PREPPY CAPSULE WARDROBE FOR SUMMER

This was updated in June 2025!

While I don’t follow a strict capsule wardrobe, I like creating a simple outline for one at the start of each season. This helps me take inventory of what I already own and fill in the gaps from there. In addition, curating a collection of pieces that complement each other saves time on days when I can’t decide what to wear. Think of it as a personal uniform of sorts that you can dress up or down! It also helps to stick to a color palette to make mixing and matching your pieces easier when picking out an outfit– clearly, my preppy capsule wardrobe for summer in today’s post is inspired by all things Americana. 

Short Sleeve Top // Striped Shirt // Tank Top // Cardigan

White Jeans // Blue Jeans // Midi Skirt // Denim Shorts

Midi Dress // Shift Dress // Shirt Dress

Sandals // Sneakers // Heeled Sandals // Jack Rogers

Studs // Woven Tote // Boat and Tote // Handbag

Swimsuit // Sunglasses

Preppy Capsule Wardrobe for Summer

Tops

Short Sleeve Top // My wardrobe is primarily made up of neutrals, but I’ve been trying to incorporate more accent colors– especially red! A top is such an easy way to do it. I love the subtle puff sleeves on this one, and the stripes. I know it’s a season-less pattern, but something about these is just so summery!

​Striped Shirt // Speaking of stripes, I’m not sure any shirt emulates classic preppy style more than this one. It’s just so versatile. And it comes in 19 (!!) different colorways.

​Tank Top // I’m such a sucker for a white shirt. This one is SO simple, but the collar adds a preppy look to it. If I worked an office job, I’d definitely consider this a work-to-weekend piece.

​Cardigan // The epitome of classic style! I remember when I used to wear cardigans over polo shirts– now I toss them over my shoulders or tie them around my waist to add definition to a swingy dress.

Bottoms

​White Jeans // I feel like I pull my white jeans out earlier and earlier every year! Being a mom who’s outside with two young boys a lot of the time, I can’t wear them as often as I once did, but I’m always happy to reach for them.

​Blue Jeans // You know something’s going to be high-waisted when there’s “ribcage” in the description, ha! I own this wash and it’s the perfect medium tone. Not too dark and not too light… just right.

​Midi Skirt // I recently scooped up a white midi skirt, somewhat on a whim, and now have so outfit ideas!! Depending on how you style it, I think it can take on a completely different look, which is how you know you have a great basic.

​Denim Shorts // If you’re looking for the perfect pair of shorts to get you through the summer, these are a great option. I pull them out at least a couple times a week! They hit at just the right spot and are loose but not sloppy. I highly, highly recommend!!

Dresses

Midi Dress // Puff sleeves have been the big trend for so long now, I feel like they’ve become one of the hallmarks of modern preppy style. I LOVE this dress because it comes in three different lengths, and there’s always a new pattern or color to shop. Right now I’m big on the red gingham for more-than-a-pop of color!

Shift Dress // J.Crew’s French blue has always been SO GOOD. You can get this shift in a few neutral colors too, but I’m really partial to this one. A shift dress like this is great because it can definitely be dressed up, but you can also make it work for more casual occasions with the perfect pair of sneakers.

Shirt Dress // I feel like this dress defines my personal style right now so well. It’s timeless, but there’s there’s a little something that makes it feel more modern. I own this dress in the midi version and am obsessed, so I’m thrilled there’s now a mini!!

Preppy Summer Accessories

​Studs // One of the staple pieces of preppy fashion, and my year-round wardrobe! While a pearl necklace can easily feel pretty dated, I don’t think the same is necessarily true for pearl studs. Even though they’re technically labeled as “oversized,” I think the 7mm size is perfect.

​Woven Tote // Can you even with the ruffles?! Just darling. I appreciate that there’s an interior pocket so you can keep a few things separate. Nothing worse than rummaging through your bag for your keys or phone!

Boat and Tote // I remember when I was one of the one people still dedicated to the L.L. Bean totes… and now, they’re 100% back in style! They’re essential pieces for the preppy wardrobe, especially if you live in New England. After being loyal to the navy for so long, I find myself more drawn to the neutral color for a tonal look.

​Handbag // Isn’t this such a fun style? I’m all for a bamboo handle! I’d love this for date night, or really any situation that doesn’t involve being a mom!

Shoes

Sandals // This is one of my newer pairs of shoes, and for the price, I’m not sure what took me so long! So versatile and they’re just the thing to keep by the door to throw on for a quick errand.

Sneakers // I’ve had my Supergas for SO long, and I’m still not tired of them! As far as sneakers go, I think they have the power to make a casual look feel just a little more polished while still being casual themselves.

Heeled Sandals // I’m a Margaux loyalist. Truly, I’m just not sure if there’s a more comfortable, elevated shoe brand out there! These are ideal to slip on for slightly more formal occasions, giving you some extra height.

Jack Rogers // Okay, I know I just mentioned owning my Supergas for a long time, but I’ve definitely owned my Jack Rogers way longer. They remind me of when my wardrobe was straight out of the Official Preppy Handbook (ha!), but I maintain that they work with almost every outfit I put together once the weather warms up.

Swim

Swimsuit // I remember the first time I put a Minnow swimsuit on– I was sold! They’re so easy and mom-friendly, but always have some kind of thoughtful or fun detail. Navy is one of the most classic colors, and I love that Minnow still offers this smocked style in it. (By the way, I like wearing one-pieces with button-down shirts for coverups. Something about the combination is so chic.)

Sunglasses // I own other sunglasses that I wear often, but Ray-Bans are one of those classic pieces that I’ll always hang on to.

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