An 8-Piece Summer Wardrobe at Every Budget

summer capsule wardrobe

Photo:

@jordanrisa

A dress, lightweight pants, a woven bag, sandals, a lightweight top, shorts, sunglasses, and a one-piece—separately, they may not mean much, but when you combine them, you have a recipe for the ultimate summer starter pack. Sure, you won't exclusively wear these items, but collectively, they're the perfect foundation for a versatile summer wardrobe. Simply integrate them with the seasonless pieces you already own, and you'll have a functional wardrobe for the next few months and even beyond. Consider it the light seasonal update your wardrobe needs to prepare it for sunny skies, tropical vacations, outdoor dining, and whatever else summer's arrival may mean to you. 

Whether you need one, own none, or have them all but are simply in the mood to refresh your look, today, I've assembled my favorites for each category at four different price points so your closet can get the seasonal update it deserves. Shop all of my curated picks, starting at less than $50, below.

Under $50

Versatile Sandals

The idea of everyday sandals is that you never really have to take them off. These are miraculously under $50 and are minimal enough to work for every occasion. 

Shorts

Denim shorts can stray juvenile quickly, but the tailored shape and longer length add a grown-up appeal.

Dress

Since sleeveless everything is a big trend on the rise, why not take advantage of the trend with this expensive-looking dress?

Woven Bag

The right amount of frills. 

Sunglasses
Lightweight Pants:

Since it's way too hot to think critically about layers, you'll want to go for easy pants in an effortless neutral hue. 

Swimsuit

H&M is a great source for affordable swimsuits.

Lightweight Top

Go for cotton in the summer—it won't feel so sticky and feels so lightweight against the skin.

Under $100

Versatile Sandals

These slide sandals are made out of genuine leather—I'd consider that a steal.

Shorts

These look more elevated, but you can still pair them with a variety of tops. 

Woven Bag

For casual errands, vacation getaways, and everything in between.

Sunglasses

I'm continually impressed by the quality of Le Specs sunnies.

Lightweight Pants

We love an optimistic shade of yellow.

Swimsuit
Lightweight Top

Under $200

Versatile Sandals

Fashion people are currently buzzing over casual, cool sandals like these, so you know they're good.

Shorts

Crisscross is always a fun detail. Plus, Agolde is an editor favorite for denim.

Dress

As far as I'm concerned, linen is a requirement during this time of year.

Woven Bag:

No one will expect a woven bag with green accents, which is precisely why it's so fun.

Sunglasses

Although the shape is decidedly modern, this pair is still timeless.

Lightweight Pants
Swimsuit
Lightweight Top

Worn with tailored shorts or jeans, this top is a winner.

Under $300

Versatile Sandals
Woven Bag
Sunglasses

If you're looking for something unique, these frames will fit the bill.

Lightweight Pants

Despite the knitted material, these pants feel like a cloud against your skin.

Swimsuit

Who said one-piece suits couldn't be interesting?

Lightweight Top