The Summer Capsule Edit (#018)

ft. not-boring neutrals

Thunderstorms forecast on the first day of summer wasn’t on my bingo card for 2024, but the high of 31 deg C completely checks out. My inspiration this month was natural, organic elements. Think rustic linens and earthen hues, with relaxed silhouettes taking centre stage.

My Northern Hemisphere friends seeking some winter outfit inspiration might like to check out my last winter edit or this one here.

I’ve included the following ten items in this summer edit:

• 4x tops (in varying neutrals with completely different silhouettes)

• 3x bottoms (three different styles)

• 1x dress

• 1x shoes (a chic sandal - I went for a heeled version but flats would work too!)

• 1x bag

Despite the decidedly simple pairings, you’ll find more than 30 outfit combinations below. 18 capsules in, I’m pretty sure I don’t need to convince you of the virtues of a well edited wardrobe. Also, it’s not lost on me that I completely miscounted and included one less clothing item than I normally would (usually I omit the bag). Making this effort feel even more impressive.

Some of my tips for dressing to beat the heat?

• Natural fabrics; think cotton, linen, silk knit, ramie, hemp and the like. These are breathable and generally help to regulate temperature. Mixing and matching can help to bring in tactile dimension.

• Relaxed silhouettes; use a tuck or a belt at the waist to define and highlight your silhouette. These roomier items give you more airflow, both when you’re moving around or stagnant.

• Accessories make the outfit; how can you create tension or visual interest with your accessories? One of my favourite little tricks I’ve shared in many of my previous edits is the silk scarf wrapped at the waist. This functions like a belt, but tends to have a lot more visual impact.

PS. This month I’ve included the looks in a video format which I’m hoping will give you a better look? Let me know if you like this little addition!

the ten items

#1 | A simple sleeveless top: Something with clean lines and an uninterrupted silhouette. This doesn’t mean devoid of any detail; the one I chose has simple tortoise buttons down the front. Pictured: Posse
Alternatives: Hansen & Gretel | DISSH | Friends with Frank | AERE Label | ONTE

#2 | The sculptural sleeveless top: Where the previous top was more simple in its design, the execution here is more complex, and detailed. Pictured: Harris Tapper
Alternatives: Henne | Anna Quan | ONTE | Faithfull the Brand | SIR the Label | Marle

#3 | The long sleeved top: In a linen or cotton, and some sort of style that can be worn open or be reasonably belted at the waist to create a peplum effect will give you more options. Pictured: Quince (US only + I sized up, but this is a good AU option)
Alternatives: Marle | DISSH | COS | Venroy | St. Agni | Arket

#4 | The short sleeved top: I recommend going with a different neckline here so that you have some variation in the styles. Pictured: Everlane
Alternatives: Minima Esenciales | COS | Cotton On | Country Road | Arket

#5 | A longer length short: A blue denim short is my usual short of choice in summer by default, but it doesn’t offer the same stylistic options as something a bit longer. My short of choice for the season this year is a bermuda, as it adds a bit more polish than anything shorter. Pictured: Muji
Alternatives: lululemon | Fine Day | DISSH | H&M | Sportscraft | Bassike

#6 | A skirt with movement: I’m really into a midi or maxi length at the moment - probably something I’d put down to having young kids so there’s a lot of bending over and length is key to maintaining some level of modesty. But you could do a mini too. Something swishy would be fun! Pictured: Arket
Alternatives: Marle | Atmos & Here | ONTE | Anna Quan | Posse

#7 | Summer-weight trousers: This could be cropped, full length, slim or wide. The key element here is that they should be a summer weight and fabrication. Something you would be happy to wear even when the temps are 30 deg +. Pictured: Sportscraft
Alternatives: UNISON | COS | Paris Georgia | DISSH | Tibi

#8 | A cute sundress: You could swap this for a jumpsuit or an additional top or bottom if you wanted, but the key role this is serving is as a one-and-done piece that you can just “throw on”. Pictured: UNIQLO
Alternatives: AERE Label | Shona Joy | St Agni | COS | Faithfull the Brand | Cotton On

#9 | Neutral sandals: Something you feel good in. I don’t think this is a dainty sandal vs chunky sandal conversation as you can make either work. The only requirement is that it’s comfortable enough for all day wear (could be a heel, too!). Pictured: Tibi
Alternatives: Wittner | Alias Mae | Bassike | Spurr | Los Cabos

#10 | A textured bag: Super simple way to add tactile interest to your outfits is with your accessories. Woven and straw bags in particular really come into their own during the season! Pictured: Friends with Frank
Alternatives: Seed Heritage | Oxford | Oroton | St Agni | Saben | Aje

the outfits

additional accessories

Part of what makes these capsule edits so fun are the little accessories that add in those personal flourishes. Given opportunities to layer in the summertime can be far and few between, this can be a way to add in visual interest and dimension.

A silk scarf; this is a great way to add in an element of layering that is lightweight. It also gives you the room to play around with print and colour. Mine is from Arket - an older style but they have quite a few chic options. Also love this from Oroton.

A good belt; the one I styled here is quite classic, but you could go for an option with an interesting belt buckle. I also love this one.

Chic sunglasses; I look at these the same way I do a statement pair of earrings. They can add so much to an outfit, especially if you usually wear neutrals and opt for a pair with interesting detailing or in a fun colour. Mine are these ones from Miu Miu.

The sunhat; if you’re looking at getting just one, I recommend seeking out a style that travels well or is easily packable. My go-to of choice is this one from Marle.

A go-to lipstick; mine will now and always be MERIT’s Signature Lip in ‘Tiger’. Never mind the fact that it’s a ruddy reddish-brown. That said, a bright bold red can be an easy way to dial up the intensity of an outfit with minimal effort.