A capsule wardrobe should be super timeless and dependable enough that you won’t dream of ditching the pieces you have in a year or so. This is all about longevity, people!
Since summer’s on its way (and I fear the heat is here to stay for a while), it’s time to start developing a stylish collection of summer clothes that you truly want to wear. Plus, ones that’ll help you survive the painfully warm weather.
My rule of thumb for building a great capsule wardrobe (for summer and any season, really) is starting with the most basic of basics. For instance, I typically lean towards solid pieces (without any patterns) in neutral colors, like black, white, brown, or cream. Another important factor for my personal style is comfort – you want to make sure you enjoy wearing each and every piece you have. Having garments without any extra bells or whistles in your closet means you’re more likely to reach for them, plus they’ll wear quite well with additional basic pieces.
Don’t feel pressured to find all these pieces in a single thrift trip. Oftentimes, it takes multiple thrifting sessions to gather exactly what you’re looking for, especially for a reliable capsule wardrobe. But that’s the fun in thrifting for me – you never know what you’re going to find!
Here are 18 summer capsule wardrobe items to keep an eye out for on your next thrift store visit!
Tops
Photo by Dmitriy Steinke / PEXELS
White Tee
Any white tee is deserving of your summer uniform. They go wonderfully with denim and linen bottoms, and pretty much anything in between. Thrift for your staple white tee in whatever silhouette suits your style. For me, I prefer a cropped baby tee, but you may see yourself wearing a boxier, longer fit based on your preferences.
My best advice here is to avoid see-through white t-shirts at all costs. Since thrift stores typically have older styles and fabrications in stock (they truly don't make things like they used to!), your search shouldn't be too hard. Go for the thicker materials and make sure to try 'em on before sealing the deal.
White Tank Top
For the non-tee days, white tank tops are a godsend. They're the perfect base to layer under light button-ups or cardigans for summertime when needed.
Again, avoid anything that's not giving full coverage. I like my tank tops to be form-fitting (and compatible when I don't feel like wearing a bra), but you may reach for something looser. Either way, make sure you really jive with it!
Photo by Anna Nekrashevich / PEXELS
Black Tee
Because black is just as versatile as white, having a basic black t-shirt on-hand will work wonders for your capsule wardrobe and save you time when you're getting dressed for the day.
Any solid black tee is gonna match with denim bottoms like shorts, skirts, or jeans, as well as summer-ready white pants or shorts.
As always, comfort and coverage is key.
Photo by Leah Newhouse / PEXELS
Black Tank Top
You can also layer black tanks pretty easily. For any tank top you're adding to your capsule wardrobe, I might recommend styles with wider straps rather than spaghetti straps. This way, the garment will fit more comfortably and last longer than any style with flimsy straps.
Photo by Meredith Holser
Colorful Going Out Top
It's hot girl summer after all. You'll want something hot to step out in for happy hours and dinner dates!
Whether it's a halter tank, a top with a tie-front, or a cheeky open back shirt, the most important aspect to consider when adding a going out top to your capsule wardrobe is that you see yourself wearing it again and again – perhaps in different ways from the next!
Photo by Meredith Holser
Buttoned Top
Buttoned tops are good to have as a light layer for when the sun goes down in the summer. For the warmer weather, I recommend searching the thrift racks for cotton or linen fabrications – they are superior for being breezy and breathable, which is what you want in the hot temps.
Basic whites, blacks, or other neutral colors like taupe or sand are an easy addition for building on top of other solid pieces (remember that white tank top?). If you wanna mix things up a bit, look for undistracting patterns like minimal stripes or dots in neutral colorways (so you can still pair it with the rest of your capsule).
Bottoms
Denim Shorts
High waisted denim shorts are just as popular as longer bermuda jorts right now, so the particular style you thrift for is really up to you. No matter what, you want to prioritize comfort and quality, along with your personal preferences. Try to put micro-trends aside!
For thrifting denim, I like looking for brands like Lee or Levi's. I typically like to feel the material in my hands, making sure it's thick and has zero holes, thinning, or rips.
Boxer Shorts
Boxer shorts are hugeee for this summer, but they have longevity for outfits in and out of the house – beyond summer, too. These flowy shorts are super light and airy, and you can literally can hop out of bed and look chic when you pair 'em with a basic tank, light cardi or button up, and ballet flats.
It sounds icky, but you're most likely to find the boxer shorts you're looking for in the men's section of the thrift store. I'd look out for fun patterns like plaids or stripes, but also basic solid colors like light blues or grays. From there, you wanna wash everything you thrift before wearing (you may already know the drill, but it's worth the reminder)!
Track Shorts
Track shorts are also popping off right now, but they can live in your wardrobe forever. With some cute sneaks and a basic tee, your next casual outfit is set. Track shorts can be dressed up or down with ease, depending on how you style them, and they're great for working out too . Hot girl walks, here you come!
Linen Pants
Any sort of linen garment is gonna do you extremely good this summer.
Linen pants are a great option to have in your capsule wardrobe for the summer nights you might have to dress up a bit more than usual, – office lunches, cocktails with the girls, etc. They are so easy to wear with a tank and chic flip flops for a beachy look, or layer with a light cardi and ballet flats for a sophisticated ensemble.
White or cream colors are super cute for linen pants, but you should be able to track some down in essentially any color you wish!
Dresses + Skirts
Photo by Meredith Holser
Black Mini Skirt
It might just be me, but I think you're gonna want something short for a hot, hot summer. Mini skirts are here to save the day, and you can track them down at the thrift store pretty easily!
Black is an instant match with just about anything, and I've found myself reaching for my thrifted black mini skirt more than usual as things start to heat up.
Even better than a skirt? A skort. With skorts, you have more comfort and security. To scour the racks for skorts, I typically look around the athletic wear section.
Denim Mini Skirt
Again, the mini length is so helpful for tackling summer heat. Denim is timeless as can be, and a denim skirt can be worn in countless ways! Go for the cowgirl chic look with some cowgirl boots and a pointelle tank, or go cute-girl with some slingbacks and a going out top!
The denim mini skirt you land on all depends on your personal style and preferences for fit. I personally have an affection for medium-wash denim, but you might prefer darker colors. The denim skirt I always reach for is easy to put on with a simple zipper and button closure, but you might be able to find a piece that slides right on and stretches.
Casual Little Black Dress
It's worth repeating: black goes with everything! Whether it's a-line, a swing dress, or a babydoll look, a casual LBD is perfect for summertime. It's easy to wear with tall boots, sandals, flats, etc., plus you can dress it up or down based on what you're up to!
Remember, comfort is key.
White Maxi Skirt
A white maxi skirt delivers such whimsical vibes! It's my go-to summer farmer's market get-up since I don't have to deal with pants at all. But the white maxi skirt works for a variety of situations like brunch or park walks, too!
It's a great match with a black tank top or breezy bandeau, if the temps are really scorching.
Shoes
Ballet Flats
Ballet flats (or even Mary Janes) are a reliable cozy shoe for wearing this summer and beyond! Unlike sneakers or clogs, they won't leave your feet super sweaty – which is something I try to avoid at all costs.
They're perfectly femme, so cute, and go with everything from pants to dress.
Photo by Roman Odintsov / PEXELS
Comfy Sandals
If ballet flats aren't your vibe (for style or comfort reasons), sandals are another breezy choice you can track down at the thrift store. It's best to opt for ones with a substantial sole, so you can be sure your feet are getting as much support as possible.
Looking for lightly-used shoes are best when thrifting.
Accessories
Photo by Addy Bronzzz / PEXELS
Basic Shoulder Bag
You gotta take stuff with ya wherever you go this summer! A small shoulder bag is perfect for toting things around, from the cafes to the bars. I adore my small black shoulder bag since it goes with everything, and looks even better when I'm wearing black shoes.
If a small shoulder bag isn't roomy enough for your lifestyle, a canvas tote is great, too.
Photo by Meredith Holser
Black Sunnies
Keep those eyes protected and those 'fits looking super cool with some chic sunnies!
Thrift stores often have vintage-y glasses, so this is a great opportunity for finding something unique rather than spending too much $$$ on something new!
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Lead photo by Polina Tankilevitch / PEXELS.
