You’ve googled how to build a summer capsule wardrobe in 2023, and you came across this post. Awesome! I’m here to answer all your questions. From what should be in a summer capsule wardrobe, to the absolute best places to get these staples. We’ll cover it all. By the end of this post, you’ll have all the tools and essentials you need to curate the perfect summer capsule closet.
Whether you’re a frequent reader of STYLE BY SAVINA, or a newbie, since you’re here, the chance is you’re already familiar with the concept of a capsule wardrobe. But in case you’re not, I highly recommend you check out this guide before scrolling down.
Below you’ll find the ultimate summer capsule wardrobe checklist that has all the classic pieces you need to mix and match summer outfits with ease.
But first things first. Let’s cover the basics.
What is a Capsule Wardrobe?
Capsule Wardrobe is a small collection of staple clothing pieces you love that never go out of fashion. Versatile basics you can wear over and over again season after season.
Benefits of a Capsule Wardrobe?
Creating a capsule wardrobe is more than just what you wear. It’s also about reducing stress, saving time, energy, and money, and ultimately making your life easier. By narrowing down your wardrobe and only buying what you need, you’ll save money, not buying unnecessary items that add up.
When you start seeing your wardrobe as a long-term investment, reflecting your unique personal style, you’ll start adopting a more intentional approach to shopping and prioritize quality over quantity. This will result in a more sustainable lifestyle and reduce your waste impact.
Finally, creating a capsule wardrobe will help you spend less time when you’re getting ready, and have more time and energy to dedicate to the things that truly matter.
Sounds good? Let’s create your best summer capsule yet!
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Summer Capsule Wardrobe 2023: What To Wear This Summer:
Shop tops:
TOPS:
3. Gray Tank
4. Stripe Tee
1. Beige Linen Shirt
Is it really the summer months if you don’t bust out your linen shirts from your closet? So white shirts are the first thing on the list. I presume you already own this perfect summer piece, so add a beige one to your summer capsule wardrobe 2023 checklist.
2. Short Sleeve Linen Shirt
Short sleeve linen shirts are such a perfect summer garment that every woman out there needs on a hot day. You can dress them up for formal, or down into casual outfits. They are so fun to style. Going somewhere fancy? Pair them with beige high-waisted linen pants and heeled sandals. Shopping with the girls? Replace the linen pants with denim shorts, and the sandals with sneakers. All the while sticking to neutral colors for the warm weather.
3. Gray Tank
Organic cotton tanks are another non-negotiable summer must-have, and if you don’t own one (or a couple) already, please get this on your list of new clothes. One of my go-to places for high-quality pieces, durable basics, and classic cuts is one of my favorite brands, Everlane.
4. Stripe Tee
I’m sure you’ve already noticed, but in case you haven’t, seasonless pieces in stripes are set to be everywhere in 2023. So I’m bringing my beloved Boden stripe tee from my spring capsule wardrobe to my summer wardrobe items. I advise you to do that too! You’ll make so much use of it. The best way to minimize your wardrobe is to use what you’ve got. So you can expect to see this piece in any minimalist summer wardrobe.
5. White Cotton Vest
This white cotton vest is a new piece I’m planning to add to my spring summer capsule wardrobe. It’s effectively the Summer sister of the timeless white t-shirt. Keep that body cool with the soft cotton, while making the most of limitless combinations for a minimalist silhouette. What else could you possibly ask for?
6. Beige Cropped T-Shirt
Cotton cropped t-shirts are an essential part of my summer clothing collection, and for a good reason. A deadly weapon for keeping cool whilst looking hot, earning them a place on the list of Summer essentials. Rock this look like Emrata and shake it off as Miss Swift would.
Related Post: Spring Capsule Wardrobe: What To Wear In Spring 2023
Shop outerwear:
OUTERWEAR:
9. Beige Blazer
7. Black Denim Jacket
A lightweight denim jacket with a silver or white button is another summer essential for those times when the temperatures drop. Be it staying out on a late date night or going home in the early mornings, make sure you wrap up. Madewell is a wonderful place for new pieces and summer staples.
8. White Linen Blazer
Gorgeous gorgeous girls wear a white blazer. No, but seriously! Found this absolute gem at Everlane, and it goes straight to my minimalist summer capsule wardrobe checklist. No questions asked. It screams Santorini vibes, and I’m here for it. An easy throw-on when there isn’t much time to get ready. Pair with a pearl necklace for a better look on different occasions.
9. Beige Blazer
Similar to the denim jacket, the beige blazer is a great addition for the summer days when the temperatures drop, and you need an easy-throw on that will pull your look together. Complete the look with your summer work capsule wardrobe.
10. Neutral Overshirt
I feel like overshirts (a.k.a shackets) are such an overlooked item. They’re probably one of the most versatile pieces one can own because they are so easy to style, regardless of your body type. For summer, I love pairing an overshirt with biker shorts, cropped top, and chunky trainers. Turn, pose, snap it. You’ll wear it like every time is the first time.
You’ll Love This: The Ultimate Capsule Wardrobe Checklist 2023
 Shop bottoms + dresses:
BOTTOMS + DRESSES:
13. Everyday Romper
14. Black Tank Dress
11. White Denim Shorts
Finding a good pair of white denim shorts can be a daunting task, especially if you don’t know where to look. AGOLDE is known for their high-quality premium denim pieces, and although this brand might be a bit of a stretch for some budgets, I still think you should check it out. Especially if white denim is your thing, and you’ll wear it all summer, season after season. Considering how often you’ll be wearing them, you’ll definitely get your moneys worth. Unless you want to cut up your perfectly good white jeans just to make a pair of demin shorts.
12. Beige Linen Shorts
Elevate your summer looks with tailored linen shorts in a beautiful neutral color. This pair of shorts from & Other Stories will go perfectly with all the tops and outerwear listed at the beginning of this post, as well as with the shoes and accessories you’ll find at the bottom. Remember when I said the ultimate summer capsule wardrobe checklist? I meant it!! It’s your first step to a perfect capsule wardrobe.
13. Everyday Romper
For the days when you can’t be bothered putting ANY effort, this romper will be your savior in the new season. I have a very similar one purchased years ago, and I wear it with everything from heels to flip-flops. Whatever your personal style, it just works. A great staple for a soft summer capsule wardrobe.
14. Black/Gray Tank Dress
Not the biggest fan of black for the summer, but having a comfy yet flattering everyday dress is important. So why not spice it up a little? Save the white dress for your big day. Instead, try this beautiful find which would look great with high-heeled sandals, thin ankle straps and a little clutch bag, as well as with Converse trainers and a white oversized shirt. Available in regular sizes. It makes a change for that maxi dress you’ve been wearing. How to style it is up to you. It’s the perfect time to try new things.
15. Beige Biker Shorts
Don’t even get me started on the biker shorts because I live for them!! Don’t believe it? Check my Instagram. This piece from Pangaia is a must-have! They work in so many different ways! Especially with tank tops.
16. White Wide-Leg Culottes
I have an old fast fashion pair of white wide-leg culottes that I need to retire, and I’m replacing them with this gem from Revolve. Their bottoms never cease to amaze me. The quality, the fit, the style… top-notch.
Recommended Article: You Won’t Need To Worry About Trends With These 7 Capsule Wardrobe Basics
Shop shoes + other essentials:
SHOES + OTHER ESSENTIALS:
18. Comfy Sandals
17. Everyday Sneakers
If you’re on the hunt for a comfy yet super chic pair of sneakers that will take you through summer and beyond, then look no further than VEJA Venturi. This is the newest addition to my wardrobe, and they are such a fantastic investment. A little pricey, I agree, but worth every single penny.
18. Comfy Sandals
I don’t know if it’s just me, but it’s not easy to find sandals that tick all the boxes – style, fit, comfort, sustainable production. But guess what?! I found a pair that does! These 90-s inspired slipper sandals from Alohas. They would match perfectly with every single item on this checklist, even the black tank dress. Actually, especially the black tank dress!
19. Classy Flatform Sandal
Last year I added almost identical black flatform sandals to my footwear collection, and as a person who used to agree with Blair Waldorf that sandals are not shoes, I must admit that I’ve worn them way more than I thought I would. What better time to wear them!? So they’ll keep their place in my summer 2023 capsule wardrobe, too.
20. Timeless Swimsuit
I said this would be a complete summer capsule wardrobe checklist, so obviously I couldn’t leave the beachwear out of it. This gorgeous piece can be worn as a top as well as a swimsuit, and it would look so beautiful with the tailored linen shorts, beige oversized shirt, and the sandals above. The perfect item to add to your summer travel capsule wardrobe.
21. Stylish Sunglasses
Sunglasses are the accessory that can make or break your outfit. Make sure you invest in good timeless pieces. There are many varieties at different price points, but I recommend the PRADA for the classic look.
22. Carry Everything Tote
The last item on this list is the carry-everything tote. If you’re a regular reader of the blog (or a part of my Instagram community, you know that there’s only one tote bag I swear by when it comes to style, looks and affordability. No, it’s not your classic style straw tote. It’s the RUE ST-GUILLAUME TOTE by Karl Lagerfeld. You can fit everything in it! Laptop, groceries, beach towel, baby diapers, and maybe the rest of your summer wardrobe. Guaranteed to be found in any French summer capsule wardrobe.
Say goodbye to that lost feeling you get when the summer approaches, and you have no idea what you’ll be wearing. All the events, meet-ups, occasions, and chillouts will be covered with these pieces of clothing in your own summer capsule wardrobe.
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With the right pieces and capsule items, you can create so many different outfits with all these outfit ideas. The easy way to match pieces is to stick to color palette that suit your Summer style. Light colors make great choices.
Also look for natural fibres. They are a great way to let your body breathe in high temperatures. The last thing we want to be melting in our summer clothes praying for the cooler evenings to come sooner. Lightweight pieces like an airy blouse or loose shirt work well in a warm-weather capsule wardrobe.
Give it a try! I’d love to see which pieces you get and how you use them. Tag me on socials @SavinaOffcial. You can also check out my capsule wardrobe guide for more insights on how to make more with less this season.
This post was all about summer capsule wardrobe.
Other Posts You May Like:
- HOW TO BUILD A BASIC WARDROBE ON A BUDGET IN 2023
- SUMMER TRAVEL CAPSULE WARDROBE: WHAT TO PACK FOR YOUR TRIP
- THE COMPLETE WARDROBE BASICS CHECKLIST 2023
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This post was updated on 09/05/2023
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