10 Items 20 Outfits Summer Series

I usually create a workwear and casual capsule wardrobe every season. However, this summer I have been running into inventory issues with the pieces I’ve been finding. A lot of them have been selling out before I can even share them. Workwear tends to stay in stock, but since the casual items have felt hard to hard hold on to, I almost skipped a casual capsule wardrobe all together. As much as I love putting together capsule wardrobes, they are the most time intensive posts I create, and I didn’t want to put the time and effort into something that would ultimately sell out before I could share it with you. Then I remembered a post series I also used to do often but haven’t in some time – 10 Items 20 Outfits. Before I created full blown capsule wardrobes, I used to create small capsules with 10 versatile Items and give 20 outfit ideas with them. So, while I didn’t feel like I could create an entire summer capsule, I felt like I could pull together a few timeless pieces for an abbreviated casual summer capsule wardrobe for you. The outfits in this post are combinations I personally rely heavy on every summer.

Just like the full capsule posts, I decided to create a large post with all the outfits in one place. However, I will also break up the posts by bottoms, allowing you to shop and view the outfits in smaller posts.

Affiliate links are included in this post.

10 Items 20 Outfits Summer Series

My Sizing: I’m 4’10”, and my bust, waist, and hip measurements are 32″, 24″, and 36″. My inseam is 25″ (the measurement from the inside of my leg to my ankle bone). The clothes shown are unaltered and show how they fit me right from the store. I list my sizing beside each item to help you compare when shopping online. When referencing my true size, that is often the smallest option available at a brand or petite xxs/00/24. I wear a size 5 shoe.

10 Items

For this small summer capsule, I chose timeless pieces that can be layered and worn on their own, even in the summer heat. I relied on brands that typically have ample inventory, so the capsule will hopefully be less likely to sell out, but I will also share alternative options for different price points as I can.

To note, I did not include shoes and bags in my item count. I wanted to show a variety of styles and prices with the outfits so I included three pairs of sandals, one pair of sneakers, and three bag options.

Red, White, and Navy Linen Shorts XXS: I chose the Stratus Shorts in three colors for the outfits. The Stratus Shorts are made from 100% linen and are lightweight, soft and comfortable. I love the thin elastic waist, and I like the overall fit. The red and navy are unlined, but the white is fully lined. I find them to be true to size. Here are a few other options you can use in place of these shorts in the outfits: linen option | chino option (skylark, clifftop and conifer would look great with the outfits) | navy chino option | drawstring linen option (the burgundy pairs well with these pieces)

Denim Shorts 2: I chose a pair of denim shorts from Boden with a high-rise and relaxed fit. I picked this pair because of the shorts I have; this one is the most relaxed on my thighs and the most comfortable. They have a raw hem, but the hem is sewn so they won’t fray forever. Here are a few other denim shorts options I love: Madewell Perfect Vintage | J.Crew High Rise | AE Strigid recommend a size up

White Tank Top XS: This white tank top is a perfect base. It’s not too low at the arm openings, not see-through, and is comfortable, stretch organic cotton. I wear it in XS and find it to fit true to size. If you prefer sleeves, this organic cotton option from Pact is also great. I wear it in XXS.

Yellow Top XXS: Although I mostly went with neutrals, I included this yellow top as a pop of color. It goes with all of the bottoms I chose and I love the details. This Anthropologie top has a banded bottom so it gives a tucked in look without having to be tucked in. I find it to fit true to size overall. This top from Gap Factory has a similar look for less.

Denim Button Down XXS: I love wearing a button-down top over a t-shirt or tank top in the summer. To me, it’s a nice added layer, without being too hot. This denim top is a staple item you can wear year-round. I also included it in my fall capsule wardrobe. I love this one from J.Crew because of the wash and overall fit, but this is another great option from Old Navy for less.

Linen Button Down 00 in Flax: I also love having a linen button-down in my summer wardrobe. This one from J.Crew comes in petite, and is a perfect tailored fit in petite. If you want it to be a little more relaxed, like I’m wearing it in this post, opt for your usual size in classic fit instead. This option from Quince is a less expensive swap.

Crochet Tank Top Petite XS: I love wearing crochet tank tops and sweaters in the summer. They add a little detail, while still being basic and easy to wear. This one from Gap has a great fit and comes in petite sizing. I wear a camisole under mine.

Striped T-Shirt XXS: The classic striped t-shirt! This one from J.Crew Factory has a slim fit and a boatneck, which I think elevates it just a little bit. It’s true to size.