Learn how to match 3 tops, 2 bottoms, 2 dresses, 1 swimwear, and 2 shoes to create 26 outfits.
A mini capsule wardrobe is great for travelers and minimalists who wants fewer clothes with many different outfits. It is called a travel capsule wardrobe or minimalist capsule wardrobe.
The pieces in this mini capsule wardrobe is lesser than the usual capsule wardrobe which has 25 to 50 pieces depending on the lifestyle and needs.
If you need a more comprehensive guide on building a complete summer wardrobe, head on to my summer capsule wardrobe post!
Read on more to know how to create a mini summer wardrobe and get inspired with the outfit combinations!
What is a Mini Capsule Wardrobe?
A mini capsule wardrobe is a smaller version of a capsule wardrobe that contains a collection of curated clothing items. It is good for travelers and minimalists who like to own less with more options. The pieces are usually less than 25.
How to Build a Mini Capsule Wardrobe?
Identify the activities/Analyze your lifestyle
If you are building a mini capsule wardrobe for traveling, identify the activities you will be doing. If you are not traveling then analyze your lifestyle and figure out what daily tasks or errands you do.
By identifying and analyzing, you can figure out what kind of clothing pieces are suitable for daily wear. You would need proper and appropriate attire for specific activities. For example, if you are traveling to the beach area then you may need swimwear.
Choose a color palette
Choose a color palette for your mini capsule wardrobe. By having a color palette, you will be able to create cohesive looks by matching different items from the mini capsule wardrobe. You may create a color palette based on your personal colors or your seasonal colors.
If you are not sure about your personal and seasonal colors, you can create a color palette based on the general color palette available. For example, a neutral color palette or an earth-toned color palette.
Start with the basics
Every capsule wardrobe must contain the basics. T-shirts, shirts, jeans, and dresses are the must-have basics. They are the key pieces in building any outfit. You can add suitable items based on your lifestyle and needs.
In a mini summer capsule wardrobe, you may need to add shorts, swimwear, sandals, and tank tops.
Pick layering pieces
Pick clothing pieces with buttons or zips that can be styled as layering pieces. For example, button-down shirts and button-down dresses. This allows you to style the two items in at least 6 different ways.
They can be worn over the outfit or under the outfit.
Benefits of a Mini Capsule Wardrobe
Fewer clothes, more options
Getting dressed has never been this easy! Even though you have fewer clothing items, you have more options on how to put together outfits.
Pack lightly for travel
If you travel a lot, a mini capsule wardrobe is easy to pack and light too! You can bring all of your clothes in one bag. It is convenient to carry and take care of.
Get creative
You get to be creative with your styling! You can style the same item in different ways to give it a different vibe every time.
10 Pieces for Summer Mini Capsule Wardrobe
The 10 pieces for this mini summer capsule wardrobe include 3 tops, 2 bottoms, 2 dresses, 1 swimwear, and 2 shoes.
Here is the 10 pieces mini capsule wardrobe breakdown:
Tops
- T-shirt
- Button-down shirt
- Blouse
Bottoms
- Jeans
- Trousers
Dresses
- Sleeveless button-down dress
- Shirt dress
Shoes
- Sandals
- Sneakers
Swimwear
1. T-shirt
In this mini summer capsule wardrobe, I have chosen a striped t-shirt. It is one of the summer staples and easy to pair. T-shirts can be styled on its own or layer it under a sleeveless dress.
2. Button-down shirt
Button-down shirts can be styled on its own, layer under a sleeveless dress and over a dress as an outerwear. It can also be worn together with a one piece swimsuit.
3. Blouse
Linen blouse or cotton blouse is perfect for the summer season. It is cooling and breathable. Both fabrics are light and easy to wear. You can pair it with a pair of jeans or over a long dress.
4. Jeans
Jeans is a staple piece in every capsule wardrobe. It is a timeless and classic piece. Jeans can be styled with any top and dress. Opt for evergreen colors and fitting, like a denim blue straight legged jeans.
5. Trousers
Trousers are a great piece to elevate your outfit. You can dress it up or dress it down by pairing it with a t-shirt, bodysuits or shirts.
6. Sleeveless button-down dress
A sleeveless button-down dress is a great layering piece. You can wear it on its own, layer it under or over a top. Opt for solid colors or timeless patterns for easy-to-style piece.
7. Shirt dress
You can style shirt dress with a jeans, trousers or even skirts. Unbutton all of the buttons and it can become a stylish outerwear.
8. Swimwear
Swimwear is a must-have for a summer capsule wardrobe. Opt for versatile one piece swimwear like swimsuit that can be styled with other items in the wardrobe.
9. Sandals
Sandals are comfortable and breezy. It is the go-to summer footwear. Summer sandals are versatile and can be matched with any casual outfit.
10. Sneakers
Sneakers are a must-have in a capsule wardrobe especially if you are travelling. It is comfortable and easy to wear.
Summer Mini Capsule Wardrobe: Outfits Combinations
T-shirt outfit combinations
Shirt outfit combinations
Blouse outfit combinations
Shirt Dress outfit combinations
