How to Build the Perfect Summer Capsule Wardrobe
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featured image: Monroe Steele
The days are getting longer and hotter and all that this means for us here at Chroma is that we are seeking EASE. We are saying no to franticly picking outfits in the morning heat or wearing clothing that sticks to the skin. We want to be cute while also remaining efficient!
Having a capsule wardrobe allows you to get ready for the day knowing that regardless of the combination you choose, your pieces will always go together. The key to successfully putting this together is minimalism. By focusing on quality over quantity, you can easily create a starter collection of 20 pieces that you can combine in multiple ways, producing a new look each time!
So here are some of our top picks for creating an efficient summer wardrobe that works for us instead of against us and makes daily styling a breeze!
1. linen tops
“easy, breezy, beautiful!“
These tops are so lightweight and breathable! your body will be screaming “thank you” from the heavens on those days when you need to look chic and polished but the heat just won’t give.
when you have a zoom call at 4 and a picnic outing at 6, throw this one on.
2. linen pants
The linen pant is the obvious sibling of the linen top. You can wear them separately but they look amazing when paired as well!
These breathable pants come in so many chic variations! (our favorite would be the belted version)
dress it up with a matching tank and you’re out the door in 10 minutes or less with a stylish monochrome look!
3. straight leg jeans
A must-have for your closet! You can go for the standard look with the wash of your choice or go for a bedazzled, patterned pair depending on your taste!
The decision is totally yours but having a reliable pair of jeans is the easiest way to get out of the door.
note: I recommend purchasing a solid pair first and a more intricately designed pair second, this way you have a backup option if your patterns don’t match
4. tailored shorts
summertime is for the legs ladies!
Tailored shorts are a must because they can be dressed up or down! They also create a much more elevated look than their denim counterpart.
Toss a blazer over your shoulders and put on some strappy sandals for a dressier evening look. For the daytime hours, pair with your favorite blouse (or linen button-down). The world is your oyster!
5. silk dress
this lightweight material is always guaranteed to turn heads! Silk is known to be breezy and beautiful but its natural sheen always creates an element of allure. Pair with your favorite heels and a red lip for your go-to summertime night-out look!
6. silk skirt
The silk skirt follows similar rules to the silk dress but acts as its daytime counterpart. It is perfect for Sunday brunches or a chic neighborhood errand runs! Just throw one on with a strappy camisole top.
7. an airy midi dress
The midi dress is one of my personal obsessions for the spring and summer seasons. They are so playful and feminine and work for so many occasions. You can dress them up with a sandal or a cute and minimal pair of sneakers.
If you were wondering what to wear to the picnic meetups you’ve been planning, this is it!
8. sandals
trust me, your feet will thank you!
A nice pair of pumps will always elevate your look but you can channel this same vibe in flats or lower heel heights as well! We do not sacrifice comfort for style here!
Sandals often don’t get their due as being a component of a chic outfit but this is such a misconception! There are so many styles that it is almost impossible for you not to find one that works for your capsule!
Brands like Bottega Veneta have definitely created room for the chic and comfortable sandal within the summer style conversation.
Our pro tip: stick to a lower heel height to maximize the hours of wear you get from your shoes!
9. gold accessories
Capsule wardrobes are typically associated with neutral color palettes and a lack of prints. Gold accessories do the talking on the days when your outfits are more subdued. They draw attention to your face, neck, and hands and highlight your surrounding features!
These are also beautiful on warm and neutral undertones on the skin when you wear summery colors!
10. Accent Shades
Every girl needs a good statement piece. An accessory such as a bold pair of shades allows you to take the pressure off of yourself when picking out your clothing! You can keep it simple because your shades will do the talking!
Throw on your favorite dress and your statement shades and you are ready to take on the day!
11. sun hat
A bougie fav that also protects your skin? Sign us up!
Sunscreen is most certainly a non-negotiable (please wear it) but a beautiful hat also is a great addition to the team when working to keep the suns rays out.
You can stick to neutrals to start but venturing out into more colorful options is always fun!
12. minimal sneakers
Last but not least, you can never go wrong with a crisp, white pair of sneakers! They are perfect for days where you’ll be spending a lot of time on your feet or just want to add a more casual accent to your look! Best of all, you never have to worry about them going out of style.
