It’s the best time of the year! I love Summer so much and it’s one of my favorite seasons to get dressed for because it’s so easy. You just throw over a cute dress, sandals and you are good to go. But it also means navigating the sweltering heat while looking effortlessly stylish. Enter the summer capsule wardrobe; your solution to beating the heat with less stress and more style.
If you’re struggling to get dressed fast every morning (and love your outfits) it’s probably because you have a million options! But it’s a good thing you’re here, reading an article about how to create a summer capsule wardrobe 😎 We’re going to fix all your summer wardrobe problems!
Today I’m sharing all my best tips and step by step on how to build a summer capsule wardrobe with just 25 basic pieces and over 45 stylish summer looks to inspire you.
We’ll cover everything you need to succeed:
✅ The why
✅ The what
✅ And the how of building a 25-piece summer wardrobe tailored for YOU.
⭐️ Look for the star emoji under each piece, because we’ve got shopping and styling tips for the 4 most common body types!
🎯 And next to this emoji you will find links to the pieces I’m recommending.
So, let’s dive in!
This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission if you shop for anything using my links at no extra cost to you. Thank you in advance if you end up using them!
Are you ready to learn how to create your 2025 summer capsule wardrobe? Lets do this!
Article originally shared in May 2021 – but it gets updated every year. Last update: Jan 31st 2025.
General Advice for Creating Your Own 25-Piece Summer Capsule Wardrobe
✅ Focus on quality over quantity – High-quality doesn’t have to mean high-cost. Look for breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and lightweight blends that hold up in the heat. (Check out my recommendations under each item for budget-friendly, durable options!)
✅ Ensure the perfect fit – Every piece in your capsule should fit you well. This not only makes you feel amazing but also ensures your wardrobe looks polished. (Don’t worry—I’ll offer tips for different body types to help you find the right fit!)
✅ Only include pieces in great condition – Worn-out clothes have no place in a capsule wardrobe. Replace anything that’s past its prime so your summer wardrobe feels fresh and ready to go.
✅ Love every piece you include – This is the secret to making your wardrobe work. When you adore each piece, getting dressed becomes a joy, and you’ll feel confident in every outfit you put together.
✅ Keep the goal in mind – A summer capsule wardrobe should feel light, breezy, and versatile. You want a collection of pieces that make summer dressing effortless, with endless outfit combinations but zero clutter.
⭐️ Quick Reminder: While I’ll be sharing general tips for the four most common body types, there’s no one-size-fits-all rule. The most important thing is that YOU feel confident and comfortable in each piece. Don’t be afraid to tweak my advice and embrace your unique style!
Tops needed to build a Summer Capsule Wardrobe:
Total: 8 tops
Plain T-shirts (3)
Plain t-shirts are the ultimate staple in any wardrobe, but they shine brightest in the summer.
I suggest a white one, a striped one and a black, gray OR green one. If you usually dress with pops of color, then instead of a black one, get any color you’d like or even consider graphics. BUT, the white one and the striped one are non-negotiable in my humble opinion.
I recommend investing in high-quality summer basics that hold their shape/color after multiple washes. Lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen are perfect for the season.
And if you tend to sweat, spray the underarm areas with Shout or a similar product before every wash. It will keep your white t-shirts looking fresh all summer long.
⭐️ How to pick the right t-shirts for your body type?
- Triangle shapes: Opt for t-shirts with fun details like puff or flutter sleeves, or wide necklines to balance your silhouette.
- Inverted triangles: A relaxed-fit tee with a scoop or v-neck will soften the look of broad shoulders.
- Hourglass shapes: Fitted tees that define the waist will highlight your natural curves.
- Apple shapes: Look for flowy styles or longer tees with v-necks to create a flattering, lengthened look.
🎯 This is where you can find cute, sustainable and affordable T-shirts no matter your body type!
Linen Button Down Shirt (1)
If there’s one summer piece you’ll find yourself reaching for over and over, it’s a linen button-down shirt. Why? It’s lightweight, breathable, and effortlessly chic—a total lifesaver for hot days when you want to stay cool without sacrificing style.
Whether you’re heading to the beach or out for brunch, this versatile staple will have your back. This is one of the pieces I rely on HEAVILY as a full time carry-on traveler!
There’s so much you can do with a piece like this! You can wear it open as a cover-up over your swimsuit, tuck it into high-waisted shorts for a polished look, or tie it at the waist with a midi skirt for casual elegance.
⭐️ How to choose and style a button down shirt for your body type?
- Triangle shapes: Choose a button-down with slightly oversized sleeves or a relaxed fit to balance your silhouette. Roll up the sleeves to add a playful touch.
- Inverted triangles: A linen shirt with a v-neckline or a softer drape will create balance and soften the shoulders.
- Hourglass shapes: Highlight your waist by tying the shirt in the front or tucking it into high-rise bottoms.
- Apple shapes: Go for a slightly oversized fit that skims the midsection. Pair with fitted bottoms for a balanced look.
🎯 This is where I got my one and only linen shirt! They have so many cute colors, they’re super high quality and as a bonus, they’re sustainable!
Camis OR Tank Tops (2) – (you can also do one of each)
Tank tops and camis are the summer MVPs—light, breezy, and endlessly versatile. They’re perfect on their own during scorching days or as a base layer under a denim jacket or lightweight cardigan when the sun sets.
I recommend getting different colors than your T-shirts. Although neutrals like black or white are essentials for me.
⭐️ Styling Tips – Why I Love Them!
- Weekend Casual: Pair a ribbed tank with linen shorts and strappy sandals for an effortless day-out look.
- Effortless Chic: Tuck a silky cami into a high-waisted midi skirt and finish with wedges + accessories for a dinner date.
- Vacation-Ready: Use a cami as a swim cover-up or layer it under a sheer linen shirt. (this is one of my favorite ways to wear them!)
- Sporty Touch: Combine a tank top with joggers, sneakers, and a baseball cap for a sporty, on-the-go vibe.
- All-Day to Night: Swap denim shorts for tailored trousers, throw on a blazer, and your tank transitions seamlessly from casual to evening chic.
⭐️ How to choose the right tank top or cami for your body type?
- Triangle Shapes: Look for tanks with wider necklines or embellishments at the shoulders to balance your silhouette.
- Inverted Triangle Shapes: Flowy tanks with scoop necks or relaxed fits soften broad shoulders.
- Hourglass Shapes: Opt for fitted or ruched camis with adjustable straps to define the waist and highlight curves.
- Apple Shapes: Choose A-line or loose-fit camis with v-necks to elongate the torso and create a balanced look.
🎯 Browse some cute camis and tank tops here. They have options for each body type, so make sure to take note of my advice and pick the right one for you!
Going Out Tops (2):
Going-out tops are your ticket to effortless glam for summer evenings, date nights, or rooftop gatherings. Think sparkly sequins, romantic ruffles, sleek satins, or bold prints—there’s a style for every mood and occasion.
Whether you’re dressing up jeans for a casual dinner or pairing with a mini skirt for a night out, these tops are the statement-makers in your summer capsule wardrobe. They’re all about having fun while feeling confident and fabulous.
I honestly don’t have too many of these! I always manage to style more basic pieces with the right accessories. So if you don’t want to add a ‘going out top’ that’s totally fine too!
⭐️ How to pick the right going-out top for your body type?
- Triangle shapes: Look for tops with bold necklines, ruffle details, or embellishments around the shoulders to balance your silhouette. Off-the-shoulder styles are particularly flattering for you!
- Inverted triangles: Soft, flowy fabrics with v-necks or scoop necks will create balance and soften broad shoulders. Peplum styles are also a great option to add curves to your lower half.
- Hourglass shapes: Fitted or wrap-style tops that accentuate your waist will enhance your natural curves. Tops with slight ruching or cinched details are also flattering.
- Apple shapes: Opt for loose-fitting tops with v-necks or asymmetric details that draw attention upward. Wrap tops are also great for creating a flattering look.
🎯 Browse some super fun going out tops here! Or take a look at this page if you’re on a tighter budget.
That’s a wrap for the tops you need to create you summer capsule wardrobe!
With just 8 well-chosen tops, you can create countless summer outfits that are perfect for any occasion, from casual days to evening outings.
Remember, your summer capsule wardrobe isn’t an island—it’s part of your larger wardrobe! You likely already have versatile pieces from other capsules from other seasons that can be mixed and matched here, like a timeless blazer or that favorite striped shirt from your spring capsule wardrobe.
By combining these tops with items you already own, you’ll maximize outfit options while keeping your wardrobe streamlined and stylish.
Now, it’s time to choose the perfect dresses for your summer capsule wardrobe, so let’s move on!
Other style related posts to check out next:
1️⃣ How to find your personal style in 5 easy steps!
2️⃣ Everything you need to know about outfit formulas.
3️⃣ 7 timeless pieces you can wear all year!
Dresses (3): Mini, Midi & Maxi *one of each, or mix & match however you want*
Dresses are the ultimate summer one-and-done outfit, offering effortless style and comfort in the heat. With just three dresses in your capsule wardrobe, you’ll have so many different options to dress up or down for any occasion.
- Mini dresses are playful and perfect for casual outings.
- Midi dresses bring versatility for day-to-night transitions.
- Maxi dresses exude breezy elegance for summer evenings or vacations.
⭐️ How to pick the right dresses for your body type?
- Triangle shapes: Opt for A-line styles or dresses with details like puff sleeves, wide necklines, or embellishments on the upper half to balance proportions.
- Inverted triangles: Look for flared skirts, wrap styles, or halter necklines to create balance by softening the shoulders.
- Hourglass shapes: Wrap dresses or fitted styles that cinch at the waist work beautifully to highlight your curves.
- Apple shapes: Go for flowy, empire-waist, or shift dresses with v-necks to create a streamlined look.
⭐️ Styling tips for all your summer dresses:
- Pair a mini dress with sneakers for a casual daytime vibe, or add espadrilles for a chic upgrade.
- Style a midi dress with flat sandals for brunch or dress it up with heels and a clutch for date night.
- Wear a maxi dress with strappy sandals and statement earrings for an elegant evening look or keep it casual with slides and a straw bag.
🎯 These are my 2 favorite sites to shop for summer dresses: (mini, midi or maxi)
- This one has super classic and timeless pieces that actually work for many body types.
- This one is for super fun, vibrant pieces that will get you ALL THE COMPLIMENTS!
Jumpsuit (1)
A jumpsuit is the ultimate one-and-done piece for summer. It’s the kind of outfit you throw on when you want to look put together without any effort. You can basically treat it like a dress.
Whether you’re heading to a casual lunch, a day of sightseeing, or even a summer evening event, a jumpsuit can take you there in style.
Plus, it’s super comfortable and saves you the trouble of pairing tops and bottoms. The only problem? They’re kind of annoying when you have to pee… 🙈 but they’re still cute, so I’m recommending one.
⭐️ How to pick the right jumpsuit for your body type?
- Triangle shapes: Choose jumpsuits with details like puff sleeves, wide necklines, or embellished tops to balance your silhouette. Go for wide or straight-leg bottoms for a cohesive look.
- Inverted triangles: Opt for relaxed-fit or wrap-style jumpsuits with flowy legs to soften broad shoulders and add balance.
- Hourglass shapes: A fitted or cinched-waist jumpsuit will accentuate your curves beautifully. Look for styles with a belt or tie detail.
- Apple shapes: Flowy jumpsuits with v-necklines and a relaxed fit are perfect for skimming over the midsection while creating a streamlined look.
🎯 Check out these super flattering jumpsuits!
Top & Bottom Set (1):
A top-and-bottom set is one of the most versatile pieces you can include in your summer capsule wardrobe. Think of it as two outfits in one: you can wear the pieces together for a chic, coordinated look, or separate them to mix and match with other items in your wardrobe.
I always travel with a top & bottom set! Just take a look at how much you can do with them! (and these are just a few examples) 👇🏼
⭐️ How to pick the right top-and-bottom set for your body type?
- Triangle shapes: Look for sets where the top draws attention to your upper body with embellishments or wide necklines. A-line or slightly flared bottoms will balance your proportions.
- Inverted triangles: Opt for flowy or peplum-style tops with relaxed bottoms to soften broad shoulders and create balance.
- Hourglass shapes: Choose fitted or cinched-waist styles that highlight your curves, ensuring both pieces flatter your natural shape.
- Apple shapes: Go for sets with loose, flowy tops and high-waisted bottoms that skim over the midsection for a streamlined look.
🎯 There are 3 websites where I like to shop for matching sets:
1️⃣ Timeless, great quality and fit here.
2️⃣ Bold, unique and fun here.
3️⃣ On a tight budget? Browse this page. The quality is a hit or miss, but they do have cute things!
Now let’s take a look at the bottom pieces needed for your perfect summer capsule wardrobe!
Bottoms needed to build a summer capsule wardrobe:
Total: 6 bottoms
Linen Shorts (1 pair): *can be replaced with denim shorts*
Linen shorts are a summer staple for staying cool and looking polished. Their breathable, lightweight fabric makes them ideal for hot weather, whether you’re lounging at the beach or running errands around town.
While I rarely wear shorts myself (I prefer skirts for their versatility and ease of styling), linen shorts are perfect for those who love a casual summer vibe.
If you’re not a fan of linen, you can easily swap these out for a great pair of denim shorts—timeless and just as versatile.
⭐️ How to pick the right shorts for your body type?
- Triangle shapes: Go for slightly flared or A-line shorts to balance your silhouette.
- Inverted triangles: Relaxed-fit shorts with soft fabrics will help add volume to your lower half.
- Hourglass shapes: High-waisted styles that define your waist work beautifully.
- Apple shapes: Choose shorts with an elastic waistband or flowy fabric to skim the midsection for a comfortable and flattering fit.
🎯 Browse some super cute & sustainable shorts here! (they have unbeatable prices for high quality pieces)
Linen Pants (1 Pair)
Linen pants are an absolute essential for any summer capsule wardrobe, and I can also say how amazing they are for travel!
I personally own a pair of brown linen pants from Quince, and they’ve become a staple in my wardrobe. Not only are they lightweight and breathable for hot summer days, but they also make me feel super chic, whether styled casually or dressed up.
Just take a look at how versatile they are 👇🏼
⭐️ How to pick the right linen pants for your body type?
- Triangle shapes: Straight-leg or slightly flared styles balance proportions.
- Inverted triangles: Wide-leg pants create harmony by adding volume to the lower half.
- Hourglass shapes: High-waisted, tailored styles accentuate your curves.
- Apple shapes: Opt for flowy, relaxed fits with a comfortable waistband for a streamlined look.
🎯 Link to my linen pants here (they come in 10 different colors)
Wide Leg Pants (1 pair)
Wide-leg pants are the epitome of summer comfort and style. They combine the ease of wearing flowy fabrics with a sophisticated silhouette that works for casual days or more elevated occasions.
Whether you choose linen, cotton, or a breathable blend, wide-leg pants offer versatility and elegance in a single piece.
⭐️ Styling Tip: Pair your wide-leg pants with a fitted tank top for a balanced look, or dress them up with a going-out top and espadrilles for an evening out.
⭐️ How to pick the right wide-leg pants for your body type?
- Triangle shapes: Look for straight or slightly tapered wide-leg pants in lighter colors to draw attention away from the hips.
- Inverted triangles: Choose wide-leg pants in bold or bright colors to add volume to your lower half and create balance.
- Hourglass shapes: High-waisted styles with a tailored fit at the waist will emphasize your natural curves.
- Apple shapes: Opt for flowy styles with elastic waistbands or flat-front designs to create a streamlined, comfortable silhouette.
🎯 Stylish, summery and affordable wide leg pants here!
Skirts (3) *midi, midi & maxi* – mix & match however you want!
Skirts bring a unique blend of femininity and functionality to your summer capsule wardrobe. Unlike dresses, skirts allow you to mix and match with your favorite tops, making them a versatile choice for creating multiple outfits with minimal pieces.
Remember you can use accessories to dress up or down any look!
⭐️ My top ways to wear skirts: (any skirt)
- Pair a mini skirt with a cropped t-shirt or cami for a casual day out.
- Tuck a linen button-down into a midi skirt for an effortlessly polished look.
- Wear a maxi skirt with a fitted tank top and block heels for a chic yet comfortable evening outfit.
⭐️ How to pick the right skirts for your body type?
- Triangle shapes: Flowy A-line skirts help balance the hips and draw attention to the upper body. Look for light, airy fabrics in soft or neutral tones.
- Inverted triangles: Add volume with tiered, pleated, or ruffled skirts. Choose bold colors or eye-catching prints to bring balance to your silhouette.
- Hourglass shapes: High-waisted skirts that accentuate your waist and hug your natural curves work best. Fitted midi skirts or flowy maxis with cinched waists are perfect.
- Apple shapes: Elastic or flat-front waists paired with relaxed, flowy skirts help skim the midsection and create a flattering shape. Choose soft fabrics that drape gracefully.
🎯 Check out my top picks for mini, midi and maxi skirts, here.
Overwhelmed by your closet? Let’s fix that!
If you’ve found this post valuable, this closet quiz is basically like customized wardrobe advice! By just answering 7 fun questions, I will tell you exactly how to purge your closet and what to do next. My goal is to help you find your personal style. Get started today 👇🏼
Beach Cover-up (1):
A beach cover-up is the ultimate summer multi-tasker, perfect for transitioning from the beach to lunch or simply adding a touch of style while staying sun-safe. Whether you choose a dress-style cover-up, a skirt, or even shorts, this piece is all about ease and elegance.
If you go with a dress cover-up, the same body type tips from the dress section apply. Similarly, for a skirt or shorts cover-up, you can follow the respective body-type advice shared earlier in this post.
The key is to pick something that feels effortless and matches your personal style, while still complementing the rest of your summer capsule wardrobe.
🎯 This is where I got the cover-up in the photo. It’s basically the only I’ve had for years! Can’t recommend this brand enough. (mine is sold out, but they have so many other cute options)
Bathing suits (2):
Swimsuits are non-negotiable in a summer capsule wardrobe, whether you’re lounging by the pool, hitting the beach, or enjoying a spa day. Having both a bikini and a one-piece gives you options for different activities and levels of coverage, while still keeping your wardrobe functional and stylish.
Bikinis are great for tanning and casual beach days, while one-pieces can double as bodysuits when paired with skirts or shorts, making them incredibly versatile.
👉🏻 Also read: How to create looks with a one-piece bathing suit!
⭐️ How to pick the right swimsuit for your body type?
- Triangle shapes: Opt for swimsuits with embellishments or details on the top, like ruffles, bold patterns, or wide straps, to balance your silhouette. High-waisted bikini bottoms or A-line one-pieces work beautifully.
- Inverted triangles: Choose styles with simple tops and more detailed or colorful bottoms to draw attention downward. Look for one-pieces with plunge necklines or asymmetrical straps for a softer shoulder line.
- Hourglass shapes: Emphasize your curves with bikinis that have adjustable ties or one-pieces with cinched waists. Wrap styles or high-cut legs enhance your natural proportions.
- Apple shapes: Look for swimsuits with ruching or tummy control panels for a flattering fit. V-neck one-pieces or bikinis with supportive tops create a streamlined look.
🎯 I think this brand has the most flattering bathing suits. All of mine are from there. Just keep in mind that they run small, so size up!
Ok, we’re almost done here. It’s time to talk about the 3 pairs of shoes you’ll need to complete your summer capsule wardrobe!
Shoes (3):
- 1 pair of Birkenstocks
- 1 pair of going-out sandals (flats or heels)
- 1 pair of espadrilles
I swear by Birkenstocks as a full-time traveler. They’re my go-to for comfort, whether I’m exploring a new city, walking on cobblestone streets, or heading to the beach.
These sandals are versatile, durable, and stylish enough to pair with everything from dresses to wide-leg pants. They’re the perfect travel companion for long summer days when comfort is key.
Espadrilles are my secret weapon for instantly elevating any summer outfit. Whether you go for flats or wedges, they’re ideal for dinners, casual parties, or days when you want to look a bit more polished.
I love how they pair beautifully with skirts, jumpsuits, or even linen shorts, making them a stylish yet practical choice for all my summer adventures.
✅ The Always Handy Going-Out Sandals:
You can’t do summer without a pair of chic going-out sandals. I personally love a neutral flat or a block heel that can transition seamlessly from a casual lunch to a night out.
They’re the perfect balance of comfort and style, and they complement everything from dresses to a top-and-bottom set, making them an absolute must for any summer capsule wardrobe.
Again, they don’t have to be heels! You can style the right flat sandals for almost anything. I mostly wear flats, and I never miss having heels.
Summer capsule wardrobe checklist: (25 pieces)
✅ Tops (8)
✅ Top-and-Bottom Set (1)
✅ Bottoms (6)
- 1 pair of linen shorts
- 1 pair of linen pants
- 1 pair of lightweight wide-leg pants
- 3 skirts: mini skirt, midi or maxi (up to you!)
✅ Shoes (3)
- 1 pair of Birkenstocks
- 1 pair of going-out sandals (flats or heels)
- 1 pair of espadrilles (flats or heels)
✅ Summery items: (3)
Total = 25 pieces
Final thoughts about creating a summer capsule wardrobe:
Your summer capsule wardrobe isn’t just about looking stylish—it’s about making your life easier, freeing up time, and helping you feel confident every day.
Remember, the beauty of a capsule wardrobe lies in its versatility. Mix and match these 25 pieces with what you already own to create endless outfit combinations that suit your style and lifestyle. And don’t forget the power of accessories! A great pair of earrings, a bold necklace, or a chic hat can completely transform any outfit.
I believe in you! If I can live out of a carry-on suitcase, you can absolutely create a wardrobe that works for you.
It’s not about perfection—it’s about starting small and making intentional choices that simplify your life while helping you look and feel your best.
So go ahead and take that first step. Your summer wardrobe, full of possibilities, is waiting for you!
Let me know if you have any questions! I’m always happy to help ❤️
XO,
Aimara
PS: take the closet score quiz today! By simply answering 7 questions, I can assess the state of your closet and tell you exactly what to do next. It’s free and it takes 20 seconds!
About the author:
Hi, my name is Aimara and I am the voice behind Ways of Style. I was born and raised in Venezuela until the age of 27 when I moved to Chicago, and 2 years later I met my best friend and husband. We now travel full time and live out of a carry-on bag, so believe me, I know a thing or two about how to maximize every single piece I own.
I love creating new looks, and looking cute while I’m traveling. And in this blog, I try to share all my outfits, even if I don’t have the best photos ;) My goal is to help you maximize every piece you have in your closet and to encourage you to live with less things.
What to read next?
- How to create a spring capsule wardrobe
- If you live somewhere where is warm all year, check out this 30-piece capsule wardrobe instead.
- How to wear white sneakers all year!
Did you learn how to create your 2025 summer capsule wardrobe? Pin it!
This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission if you shop for anything using my links at no extra cost to you! Thank you in advance if you end up using them!
Thank you so much! This was very helpful and saved me alot of thinking (lol) and time! :)
Great guide about summer capsule wardrobe. I really need this. Thanks for sharing.
Happy to hear you liked it! :) Good luck building yours!
Hello!
We are planning a trip to the Mediterranean in August, and I understand it will be very hot. I love midi and maxi dresses – I plan to pack/wear several during our trip! As a woman who is prone to “heavy perspiring” in warm weather, I’d love to learn about tips and tricks on what to wear under my dresses to stay cool while still looking on-trend. I typically wear Spanx for upper body support and control, but I’m guessing this particular under garment may be a “heat trap”).
Thanks!
Hi!! This sounds like an awesome trip ❤️ I’d try wearing a T-shirt (white or black). Or even a sports bra :) I also sweat in hot weather because I wear natural deodorants, so I stay away from colors that make the sweating more obvious… hope this helps! Safe travels!
No doubt, the post is incredible, and also every time I read your blog I just got fastened with the content of the post. How easily you describe each and every perspective of the topic of the post.