The Coastal Capsule Wardrobe

The Coastal Capsule Wardrobe: What I’m Wearing This Late Summer and Early Fall

As I was sitting outside this morning wrapped in a blanket, watching my 8-year old practice for soccer tryouts, I was hit with the harsh reality that August will soon be fading into September. When that time comes (sooner than I want to acknowledge) I will be reaching for pieces that still breathe in the late-summer warmth but carry a quiet nod towards fall. Living in Maine, the air begins to shift before the leaves do. Cooler mornings, golden evenings, and that irresistible urge to simplify. 

To get ready for the season, I’ve curated a coastal capsule wardrobe that feels polished, yet effortless, practical yet elevate. Think: light layers, ocean-kissed hues, and natural textures that transition beautifully from beach walks to back-to-school routines. 

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My Style Anchors

  1. Soft Linen Button-Downs – Breezy enough for warm afternoons, but perfect for layering when the breeze picks up. I love them slightly oversized and half-tucked into jeans or over a knit tank. 
  2. Loose Knits – A striped pullover or open-weave sweater is ideal for mornings on the porch or evening walks by the water. Neutral tones like oat, driftwood, and fog blue fit seamlessly into the palette. 
  3. High-Rise Denim & White Jeans – A straight-leg, cropped fit is my go-to. I basically live in these from Anthropologie however, I recently found a very close look from Amazon for far less! We’re talking around $40 compared to $130!
  4. Midi Dress – Flattering, easy to wear, and they layer beautifully under a jean jacket or chunky cardigan when the weather gets colder. 
  5. Simple Gold Jewelry & Woven Accessories – Keep it minimal: gold hoops, a dainty necklace.
  6. Neutral Footwear – I rotate between leather sandals, white sneakers, and suede mules – effortless styles that work across seasons.

Color Palette 

This capsule is rooted in soft, sea-inspired shades: 

  • Salt white
  • Sea glass green 
  • Navy ink
  • Sandsone beige
  • Sunset terracotta
  • Foggy blue-gray
  • Black (I know, not really a sea-inspired color, but still a classic)

They mix and match easily, creating a cohesive wardrobe that makes getting dressed (and packing for getaways) nearly foolproof. 

Why a Capsule Wardrobe Works for Me

As a working mom, a simplified wardrobe gives me time back in the morning and helps me feel more put together, even when I’m juggling work calls, school schedules, and sports practices. Everything I reach for fits, flatters, and aligns with my lifestyle and aesthetic. 

I have also found that by investing in fewer, higher quality items, I feel more connected to my style and less overwhelmed by clutter. 

Shop my Coastal Capsule

I’ve linked some of my favorite pieces below. I reach for these items time and time again. Many are mom-friendly, some are office-appropriate, and most are ideal for layering. 

As the seasons change, so does my wardrobe, but slowly, thoughtfully, and with a focus on feeling like me. Whether you’re coastal by location or just at heart, I hope this inspires you to build a wardrobe that feels both grounded and effortless you.

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