The second half of August has a different kind of light. The sun sets earlier, the afternoons draw out more gently, and the sea reaches its warmest temperature of the year. It’s the perfect time to organise a summer capsule wardrobe so that the season runs well into September.
It’s not about buying more, but about weeding out everything until you’re left with what really works. What’s more, this process gets your wardrobe ready for the change of season without the need for an October revolution.
The summer that won’t quite go away
In the Mediterranean, August isn’t the end of the season. Temperatures remain high for weeks on end, and beach trips are still on the cards well into autumn.
However, things are starting to change. Mornings call for a light jacket, evenings are getting cooler by the water, and your wardrobe needs some transitional pieces. Therefore, the right strategy is not to put things away, but to reorganise.
What exactly is a summer capsule wardrobe?
A capsule wardrobe is a small collection of garments that can be mixed and matched in any combination. The concept, which became popular in the 1970s and is still very much in vogue today, is explained clearly in this a guide to the capsule wardrobe.
Worn at the end of summer, the aim is twofold: to cope with the remaining heat and to prepare for the drop in temperature. Consequently, each item must prove its worth by offering at least three possible outfit combinations.
The ten plays that form the backbone of the season
This is the base that lasts from mid-August to the end of September:
- Two plain shirts: one white and one medium-toned, both light.
- A textured shirt: the striped cotton shirt operates day and night.
- Two T-shirts: round neck made of cotton, in neutral colours.
- A plain polo shirt: the link between the informal and the proper.
- Two pairs of shorts: one light and one dark, both clean-cut.
- A pair of long trousers: smart, in a neutral colour, suitable for dinner and the office.
- A light jumper: the coat that sees you through the whole of September.
How to put together your summer capsule wardrobe in an afternoon
The process is quicker than it seems if you take it step by step:
- Clear out the wardrobe and set aside everything you haven't worn this summer.
- Define your colour palette: two neutral base colours and one accent colour – that’s all.
- Try out the combinations: each item of clothing must go with at least three others.
- Spot the gaps and make a note of them before you buy anything.
- Keep the rest in a labelled box, not on the same shelf.
The thin layer that changes everything
If you could only add one new item to your wardrobe right now, go for a lightweight cotton jumper. It works over a T-shirt in the morning, over a shirt in the evening, and draped over your shoulders the rest of the day.
Our cotton fleece jumpers They are designed specifically for that purpose: they’re neither too warm nor too light when the breeze picks up.
Transitional garments: from swimwear to trousers
There are some items that work for both seasons. The structured-weave Bermuda shorts are the most obvious example, as they can be worn with socks and closed-toe shoes when the heat eases off.
A long-sleeved shirt serves the same purpose as a polo shirt. We already explained this when discussing shorts that go beyond summer, and it’s still the smartest way to extend a season.
Colours that work well in August and September
The late-summer colour palette is warming up. Pure whites are giving way to ecru, sand and khaki, whilst navy blue remains a firm staple.
Add a touch of olive green or terracotta and you’ll have a colour palette that takes you through the change of season seamlessly. What’s more, these shades complement your lingering tan perfectly.
What to put away and what to keep to hand
Put away your most eye-catching patterned swimsuits, strappy tops and brightly coloured clothes. Instead, keep just one plain swimsuit to hand: September often offers one last chance to go for a swim.
Before storing, wash everything and dry it thoroughly. Salt and chlorine break down the fibres whilst the items are in storage, and the micro-piqué polo shirt or they notice the linen in particular.
Frequently asked questions about the summer capsule wardrobe
How many items of clothing should she have?
Between ten and fifteen items, not including underwear or footwear. Any fewer than that is insufficient, and any more than that ceases to be a capsule collection.
Is it also suitable for travelling?
Exactly. In fact, a well-put-together summer capsule wardrobe fits into a cabin bag.
What should I do with the things I discard?
Repair whatever can be repaired and donate whatever is in good condition. Throwing things away should always be the last resort.
Can I keep the same capsule next year?
Yes, and that’s the aim. Choose timeless pieces and you’ll only need to replace one or two items per season.
When is the best time to change your wardrobe?
In mid-August for the transition period and at the end of October for winter. That way, you avoid a sudden change overnight.
Extend your summer with Gerry St Tropez
The end of summer doesn’t mean you have to give anything up. It simply calls for a bit of judgement when deciding what to keep close at hand and what to save for next year.
Explore the Gerry St Tropez online shop and put together the outfit that will see you through to autumn with the same effortless ease as always. Because the Mediterranean style doesn’t end in September: it simply changes a gear.