Spring has been fun. But I'm eager to welcome Summer in. I've been travelling again, albeit slowly and with new intentions. My slow travel plans focus on dog-friendly locations within the UK. I've put together several travel guides for London, Brighton, the Kent coast, and my local area, the Jewellery Quarter. No doubt there will be more adventures over the summer.
I know dressing for warmer weather is a struggle for many people. Finding clothes you feel comfortable in, that allow you to enjoy the sunshine without feeling exposed or awkward, is the key to surviving the season. One of the best things you can do to find clothes you enjoy wearing in the summer is to use Pinterest for style inspiration. I've been putting together style moodboards for a little while now, and it's been incredibly helpful.
This is what I've picked for my Summer capsule wardrobe. After noticing how moody by style inspiration was, I've tried to lighten things up with my choices! I'll be sharing my Summer capsule wardrobe outfits on TikTok. Follow me: @imsophiedavies and @omchofficial.
Outerwear
Trench Coat, Everlane (gifted, 2021)
This is the ideal coat to choose for Summer because it's lightweight yet will still keep you warm. The draping fabric hangs beautifully, making any outfit look more chic. This trench is an upgraded classic that's been a real hard worker in my wardrobe. Although if the weather turns nasty, I'll be reaching for my rain coat!
Dresses
Sleeveless Maxi Dress, Monki (thrifted, 2021)
Tiered Maxi Dress, Zara (thrifted, 2020)
Midi Dress, Linen Fox (purchased, 2020)
Shirtdress, Everlane (gifted, 2022)
Wrap Dress, COS (thrifted, 2022)
My go-to outfit for any season is a dress, and I've covered all bases with my Summer capsule selection. I've got everything from maxi dresses to wrap dresses. As my preference for a longer hem-line increases, and my older wardrobe pieces wear out; I've had to find replacements.
I loved the black COS wrap dress I thrifted a year ago so much that I thrifted another in a different colour. Another pre-loved dress is the tiered maxi, which looks incredible belted and worn with platform sandals. I've also included a sleeveless maxi for any super hot days we have. Smart Summer options often get overlooked in favour of easy-wearing tea dresses. So I've added a shirt-dress that will hopefully cover me if the need arises.
Tops
Linen Shirt, Everlane (gifted, 2022)
Cotton Shirt (thrifted, 2022)
Cropped Shirt, Everlane (gifted, 2022)
Vintage Embroidered Shirt (thrifted, 2021)
Throwing an oversized shirt over a pair of trousers is one of the easiest and most comfortable outfits to wear on a hot and humid summer day. I thrifted a cotton shirt and was gifted a linen shirt, both of which I sized up considerably for a satisfying drape. Both can be french tucked or tied for a smarted, more structure appearance. The cropped shirt is great paired with either loose or fitted trousers. I've been struggling to wear a gorgeous embroidered vintage shirt I thrifted a while back. Summer is its season to shine.
Knitwear
Cropped Cardigan, Boden (thrifted, 2017)
Knitted Vest, (thrifted, 2022)
Surprisingly, I have included two pieces of knitwear in my Summer capsule. A thin cropped cardigan and an oversized vest. Summer in the UK is unpredictable. Having options is a good thing to bear in mind. The cardigan is thin enough to wear as a top and still be comfortable on a relatively warm day. The knitted vest is loose-fitting meaning it'll warm up an outfit on a cool summer evening. I have four vest, all slightly different in style and fit. I'll be reaching for whichever best suits my mood.
Bottoms
Balloon Trousers, MUJI (purchased, 2022)
Barrel Pants, Everlane(gifted, 2022)
Maxi Skirt, MUJI (purchased, 2017)
Well-fitting trousers are tough for me to find. I don't have many options and can't afford to take a risk on expensive handmade ones. So I buy them wherever I find a good fit. I replaced a well-loved, worn out pair of wide-leg trousers with these Balloon Trousers. They're made from linen with a super loose-fit and tapered leg. A lovely choice for hot weather that keep an outfit on the smarter side of smart-casual.
I'll need to replace my MUJI maxi skirt soon too, although it'll hopefully last me through another few seasons. Another new pair are the barrel pants from Everlane. They're made from sturdy cotton so a better choice for cooler days. They fit beautifully and I always receive compliments when I wear them.
Shoes
Platform Sandals, Dr.Martens (thrifted, 2021)
Trainers, Hylo (gifted, 2022)
Sandals, Teva (purchased, 2021)
My favourite Birkenstock sandals are approaching their eighth year of wear, and it's starting to show. Last year I had the soles replaced to extend their life but it's the cork that's giving way this time. I'm giving them a break this season, in an attempt to get more wear from the other shoes in my wardrobe.
I've included two pairs of sandals in my Summer capsule: a pair of colourful Tevas and a dressier pair of Dr.Marten platforms. These Hylo trainers have slipped right into my wardrobe. They're super comfortable and easy to wear so have earned a place in my all-seasons capsule.
Bags
Circle Bag, Ellyla (gifted, 2020)
I try to carry as little as possible in my bag but with a dog, there are always essentials I need to pack. This bag holds a surprising about of stuff, and looks cute while doing it! It's the perfect bag that takes me from running errands for the studio to picnics in the sunshine. I will still be using my crossbody bag though, as it's just so useful when running errands and walking the dog!
Accessories
Vintage Sun Hat, (thrifted, 2018)
Eco-Friendly Jewellery, Oh My Clumsy Heart
I've vowed to try harder at wearing my sun hats. I have two vintage ones to choose from, and I almost always forget to wear them. As with all my capsule wardrobes, the jewellery is what makes my outfits feel complete. I'm changing things up from my usual layered duo: a raw crystal and ball necklace. It was hard to pick new ones though. I've been wearing the daisy necklace layered with the etched medallion or gold cubes necklace. I'm keeping my snake chain though, as it's the ideal piece for wearing solo.