Summer Capsule Wardorbe
IF you are a newsletter subscriber, you know that we have EPIC capsule wardrobe graphics seasonally. These handouts that you can download and print, are so helpful visually when it comes to putting together the perfect capsule wardrobe where everything works seamlessly together. For those of you who don’t know what a capsule wardrobe is…it’s basically a collection of essential items that flawlessly integrate together. That means that you can mix and match and wear all of these pieces in a bunch of different ways.
There are a couple of keys to getting your capsule wardrobe right:
How To Build A Summer Capsule Wardrobe
1) Pick a Color Story:
In this case (below) I chose neutrals like black, white, ivory, beige, and tan. Then I threw in a few fun blue pieces. These colors work well for women of all ages and are very versatile.
2) Choose Basics Wisely:
There’s a reason this graphic takes me 10+ hours to put together… I choose each piece very carefully, weighing fit and versatility as well as quality. You want to spend the majority of your wardrobe budget on basics. 80% on basics. 20% on trends. You can find more really helpful style tips here. Additionally, I’m thinking about sleeves, hemlines, and all of the things that help us ladies over 40 feel more confident.
Shop Our Summer and Spring Capsule Wardrobe
I tried to include pieces that are versatile so that you can wear them over and over again. This wardrobe is for summer, but it could easily transition to fall and beyond! Another thing I want to point out is that you do NOT have to buy new pieces every season. This capsule wardrobe is a springboard for you to create outfits and glean inspiration. You probably already have some similar items in your closet! But, if you’re interested in sprucing up a few of the basics, you can find all of the links to these items below! If you want to see more ways to wear these items, make sure you subscribe to the newsletter to get the free Lookbook with over 30 outfits styling some of these pieces.
Don’t forget that the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is starting next week! We have everything you need to know in this post including our preview picks!
Summer Capsule Wardrobe Essentials
Tops & Sweaters
Dresses & Bottoms
For a slightly more relaxed fit, size up on Moussy Vintage. I have a mix of 26 and 27. I also linked my favorite Agolde denim shorts that run TTS. When it comes to dresses, think about your personal summer style and what works best in your wardrobe. Your dresses for summer could include a maxi, midi, or mini dresses, a shirt dress, a floral dress, or whatever calls to you…just make sure it works seamlessly with the rest of your summer capsule so that you build a summer wardrobe that’s cohesive.
Outerwear
If you live in a hot climate, you only really need one lightweight jacket for those cold buildings with the AC pumping. I’d highly recommend this Cinq a Sept white blazer (I have it in two colors)! The trench isn’t something you’ll use for summer but would definitely transition to fall, winter, and spring. All of these pieces run true to size. You might want to size up in the Balmain blazer if you have broad shoulders.
Accessories & Jewelry
I choose every day, but impactful gold jewelry that elevates a look without overpowering it.
Swimwear
Elan is one of my favorite brands for affordable swim cover-ups. I LOVE Becca swimwear for women over 40 with flattering fits and great coverage. Johanna Ortiz makes beautiful swimsuits if you’re looking for something a little glam. Find more of my favorite swimsuits here.
Shoes
These are ALL neutral-toned, comfortable shoes and fit true to size. Remember to consider your lifestyle and preferences…I love wearing heeled sandals, but I know many of you prefer flats. All choices are completely up to you!
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What’s up friends, its fantastic piece of writing on the topic of cultureand fully
explained, keep it up all the time.
Please tell me wear I may buy a great quality white spring/summer skirt. In the past I have always purchased in the Caribbean . A recommendation would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you
Kathryn
Hi Kathryn! We’re putting a few suggestions below. We haven’t personally tried these, but Erin loves the first two brands for their high-quality, stylish pieces. If you can share what length you’re looking for and your price range, we’d be happy to find you more options. Thanks so much for your support! ~Team Busbee
White tiered midi skirt: https://rstyle.me/+hP3yNk2JxL4ngPJtmONaFw
Another midi skirt option: https://rstyle.me/+oy8pQIuEJsOI0scKToDQXA
For less option: https://rstyle.me/+dknf3nYNLikskDtb-roRMQ
How csn I shop the capsule wardrobe?
You can shop all of the items in this post just below the graphic. They’re linked under their respective categories (Tops & Sweaters, Dresses & Bottoms, etc.). Please let us know if you have any other questions! Thanks for stopping by, Sue! ~Team Busbee xo
What is the link to the paper clip pearl earrings? TY!
So sorry about that, Rachel! Just updated the post so they should be linked. But here’s the link to those earrings: https://rstyle.me/+Wwn2xVLrpWGdjH-2Nk2wmg Thanks so much! ~Team Busbee
I appreciate all the time and effort you put into this capsule wardrobe. However, some of us, including myself, are in a financial category that would never allow for these prices. I was very disappointed to click on the links and discover many items cost 100+ and even 1000+. Maybe sometime you could find similar links where the majority of the items are below $50. I know that may sound unreasonable, but that’s where many of us are. Again, I do appreciate your time, because at the very least it gives us examples to search for within our own budgets.
Thanks so much for the feedback, Shannon! We’ll work on featuring more affordable pieces in the future. Is there anything specific on the capsule wardrobe you’d like us to find you a more affordable option for? We’d love to help! Thanks again for the support! ~Team Busbee xo
Thank you for “making” me buy a straw hat for summer! I thought it would make me too hot…however, not only do I look cool, but I feel cooler when I’m wearing the straw hat!
I couldn’t get the one you featured bc it was sold out…but I got another one Nordstrom offered as an alternative…do you still get credit for that…or do I have to purchase the exact one that you linked on you Tube?
Thank you SO much for thinking of me. If you accessed Nordstrom through our links we do get credit, but more importantly… I’m thrilled you love your hat! Such a great summer accessory. So happy you wrote to tell me. Have an amazing end of your summer. xo
I got the Steve Madden sandals last week after seeing them here. I absolutely love them. They are not something I would usually pick up. I stepped outside of my comfort zone. Thanks for suggesting them.
I am SO glad you love them! Erin xo
What is the link to the white puff short sleeve blouse? Dar
So sorry, Darlene! I forgot to add that piece to the shopping widget!
https://rstyle.me/+EandJ1sxeHbmtnPwUsEHTw
Erin xo
What is a link to the tie-waist shorts in the capsule? To the puff sleeve short sleeve blouse? TY
Oh my gosh… so sorry I forgot to add those to the shopping widgets. Thank you for letting us know!
https://rstyle.me/+IpO5vlOrbnnUhikg8qzW0A
Erin xo
Thanks!