Last autumn, I shared my fall capsule wardrobe, and I received such a warm response that I thought it would be fun to do a similar version for summer! With exciting adventures on the horizon, I’ve been working on my travel capsule wardrobe to bring along during upcoming trips. And while I’m selecting these pieces with travel in mind, they’re actually great for any summer closet, both at home and abroad! As always, this list is full of chic and timeless basics with a few fun pieces mixed in to keep it fresh. My hope is that this curated selection helps you get dressed effortlessly and makes you feel some summer way!
Our Summer Travels
This summer we will be traveling in Florida, Ireland, Switzerland, Northern Spain, and lastly, NYC, to see Hamilton. We will have different weather in each destination, which is at the forefront of my mind for this travel capsule wardrobe. I think layers are the key to any good packing list, so I definitely plan to bring one or two sweaters. And while I may drape these pieces over my shoulders in Spain, you’ll find me wearing them when I’m in Ireland or in the ice cold AC of Florida! Speaking of Ireland, if you have an upcoming trip planned for this destination, my Ireland packing list is a great resource.
Travel Capsule Wardrobe for Summer
In my opinion, classic style is a cheat code to always looking stylish and put together. So this packing list is full of timeless pieces that can easily be worn for years to come. However, I do like to spice it up a bit here and there by adding some bolder pieces and accessories. So you’ll see a few of those as well. I should also mention that many of the items are linen or cotton. Although these fabrics tend to wrinkle easily, there’s simply nothing that breathes quite like them. So, to combat the wrinkles, be sure to pack a dual voltage steamer if you’re traveling abroad or around the US.
After some planning and thought, I was able to narrow it down to 30 pieces that I plan to pack for our upcoming travels. Again, these are great for any summer capsule wardrobe, not just for those who are traveling!
Travel Capsule Wardrobe: Tops & Bottoms
Let’s kick it off with must-have basics for a travel capsule wardrobe, tops and bottoms. While I’m packing these styles for summer, some of them are great to layer year-round!
Summer Tops
- White Tee: When it comes to tops, no capsule wardrobe is complete without a great white tee. They are a must for me, especially during the summertime! Since they can be dressed up or down and effortlessly layered, you can create lots of different outfit combos from this one piece. Two of my favorites include the Allie tee, which is more fitted, and this relaxed white tee from J.Crew.
- Oxford Button-Down: This is another essential piece that can be worn with jeans, shorts, or even a pareo.
- Breton Shirt: I’ve had this Breton shirt for ages, and I bring with me on every trip. It’s certainly a piece that can stand the test of time, and stripes make for such an easy classic look. I’m also thinking of adding this one to my stripes collection!
- Tank Tops: It’s always a good idea to add a few tanks to your travel capsule wardrobe. They’re the perfect layering piece. You can start the day by wearing one under a sweater and take the sweater off as the day warms up. I’m currently loving this looser fitting tank and this classic one.
- Linen Top: A timeless linen top goes with so much – You can even throw it on over a swimsuit!
- Dressier Top: I think it’s always a good idea to pack one dressier top as well. For example, this button-front tank would look great with jeans, a skirt, or even shorts.
Summer Bottoms
- Jean Shorts: My favorite pair of denim shorts are the Parker Long shorts. They’re a great length for this 40 year old!
- Linen Shorts: I love that these linen shorts look polished, but they have elastic on the back, making them super comfortable. Plus, they come in lots of cute colors and prints.
- Jeans: A great pair of jeans deserves a spot on every travel capsule wardrobe, no matter the season! My new favorite pair is this style from Mother. There’s a bit of stretch, which I appreciate in the summer!
- Skirt: An eyelet skirt is always so feminine and fresh for summer. Veronica Beard sent over this style, and it’s one that I’ll have forever. This skirt has a similar vibe for less!
- Linen Pants: Another summer bottom that is a go-to for me is a pair a linen pants. These Everlane trousers are lovely on holiday.
Travel Capsule Wardrobe: Dresses & Outerwear
Next up is one of my favorite categories, summer dresses! These are absolutely a staple in my travel capsule wardrobe, as they are so easy to throw on and go. I like to choose styles that can be both dressed up and dressed down. I’m also going to touch on some outerwear that I plan to pack. While this might not be the first thing that comes to mind in a summer wardrobe, I’m always happy when I have layers for chilly nights and air conditioned days!
Summer Dresses
- Favorite Dress: Are you really packing for a summer trip if you aren’t packing a favorite dress? For me, that’s the Staud Wells Dress. There’s just something about this style that always makes me feel great, which is why I own it in multiple colors. It’s lovely for sightseeing during the day as well as for dressing up during dinners out. If you’re looking for a similar style at a fraction of the price, this midi dress is wonderful!
- Colorful Dress: While I tend to stick to neutrals and earth tones for a travel capsule wardrobe, I do like to add a pop of color during the summer months. This yellow midi shirt dress is such a flattering silhouette due to the belted waist.
- Nap Dress: I live for a summer dress that is as comfy as it is cute, which is exactly what a Nap Dress brings to the table. Out of all of my dresses, the Cosima Dress has been a most-worn style lately. It’s just so easy to throw on and go! The blue striped version is sold out, but there’s a beautiful white floral fabric available. You can also sign up for restock alerts in the other prints. For me, the cost per wear on this one is already well worth it!
- Linen Dress: If you’re looking for a versatile dress for sightseeing, walking the beach, or going out to dinner, this washed linen dress is a great option. Just change your shoes between activities and give it a good steam!
Summer Outerwear
- Cashmere Wrap/Scarf: I always have one of these on my travel capsule wardrobe, no matter the season. They’re great to use on a chilly plane or in a restaurant. This one from J.McLaughlin is wonderful, and I always love my Alice Walk ones as well.
- Lady Jacket/Cardigan: This striped lady sweater was one of my most-worn pieces last summer. So it will be traveling with me to Europe again this year!
Travel Capsule Wardrobe: Swimwear, Pajamas, & More
Lastly, I’m throwing all of the remaining travel capsule wardrobe items into an “other” category. This includes swimwear, shoes, pajamas, accessories, bags, and more! Once again, many of these are items that I pack for trips year-round.
Beach/Poolside/Lounging
- Swimsuit: Duh, this is kind of a no brainer! This year I’m packing this smocked one-piece swimsuit.
- Coverup: I typically like to bring a pareo as a coverup. I like that there are so many ways these can be worn. This one is on my packing list.
- Packable Hat: Choosing a hat that can easily be packed is key. I love that this one can easily transition from laying on the beach to strolling around town.
- Pajamas: After a day spent traveling or out in the heat, there’s nothing better than changing into comfy pajamas. I’m packing this pj bundle from LAKE. I appreciate that it includes both pants and shorts, so you’re prepared if the temps dip or climb. I also love my Lunya washable silk pajamas. You can get 15% off of these with code sarahgtucker!
Shoes & Accessories
- Neutral Sandals: Since these are so easy to pack, my summer capsule wardrobe actually includes two pairs. First up are these Ancient Greek sandals, which I wore last year in Europe and still wear all of the time. I also plan to bring my Margaux MX sandals. I love how this brown pairs with my Paris/64 handbag (linked below!)
- Comfy Heels: I was going to skip bringing heels for our European leg this summer, but then I got a pair of M. Gemi raffia block heels, and I couldn’t believe how comfortable they are. So they made the cut!
- Tennis Shoes: Since we’re traveling to Ireland this summer and I anticipate some rainy days, I’m packing these waterproof sneakers. They will also be great for the hikes we do in Spain. While July is San Sebastián’s driest month, it’s still common to get some rain.
- Jewelry: Earrings and necklaces are lightweight and can totally switch up an outfit, so I always pack a few different styles. Some of my favorites include these bamboo hoops, these beaded necklaces for layering, and these gold seashell studs. I like to pack my jewelry in this small travel jewelry case.
Bags
- Purse: I love my Paris/64 mini bag. This mini version of a leather tote is so stylish!
- Knit Bag: It’s nice to pack a knit bag for the beach and market runs. Plus, I always feel like a chic European when I use one! The Longchamp Pliage Filet is my current favorite, and this one is a great look for less.
- Straw Bag: A straw bag is a must for summer. I love that this cute one is under $70 and has a little pouch inside to secure valuables!
- Luggage: When traveling, I love using this classic luggage set for myself.
- Small Personal Bag: On the plane, I always keep my personal items in this TSA-approved toiletry set.
Travel Capsule Wardrobe: The Classics
Whether you’re looking for a travel capsule wardrobe or some summer staples to wear on repeat, I hope this list is helpful. I think the key to creating a versatile closet is choosing classic pieces that can easily mix and match. For more summer fashion and packing inspiration, check out my travel essentials for women, luxury fashion favorites, Ireland packing list, and go-to travel essentials.
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