STYLE. GROOMING. INSPIRATION. ADVICE.
your browser is not supported
To use ASOS, we recommend using the latest versions of Chrome, Firefox, Safari or Edge
STYLE AND CULTURE
HOW TO BUILD A SUMMER CAPSULE WARDROBE
By Sarah Waldron, 4 May 2026
Bigger isn't always better – just look at most major airlines' carry-on allowances. So what to be done when wardrobe space is at a premium, whether your clothes are stored in the overhead lockers or stuffed into a closet at home? The answer is a capsule wardrobe: nine expertly-edited pieces (plus some substitutions) that'll take you through summer without breaking a sweat.
Before we begin, here's a foundational tip. Try to keep your capsule to three core colours, anchored by neutrals. This can be three neutrals, two neutrals and an accent colour, or three different colours living in the same family. As long as all three look good together, you're golden.
Before we begin, here's a foundational tip. Try to keep your capsule to three core colours, anchored by neutrals. This can be three neutrals, two neutrals and an accent colour, or three different colours living in the same family. As long as all three look good together, you're golden.
#1: A CLASSIC WHITE TEE
Topman relaxed fit t-shirt in white, £12
The white T-shirt is the cornerstone of the capsule wardrobe. It'll look good with shorts and trousers, under a shirt or worn solo, James Dean-style, with your autumn/winter jeans. It's quite literally a blank canvas onto which the rest of your 'fit can be projected.
Substitute with: A tank top, if that's more your vibe.
#2 HARDWORKING TROUSERS
Dickies 874 straight fit work chino trousers in khaki, £70
Chinos are the hardworking heroes of the capsule wardrobe. They're casual enough to be worn as part of a utility-inspired outfit and smart enough for a shirt and loafers come time for sundowners.
Substitute with: Going somewhere particularly hot? Swap the chinos out for a lightweight linen pair.
#3: GO-ANYWHERE TRAINERS
adidas Originals Japan decon trainers in black, £110
There are a few considerations with trainers. They have to be comfy enough for long days exploring on holidays or commuting to the office (hopefully more of the first than the second), they should be low profile enough to go with your trousers and your shorts, and the colour needs to be versatile. We love adidas and Nike's takes.
Substitute with: Trainers not summery enough? Sub in sturdy sandals like Birkenstocks. They have a molded footbed that makes them as comfy as trainers.
#4: A LINEN SHIRT
Threadbare long sleeve linen mix shirt in light blue, £25
Speaking of linen, no summer capsule wardrobe is complete without a linen shirt. They're light and breathable, and they actually look good when they're a little bit creased. You can call it the 'effortlessly unruffled' look.
Substitute with: Not into linen? The right striped cotton shirt can look just as breezy.
#5: A PATTERNED SHIRT
Aray bandana print revere shirt co-ord in navy, £22
The printed shirt is the personality piece, so make it count. Are you a tiled pattern person or a graphic artwork person? Pick your flavour and run with it. A note: if any piece in the capsule wardrobe is destined to break the rules, it's this one, so don't worry if it's not in your chosen colour palette.
Substitute with: Does a shirt feel too formal? Swap it for a graphic tee.
#6: A LIGHT JACKET
ASOS DESIGN lightweight nylon jacket in neutral, £45
British summertime is not a guarantee of good weather, and evenings can get chilly further south too, so make sure to have a light jacket in your repertoire. Choose a streamlined or unfussy style like a Harrington, which will layer better than a shacket or bomber.
Substitute with: If you have events in the calendar, get a smart summer blazer instead.
#7: THE RIGHT SHORTS
ASOS DESIGN slim linen blend shorts in short length in black, £22
Smart-casual shorts will make capsule wardrobe life much easier. Think structured fabric, slip pockets and a zip fly instead of a drawstring. That way, you can dress them up or down.
Substitute with: Not feeling the smart-casual vibe? Go more laidback with jorts.
#8: SUMMER LOAFERS
SEQWL Kayak loafer in stone micro, £25
The smart summer shoe! The right pair of loafers will look good with shorts, so keep them summery with thinner soles, light colours and materials like suede instead of leather.
Substitute with: Boat shoes, if you're feeling nautical (but nice).
#9: A CAP
Pictures: ASOS
Bershka Embroidered cap in green, £15.99
Top everything off with a cap. Beyond the aesthetics, a cap will protect your scalp and face from the sun, and sunburn is not on the trend forecast for summer 2026.
Substitute with: Sunglasses (and SPF).
