Summer Capsule Wardrobe: 8 Clothing Staples

Guide To A Minimal Summer Wardrobe

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When building a summer capsule wardrobe, there are 8 clothing staples that every woman needs. We are counting down the days until our summer trip to Cape Cod. The 8 items I’m sharing are definitely going in my suitcase for our summer vacation. Including my favorite t-shirt bra and must-have denim shorts. (Ps. I am not sponsored by any brands in this post. I genuinely love, use, and recommend every item I’m sharing below)

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8 Piece Summer Capsule Wardrobe

1. Adhesive Bra.

The backless, strapless, wear with anything bra that’s under $20. It lasts for 15-20 wears. You lightly handwash it after use and let it air dry. It gets sticky all over again. Especially with all the cut-out and one-shoulder trends, this is the perfect bra. It’s like a strapless bra but even better because it’s backless.

2. Seamless Underwear.

I found these on Amazon. It comes in a package of 5 neutral colors for under $20. They’re comfortable and breathable. Perfect to wear with dresses and workout clothes instead of thongs.

3. T-shirt Bra.

This one from Natori is not just my summer go-to bra of choice, it’s the one I use and recommend to my clients all year round. It’s not padded, but it’s thick enough that it offers coverage. The underwire is minimal and barely noticeable. I recommend wearing this bra under even the thinnest fabrics. Another thing I love about it is that it’s also seamless.

For summer when fabrics and clothing are lighter weights and colors, having the right undergarments is key.

4. White & Black Cotton Tank.

The ones by rag & bone are my go-to for solid color, elevated tank tops. They are available in sizes XXS-XL and run TTS. I love that they’re slightly thicker than your basic t-shirt. There is an interesting seam detail going down the back. I find that these last for a long time, especially if you wash them in a mesh bag and hang them to dry. I style them with jeans, shorts, and even with dress pants and a structured jacket.

5. Elevated White T-shirt.

My favorite t-shirt is once again from rag & bone (I am not sponsored by them, I just think they make the best t-shirt). I recommend having this wardrobe essential in your closet all year round. Whether you choose a crewneck or v-neck is preference. Again, they are a bit thicker and have that seam detail in the back. They run TTS.

6. Longer Denim Shorts.

Shorts are a pain point for a lot of women over 40. I find the pair by AGOLDE called the Parker long shorts to be flattering on many body types, especially on curvy women. The length of these is perfect. They aren’t short, but they also aren’t too long like outdated Bermuda shorts. These are the denim shorts I recommend to my Personal Styling clients. Many of the women that have had a hard time finding shorts that work for them, love these. They run TTS, but you may want to size up for a relaxed fit.

7. Black Cotton Midi Dress.

My favorite that I’ve had for a few years is by Michael Stars. It has ruching along the waist that helps “hide” a mommy tummy. It’s extremely versatile and comfortable. I wear it with sandals, sneakers, and flip flops. This is an easy everyday dress you can throw on in the summer but also wear in the fall with a cardigan.

8. Leather Flip Flops.

I’ve been wearing TKEES leather flip flops ever since I discovered them for my wedding reception over 12 years ago. I was looking for a nude leather flat shoe that I could change into and found these. They are available in a lot of nude shades and run about $50. These elevated flip flops can be styled with dresses for date nights, as well as with shorts and a t-shirt for daytime. I like to get a nude and a black pair for the summer.

Related: “Capsule Wardrobe Shoes Every Woman Needs“

Those are my 8 summer clothing staples that every woman needs in a summer capsule wardrobe. I recommend adding these items to your closet for a chic and effortless summer.