The Only Summer Tops You’ll Need for Your Capsule Wardrobe
When it comes to building a summer capsule wardrobe, it’s all about lightweight layers, breathable fabrics, and effortless style. These are the tops that keep you cool on sunny days, look pulled-together with minimal effort, and pair seamlessly with everything from shorts to linen pants. Whether you're heading to brunch, walking the farmer’s market, or just trying to survive the heat in style, having a few go-to summer tops makes getting dressed a breeze. This season, I’m leaning into five essentials: a breezy button-down, a classic striped tee, a white tank, a solid color tee in a summery hue, and a lightweight blouse that dresses up or down. Below, I’m sharing a few of my current favorites from different brands to help you refresh your warm-weather wardrobe with ease
The Striped T-Shirt
The striped tee is a year-round staple, but in summer, it really shines. It’s lightweight, breathable, and brings effortless style to even the simplest outfits. I love it with denim cutoffs for weekend errands, tucked into a flowy skirt for brunch, or layered over a swimsuit at the lake. It’s that “threw-it-on-but-still-put-together” kind of piece every capsule needs.
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
The hero of every summer capsule wardrobe? A crisp white t-shirt. It’s the piece that does it all—whether you're throwing it over a swimsuit, pairing it with high-rise shorts, or knotting it with a breezy skirt. The key is finding one that feels soft, fits just right, and holds its shape through the season. Trust me, once you find the one, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it.
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
AA pink tee is the perfect way to bring a little warmth and personality into your summer wardrobe. Soft and flattering, it adds a fresh twist to your usual basics while still being incredibly versatile. Pair it with white denim, neutral linen pants, or layered under a lightweight jacket on cooler evenings. It’s an easy, feel-good piece that brightens up your look without trying too hard.
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
Solid Yellow Shirt
A yellow tee brings sunshine to your wardrobe—literally. Cheerful and eye-catching, it adds a vibrant pop of color while still feeling effortless. It pairs beautifully with denim, crisp white shorts, or under a utility jacket for cooler mornings. Whether you choose a soft pastel or a bold marigold, this top is perfect for brightening your mood and your outfit.
Here are some of my favorites:
Gap, Flutter Sleeve
Evelane, Cozy Rib
Quince, Cashmere Tee
Old Navy, Bestee Crop
Solid Blue Shirt
A solid blue shirt is one of those underrated wardrobe heroes that goes with just about everything. The color feels crisp and classic—perfect for summer—and adds a polished touch without being too dressy. Whether you choose a soft chambray, a structured cotton poplin, or a lightweight linen, this piece easily pairs with white denim, linen shorts, or layered over a tank as an open button-up. It’s effortless, elevated, and endlessly versatile.
Gap, Flutter Sleeve
Madewell, Cotton Perfect
Everlane, The Box-Cut Tee
Old Navy, Bestee Crop
Graphic T-shirt
A great graphic tee instantly adds personality to your capsule wardrobe—and honestly, it might be the most fun piece in the mix. Most of mine are concert tees (hello, 90s nostalgia), and every time I wear one, it feels like I’m telling a little story. Whether it's your favorite band, a vintage-inspired print, or something cheeky you picked up on vacation, a graphic t-shirt brings a casual, cool vibe to any outfit. Pair it with denim shorts, layer it under a blazer, or knot it over a slip dress—the possibilities are endless, and the best part? You probably already have one you love.
Floral Top
No summer capsule is complete without at least one floral top. It adds a playful, feminine touch that instantly brightens your look. Whether you gravitate toward bold blooms or subtle patterns, floral prints can be styled with just about anything—denim shorts, white jeans, or even layered under a lightweight jacket. I love wearing mine when I want to feel a little extra put together without trying too hard. It's the kind of piece that makes even a simple outfit feel like summer.
Here are my favorites:
Gap, Crepe Flutter Sleeve
Amazon, Bright Green Print
Amazon, Boho Short Sleve
Floral Dress
A floral dress is the ultimate one-and-done summer outfit. Whether you're heading to brunch, a picnic, or just running errands, it brings instant charm and ease. I love how effortlessly it transitions from casual to elevated—just switch your sandals for wedges or sneakers. Choose a pattern that feels true to your style, and you'll find yourself reaching for it all season long.
HM, Mama before & after
Pact, Fit & Flare
Old Navy, Fit & Flare Linen
Madwell, Cap Sleeve
Black dress
A black dress might not be the first thing you think of for summer, but it’s one of the most versatile pieces you can own. Lightweight, breathable, and effortlessly chic, it’s perfect for everything from date nights to beach cover-ups. Dress it up with gold jewelry and sandals or keep it casual with sneakers—it’s a timeless staple that works for any occasion.
Quince, Tencel Jersey
Pact, Fit & Flare
Old Navy, Flutter Sleeve
When it comes to summer style, comfort and versatility are key—and these capsule tops deliver both. From the cheerful yellow tee to the timeless striped shirt, each piece is designed to keep you cool, stylish, and ready for anything the season brings. Whether you're heading to a backyard barbecue, exploring a new city, or just enjoying long sunny days at home, these staples will make getting dressed a breeze. Stay tuned—I'll be sharing my favorite finds from different brands to help you build a summer wardrobe that works for real life.
This post contains affiliate links to products that I get a commission on. These are products that I have purchased myself and love.