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Capsule wardrobe goals aren't one-size-fits-all. For me, this experiment boils down to buying for a couple of seasons up front, then pressing pause on spending. The financial and environmental perks are nice bonuses, but the real prize is hours back in my week. Scrolling for new pieces is wildly entertaining—until it starts eating into my day. Building in longer shopping breaks has genuinely shifted my routine.
The other upgrade I'm chasing this season? All-day comfort. Becoming a brand-new mom has made me finally grasp the practical gripes longtime readers flagged for me. Exhibit A: an absolutely adorable bag (you'll spot it below) that's basically a parenting nightmare. I'm finally internalizing that yes, personal style matters, but right now, wearability takes the crown. I want garments that feel effortless through and through—relaxed cuts, low-fuss fabrics, room to bend and lunge while loading my little one into her car seat. Easiest-possible everything.
Okay, deep breath—time for the best part! Outfit inspiration for the warmer months ahead.
Dresses
Dresses will absolutely remain a foundation piece in my closet—that's one constant that isn't shifting. This round, I'm drawn to shorter or mid-length silhouettes with playful prints. I scooped up several from Rylee + Cru (including tiny coordinating versions for Nova), like the one featured. Neutral tones are calling my name this year, punctuated by the occasional punch of warm color.
Links: 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9
Jumpsuits
Jumpsuits? Fully on board. I've stocked up from Big Bud Press (I have a habit of grabbing favorites in every colorway). Also loving the matching-set energy right now.
Links: 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 (similar) / 10
Shoes
The current footwear landscape is genuinely exciting. Silhouettes feel both figure-flattering and approachable right now. A mini heel is my current fixation. I used to live in platforms, but I'm pushing myself to explore other shapes and genuinely enjoying the experimentation. Featured: Velvet Slides/Moorea Seal (on sale!), Tan Slides/Revolve, Lavender Slides/Marias.
Links: 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 / 10 / 11 / 12
Tops
Tops are honestly one of my trickier categories to source. I rotate the same beloved ones constantly, yet I struggle to find a wide range that flatters and plays nicely with other pieces. This season, I'm putting real energy into tracking down better options.
Links: 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 / 10 / 11
Skirts
Skirts get worn on repeat in my house. They pull together a polished look in seconds—no leggings required, haha. There's always at least one Madewell piece in the mix, plus a few thrifted numbers for character.
Links: 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9
Bottoms are trickier territory. For me, fit is everything. If something doesn't sit right, it'll just hang in the closet, so I'm ruthless about returning anything that fails on comfort or fit. That said, I'm thrilled with the breadth of denim and trouser styles out there this year. Bell bottoms, mom jeans, high-waisted stretchy pants—every single one of those is right up my alley.
Links: 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9
Shorts
Shorts turned out to be surprisingly painless this year—I pulled a move from my grade-school playbook and chopped three pairs of old jeans into cutoff shorts. Now I'm hunting for a few elevated high-waisted options that can pass for slightly dressier occasions.
Links: 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7
Spring + Summer Outerwear
This section matters because the moment temperatures tick up, every restaurant cranks the air conditioning to arctic levels. I've trained myself to carry layers everywhere (plus one for Nova these days). A solid denim jacket is another must for me—I reach for mine year-round. My Madewell denim jacket is hands-down the most-worn item in my entire closet. I actually own it in two sizes: one for a snug silhouette, one for slouchier days.
Links: 1 (similar) / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8
Bags
I have a serious bag obsession. Easily my favorite aisle to browse. I have to cap myself before going overboard—haha. Because I keep jewelry and accessories pared back, my handbags (along with sunglasses) end up doing the heavy lifting as my standout accessories. Featured above: Woven Pom Pom Clutch/31 Bits, Luna Bag/Cult Gaia (gorgeous but zero practicality for moms… so it's earmarked for a future kid-free evening), White Bamboo Bag/Amazon, Leather Circle Bag/Madewell (this bag is amazing and I have my eye on the red version too).
Links: 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 / 10 / 11
Jewelry
I keep my jewelry understated—delicate gold staples, with the occasional wildcard like these wild woven studs.
Links: 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 / 10 / 11 / 12 / 13 / 14 / 15 / 16
Swimsuits
Picking out swimwear is one of my favorite seasonal rituals. I'm partial to cutout one-pieces or high-waisted bikini sets. That retro rainbow towel is pure perfection.
Links: 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 (top and bottom) / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 (top and bottom)
And just for fun—let's chat sunglasses! I'm borderline addicted to them and try to limit myself to a handful of new pairs each season.
Links: 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9
Thrilled that scarves are in the spotlight this year. I have a massive stash of vintage scarves I'll keep forever, trend or not, but it's fun seeing them appreciated.
Links: 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5
That's a wrap! I had an absolute blast putting this roundup together and sincerely hope it sparks some ideas for your own warm-weather wardrobe refresh! xx. Elsie
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