My Summer Capsule Wardrobe: The Backbone of Personal Style

When the chaotic creative in me hears the phrase capsule wardrobe, my mind instantly conjures up a lifeless outfit: beige trousers, a stiff white button-up tucked in just-so, tasteful gold hoops, and maybe—if we’re getting wild—Samba sneakers. Chic? Maybe. But personally? It feels like being handed a prison uniform (with slightly less personality).

But here’s the truth: even for a stylist who thrives in the land of drama, ruffles, and unapologetic self-expression, a capsule wardrobe is not optional—it’s essential. Even if it’s just your backup plan.

If you’d rather consume this content in video form you can find the YouTube video here.

Why My Capsule Is (Still) Neutral

You’d think that with all my resistance to the beige capsule aesthetic, my own version would be full of color and bold statements. But the truth? My summer capsule wardrobe is surprisingly neutral.

And there’s a reason for that. Like many people, I exist between multiple worlds. I’m a mom. A queer woman. A creative. A stylist. A wife. And someone raised in a deeply conservative environment. When I travel home to rural Idaho, I tone things down—not because I’m ashamed, but because I need to feel safe and grounded. As a bald woman, I already stand out. Choosing quieter clothing allows me to preserve a bit of peace.

And honestly? There’s power in the quiet pieces too.

What I Mean By “Good Bones”

To me, the perfect capsule wardrobe has good bones. These aren’t the flashy, identity-defining pieces. These are the garments that play support roles. The backdrop. The hype man. The negative space that allows your statement pieces to truly shine.

They’re versatile. Unfussy. Easy to pair. They’re the workhorses of your wardrobe—the ones that don’t ask for attention but always show up.

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What’s in My Summer Capsule

This season, I’m working with just 6 core pieces. From those, I’m styling 8 complete outfits—plus an endless rotation of accessories, because that’s where the magic happens.

Here’s what made the cut:

Bottoms
🖤 Upcycled black capri pants – These started as a pair of thrifted full-length skinny pants. A little tailoring later, and they’re my go-to summer staple.
🤎 High-waisted khaki skirt – I made this one myself. It’s full, breezy, and pairs with literally everything.
🤍 White embroidered cotton maxi – Originally an awkward length on me, I added a ruffle to make it a more wearable length without losing the vintage charm.

Tops
🤍 Crisp white cotton top – simple, summery, and endlessly wearable.
🖤 Black sleeveless mock neck – An H&M buy from over 8 years ago that just keeps proving its worth.
💙 Oversized blue + white striped shirt – Thrifted and cool. The oversized fit gives it tons of versatility.

Shoes
👡 Vintage black kitten heels – A little fancy, a lot of personality. They add polish without trying too hard.
🖤 Black Birkenstock slides – The obvious summer hero. Comfortable, functional, and still chic.

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Why This Matters

Your capsule wardrobe doesn’t have to be boring. And it certainly doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. What matters is that it works for you. It supports your lifestyle, honors your complexity, and gives you a solid foundation to build from.

These pieces may not scream look at me, but they let your true style have its moment—and that’s what good design does.

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Ready to Build Your Own Capsule?

If you’re curious about how to create a capsule wardrobe that reflects your identity, your reality, and your creative spirit—I’d love to help. As a stylist and holistic style coach, my mission is to help people elevate their wardrobes in a way that’s intentional, sustainable, and completely personal.

💬 Have questions? Drop them below.
📩 Want styling help? Reach out.
🖤 Stay intentional. Stay expressive. Stay uniquely you.