The Only Spring Tops You’ll Need for Your Capsule Wardrobe
When it comes to curating a capsule wardrobe for spring, the magic is in the basics. These are the pieces that layer well, mix and match effortlessly, and make getting dressed feel simple (and chic). Whether you're sipping coffee on the patio, heading into a casual meeting, or packing for a long weekend getaway, having a few go-to tops in rotation makes all the difference. This season, I’m reaching for four classic staples: a striped button-down, a striped tee, a solid tee in a fresh spring shade, and the ultimate essential—a crisp white t-shirt. Below, I’m sharing a few of my favorites from different brands to help you build your spring wardrobe with ease.
The Striped T-Shirt
A classic striped tee adds just enough visual interest while still playing nicely with the rest of your wardrobe. I love it paired with white jeans, under a blazer, or half-tucked into linen pants. It gives French-girl-meets-casual-Friday energy, and it's an easy way to make a simple outfit feel styled.
Here are some of my favorites:
Old Navy, EveryWear Crew-Neck Striped T-Shirt:
Gap, Organic Cotton VintageSoft T-Shirt
Madewell, Cotton Perfect Crewneck Tee
J Crew Facorty , Striped ribbed crewneck tee
Classic white t-shirt
No capsule wardrobe is complete without a great white t-shirt. Clean, effortless, and endlessly versatile, it pairs with everything from denim to maxi skirts. Look for one with a flattering fit and soft fabric that holds up well wash after wash. This is the piece you'll reach for again and again—and it always works.
Here are some of my favorites:
Everlane, The Box-Cut Tee in Essential Cotton
Banana Republic, Timeless Crew-Neck T-Shirt
Old Navy, Luxe Crew-Neck T-Shirt
Quince, 100% Organic Cotton Boxy Crewneck Tee
A Solid Tee in a Spring Color
Adding one tee in a soft, spring color—like blush, sage, or sky blue—instantly freshens up your closet. It gives you the comfort of a basic tee with just a little more personality. Wear it with your favorite jeans, neutral trousers, or even layered under a lightweight cardigan when the weather’s still unpredictable.
Here are some of my favorite:
Old Navy, Vintage T-shirt
J Crew Facroty, Short-sleeve girlfriend crewneck tee
Gap, Organic Cotton VintageSoft T-Shirt
LL Bean, Women’s T-Shirts
The Striped Button-Down Shirt
A striped button-down is one of the most timeless pieces you can own. It works year-round, but in the spring it really shines—tucked into denim, layered over a tank, or even worn open like a lightweight jacket. Whether you're leaning preppy, minimalist, or coastal, a blue-and-white version brings polish without feeling too dressy. It's a true capsule MVP.
Here are some of my favorites:
LLBean, Women's Shirts and Button-Downs
Everlane, The Gathered Shirt in Silky Cotton
Lands End, Women's Cooling Button Front Shirt
Sezane, Tomboy Shirt
When it comes to building a capsule wardrobe for spring, it’s all about having reliable, easy-to-style pieces that can mix and match across your closet. These four tops—a striped button-down, a striped tee, a soft spring-tone tee, and the perfect white t-shirt—are foundational for creating looks that feel fresh, effortless, and pulled together. Whether you're heading to brunch, the office, or just out for a walk, these pieces have you covered. Stay tuned—I’ll be sharing my top store picks so you can build your spring wardrobe with intention and ease.
This post contains affiliate links to products that I get a commission on. These are products that I have purchased myself and love.