I started making a note with my summer capsule wardrobe and stopped midway through and decided to make it a post. When the seasons change I like to write out the core pieces in my closet that I’m going to wear on repeat. It helps me think through outfit combinations in advance so I can avoid that frustrating feeling of “I have nothing to wear.” It also helps me see what holes I have in my closet so I can buy a few new things effectively rather than having too many summer dresses or a top that looked cute but I’ll just never wear.
I’m someone who believes in the power of a capsule wardrobe…to a point. I love outfit repeating and mixing and matching favorite pieces in my closet. I’m a big believer in investing in quality. That being said, I also like to save room for the “of the moment” pieces that make me feel inspired as well as those more occasional pieces for different events or places I might be going.
So here’s what I’ve come up with for my summer wardrobe. I hope it’s helpful!
Capsule/ Foundational Pieces
I chose 16 pieces for this section and I’m going to link to what I have or to some other options I like. You very likely already have a lot of this in your closet. If you find yourself feeling like you don’t LOVE something in this category that you already have, it may be time to invest in something new. The pieces in this category should make you feel like a million bucks every time you put them on and be more or less timeless. I’m going to link a bunch of options below.
White Tank - High Neck, Ribbed, Muscle Tank
Black Tank - High Neck, V-Neck, Ribbed, if you’re looking for something other than black and white that is still neutral, this is probably my favorite tank top that I own.
Light wash denim - Really good baggy, Less Baggy
Cropped/ ankle length denim - Raw Hem Levis, Wider Leg
Off-white denim - My favorite, Wider Leg
White pants - Cotton, Field Pant/Trouser
Black Dress - Cotton/Linen Blend, Shirt Dress, V-Neck with Cutouts
Maxi Dress - Love this one - don’t judge it by the pics on the site, White eyelet, Tank Dress
Mini Dress - Linen, Knit, Casual cotton, T-Shirt dress
Linen Button Down - Relaxed and lower cut, Oversized, Poplin
Summer sweater - Cotton crew neck, Cashmere Cardigan
Minimalist sandals - Toe Loop (very, very comfortable and I also have them in black), 90s vibes, Wrap Around
Slides - Black, White, more elevated









Of the Moment Pieces
This is the category some people might call trends. I don’t recommend trying all the trends. For example, I’m going to opt out of the micro shorts, ballet flats, and jellies this season, but I am considering adding some stripes, metallics, and a more refined pair of thong sandals (and I’ve been on the baggy denim bandwagon for a few years). Whatever is inspiring you is what you should try!
The Vest Dress or a linen vest
Crochet Bag or a gorgeous top
Thong Sandals and another option (under $100)
Brown is having a surge: this is a cute dress and this would be a great summer sweater
These sandals are on my wishlist - just not sure I have enough of a hole in my shoe department to warrant them.
Denim Skirts - a mini option and a midi/maxi option
Occasional Pieces
The pieces in this category are those special pieces you’re not going to pull for everyday. It could be a dress that you’ll wear to a wedding or it could be a really fun top that you’ll pull out for a fun night out. Here are a handful of examples of the pieces in my closet. Beware of purchasing too many of these types of pieces because I have found I just don’t wear this category enough to give this category more than 10-15% of my closet.
I have this really fun top from Mara Hoffman (she’s closing so everything is on sale!), and here’s one I’ve seen in real life that is super cute or this halter top looks cute too!
Knit dress that’s perfect for a date night
A great pair of heels like these would also fit into this category for me because I just don’t wear heels a ton.


Other Summer Things
A few other items you might be looking for this summer:
Sunglasses - I got these recently and love them. These are also really cool. Both are under $100.
Swim - I’m a huge Hunza g fan and have 2 of their suits. A one piece and bikini
Wedges - I picked up a pair of espadrilles in Mallorca last summer and love them. Here are some that are similar. J.Crew has a great made in Spain pair too.
Jewelry - I love wearing earrings in the summer. I tend to wear my hair up more and can show them off. I’m biased, but I think joining the Abby Alley Earring Club is a great way to get a few new pairs for summer at a really great price. I love the ones we have on deck for June, July, and August!
Summer Sneakers - love the all white Ons and I’m debating a new pair of New Balances
I hope this has been helpful - I know it was helpful for me in planning my summer!