Finally! It's summer! I'm optimistic about the coming months, both for the world and the weather. I'm so excited to enjoy all the things we missed out on last year. I want to spend as much time outside in the sunshine as possible. I plan to take some road trips, visit the seaside, go wild swimming, book a staycation (or two), and spend as much time with friends as possible. Thankfully my wardrobe has got me covered on all bases.
Many of us want to dress a little differently post-lockdown. My all-seasons capsule wardrobe certainly needs an overhaul. I've noticed a few clothes need to be decluttered and perhaps a couple of second-hand purchases to be made. I'm so glad the charity shops are back open! Thrifting for the things we want or need, especially fashion, is one of the most sustainable shopping options, and a great way to push back on fast fashion.
If you need to refresh your wardrobe after lockdown, I have some recommendations on where to shop in my sustainable fashion directory. If it's accessible to you, try thrifting either online or in thrift stores. I've found some amazing second-hand options (including a brand new pair of Birkenstock sandals!) that will save you a lot of money. Before decluttering your wardrobe, I recommend trying a styling app to help with wardrobe tracking and new styling options. I've been using the Acloset app.
Outerwear
Denim Jacket from Thought (gifted)
Overshirt from ASKET (gifted)
In Summer I always find myself wanting to add a touch of colour to my all black wardrobe. This denim jacket from Thought ticks that box. It's a classic jacket that's easy to style, and I've already worn it a bunch of times throughout spring. I sized up for a looser fit and roll up the sleeves a little to give it a more styled appearance. On hot days I want something lighter that's ideal to wear in the evenings when the temperature drops. This classic overshirt from ASKET is ideal. It's super lightweight, has a unisex fit, and is perfect worn unbuttoned on a hot summer's day. It now comes in a few different capsule-appropriate neutral colours.
Knitwear
Oversized Crop Cardigan from Saint + Sofia (gifted)
Long Cardigan from Dorsu (gifted)
The weather in England can't be trusted. Having a couple of knitwear items in your capsule wardrobe is advised. I've gone with a thin, long line cardigan from Dorsu and a thicker oversized crop cardigan from Saint + Sofia. As much as I love them both, I'm hoping the weather stays warm enough that I don't have to wear them too often. The removable waist tie is what makes the Dorsu cardigan such a versatile knitwear piece. It looks great over dresses and smartens up leggings and a tee. The Saint + Sofa cardigan is a lighter weight option to the Everlane Crop Cardigan, which I love. It has a lovely oversized fit and draping style that's ideal for casual summer outfits.
One-Pieces
Midi Dress from Muji
Midi Dress from Linen Fox
Tiered Maxi Dress from Zara (second-hand)
All three of these dresses are favourites in my wardrobe. Both midi dresses I wear all year round, and the thrifted Zara Maxi Dress is such an easy-to-wear summer option I can't fault it. They're all made from either cotton or linen with a loose fit making them super breathable and comfy to wear in the heat. If you're looking for a sustainable alternative, Everlane have the Weekend Tiered Dress while Saint + Sofia have the Tulip Midi Dress.
Tops
Box Cut Top from Muji
Funnel Neck Top from COS (second-hand)
Classic Shirt from UNIQLO (second-hand)
Collarless Air Shirt from Everlane (gifted)
Knot Vest from Saint + Sofia (gifted)
Linen Shirt from Veryan (gifted)
The Box Cut MUJI top, Classic UNIQLO Shirt, and Collarless Air Shirt from Everlane are staple Summer picks I've had in my wardrobe for a few years now. They're easy to wear, comfortable in the heat, and work with pretty much every other item in my Summer capsule. I love this Saint + Sofia Knot Vest so much I've purchased it in black too. It's a classic cami with a relaxed slim fit and knotted straps, adding something a little different to your basic summer top. Made with ribbed GOTS certified 100% Organic Cotton, it's soft and comfortable to wear with good coverage - ideal in the heat. I found this COS Funnel Neck Top in a charity shop late last year but didn't get much opportunity to wear. It's one of the smarter tops in my wardrobe making it tricky to style sometimes. Instead of 'saving it for best' I'm wearing it to style-up my more casual outfits. I've been desperate for the weather to warm up so I can wear this Veryan Linen Shirt. It's so beautifully made with lightweight linen and coconut shell buttons. I've been styling it over the top of the Saint + Sofia Knot Vest for some extra protection from the sun.
Bottoms
Paperbag Skirt from Tricotage
Maxi Skirt from MUJI
Easy Chinos from Everlane
The Tricotage Paperbag Skirt is one of the first sustainable purchases I made and one of the oldest in my wardrobe. It's the perfect fit and length, made from lightweight linen with lovely deep pockets (front and back!) A similar alternative would be the Everlane Easy Skirt. If you're looking for a maxi version, the MUJI Maxi Skirt is a good option although you'll have to seek it out in store as their online shop is limited. I do have shorts in my wardrobe but in all honesty, I don't feel super comfortable wearing them unless it's incredibly hot. Otherwise I would include my Everlane Easy Shorts, which are a great fit - just not something I'd wear daily. Instead I've included the Easy Chinos in this capsule, which I wear cuffed and worn with a loose-fitting shirt.
Shoes
Milano Sandals from Birkenstock
Madrid Slides from Birkenstock (second-hand)
Forever Sneakers from Everlane (gifted)
I've had my Milano Sandals for years so when I found a pair of brand new Madrid Slides on eBay for incredibly cheap, I snapped them up. It was at the tail end of last summer so there was no chance to wear them until this year. They might be divisive, however, there's no denying the comfort of Birkenstock sandals. I highly recommend purchasing a pair if you're looking for summer footwear. My Everlane Forever Sneakers haven't had much wear, which I'm hoping to remedy this summer. The heel needs to soften a little to become more comfortable, and I'm regretting my decision not to go with a different colour...
Bags
Woven Crossbody from Everlane (gifted)
Jute Handbag from Ellyla (gifted)
As my Acloset app will attest, I've worn a bum bag almost every day for the last month. They're just so convenient, especially with a dog. I have the Everlane Transit Bag, which is more techwear in style, as well as the Woven Crossbody that is a more polished looking. I highly recommend adding a bum bag to your wardrobe if, like me, you generally hate carrying a bag. Both can be worn crossbody or at the waist/hip. If I'm in need of a cuter option, I go with my Ellyla Jute Handbag. It's not longer available, however, this Neya Jute is a lovely alternative.
Accessories
Minimal Jewellery from OMCH
Sun Hat - Vintage (second-hand)
Sun Glasses from Pala Eyewear (gifted)
I'm completely in love with minimal chains this summer. Easy to wear necklaces that add to an outfit with feeling uncomfortable or fussy in the heat. My favourite is this simple Gold Snake Chain and tiny Daisy Necklace paired with fuss-free delicate studs or classic hoop earrings. If you're shopping for summer jewellery, take at look at this jewellery edit with plenty of inspiration. A sun hat is a must, as are sunglasses. I purchased a vintage straw hat from a charity shop and have a pair Pala Eyewear Pendo Sunglasses.