can walk miles in.
- converse: Chuck Taylor All Star Lift Platform Canvas
- converse: Chuck Taylor All Star Lift Platform Canvas
- converse: Converse x Comme des Garçons PLAY Chuck 70
- Sandals – Better than flip-flops and more comfortable than ballerina flats. Sandals are great to pair with all summer pieces regardless of if they are flat or heeled.
☀️ Shop Sandals ☀️
- Bergdorf Goodman: Fendi Leather Dual-Buckle Sporty Sandals – These leather sporty sandals with a flat heel annd open toe is both stylish and comfy.
- Pretty Little Thing: WHITE TOE LOOP PADDED MULTI STRAPS LACE UP SANDALS – Features mutli strap design, a lace up fastening and toe loop detail–so cute!
- Woman Within: The Alicia Sandal – Add a touch of style to your warm-weather look with this pretty and polished gladiator-inspired sandal.
- Blair: Rosalyn Sandals by Easy Street® – The crafty cutout details make a cool and casual statement, while the cushy padded insole supports your every step.
- Crossbody Bag – Being able to wander about during the summer while still having access to your essentials is crucial.
☀️ Shop Crossbody Bag ☀️
- Jos. A. Bank Leather Satchel – Yes, I know this is marketed for men, but who says women can’t rock this either. This high-quality and minimalist satchel is both roomy and functional for those who like to bring lots with them. 😉 Pair this with the Joseph Abboud Cognac Bi-Fold Wallet.
- Jos A. Bank – Save the Ocean Crossbody Bag
- Bergdorf Goodman: Loulou Toy YSL Matelasse Calfskin Envelope Crossbody Bag – A beautiful Saint Laurent crossbody bag in signature Y-quilted overstitching leather with an envelope flap.
- Groupon: Genuine Leather Cross-Body Bag – This stylish crossbody bag is made from 100% genuine leather. With an adjustable shoulder strap and 3 front zip pockets, the bag is highly functional while retaining its fashionable style. Pair this with the Jos. A. Bank L-Fold Wallet.
- Pretty Little Thing: BLACK MINI DOUBLE HANDLE CROSSBODY BACKPACK – Add a little edge to your look with this must-have backpack. Featuring a black material with a cross body design and double handle detail, what’s not to love?
- Tote Bag – This is your carry-all for those long haul days.
☀️ Shop Tote Bag ☀️
- Jos. A. Bank Genuine Leather Backpack – A highly functional and practical backpack that can be transformed into a tote. It’s minimal and great quality for the price. Pair this with the Shedrain Black 46-Inch Collapsible Umbrella when it rains.
- Pretty Little Thing: BLACK OVERSIZED BORG TOTE BAG – Featuring a black borg fabric with an oversized design, team this with your outfit of the day for a look we are loving.
- Poshmark: Michael Kors Signature Tote Bag – This gorgeous tote bag is large enough for traveling, shopping, beach/pool, and so much more. Pair this tote with the Jos. A. Bank Tri-Fold Leather Wallet.
- Baginc: BGlamour Tote Leather Black
- Baginc: Cara Leather Tote Beige
- Baginc: The Timeless Leather Tote Black
- Men’s Wearhouse: Cole Haan Triboro Tote, Black
- Men’s Wearhouse: Cole Haan Total Tote, Black
- Hair Accessories – Get a few claw clips and scrunchies that are sure to keep your hair out of the way and tie up any outfit you style.
☀️ Shop Hair Accessories ☀️
- Bergdorf Goodman: Prada Striped Knot Headband – A gorgeous Prada multicolor striped headband with knot accent and ruched stretch backing.
- Kohl’s: 1928 Silver Tone Blue Simulated Crystal Butterfly Hair Clip – Transform your hair with this stunning simulated crystal butterfly hair clip.
- Pretty Little Thing: CHOCOLATE HAIR CLAW – Featuring a chocolate hue and a claw design, this is perfect for styling with your outfit of the day.
- Hat – Stick to a timeless piece that can go with any one of your pieces.
☀️ Shop Hat ☀️
- Uniqlo: UV Protection Bucket Hat – A minimal and chic bucket hat made with lightweight nylon fabric with a crinkled feel.
- Nautica: NAUTICA X URBAN NECESSITIES REVERSIBLE BUCKET HAT – Sometimes you want a print, and sometimes you don’t. We kept your style choices in mind when creating this reversible print bucket hat made from breathable stretch-cotton.”
- Bergdorf Goodman: Triangle Logo Wide-Brim Sun Hat – A sun hat with a round crown, wide brim that’s perfect for sunny summer days.
- Kohl’s: Nine West Scarf Flip Up Women’s Floppy Hat – This Nine West Scarf Flip Up Women’s Floppy Hat will give you protection and style for any occasion.
- Sunglasses – Eye protection is no joke, but there is no reason it should not be fun.
☀️ Shop Sunglasses ☀️
- New York & Company: TORTOISE-SIDE AVIATOR SUNGLASSES – These aviator sunglasses are classic!
- Overstock: Gucci 2900 Sunglasses – Chic, sophisticated sunglasses are ideal for daily use.
- Nautica: RECTANGLE WRAP SUNGLASSES – Cool gradient lenses and tortoise temples reinvent this classic rectangular silhouette—the perfect accessory for a sunny day in the city.
- Groupon: Kate Spade Women’s Sunglasses – Add a trendy touch to your look with Kate Spade’s Amarissa. A classic aviator accented with bright fashion detailing, these sunglasses are complimented with gradient lenses that perfectly complement the color scheme.
- Groupon: Oakley Valve Polarized Sunglasses – The perfect eyewear for the dynamic lifestyle, the Oakley Valve™ combines performance with exceptional innovation.
FAQs: Summer Capsule Wardrobe Checklist
How Many Pieces Are In A Summer Capsule Wardrobe?
There is no rule that states a specific number of pieces there should be in a summer capsule wardrobe checklist. It all depends on the purpose of the capsule wardrobe.
For example, suppose you are going on a weekend getaway. In that case, you will probably want to stick to no more than 5-6 pieces that are interchangeable for the entire trip and are chosen according to the activities you will be participating in.
However, if you are looking to create a summer capsule collection that lasts you the entire summer and that you can use for years to come. In that case, you will probably opt for around twenty elevated timeless and comfortable pieces.
Keep in mind that there is no specific style to stick to – this is all about what you want to wear and choosing items that make you feel great!
How Do I Build a Summer Capsule Wardrobe?
Building a summer capsule wardrobe is easier than you may think. As a personal rule, I tend to stick to 75% basics and 25% statement pieces when it comes to clothing and accessories.
That means that most of your wardrobe will coordinate well with each other while staying true to your unique style.
Another thing to consider is to make sure you add a pair of sunglasses, a hat, a pair of earrings, and your hairpiece of choice to your capsule wardrobe. Remember, it is all in the details!
How Do You Make a Good Summer Wardrobe?
A good summer wardrobe consists of items that take into consideration the activities you like to do or will do during the summer.
You would usually add these specific items to the basic summer capsule wardrobe you already created.
Think about it this way, if you are traveling and know you will be walking, it is vital that you pack comfortable walking shoes.
I usually include these four different pairs of shoes:
1. Walking Shoes – Trust me, these are specifically for walking, not your cute flats.
2. Sandals or Flats – Are either for beach outings or short walks.
3. Heels – A nice comfortable pair of heels for dinner nights or whenever you feel like going out.
4. Workout Shoes – For all those that like to work out during vacation or in general. These shoes can be the same as your walking shoes unless you don’t want to.
Another example would be when you consider the weather. While summer is usually a time when the sun is out and there are barely any clouds in the sky, it may still get chilly at night, depending on your location.
So, what is the solution? Always add a light cardigan or cover up for those chilly summer evenings.
How Do You Make a Soft Summer Capsule Wardrobe?
A soft summer capsule wardrobe is made up of earthy, neutral tones that are perfect for those understated cool girl outfits! Think grays, beiges, pastel blue, and blush tones.
I would recommend pairing these colors with monochromatic looks or neutral tones and pairing with some of the more vibrant hues like blush or pastel blue.
How Do I Make a Summer Capsule Wardrobe For Mature Women Over 40 Or 50?
A summer capsule wardrobe for a mature woman over forty or fifty is easy to put together. It’s not that different from building any other capsule wardrobe–except that you would consider it a little more modest.
For example, maybe choose a button-down blouse or statement sleeve blouse instead of opting for a crop top. These are both classics, one being sleek and the other fun.
What Are Good Places to Shop For A Plus Size Summer Capsule Wardrobe?
There are several places from which you can shop to create the perfect plus-size summer capsule wardrobe. This list will cover websites ranging in budget and style.
- 11 Honore ($$$$) – Shop all the latest designer clothing made specifically for plus sizes.
- Universal Standard ($$-$$$) – Find elevated, quality essentials
- Eloquii ($$) – Offers sleek and trendy pieces
- Torrid ($) – Feminine silhouettes and affordable basics
- Cider ($) – For the fashion-forward girlies that like to keep up with the current trends while not breaking the bank.
How Can I Create A 10-Piece Summer Capsule Wardrobe?
A ten-piece summer capsule wardrobe is perfect for travel. The key is to prioritize basics to ensure you have the ultimate outfit combos.
Here is a sample ten-piece summer capsule wardrobe that you can use as a guideline or straight as is.
- A sleeveless blouse
- A linen long sleeve blouse that can double as a coverup
- Lightweight knit or jacket
- Summer dress (the length doesn’t matter, just make sure that it is versatile to wear both day and night)
- Shorts or trousers (Denim, Linen)
- Swimsuit
- White sneakers
- Sandals (Flat or with a block-heel for just a bit of height)
- Crossbody bag
- Sunglasses
This list is customizable depending on where you are and what you are doing. Just remember that you need to pick pieces you are comfortable wearing and pair well together.
Conclusion
Creating a summer capsule wardrobe checklist can be fun and enlightening. You will be able to tune into your style and work with a versatile aesthetic that feels good to you.
Prioritizing pieces that make you feel comfortable will ensure that no matter where you are or what you are doing, you can enjoy the experience.
Remember that there are no particular rules to creating a capsule collection. Think of it as putting together your favorite pieces to create the greatest number of outfits you LOVE.
Disclosure: Vain Affair is reader-supported. When you buy through affiliate links on our website, we’ll make a small commission, without impacting your price. Thank you. Learn more.
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