A capsule wardrobe should be made up of 16 key pieces that you can mix and match with ease. It’s never easy judging what the weather is going to do at the best of times and therefore we recommend that you include a broad selection of fabrics, shapes and styles that can work in tandem.

When you’re shopping for your SS capsule wardrobe the key to success is picking out the right basics. Once you have these you’ll find it a cinch to build on your capsule wardrobe by introducing your own style and personality through items such as accessories and shoes.

You certainly don’t need to spend buckets of money on your basics, save what excess you have for your accessories, which will ultimately pull your look together.

Here are your key items for your Spring/Summer capsule wardrobe…

The humble White T-Shirt

An absolute must for any Spring Summer wardrobe, it literally can go with anything as well as be used as a layer item. What’s more it will be cheap; you have bags of variety to choose from and can flatter the most awkward of figures. We advise you go for high grade cotton with a little stretch as they hold their shape for longer.

The Camisole

Also incredibly inexpensive, the camisole is comfy, sexy and tans the arms of course! These are also good for layering and we suggest a few neutral colours for your capsule wardrobe. Last piece of advice – select the right bra to go with them, bra straps are unsightly with a camisole.

The Collared Shirt

A great staple for dressing up or down or in-between, the classic white shirt should be present in every capsule wardrobe. Wear it tied, unbuttoned, sleeves up or tucked in… so much choice. Select a looser fitting (over tighter fitting) style so as to allow your body to breath in hot weather.

Cotton Shorts

Invaluable for summer and getting those pins out on display! There’s loads of style of short to select from… the choice is almost endless, just a word of warning though – avoid anything too short if you don’t have the legs for it and also avoid ‘the dreaded crawler’ shorts that wedge themselves up when you walk!

Cotton or Linen Trousers

A great staple for work, rest or play throughout the summer. These literally go with anything girls! Wide leg cuts are incredibly flattering and styles with wide waistlines can do wonders for your tummy. Avoid high waists or/and pleating at all costs!

Cotton Skirt

An essential ‘feminine’ addition to your wardrobe, the pretty cotton skirt comes in lots of styles – A-Line, pleated, pencil, Cargo etc… Try lots of styles and opt for the one you feel most comfortable in. Just remember that it’s OK to show some skin!

Maxi Dress

We love maxis! They go with pretty much anything at anytime and feel fantastic in the hot summer months. Pair them with some strappy sandals for a relaxed day look and some heels and a stylish clutch for the evening!

The Cardigan

Perfect for cooler days and nights, the cardigan will serve you well. The secret here is to look for feminine detail such as scalloped edges, crocheted trim, or a belted waist.

Lightweight Jacket

An absolute must, the lightweight jacket is a welcome addition for work and play and beats shifting between blazers and heavier coats. Try a cotton blazer with cropped sleeves, or a tailored denim in a dark wash. Save your lighter wash jean jackets for the weekend as they tend to look more casual.

Swimsuit

Swimsuit shopping is so much fun and a great way to get right into the summer vibe. There’s always loads of choice on show and our advice is to stretch yourself a little here so as to get one that retains its shape, size and style. The cheap ones really don’t last!

Sarong

If you’re planning a little holiday or perhaps even a trip to your local seaside then you should think about a sarong. They are inexpensive, lightweight, stylish and incredibly versatile. Can you live without one?

Sandals

Flip flops are a necessary purchase (we love Havianas!), they are light, easy to pop on and off, stylish, relatively cheap, go with just about anything and are said to keep you fit! Invest in a pair that are comfy – don’t just opt for fashion over comfort here as it could be a painful purchase!

Cotton/canvas Tote Bag

Perfect for the beach, social engagement or office; throw in the sunscreen, Kindle, phone, keys, picnic, spare shoes…etc. These bags are built for summer! When purchasing make sure the build quality is good as straps falling off are all too common.

Straw Bag

As versatile as the Tote for sure… but even more summery, the Straw Bag is your mule when it comes to carrying all the tonnes of essentials we need on more social engagements.
Open Toed Shoes

Great for all occasions, the open toe shoe certainly does its bit to keep you cool, calm and looking stylish. Try a peep toe sling back for dress up and the wedged espadrille for dress down.
Trench Coat

Not just a coat for winter, the trench is a must for cooler days and nights. With so many styles and colours available all year round, trench shopping is so much fun. We suggest you invest in a classic styled, waterproof, waist belted trench that offers warmth and oozes class and sophistication.