5 Summer Capsule Pieces for 40+ Women That You Actually Need

Getting dressed isn’t just about the season we’re in; it’s also about the season of life we’re experiencing.

As any fellow women in their 40s and beyond understand, the summer shopping/outfitting fatigue is real!! Between evolving body shapes & hormonal shift struggles during the hottest season, having the perfect capsule pieces (aka your essentials) can make all the difference when getting dressed.

That’s why our stylists have put together a curated list of our Top 5 Summer Capsule Selects to help you feel equally confident & comfortable this season.

Scroll on for our go-to pieces + styling inspo/tips for each!

A VERSATILE WHITE TEE:

BECAUSE THE BASE MATTERS

Selected by: Christine

Nothing beats a great white tee in the summer, paired with your favorite denim shorts or linen pants.

The Slim Tee from Jenni Kayne is super soft and offers a clean flattering silhouette that follows the body’s natural shape without clinging or feeling restrictive. It’s perfect on it’s own or for layering.

The Slim Tee | Jenni Kayne

A BREATHABLE LINEN PANT:

LOOK COOL WHILE STAYING COOL

Selected by: Whitney

As the weather heats up, I’m always searching for pieces that feel cool, polished, and effortless. The linen Uptown Pants from Ruti check every box with their breathable fabric, modern barrel silhouette, and comfortable elastic-back waistband.

They’re the kind of versatile staple that looks refined while feeling easy to wear and one you’ll find yourself reaching for on repeat all season long.

The Uptown Linen Pant | Ruti

A LIGHT-WEIGHT WOVEN:

EVERYONE NEEDS A GOOD BUTTON-UP

Selected by: Elizabeth

I love this linen woven piece for women of all ages, but I especially love it for myself and for women looking for a bit of arm coverage.

This piece can also be styled sexy. Unbutton the front and style the sleeves up for hot days. The shoulder on this woven piece is nice; it provides structure for a gal that wants to keep it polished. So very versatile!

The Everyday Linen Shirt | Banana Republic

A MERINO CARDIGAN:

THE LAYER YOU’LL LOVE

Selected by: Candace

A layering piece is truly a workhorse in the wardrobe. It not only aids in creating shape and balance for the silhouette but also provides a styling dimension to the overall look, whether worn on the body or draped on the shoulder.

We love this merino wool sweater option from Jenni Kayne, which comes in both black and ivory. The great thing about merino wool is that it keeps you cool in the summer and warm in the winter, making this piece work for you all year long!

Mira Cardigan | Jenni Kayne

THE WEEKDAY TO WEEKEND MULE:

STYLISH W/O SACRIFICING COMFORT

Selected by: Whit

My choice for summer is the backless loafer/loafer mule – an elegant, effortless update to the classic flat that feels made for warmer weather. It’s nonchalant charm can take you from work to the weekend with just a few considered outfit tweaks!

For the weekdays, I’d pair mine with an easy trouser and crisp button down; for weekends, swap your suiting for easy denim shorts and a smart tee or a casual dress! It can feel polished for work and considered for the weekend.