Looking for some summer outfit inspo? Well, I’ve just packed away my winter wardrobe and brought out my summer clothes, so I thought this would be the perfect time to share my must-have items in my summer capsule wardrobe for Europe. I’ll share my own capsule staples (like my favorite linen shirts, jeans and Birkenstocks) + affordable items!
Lightweight jeans, Birkenstocks, and a white purse are part of my summer capsule wardrobe!
Jeans | Similar Purse under $60 | Birkenstocks | Sunglasses
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There’s something so refreshing about switching out cozy sweaters for breezy dresses and sandals. Whether you’re planning a European getaway or just want to simplify your summer style, I’ve got you covered with versatile pieces and outfit ideas for your summer capsule wardrobe that will keep you looking chic and comfortable all season long. Let’s dive into my summer capsule wardrobe essentials!
Table of Contents
- What is a Capsule Wardrobe?
- Why You’ll Love a Capsule Wardrobe
- How to Create Your Capsule Wardrobe
- Must-Have Items for You Summer Capsule Wardrobe
- Summer Capsule Wardrobe Outfit Ideas (Perfect for Vacation!)
- Recap of Essentials for You Summer Capsule Wardrobe
What is a Capsule Wardrobe?
A capsule wardrobe simplifies your closet without sacrificing style, focusing on around 30-40 pieces you absolutely love (excluding accessories and workout gear). But I promise you it’s not about how many items, and there is no exact amount. The point is to have a selection of items that are versatile, and make you feel fabulous!
The idea is that each piece of clothing in your capsule should be a multitasker—like a white tee that pairs with jeans, a chic blazer, or a cute skirt. It’s about creating multiple looks with minimal items, using timeless pieces like a little black dress, well-fitted jeans, and crisp white shirts. It’s also largely focused on investing in well-made items to avoid the fast fashion churn and save money in the long run. But, I promise you, you don’t have to spend a ton to get this wardrobe! Once you get started you can easily adapt your capsule wardrobe for different seasons—swap cozy sweaters for breezy tank tops in summer, and you’re all set!
You might like: 5 (Easy) Spain Outfit Ideas + Helpful Spain Packing List
Why You’ll Love a Capsule Wardrobe
Stress-Free Mornings
Say goodbye to the “I have nothing to wear” dilemma. With a capsule wardrobe, everything goes with everything, making it super easy to put together a chic outfit in no time. And I promise you – it’s easier than you think!
Sustainable Fashion
Being mindful about what you buy and reducing waste is a win-win. You’re not only saving the planet but also setting a stylish example and saving money along the way.
Travel Light
If you love to travel (and who doesn’t?), a capsule wardrobe is your best friend. Packing becomes a breeze when you have a versatile wardrobe and you can actually fit everything into that little carry on suitcase.
Less Clutter, More Space
No more bursting closets or drawers that won’t close. A capsule wardrobe keeps things neat and tidy. And, if you live in Europe like me and built in closets don’t exist, this is a life savor for small space and seasonal rotations.
How to Create Your Capsule Wardrobe
Step 1: Wardrobe Audit
Start by going through what you already own. Keep what you love and wear often. Say goodbye to those items that don’t leave you feeling great. Reference Marie Kondo for how to do this!
Step 2: Define Your Style
Think about your lifestyle, what you love to wear, and what makes you feel amazing. This is your chance to really hone in on your personal style and truly wear what leaves you feeling your best.
Step 3: Choose Your Colors
Pick a base palette of neutral colors like black, white, gray, and navy. Then, add a few accent colors to keep things interesting. This is the perfect time to check out your season, a color analysis, for what colors look best on you and what ones you want to incorporate into your capsule wardrobe.
Step 4: Select Your Essentials
Go for versatile pieces like a classic white t-shirt, a tailored blazer, a little black dress, well-fitted jeans, and comfortable yet stylish shoes.
Ensure that most of your pieces can be paired with each other. This way, you can create a variety of outfits without having to own a ton of clothes.
For summer, think lightweight fabrics, breezy dresses, and comfy sandals. It’s all about being stylish yet comfortable.
Must-Have Items for You Summer Capsule Wardrobe
Okay, time to dive into the staples you need in your summer capsule wardrobe and I will be sharing my personal favorite items! I will also have affordable (think under $50ish) and higher end (nothing over $200 promise) items linked for each staple!
Classic White T-Shirt
I LIVE for a white t-shirt and always have two fresh ones in my capsule wardrobe. A white t-shirt is perfect paired with linen pants, a cute belt, and then tennis shoes or heeled sandals. This one is under $20 too!
Lightweight Linen Shirt
This is something I recently added to my wardrobe thanks to a very stylish good friend in my life. I always thought a linen shirt, or any shirt with buttons had to be buttoned. Like duh right? SO WRONG. The beauty of a linen button shirt, is it can be paired over a tank top, or dress, to elevate a look. This are my favorite super affordable linen shirts from H&M!
I love a linen shirt, paired with a tank & wide leg pants!
Denim Shorts
Levis will always win the jean shorts game in my book and these are my absolute favorite. From the beach, to running errands, to a BBQ at a friends – they just work. The beauty is you really only need one or two pairs in your summer wardrobe to do the trick. I always opt for a blue pair, and then a white or black pair like these!
Black Midi Dress
This might be a personal preference, but a summer staple for me is a black midi dress. First of all, black because it hides sweat and it’s super easy to dress up and down. I absolutely love Everlane’s black dresses! They have a variety of fabrics and styles – this slip style is perfect for travel and it’s under $100!
Lightweight Jacket
I love having a few lightweight jackets for date nights or girls night (or when it decides to be chilling in Zurich). I always opt for a jean jacket, leather jacket, and then a pattern or fun color to mix up my outfits from day to night.
Affordable | Jean Jacket | Higher End
High-Waisted Shorts / Pants
Aside from jean shorts, I honestly can’t say I have very many other shorts. I struggle to find the right fit for my body (I am 5’10), but I do love some high waisted, wide leg pants, especially linen for the summer. You can dress up or down a pair of linen pants, and they are a must for travel. These are a few styles I love, that might work for your body type!
Jeans
A great pair of jeans is a wardrobe game changer, but honestly, finding a pair that fits you just perfectly can be so difficult. I will always love a pair of Levi’s Ribcage jeans, but I’ve also become a huge fan of Arket jeans!
Simple Blouses / Tops
I love to have some simple blouses or tops to mix into my capsule wardrobe. Many time you’ll see capsule that are very simple, and a bit hard to dress up for a night out, so I’ve selected a few I personally love! This top from Anthropologie is one I love because it’s easy to dress up or down, especially when packing light!
Sandals
A cute pair of sandals, or two, will make an outfit absolutely come together. I am obsessed with these Steve Madden flats, and honestly, have more than a few pairs because they are so small (aka they don’t take up space in my show cabinet) and they go with everything!
Affordable | Higher End
Tennis Shoes
With this guide aimed at a capsule summer wardrobe for Europe, tennis shoes are a must. They are definitely on trend, and super practical for all the changing weather and walking you’ll do.
Shoes are up to you in your capsule wardrobe, I personally have a lot of shoes and love matching my purses and shoes to complete an outfit. I also LOVE ballet flats, which you’ll see in the outfits below because they work with everything!
Purses
I’ve become purse obsessed and didn’t realize how much a bag could elevate an outfit. A well-chosen purse is both practical and stylish, adding a touch of oomf to your look. I like to opt for a versatile crossbody bag for everyday use, a chic clutch or mini bag for evenings out, and a spacious tote for travel.
Sunglasses
A good pair of sunglasses is a must-have in any capsule wardrobe. They truly complete an outfit! Choose classic styles like aviators or wayfarers that can easily transition from casual beach days to city strolls. I typically invest in one good pair of sunglasses to wear all thought the year.
Hats
Hats are another great accessory to consider. They not only provide sun protection at the beach or when walking through the city, but also add a stylish touch to any outfit. In summer I love to opt for a straw hat that I can wear on bad hair days, or at the beach.
Summer Capsule Wardrobe Outfit Ideas (Perfect for Vacation!)
These outfits are things I would, and do wear in summertime in Switzerland! My capsule wardrobe looked very different when I lived in Singapore, as well as Oregon. These might not work for where you live, but take this as inspiration for Central Europe and packing for vacation!
Jean Shorts | T-shirt | Linen Shirt | Sandals | Purse | Sunglasses
Satin Dress | Linen Shirt | Ballet Flats | Purse | Sunglasses
Jean Shorts | Tie Front Top | Ballet Flats | Purse
Linen Pants | Tie Front Top | Sandals (under $30!) | Purse | Sunglasses
Recap of Essentials for You Summer Capsule Wardrobe
- Classic White T-Shirt
- Lightweight Linen Shirt
- Denim Shorts
- Black Midi Dress
- Lightweight Jacket
- Simple Blouses / Tops
- High-Waisted Shorts / Pants
- The Perfect Jeans
- Sandals
- Cute Tennis Shoes
- Purse
- Sunglasses
- Hats
I hope this inspired you to create your summer capsule wardrobe! Whether you live in Europe, or are getting ready for vacation, you’ll be dressed to impressed and feel so good looking into your closet each day! Let me know if you have any questions – I am always here!
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