I’m not necessarily a minimalist with my wardrobe (just ask my husband! haha), but I do like to have some basic outfit “formulas” to resort to on the days when I just don’t have the mental capacity (or frankly, the energy) to think about putting together any kind of ensemble. I say this because “capsule” is a bit of a misnomer for this post as it’s not a full capsule, but more of a curated group of mix-and-match options that I can reach for without much thought.
Disclaimer: these are all super casual looks because I’m not attending any fancy events at this point in my life, but I still want to look put-together and [somewhat] chic in my daily life of being a stay-at-home-mom. Additionally, I’m not saying that these outfits are “just for moms” — that’s just where I’m at in my life right now so they’re good for this chapter (read: toddler chasing), but they’d also be good for anyone! *Note: I also prefer a neutral palette for effortless mixing and matching, but I fully support (and encourage!) the addition of color to your outfits!
Base Outfits:
Button Down Shirt + Jeans // JEAN SHORTS
An oversized white button down with the sleeves rolled up is so chic, but also incredibly comfortable; literally one of the most versatile pieces in anyone’s wardrobe. I actually still wear (and love!) my maternity button down from HATCH and continue to receive compliments on it every time I wear it!
You could also use a boxy white t-shirt instead of a button down if that works better for your style.
For the warmer months I suggest a light / medium wash denim in a relaxed fit. This goes for both long and short denim. A little distressing is fun and adds an extra touch of casual, if that aligns with your style.
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FITTED TEE // TANK + LINEN SHORTS // PANTS
I am once again singing the praises of these “tuckable” tees that give the effect of a bodysuit without the discomfort aspect. Of course, if bodysuits don’t bother you then they’re a perfect option! Sleeve length and style are totally up to you: short sleeve, scoop neck tank, crewneck tank, etc. will all work.
I am currently in my self-proclaimed “pull on pant era”. I have nothing against traditional waistbands with fasteners, but I’m just fully embracing elastic waistbands right now. I have seen so many cute linen pant options recently, not just pull-on style, but plenty with normal waistbands that have belt loops (which are obviously great for accessorizing your outfit with… well, belts 😜).
I’m also finding myself gravitating toward the same casual-yet-polished look, but in a shorts version… which means I’m definitely going to need to brush the dust off of my self-tanner. haha
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ATHLETIC DRESS
These athletic dresses are cute all on their own, but also pretty versatile with many options for accessorizing and layering.
I love the way that the dress looks paired with a button-down buttoned halfway and tied at the waist or fully unbuttoned and left open, worn with a blazer, cardigan, or even with a pullover that can be flung over-the-shoulders or wrapped around the waist. *Tip: I especially appreciate the athletic dress designs that include shorts underneath, both for modesty as well as minimizing opportunities for “chub rub”.
If the athletic dress doesn’t vibe with your aesthetic, I recommend either a fitted shift or a breezy dress with a column silhouette (thinking along the lines of a slipdress) instead for similar “layerability”.
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ACCESSORY VARIATIONS:
Formula 1: LINEN BLAZER, STRAPPY SANDALS, BUCKET BAG
Blazers are a timeless outer layer, and in the warm weather months I highly recommend a linen or cotton fabric for a lightweight, breezy feel. Oversized and slouchy makes them look casual, but they have more structure than a cardigan. Scrunch the sleeves to make the look even more relaxed. If you own / buy a pair of linen shorts, I recommend getting a blazer in a matching color — the monochromatic look is always a classic, but also very on trend right now. That said, if there isn’t a blazer available in the exact same color, instead I suggest a contrasting color (for example: if your shorts are khaki, get a black blazer) which will also look great when paired with your medium / light wash denim pieces!
Strappy sandals lend a more elevated and casual-yet-intentional vibe so they’re the perfect shoe to wear with a blazer. My exact pair is sold out at most retailers, but I’ve linked some similar options in the widget below.
I am really loving the resurgence of bucket bags recently! They never go out of style, but not always readily available for purchase if they’re not circulating with designers, so now is a great time to add one to your bag collection while there are so many options! I absolutely adore my Louis Vuitton Noé bag, but there are many elegant and beautiful handbags that I’ve noticed lately.
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Formula 2: STRIPED COTTON SWEATER, SLIDE SANDALS, WOVEN TOTE
Your pullover sweater doesn’t necessarily need to be striped (solids are great too!), but it’s an ultra classic option that will always give you a versatile and timeless look while adding a bit of interest to an outfit. Look for options that are made of breathable, lightweight fabrics like cotton.
Slide sandals can add a lot to an outfit, even if they are the epitome of ease. I personally like to have a bit more coverage with chunkier straps (thinking like Birkenstock Arizonas) or adding some subtle texture details like braiding.
I don’t carry quite as much around now that Sophie is almost two, but I still love my tote organizer and highly recommend getting one because that way you can turn literally any tote (even designer!) into a diaper bag. For summer, it’s fun to have a woven bag that gives an effortlessly chic look; whether that’s a slouchy bohemian raffia bag or a more structured market tote.
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Formula 3: LIGHT CARDIGAN, D’ORSAY SNEAKERS, SLING BAG
Cardigans are always a great layering option, especially in the summer because they’re designed to be worn open (not trapping too much heat). In my opinion, a midi length is perfect for this time of year because it can easily be paired with both pants or shorts. Look for one with a hem that will hit you just below your bum to achieve this effect!
I just love the clean look of a white sneaker year-round, but especially during the summer! Any white “street sneaker” will work (Adidas Stan Smiths, Reebok Club C Sneakers or Nike Air Force Ones would be excellent classic options!), but I personally love the ease / femininity of this D’Orsay style!
*Tips for keeping your sneakers white here.
I swore I’d never get a fanny pack, but here I am eating my words. I think this is due to the fact that they’ve been rebranded as “sling bags” and worn crossbody which is so much cooler than when they are worn around the waist / hips (and not to mention more secure for your personal items!). I love having a bag I can grab for super quick trips out of the house that holds my essentials, but if Soph is with me I can definitely fit a Size 4 diaper, travel pack of baby wipes and slim tube of diaper cream in there with my wallet, keys and a lip balm.
I love the versatility of these outfits and their abilities to mix and match, even with the button down I mentioned in the first “base outfit” section! Below are a few of my favorite “remixed” combinations, but I’ve gathered even more inspiration photos here.
*all outfit inspiration images in this post were sourced from Pinterest and are not my own
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If you’re looking for some inspiration for summer hairstyles to help stay cool I rounded up some options here. I also recommend the “always” accessories of a pair of polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. I’m personally a fan of the classic baseball cap, but whatever style suits your fancy will work! I like the baseball cap in particular because it mixes well with my other “mom uniform” selections.
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I hope these ideas help to inspire you to create your own mini seasonal capsule with ensembles that you don’t have to put much thought into, but make you feel put-together even on the crazy days.
Sending hugs —
xx, Natalie
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