The warmer season is upon us and that means one thing: it’s time to sort your summer capsule wardrobe.
There are certain clothing items that everyone should have on hand that ensure you don’t spend your mornings before work — or the nights before for you more organised beauties — working up a sweat as you decide what will beat the heat on the commute into the office.
And it’s the perfect time to purchase your summer capsule wardrobe items with Black Friday sales everywhere you turn. Looking for the best deals?
But outside of deals, these clothing items are perfect not only for summer, they are also great for layering in the cooler months.
2024’s summer capsule wardrobe essentials
- Seed Heritage Self-Stripe Overshirt, $129.95, David Jones
- AERE Wide Leg Linen Pants, $120, The Iconic
- Marcs Tone Sandals, $104.97, Myer
The best summer capsule wardrobe essentials 2024
01
Seed Heritage Self-Stripe Overshirt
from $129.95 at David Jones
Best for: classic white shirt
Look for a white shirt that is breathable – 100 per cent cotton or linen blend to be safe. You want your skin to be able to breathe.
We like this shirt from Seed Heritage because it’s not only 100 per cent cotton but is oversized – for a little bit more breathability – and it has a subtle stripe feature. A nice detail that is suitable for a trip to the farmers’ market or with dress pants for the office.
Sizes: AU4—AU18 | Colours: Whisper white | Materials: 100% cotton
Key features:
- 100% cotton
- Subtle stripe design
- Wide cuffs
- Relaxed fit
- Button front with collar
02
Linen Wide Leg Pants
from $120 at The Iconic
Best for: relaxed yet refined linen pants
Your wardrobe will definitely benefit from the addition of linen. Effortlessly cool by the beach or in the boardroom. We love these AERE linen pants from The Iconic. High-waisted heroes with lovely wide legs and front pockets.
They are everything you want in a pair of pants during summer and an essential capsule wardrobe addition. We might get both colours.
Sizes: AU6–AU18 | Colours: Neutral and black | Materials: 100% linen
Key features:
- High-waist
- 100% linen
- Wide relaxed legs
- Front side pockets
03
Tommy Two-Piece Set
from $109.95 at Showpo
Best for: go-to matching set
Matching sets are the look from 2024 and there’s no sign of that disappearing in 2025. Why is that? They are comfortable. Finally, we have made it socially acceptable to wear pyjamas to work.
This number from Showpo is perfect for your summer capsule wardrobe because you can mix and match it with some denim shorts or a white tee for a totally new look on the weekends. The top also makes a great beach look over your swimmers.
It’s a soft-knit design that’s lightweight and perfect for all seasons and occasions.
Sizes: AU4–AU20 | Colours: Black, bright coral, sand, chocolate, cream | Materials: 100% cotton
Key features:
- Full-length knit pants
- Short sleeve button-up top with collar neckline
- Made from 100% cotton
- Easy to dress up or down
04
New York Dress
from $174.97 at Review
Best for: the perfect all-rounder dress
It’s baffling that we don’t have mandatory pockets in all dresses in the year 2024, however, here we are.
This simple yet elegant dress is the perfect all-rounder for last-minute drinks, formal affairs, birthdays, dinners, and everything in between. Wear with sandals and a light jacket for a casual look, or heels and statement jewellery for a chic ensemble. It’s the ultimate semi-formal summer dress.
Sizes: AU6–AU22 | Colours: Ink, black, green | Materials:100% polyester
Key features:
- Pockets!
- Midi-length
- Scoop neckline
- Wide shoulder straps
- Easily dressed up or down
04
Marcs Tone Sandals
from $104.71 at Myer
Best for: work and play
For a capsule wardrobe to work you need to select items that can pair with multiple partners. Basic colours are best for this. These sandals are ideal because they are comfy with good support, are made with real leather, and they are super cute.
There are plenty of colour on offer, but we love the gold buckle which adds a pop of glam on these minimalist sandals. Ideal to wear to the office, and equally wearable to parties and events.
Sizes: EU36-EU42 | Colours: Stone, black, gold, white, black patent, snake/black, leopard, natural raffia | Materials: Leather upper, leather lining.
Key features:
- Real leather
- Minimalist design
- Suitable for all kinds of occasions
- Easy to style
What’s the benefit of having a summer capsule wardrobe?
Trying to style the perfect outfit when the temperatures are rising can cause anyone a headache. Life is stressful enough without making sure your outfit is perfect for the weather outside. Having a collection of items suitable for multiple occasions that are breathable and classic silhouettes means that you can relax in the mornings.
How many pieces are in a summer capsule wardrobe?
As many and as little as you like. There is no hard and fast rule. But ideally, you are investing in items that will stand the test of time (and fashion trends). Opt for items that can be layered in winter and are made of quality materials and fabrics like cotton, linen, and leather.