Photo via @soniaheartsfashion
If you are unfamiliar with a capsule wardrobe, it is a carefully curated collection of pieces that can be mix-and-matched all season long. We love this idea because it sets the foundation for a mindset that promotes sustainability and wearing what you already have in multiple ways. This does not mean your collection of clothing will be a snooze either! Many capsule wardrobes incorporate some of the most timeless pieces that never seem to go out of style and you would be surprised at all the new and different ways one can repurpose these cult classic items. We are well into spring and on the brink of summer so now is the time to ensure your collection is complete with everything you need. If we were to pull just 10 items, it would definitely pan out like the below. So without further ado, here are our top picks of must-have pieces to build your spring and summer capsule wardrobe.
Photo via @klaudianaqvi
1) Crisp White Shirt
The classic white shirt would take home The Oscar for the best recurring piece no matter what season. It is such a seasonless item with a cunning ability to be molded for any occasion. Style it up for work by tucking it into some tapered trousers or keep it casual and sophisticated by wearing it with some biker shorts and kitten heels. No matter where you’re headed, it’ll always come to the rescue.
Photo via @rueibb
2) White Denim
Denim tends to be another essential item in everyone’s collection whether they’re adopting a capsule wardrobe or not. However, this season, we are putting more of an emphasis on white denim because of the fresh, clean aesthetic that just makes sense for the warmer months. To keep it current, trade your skinnies for some cropped wide-legs or full-length white jeans.
Photo via @annadominguez
3) Neutral Blazer
There is one outerwear to rule them all during the warmers seasons and it is certainly the blazer. A neutral one is going to take the cake in your spring and summer capsule wardrobe simply because of its adaptability factor. Wear it to work, to the bar, to church – you name it… The options are truly endless and the neutral color will ensure you can style it with anything!
Photo via @ninaleacaine
4) Relaxed Trousers
We dare you to find a pant as chic as a relaxed trouser. As you can see from above, the fundamental core of a well-curated capsule wardrobe is versatility. The loose, wide leg pants are another one of those pieces worth investing in because it can be re-purposed in many ways. This fashion influencer styles it to perfection with the draped trench and black accessories.
Photo via @sineadcrowe
5) Frilly Sundress
A flirty summer dress should always be in the mix! While there are tons of styles and silhouettes to pick from, we have been loving the cottagecore trend, which this contemporary prairie dress completely embodies. Details like puff sleeves, corset ties, and romantic florals make this trend irresistible and a great piece to fill up your spring and summer capsule wardrobe collection.
Photo via @wendyslookbook
6) Knit Dresses
There’s another dress that we believe deserves a spot in your wardrobe – and it’s the knit midi. This look is the whole gambit – incredibly polished, flattering on and timeless. When shopping for this piece, we recommend neutrals like beige, off-white and black as that will ensure you can wear it years down the road. The other option here is to skip the dress and opt for a knit midi skirt instead.
Photo via @thatgirlyusra
7) The Maxi Skirt
With capsule wardrobes, it’s a good idea to have a handful of separates that you can remix into multiple looks. One iconic piece that will dominate this summer is the maxi skirt. You can wear it with a t-shirt, bra top, lightweight knit, and so forth. All styles are truly welcome here for your capsule wardrobe too. We adore the sleek look of a slinky maxi, but we also love the fun and eclectic style of a fully pleated or asymmetrical style.
Photo via @claire_most
8) Ribbed Tees & Tanks
A well-fitted t-shirt or a classic ribbed racerback tank top is an absolute necessity in your closet. These can be the foundation of so many different outfits. Let’s take a moment to acknowledge Claire’s minimal, non-fuss take on this staple as she pairs her tank with some high-waisted denim and classic gold jewelry. Note that this topper can be worn with just about everything we’ve listed so far too!
Photo via @amaka.hamelijnck
9) Matching Lounge Sets
Sweatpants have taken on a new meaning since the pandemic, and to adapt to the warmer weather, they have simply become shorts. These athletic-inspired bottoms are the perfect normcore bottom to throw on whenever you want to look cute but cozy. We are all for a staple item you can wear both in and out of the house. Get bonus points if you go for a matching set because that means you can create even more outfits.
Photo via @iliridakrasniqi
10) Strappy Sandals
Of course, no spring or summer wardrobe is complete with a pair of go-to sandals. Our top choice this season is minimal, strappy sandals whether you prefer a kitten heel or flats. We love that they’re incredibly practical and comfortable – but full of style. They’re going to be one of the only footwear options you will need all season!
While spring and summer deserve highlights as their own season, we find that many of the pieces are interchangeable from one to the other. And if you shop right, what you buy for spring can easily transition into summer. The 10 pieces above do exactly that – and will provide the ultimate foundation for any spring and summer capsule wardrobe.
