Capsule wardrobe items should be versatile and classic. After all, their goal is to make getting dressed a breeze and, during the summer months, help you stay cool from a temperature and style standpoint. A well-chosen summer wardrobe features the kind of reliable clothing and accessories you won’t mind wearing over and over.
While holidays or destination weddings require special attention and outfit planning, the rest of your summer wardrobe should be as carefree as the season itself. For wearable and, most importantly, re-wearable style, consider taking stock of what you already have (which will reveal any gaps) and curate a selection of foundational pieces that will make you feel your best. Vogue’s guide to building a summer capsule wardrobe is a good place to start – scroll on for the quintessential summer staples the Vogue editors revisit time and again.
The summer staples checklist:
- The staple swimsuit: Reina Olga Bikini Set, £145
- The best shirt: Tommy Hilfiger Oversized Fit Linen Shirt, £140
- The denim shorts: Cos Longline Denim Shorts, £65
- The summer sandal: Dune Lyn Sandals, £89
- The sundress: Me + Em Cotton-Poplin Contrast Stitch Midi-Dress, £195
- The raffia hat: Prada Raffia Bucket Hat, £680
- The everyday sunglasses: Gucci Geometric Frame Sunglasses, £245
- The tote bag: Aspinal Henley Raffia Tote Bag, £475
- The lightweight trousers: JW Anderson Fold-Over Trousers, £750
- The layering tank: CDLP Rib Tank Top, £85
- The white jeans: L’Agence Clayton Wide-Leg Jean, £305
The seamless sundresses
For days when you’re in need of a one-and-done outfit solution, allow a sundress to come to the rescue. Opt for breathable fabrications in loose-fitting silhouettes that won’t ride-up or become clingy – two no-gos when the sun is out.
The easy shirt
Classic button-up shirts have rightfully earned their spot as a summer capsule wardrobe staple, thanks to their relaxed silhouette, versatility, and effortless appeal. Take your pick from classic white poplin, subtle stripes or a pop of colour – and wear on repeat.
The staple swimsuit
Investing in a comfortable swimsuit is essential – not just for summer, but year round. Whether you opt for Reina Olga’s ruched bikini – that’s specially-designed to embrace the body in a flattering fashion – Matteau’s sleek, square-neck swimsuit, or Rat & Boa’s daring, barely-there bikini, each of these styles will have you skipping to the seafront.
The pair of long shorts
Where Daisy Dukes might not be suitable as in-office attire, long shorts are the perfect office-appropriate summer denim staple. Wear them with a tank top and shirt for a laid-back look, or try out a knee-high boot and blouse pairing for the days that call for a little more of an elevated approach.
The summer sandals
With more sandal options on the market than days you can wear them in the season, it can be difficult to know where to start. Remember: the best styles are those you can wear with a variety of outfits, so look for something versatile, comfortable, neutral, or – better yet – all of the above.
The white jeans
We are always in favour of wearing a great pair of white jeans during the summer months. You can’t go wrong with any silhouette or shade this season, from wide-leg to slim-fit in white, ivory or cream washes.
The bag for the beach – and beyond
Spontaneous summer days call for a bag that can keep up with any kind of plan. Keep a lookout for something you can carry from work to drinks – or from planes to the poolside – like a straw basket tote or woven carryall.
The hot-weather top
Be it airy blouses or vests, consider keeping a rotation of sleeveless tops to mix and match with the rest of your summer separates.
The lightweight trousers
For those seeking a minimalist summer aesthetic, a pair of soft trousers in lightweight colours and fabrics will do just the trick (think: Succession’s Naomi Pierce). Wear to the office with a collared shirt, with a ribbed tank on the weekends, or pair with a swimsuit on beach days.
The airy skirt
The right skirt can truly transform your summer wardrobe. Styled with a pair of trusty ballet pumps for day, or a knee-high boot for night, there are countless ways to make the most out of these endlessly versatile skirts.
The shady sun hat
A raffia hat can elevate any vacation or beach look, while styles made from cotton will keep you cool in the heat.
The simple tank
Never underestimate the quiet power of a humble tank top. Whether worn alone, layered atop a bikini or worn beneath a linen shirt, this is a staple that’ll see you through this summer and beyond.
The stylish sunglasses
A good pair of sunglasses can provide the finishing touch to any daytime look – and, of course, they’re a practical accessory to keep handy in the summer months.
