Although I love trying new trends, I always find myself reverting back to the basics that I know I can wear season after season. This explains why I’m such a big fan of seasonal capsule wardrobes. This summer is no different and I’ve managed to narrow down my closet to 10 ultra functional pieces that are essential to a sustainable and stylish wardrobe. Throughout the season, I may sprinkle in some fun trends and new pieces, but having a strong foundation to build upon is crucial for a variety of effortlessly chic ensembles. Let’s jump into my summer capsule wardrobe essentials that will take you through the next few months and beyond.

Majorelle Bodysuit (on sale now! wearing an XS) | GRLFRND Denim (wearing a 23 – size down) | Prada Cahier Bag

1. Bodysuit

When it comes to easy, no-fuss outfits, bodysuits will always be my go-to. Look for details such as unique cut outs or lace overlay bodysuits that layer seamlessly with the rest of your outfit. I love bodysuits because they can be dressed up for a night out or worn casually with distressed jeans.

Balmain Blazer (wearing an FR34, better for budget here) | Tiger Mist Bodysuit (wearing an S) | Levi’s Denim Shorts (wearing a 24 – run TTS) | Gucci Belt (wearing a size 70 – read my ‘Gucci Belt Sizing Guide’ HERE) | Tamara Mellon Heels (run TTS) | Chanel Bag (medium size) | Givenchy Sunglasses

2. Basic Tees & Tanks

My summer style is definitely more casual and simple, so I keep a stash of basic tanks and tees on hand at all times. Luckily, the minimal top trend is going strong, so you can easily score a racer tank or the perfect white tee on a whim. These basic tops can be layered under a blazer for the office too.

Majorelle Green Satin Top (wearing an XXS) | GRLFRND Skinny Jeans (wearing a 23 – size down) | Christian Louboutin White Pumps | Quay Sunglasses | GG Marmont Bag

3. Statement Tops

Day-to-night summer outfits can actually be quite difficult to pull together, so I’m always on the hunt for cute and trendy tops. They look great paired with high-waisted jeans or tucked into midi skirts. You can never have too many statement tops from off-the-shoulder blouses to puff-sleeve tops.

Similar Topshop White Blazer | Anine Bing Cami | Levi’s Denim Shorts (wearing a 24, runs TTS) | Christian Louboutin White Heels | Gucci Belt (see my ‘Gucci Belt Buying Guide’ HERE) | Quay Sunglasses | Chloe Small Nile Bracelet Bag

4. White Blazer

I always make sure to keep a good-fitting blazer in my wardrobe at all times. However, in the summer heat, a bright white boyfriend option offers a fresh take on this staple piece. I love how it makes an outfit infinitely more elevated.

Charo Ruiz Dress (wearing an XS, better for budget here) | Givenchy Espadrilles (similar here, better for budget here) | Saint Laurent Linen Tote | Rag & Bone White Panama Hat (better for budget here)

5. LWD

Nothing screams summer like a LWD. Plus, you never know when you are going to be invited to a last minute event. This is why a classic, figure-flattering LWD is always in my arsenal. Whether you opt for lace, linen, or cotton, it’s a versatile piece that you can wear for just about any occasion.

Similar Topshop Black Blazer (wearing US 0) | Similar Bodysuit | Levi’s White Denim Shorts (runs TTS) | Similar Crescent Pendant Necklace | Celine Sunglasses | Gucci Belt (read my Gucci Belt Buying Guide HERE, wearing a sz 70) | Gucci Marmont Mini Bag | Christian Louboutin White Heels | Similar Gold Watch

6. Cut-Off Shorts

High-waisted denim cut-off shorts are some of my most worn bottoms in the summertime! You can keep it casual by pairing them with a tee or dress it up by adding a crisp white blazer.

Tularosa Red Duster (wearing an XXS) | Privacy Please Red Bodysuit (wearing an XXS) | Topshop Bralette (color sold out, similar here) | GRLFRND Denim (wearing a 23 – size down) | Saint Laurent Red Bag | Rag & Bone Panama Hat (better for budget here) | Christian Louboutin White Heels (better for budget here) | Gorjana Necklace

7. Jeans

Jeans are no doubt an obsession of mine and I basically live in them in the summertime. I’m all about a good high-waisted fit with a vintage wash that can be worn with bodysuits or crop tops.

Gucci Tee (wearing an XXS) | Gucci Belt (wearing a size 70 – read my ‘Gucci Belt Sizing Guide’ HERE) | Alpha Industries Camo Jacket (wearing an XS) | Asos Black Denim (wearing a 25 – size up) | Manolo Blahnik Heels (better for budget here) | Prada Cahier Bag | New Era NY Cap

8. Strappy Sandals

You couldn’t complete a summer capsule wardrobe without including a pair of sandals. This year, it is all about minimalistic, strappy sandals that can be paired with denim, dresses, skirts, and everything in between.

Topshop Double-Breasted Jacket (wearing a US 2) | Tiger Mist Black Bodysuit (wearing an S – size up) | Saint Laurent Sunglasses (better for budget here) | Madewell Earrings

9. Sunglasses

Summer only truly returns when I can wear my sunglasses long into the evening. My favorite styles this season are classic aviators, straight edge sunnies, and white frames. I’m usually rotating between one of these styles.

Similar Red Romper (wearing an XS) | Ankle Strap Sandals | Similar Straw Tote

10. Basket Bag

The goal of maintaining a capsule wardrobe is to carefully choose items you can wear multiple times and will never grow tired of. The basket bag is one of those pieces that aren’t too trendy and can be reused whenever summer rolls back around.

xo, Maria

Shop myinstagram

view all