As Coco Chanel poignantly said, “Fashion changes-style remains.” When it comes to apparel, fashion trends may come and go, but timeless style endures.
Suppose you want to elevate your style while looking sophisticated and elegant this season. In that case, curating a capsule wardrobe for summer is an essential step toward achieving a chic and polished look, no matter what your budget may be. By investing in a few key pieces that are versatile and timeless, you can effortlessly upgrade your style and create endless outfit possibilities that are both ladylike and effortless.
In today’s style guide, discover the art of curating a capsule wardrobe for sophisticated summer style, by learning about specific types of clothing that every fashion-forward woman should consider adding to her collection. The best part is – you don’t have to spend a fortune on clothing to look like you come from old money.
How To Create a Capsule Wardrobe for Summer
To start with, choosing high-quality garments that flatter your shape is imperative. If you buy off-the-rack pieces, you can always have them tailored to fit you perfectly. Not to mention, I recommend investing in outerwear that is well-constructed and made from finer fabrics.
Blazers
A well-tailored blazer in a neutral color (such as white, black, and tan) is the epitome of timeless style. Opt for a lightweight fabric like linen or cotton to keep you cool during the summer months. A neutral-toned blazer can be easily paired with a variety of outfits, whether it’s a crisp white shirt and high-waisted trousers for a professional look or a flowy sundress for a touch of sophistication. Some of my favorite brands for great-fitting blazers that look chic year after year are Theory, L’Agence, and Banana Republic.
Wide-leg High-waist Pants
Another summer staple for any chic woman’s wardrobe is wide-leg high-waist pants. Wide-leg high-waist pants in a light color (such as ivory, white, or tan) exude a sense of effortless elegance. Look for styles in breathable fabrics like linen or silk for maximum comfort. These pants can be dressed up with a tailored blouse and heels for a refined evening look, or dressed down with a casual tee and sneakers for a trendy yet polished ensemble. I recently discovered this budget-friendly, great-fitting pair of wide-leg high-waist pants (under $100) from Express that pair perfectly with bodysuits, fitted blazers, and cropped jackets.
Wedge Sandals & Espadrilles
While I’ll always love a gorgeous pair of pointed-toe pumps, the truth is – they’re not usually comfortable or suitable for most summer events, including parties hosted on a grassy lawn or in a garden. To epitomize summer elegance (while staying comfortable), there’s nothing quite like a pair of wedge sandals or espadrilles. These versatile shoes provide both comfort and height, making them ideal for both daytime and evening outings. Choose neutral shades like tan, beige, or black to ensure they seamlessly complement your capsule wardrobe. Plus, they’re easy to walk in and are great for traveling, especially to destination spots like the French Riviera and Tuscany.
Wrap Dresses
Ever since Diane Von Furstenberg made her iconic wrap dress a signature style for women everywhere, this must-have summer staple has become a go-to style for women of all ages and shapes. Wrap dresses are essential for any summer capsule wardrobe. The wrap silhouette flatters all body types, while the lightweight fabrics keep you cool and comfortable. Opt for prints like polka dots, stripes, or floral patterns for a touch of femininity. Wrap dresses can easily transition from day to night, whether it’s paired with sandals for a casual daytime look or dressed up with heels and statement accessories for a special occasion.
White Button-Down Shirts
Last, but not least, a classic white button-down shirt is a wardrobe staple that never goes out of style. Look for high-quality fabrics like cotton or silk for a crisp and polished look. Pair it with tailored shorts and loafers for a preppy summer ensemble or tuck it into a flowy skirt for a feminine touch. A few clothing brands that carry well-made white button-down shirts are Brooks Brothers and J.Crew.
If you want to upgrade your summer wardrobe without splurging on new apparel, join Fashion Forward Box – my company’s new budget-friendly women’s clothing rental subscription service. Fashion Forward carries a wide variety of popular brands (including Ann Taylor, ASTR The Label, English Factory, Vince Camuto, etc.), and enables you to get unlimited access to fashion on rotation each week for just $50/month. Not to mention – Fashion Forward provides new members with a free 30-day trial, so it’s a risk-free way to try new looks without having to commit to purchasing clothing.
So, whether you’re building a capsule collection for summer occasions, or you’re looking to try new styles, the next time you go shopping (or look to rent apparel), consider these timeless tips. For more fashion inspiration and style advice, check out the Fashion & Style section on Inspirations & Celebrations.
[Disclosure: Affiliate links included. This author earns a small commission on purchases.]
