9 Simple Pieces You Need for an Elevated Summer Capsule Wardrobe
I'm pretty strict when it comes to a summer capsule wardrobe. Years ago, I might have been tempted to ensure there were loads of summer dresses and loose-fitting trousers in my wardrobe, but I'm now set on only a few items. This reasoning is absolutely to do with sustainability and ensuring my wardrobe works as hard as possible for me, but also, when it's hot, you don't want options—you just want pieces that make you look and feel good.
Karina Marriott showcases how easy it is to assemble a chic summer outfit when you have some core basics to hand.
I've finally narrowed down my warmer-weather outfits to just nine pieces. It doesn't seem like very much, but all of these items are perfect for mixing together and creating different looks. Not to mention I've included plenty of accessories. Sunglasses, a pair of sandals that work with everything and a proper basket bag will do brilliant things for your outfits.
Below, you'll see the nine items I recommend that should be in everyone's summer capsule wardrobe. Note that there's no mention of swimsuits, as this isn't for going on holiday, even if plenty of these pieces work for that, too. Rather, it's for your day-to-day looks during the summer. Read on.
1. Relaxed Shirt
Style Notes: If there's one item I can't do without during the summer, it's an oversized shirt. It can be in any colour you want—although, my preference is a white or striped version—and just know you'll wear it all the time. Whether with jeans, shorts or knotted over a dress or your swimming cossie, this will be your summer saviour.
2. Sundress
Style Notes: I think everyone needs a summer dress that makes them feel great. You know the frock that you can throw on when it's boiling and you still manage to stay looking cool? That one.
I enjoy the tie-front detailing on this dress.
3. Basket Bag
Style Notes: Take a tip from our French friends, and opt for a basket bag during the summer. My preference is oversize in case there's a call for a picnic and you need it to double up as your picnic basket.
4. Sunglasses
Style Notes: Don't forget to pack your sunnies every day of summer. Sure, one minute it'll be raining, but the next, it'll be sunny. Right now, rectangular frames are high on the style agenda.
A stylish finishing touch to any look.
5. Sandals
Style Notes: This season, there's been a lean towards '90s-style sandals. Flatforms and chunky flip-flops are where it's at. My best tip, however, is to keep them simple so that they go with everything you own.
Ease into the flatform trend with these leather flip-flops.
6. Shorts
Style Notes: You might not be much of a shorts person, but in the height of summer, nothing else will do. Look to Lorna of Symphony of Silk, who always manages to make her looks chic.
The slightly longer length of this denim short makes them look all the more premium.
7. Plain T-Shirt
Style Notes: Black and white T-shirts have saved me again and again during the summer. Tuck one into jeans, shorts or a skirt, and you'll look chic and fresh.
8. White/Off-White Jeans
Style Notes: I never used to be a white-jeans person, but about five years ago, I realised just how great they look in the summer. My preference right now are wide-leg versions.
Agolde's Pinch jeans are an Instagram favourite.
9. Casual Jacket
Style Notes: If I lived in L.A. or somewhere else equally as warm, I probably wouldn't include a jacket. But I live in the UK, and it gets cold in the summer. So a light jacket is a necessity, and linen or twill make for excellent breathable options.
Next Up, Autumn/Winter 2023 Trends: Expert-Backed Looks You Need to See
This post was originally published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
Maxine Eggenberger is Who What Wear UK’s deputy editor and has over thirteen years of experience in fashion journalism. She been creating engaging and elevated style content specifically for Who What Wear UK since 2018, covering runway reports, emerging trends, long-form features, self-styled shopping stories and columns, including her edit of the best new-in buys. She ensures the highest editorial standards are met across the site, leads the editorial team in their SEO strategy and keyword planning, works closely with the beauty team on content initiatives, represents the brand at industry events, and regularly contributes to social media, including her own Who What Wear UK TikTok franchise, French Style Fridays. Previously, Maxine appeared on ITV's This Morning in her own fashion segment and has interviewed countless celebrities—everyone from Victoria Beckham to Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o.
Prior to Who What Wear UK, Maxine’s career began when, after completing her first-ever internship at Look magazine, she was offered a position on the brand's fashion desk. She accepted, leaving university a year early in the process. Her passion and natural talent for writing and styling meant she swiftly rose through the ranks to become the title's fashion news and commercial content editor, with a stint as InStyle.co.uk’s fashion and beauty writer along the way. She later served as Look’s acting Editor in Chief, overseeing both print and digital, before embarking on a successful freelance career, working with Grazia, The Pool, and Marie Claire amongst others.
Maxine is based remotely from her countryside home near Edinburgh where she spends her downtime renovating her house, walking her dogs, hosting friends and trying to master the art of making Old Fashioned cocktails.
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