Summer Style Simplified: Our Essential Capsule Wardrobe Guide

Locating dependable wardrobe essentials that we can repeatedly wear aids in promoting sustainability.
sustainable travelers
—and refrain from overpacking. When building a summer capsule wardrobe, lightweight and versatile basics are key. Instead of packing a
suitcase
Packed with fashionable items and bold ensembles meant for one-time use, think about acquiring comfy foundational garments that blend well with nearly every outfit in your luggage. The best part? These straightforward summer staples are crafted to endure for many seasons without falling out of fashion.

To assist you with your preparations, we’ve compiled a list of essential summer outfits that are perfect for nearly any sunny getaway, be it a seaside holiday or something else.
Turks and Caicos
or are thinking about diving into a culinary adventure
Italy
No matter where your future travels lead you, these are the items you’ll appreciate having with you at each destination. Think lightweight linen trousers for optimal breathability and more.
comfortable walking sandals
For all-day comfort in maxi dresses, rely on these essential summer pieces to minimize your packing list while maximizing your outfit choices.

Continue swiping to explore our top picks for summer outfits, featuring designs for both gentlemen and ladies from reputable labels such as Buck Mason, Everlane, Lululemon, and others.

Hot summer days
mean you’ll need a few basic tanks. These are the base layers you’ll be wearing with everything from denim shorts and sneakers to silky midi skirts and kitten heels. I always pack a solid white tank, like this style from Reformation, to fall back on when I don’t know what to wear. (A soft tank top like this can even double as a pajama top in a pinch.) For men’s options, Lululemon and Vuori make some of the best quality performance tanks on the market. They work just as well to lounge poolside as they do for a quick run or trip to the gym.

Finding a trusted pair of shorts can feel nearly impossible. We chose options that aren’t too short, so you can avoid unwanted chafing while still keeping cool. Whether you’re looking for a classic denim short or a breezy linen pair, we have you covered with these versatile picks.

Whether I’m headed to a backyard barbecue or lunch by the pool, I’m always gravitating toward
linen
During the hotter season, linen is inherently moisture-wicking to help keep you cool and usually has a looser fit, preventing it from clinging to your skin when you perspire. Light, easy-to-pack, and stylish—linen stands out as the perfect summertime trouser.

Every traveler needs a
go-to tee
. A basic T-shirt pairs well with almost any pair of shorts, linen pants, or skirt you pack this summer (sometimes I even throw one underneath a sleeveless dress for shoulder coverage). Cotton tees from Everlane and Buck Mason are breathable and lightweight, making them year-round staples for
every type of packing list
. No matter where I’m headed, whether it’s a
beach trip in Miami
or a
cabin getaway in Vermont
, I have at least two comfy tees in my
weekender
.

In addition to a simple white t-shirt, I always ensure not to leave without one.
button-down
—These will go well with denim, as a
cover-up by the pool
, or pair it with a slip dress when the evening turns slightly cooler. If you’re looking for an extremely light option, a linen shirt can help maintain your comfort and modesty.

One of the most fun items to pack for summer:
vacation dresses
Classic items such as the rib tank dress from Buck Mason and Everlane’s white linen dress are excellent choices, yet for a bolder look, consider vibrant selections from Farm Rio, Hill House Home, and Abercrombie. Should you desire an outfit that provides
benefits of shapewear
—referring to smoothing and shaping—the quest for comfort without sacrificing style can be achieved with these sleek options from Miraclesuit and Skims. Perfect whether you’re attending a dinner party or looking to tour a new city in elegance, these dresses epitomize summertime ease and effortlessly complement any sandal collection.

For an alternative to a summer dress (or just another option on your packing list), I also like to bring a coordinated set, like Prettygarden’s under-$50 matching vest and shorts. It looks just as polished with the added pro of pairing well with other basics in your bag when rewearing each piece separately.

A lightweight polo exudes sophistication when paired with any trousers or linen pants. Gentlemen can opt for this look during daytime events such as yacht parties or morning meals, and easily elevate it for an evening at a seaside restaurant. We suggest choosing a polo in a versatile neutral shade that complements multiple lower garments, similar to options available from Bonobos or Banana Republic.

As stylish as it is comfy, a midi skirt can transition from casual to dressy looks effortlessly.
pair of low heels
, sneakers, or sandals. This stylish skirt enhances a basic outfit and allows you to reuse it frequently during your travels with various tops such as your favourite tanks, tees, or blouses.

Ideal for active travelers and especially hot destinations,
exercise dresses
are supportive enough for
hikes
and workout classes, while doubling as a cute daytime outfit. I don’t always work out on a trip, but when I do, a sporty yet feminine exercise dress is the way to go—I’ll wear one for a morning walk and still feel put together enough for breakfast at the hotel and whatever comes next. My favorite style is
Halara’s Softlyzero Easy Peezy active dress
that features built-in shorts, adjustable straps, and side pockets. The real stand-out feature, though, is that the shorts are detached from the sports bra in the back—meaning I don’t have to take the whole dress off to go to the bathroom.

When it comes to essential shoes, every traveler needs a crisp pair of
white sneakers
. It’s always my
most-worn shoe
On every journey, particularly when a walking tour is scheduled, some of our team’s go-to comfy white sneakers are from Adidas and Reebok, offering both men’s and women’s sizing options for each style.

Summer sandals
Purchasing the right sandals for extensive walks without causing discomfort can be challenging, yet they should also enhance your appearance. The following choices from Rothy’s, Olukai, Birkenstock, and Quince offer versatility as they transition seamlessly from beach outings to meals out and exploring local attractions. Comfortable, adaptable, and easy to carry, finding an excellent walking sandal is essential.

Regardless of my destination—a beach getaway or otherwise—I always make sure to pack a
bathing suit
You won’t be disappointed with a comfortable one-piece swimsuit or a high-waist two-piece ensemble. As for men’s swimwear, we love these sleek and refined options from Fair Harbor and Bonobos.

Completing our list of must-haves for the summer are a
few chic handbags
. These beachy styles from Staud and J.Crew are perfect for summertime, whether you’re headed out to the
Hamptons
or grabbing lunch in Malibu. For something you can tote around all day and night, the mini Chrystie bag from Freja is plenty versatile and stylish.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Looking for more summer wardrobe staples?

• 
  The best linen basics
  
• 
  The best vacation dresses
  
• 
  How to dress comfortably in hot destinations
  
• 
  The best men’s vacation shirts
  
• 
  Top concealment options for women
  
• 
  Top-notch swimwear for women
  
• 
  What should you wear in Greece during summertime?