I've Spent Years Perfecting My Minimalist Capsule Wardrobe—These Are 10 Summer Essentials

I’ve always lived by the age-old idiom, “Dress smarter, not harder.” Fashion folks interpret this expression in various ways, but for me, the clichéd phrase implies building a minimalist capsule wardrobe that will last a lifetime. I’ve spent years doing just that, and not to toot my own horn, but I’ve become an expert in pared-down dressing. Now that temperatures are on the rise, I've figured it’s the perfect time to share all the easygoing summer basics that rank high on my must-have shopping list.

For days in the office, I'll often style breezy button-down shirts with modest Bermuda shorts that keep me cool while providing enough coverage (Marie Claire editor-in-chief Nikki Ogunnaike is also a fan of the office-proof short outfit). Shoreside getaways, on the other hand, call for versatile swimsuits that match with practically any cover-up, and roomy tote bags large enough to store my beach-ready belongings. As for casual outings—whether I’m enjoying an al fresco lunch with friends or taking a stroll through my local farmers market—I’ll slip into floaty summer dresses and sleek sandals.

These are just a few of the warm-weather essentials that have found a place in my closet—and they deserve a spot in yours, too. Scroll on to discover my curated 10-piece minimalist capsule wardrobe that I guarantee will simplify your summer fashion. You can thank me later.

Breezy Dresses

The best part about wearing an effortless summer dress is that there’s barely any styling involved. Simply top off your look with sophisticated sandals, a streamlined handbag, and bright jewelry. From linen shirt dresses to A-line styles, these frocks are guaranteed to infuse a sense of ease into your wardrobe.

Lightweight Linen Pants

Given that sweat-inducing temperatures are upon us, you’ll want to invest in a pair of breathable linen pants that won’t cause you to overheat. Styles stitched in relaxed, baggy silhouettes are great for laid-back outings, while tailored options are more polished and work well for formal-ish dress codes.

Versatile Button-Down Shirts

I’m not exaggerating when I say I have at least a dozen button-down shirts stuffed inside my closet. My assortment ranges from standard white versions to saturated alternatives in this season’s most viral color trends—like sky blue and butter yellow.

Simple Sandals

There’s nothing wrong with a trendy statement shoe, but when you’re crafting a capsule wardrobe, you’ll want to reach for no-fuss designs that will cycle throughout your summer outfit rotation. Look no further than the options below in timeless, uncomplicated colors and silhouettes.

Neutral Swimsuits

Do you hear that melodic tune? It’s the sound of crashing waves and chirping seabirds. Embrace an “OOO” attitude by adding these straightforward swimsuits to your travel capsule wardrobe. Stick with solid colors or take a deep dive into the fisherman aesthetic with timeless nautical-inspired stripes.

Summery Tote Bags

If you’ve got a packed summer schedule ahead, you’ll need a tote bag that’ll keep up with your busy lifestyle. While the designs below are ideal for sun-filled moments by the shore, they’re also stylish enough for upscale dinners and nights on the town.

Basic T-Shirts & Tank Tops

Behold, the backbone of every minimalist capsule wardrobe. Whether worn on their own or layered beneath a summer sweater for chillier July evenings, T-shirts and tank tops offer endless styling options.

Airy Maxi Skirts

It’s officially time to ditch your heavy jeans for lightweight maxi skirts. You can’t go wrong with a plain white style, but if you’re looking to step outside the box, experiment with charming pastel hues or playful bubble hemlines.

Everyday Accessories

The right accessories can go a very long way. Take your look to the next level with sun hats and sunglasses that embody the phrase “fashion meets function.” Don’t forget to add subtle hints of gold jewelry into the mix for an elevated touch.

Practical Bermuda Shorts

Bermuda shorts are more than just a trend—they’re a timeless staple. Made with a lengthy inseam and a fairly loose construction, these bottoms are beyond comfortable (which makes them a great choice for sweltering summer days). So, go ahead and leave those micro shorts behind.