Master the Art of Summer Dressing With a Capsule Closet

I’m a summer girl, through and through, but even so, each season poses its own challenges when it comes to dressing. If you struggle to craft hot-weather outfits, I get it. I’m a firm believer in the power of capsule dressing, which means curating a thoughtful wardrobe with versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched. The idea is to do more with less and eliminate items that are hard to incorporate into real life.

Ahead, I’m breaking down eight essential items for a summer capsule wardrobe, including timeless yet on-trend fashion, the season’s must-have bags, and shoppable options galore.

A Linen Set

Oh, linen, I wait all year for you. A two-piece set is the ultimate wardrobe hack because the options are endless. Rock those pants with a halter top, use that button-down as a cover-up, or experiment with whatever combination your sunburnt heart desires. You’re sure to get good use out of both pieces.

Classic Black Sandals

Summer footwear can be tricky. I’m either tempted to overindulge with a different pair for every outfit, or I find myself wearing the same run-down reliable for eight consecutive weeks. But the one throughline is always a black sandal—I simply wouldn’t want to take on summer without it. And this year, I think I’m going with a pair of Olsen-approved Teva sandals.

A Pair of Jean Shorts

I know most of us have complicated relationships with denim shorts, but that doesn’t change the fact that they look damn cute. Hard feelings and chafing aside, a good pair of cut-offs is one of summer’s simplest pleasures, so consider leaning in while you can. We’ll be back to leggings and slacks before you know it.

The White Tank Top

From beach trips to office hours to runs down to the corner store, a white tank is permanently one of my most-worn summer staples. And how could it not be? This is the building base layer of all base layers, and there’s no better canvas to build upon with seasonal accessories or funky jewelry.

The Hero Swimsuit

It doesn’t matter what your swimwear preferences are—be it boyshorts, thongs, or long sleeves—you simply need at least one suit that you can rely on. And, for capsule wardrobe purposes, you’ll want to be able to mix and match, whether that means pairing your bikini top with a maxi skirt or wearing a one-piece as a bodysuit with shorts.

A Dreamy Sundress

Play with patterns (might I suggest gingham or polka dots?) or keep it simple with a shirtdress, but just promise me that you’ll prance around in a frock at least once this summer. Please? Personally, I’m reaching for anything with an open back these days.

Signature Sunglasses

Chunky aviators are the shadiest trend of the summer, but I’ll let you decide what style suits you best. In my opinion, “know thyself” is the golden rule of eyewear. If you haven’t found a shape you like best, play around with it until you do. There’s a match out there for you, I swear.

The Summer Bag

Never have I ever thought I’d report a suede-driven summer, but here I stand. Indeed, suede bags are surprisingly popular this season, along with the usual suspects like raffia weaves, of course.

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