The Summer Capsule
A complete summer wardrobe, broken down into the exact pieces I’d build it around
I get asked all the time how to build a wardrobe that actually works, one where everything goes together, and getting dressed in the morning is genuinely easy.
Summer is the best season to nail this because the formula is simple: a few great shoes, some reliable bottoms, tops you reach for constantly, a dress or two, and the right accessories. That’s it.
If you came here from my reel, this is the full breakdown. And if you want the TLDR, here are the links to your summer capsule.
These are the pieces I’d build my summer wardrobe around, all made into outfits and ready to mix and match.
The Shoe Lineup
A.Emery flip flops – A staple since the day I bought them. These are the flip flops that actually look good, not just functional.
Jelly flip flops – The trend that I’m so glad is here to stay. So easy to throw on and they go with everything. This pair is under $35.
Prada woven slides – The investment piece of the shoe lineup. Worth every penny and will genuinely go with every outfit in this post.
M.Gemi black flip flop kitten heel – A summer must. Elevates any outfit instantly without sacrificing comfort.
Mansur Gavriel Dream Ballerina flats in baby blue – A classic silhouette that works from morning to evening.
The Margaux wrap sandal – One of my all-time favorites. The wrap detail is so flattering and the quality is unmatched.
Dôen Corsica Sandal in gold– Such a beautiful, understated sandal that pairs well with everything in this wardrobe. Currently sold out so keep an eye out for the restock, but in the meantime, this pair is super similar!
Dries Van Noten leather trimmed shell sneakers in light blue – The sneaker of the summer. That light blue color is so good and the leather trim elevates them beyond your average sneaker.
The Bottom Half
Chan Luu taffeta pants – My ride or dies lately. So unique without being overdone, incredibly easy to dress up or down, and they absolutely make an outfit. I cannot stop wearing them.
Donni striped poplin pants – Everyone needs a pair of cotton poplin pants. I love this Donni style, but there are so many great options out there. The easiest thing to throw on and they go with everything.
The Cadets pair is also great, and they do a mini me matching version, which I’m obsessed with.
Linen Pants – A true summer essential. These from Velvet with the elastic waistband are exactly what you want: relaxed, comfortable, and still pulled together. I size down.
Citizens of Humanity Winslow Cropped Boyfriend Jeans – I will never stop talking about these. Hands down the best jeans. If you only own one pair, make it these. They come in almost every wash you could want, which makes it very easy to justify more than one.
Agolde Ren jean in white – White jeans are absolutely part of my summer capsule. These fit like a glove and are such a classic cut.
Citizens of Humanity Jean Shorts – Long jean shorts are a summer staple and I adore this pair. The perfect length, the perfect wash. Take your larger size.
The Top Picks
Gap V-neck long sleeve – The perfect tee. Simple, well-fitted, and works under everything or on its own.
Alex Mill Cotton Poplin Shirt – A great button-down moment for summer. Wear it open over a tank, tucked into shorts, or tied at the waist.
Leset Margo Tee – It wouldn’t be a capsule wardrobe without it. The best tee ever made.
Kule Brentwood striped tee – My go-to striped tee and one of the most-worn pieces in my closet. The quality is unmatched for the price. Sold out in this colorway but I love all of them!
Dôen Henri Blouse – The only ruffly blouse you will ever need. Feminine, and so easy.
Reformation cotton cardigan – The layering piece that pulls everything together. Throw it over a dress, tie it over your shoulders, or wear it as a top.
Donni Terry Sweatshirt in Raspberry — Such a good color for summer. The terry fabric is lightweight enough for warmer days and the raspberry shade is such an easy pop of color.
Dressed Up
Dôen Floral Maxi Dress — A summer dress that does all the work for you. The print is stunning and the fit is incredibly flattering.
Reformation Joliette Dress — A classic Reformation silhouette that I keep coming back to. Works for almost any summer occasion.
Dôen Marise Skirt — The skirt worth building outfits around. Pair it with the Henri blouse or the Margo tee for two completely different looks.