How to build the perfect capsule wardrobe to keep you stylishly cool this summer

Deciding what to wear can often be a struggle, we tend to be overloaded for choice but at the same time seemingly have nothing to wear, and as the temperature starts to rise, looking stylish can take a back seat to staying cool.

However, it doesn’t have to be that way.

With summer well and truly here in the Southern Hemisphere, now’s the time to chill and relax. You want to spend time with family and friends and you want to do it comfortably.

To make choosing your summer outfits easier, we’ve compiled our best staples to begin building the perfect summer capsule wardrobe.

1. Linen shirt

A linen button-up shirt is the most versatile summer essential, that can be worn year after year. Perfect with shorts, thrown over swimmers as a beach cover-up, or worn over a dress as it cools down in the evening. No piece will work harder in your summer wardrobe.

• Pick one that is 100 per cent linen to ensure you stay cool all-day
• No need to iron a linen shirt, it looks great just as it is (amen!)
• Choose a colour that works well with the rest of your wardrobe, white is a safe choice, and perfect to highlight your sun-kissed skin.

2. Linen pants

Whether you’re going to an event, running errands or just lounging around, linen pants are the perfect wardrobe staple for any occasion! The never-ending popularity of linen pants make them an absolute must-have for a capsule wardrobe, especially when it comes to staying cool in the summer heat.

• Like the linen shirt, try to find pants that are 100 per cent linen
• For optimum comfort, be sure to choose linen pants with a stretchy waistband
• Linen pants are so versatile, they can be paired with loose or fitted tops – and the best part is you can dress them up easily with a nice jacket or throw on some canvas shoes to keep the casual look.

3. Espadrilles

A great footwear style for summer, an elevated take on the white sneaker that can be paired back with everything from denim shorts to a maxi dress. These are perfect for busy days and lazy weekends and will effortlessly add a touch of style to your outfit.

• Choose a pair that best suits your personal style, this summer you’ll find stacked versions if you’re after a bit of extra height, or flat if you’d like a run-about shoe.
• Don’t forget the invisible socks when wearing your espadrilles, to give your feet that fresh-all-day comfort.
• Wear your espadrilles when you want the mobility of sneakers but with a bit more flair.

4. A crossbody bag

When the weather starts to warm up, days can blend into nights. So, you’ll need versatile accessories that you can be dressed up for the night and dressed down by day. A crossbody bag is an effortless way to carry all your summer essentials no matter the time of day.

• Pick a neutral colour so you can get maximum wear out of it, tan and brown are perfect for summer.
• Make sure it can fit all of your essentials (phone, sunscreen, keys).
• Try it with an evening look and a day look to make sure it has maximum versatility in your wardrobe.

5. Cotton or linen dress

A throw-on-and-go dress is the essence of summer style. You want to choose a dress in a lightweight natural fabric to keep you cool. A midi or maxi is such an easy-to-wear and versatile style for all ages.

• Dress it up in the evening with gold jewellery and heels.
• Layer a linen button-up over the top if the weather has a nip in the air.
• Choose a fun colour that feels like summer to you.

6. A hat

In Australia, we can’t afford to be complacent about skin care. Being sun-smart and stylish aren’t mutually exclusive. A straw hat is a great way to add a chic finish touch to any outfit while protecting yourself from the harsh rays that come with the delights of summer.

• Make sure you choose a style that suits your personality, it’s not going to protect you from the sun if you’re not wearing it.
• Opt for a neutral colour to ensure it goes with every outfit, white or neutral.
• A sporty cap and full-brim hat a great to cover almost every sun-smart occasion.

These pieces will keep you cool all summer long and the classic colours and cuts are styles you can wear for many summers to come.