How to Build a Simple Summer Wardrobe That Works Anywhere
Image source: Dekota Swim
I swear — I packed for three days in Byron and ended up wearing the same outfit on repeat. A linen shirt, my Brooklyn Bikini – Peach, and denim shorts. That’s when it hit me: you don’t need an overflowing suitcase to slay summer. You just need a few timeless, mix-and-match pieces that do it all.
And trust me, that minimalist magic isn’t about being boring — it’s about style that travels.
Because let’s be real — we’ve all had that “why did I bring all this?” moment while staring at a suitcase full of chaos. But imagine this instead: a simple, sun-kissed capsule wardrobe where everything works together. Effortless. Elevated. Totally you.
Clean lines, neutral tones, and durable fabrics are key. This philosophy has guided brands like Dekota Swim in creating versatile staples that look just as good by the pool as they do at brunch.
The Problem: Too Many Clothes, Not Enough Vibe
We’ve all been there — scrolling TikTok at midnight, adding every “must-have” summer trend to cart. Crochet sets, metallic bikinis, low-rise chaos… and then suddenly you’ve got a wardrobe that screams everything and nothing at once.
The truth? Most summer wardrobes fail because they chase trends, not versatility. You end up with too many loud prints and zero foundation pieces.
The Fix: A Simple, Everywhere Capsule
Here’s where we glow up.
Building a simple summer wardrobe isn’t about rules — it’s about freedom. You want a handful of high-quality pieces that can handle beach days, road trips, rooftop drinks, and lazy Sunday markets.
Start with these five essentials that never miss:
- The Statement Bikini (Because She’s the Moment)
Your bikini isn’t just swimwear — it’s your base layer for everything summer.
Think of the Maya Bikini – Fruit Salad or the Penelope Bikini – Black as your ultimate capsule pieces. Pair them with shorts for an easy coastal fit, or layer a linen shirt on top for resort vibes.
If you’ve seen @ella.in.bali’s reel wearing her Lyra Bikini – Pink, you know why this set is the moment.
- Neutral Cover-Ups That Double as Outfits
Nothing says effortless chic like a flowy cover-up that can take you from beach to bar.
Opt for white linen, taupe cotton, or soft neutrals that complement every bikini tone. I love throwing mine over the Brooklyn Bikini – Citron for brunch. Bonus: they dry fast, pack light, and look good everywhere.
Pro tip: Keep the shape relaxed and the fabric breathable — we’re going for that breezy Bondi-to-Bali vibe.
- One Iconic Dress (Your Sunset Piece)
This is your “wow, she’s glowing” moment. Think soft fabric, slip silhouette, maybe a backless cut.
A summer capsule wardrobe only needs one standout dress — something you can throw over your bikini, dress up with gold hoops, or wear barefoot by the water.
Because when you’re glowing from salt, sun, and self-confidence, you don’t need the extra noise.
- The Reliable Bottom Half
Denim shorts, linen pants, or even a wrap skirt — these are your ride-or-die bottoms. Keep them neutral, comfy, and easy to style with any bikini top.
Personally, I live in my high-waisted shorts and a Calliope Bikini – Green top. She’s casual, coastal, and totally wearable.
Mix and match textures — cotton, linen, denim — so your outfit never looks flat.
- Accessories That Do Something
Forget fast-fashion add-ons. Invest in a few quality accessories that pull your outfit together:
- A straw tote big enough for sunscreen and snacks
- Gold jewellery that elevates even your swimwear
- A wide-brim hat for that model-off-duty moment
- Slides that look chic but still beach-ready
These little upgrades make even the simplest bikini feel editorial.
Longevity Over Loudness
Let’s get real for a sec. You don’t need “sustainable” stamped on a tag to shop with intention — you just need pieces that last.
At Dekota Swim, the focus isn’t on fleeting trends but on quality, durability, and timeless design. That means fewer replacements, longer life, and less waste.
They’re building slow fashion swimwear with smaller production runs and plastic-free packaging — because real sustainability is about wearing what lasts, not chasing what’s trending.
Simple Doesn’t Mean Boring
Minimalism isn’t about beige everything (though beige does slay). It’s about clarity.
A capsule wardrobe gives you the freedom to move, travel, and live without overthinking.
Imagine: sunrise swims in your Maya Bikini – Aztec, coffee in that same bikini under a linen shirt, and sunset cocktails with slicked hair and lip gloss. Same pieces. Different energy.
That’s how you create a wardrobe that works anywhere.
Quick Styling Formulas
When in doubt, try one of these no-fail combos:
💧 Coastal Cool: Brooklyn Bikini – Fleurs + denim shorts + open linen shirt
🌅 Evening Ease: Penelope Bikini – Nude + silk skirt + gold hoops
☕ Market Mornings: Lyra Bikini – Purple + oversized shirt dress + slides
🌴 Holiday Chic: Calliope Bikini – Black + high-waisted trousers + raffia hat
Effortless, mixable, and forever on vibe.
Why a Simple Wardrobe = More Confidence
Less clutter = more clarity.
When you know every piece in your wardrobe fits, flatters, and feels good, getting dressed becomes a power move. It’s not “what should I wear?” — it’s “who do I want to be today?”
And trust me, the girl who knows her style doesn’t chase every drop. She curates. She edits. She re-wears with pride.
If you’re still buying swimwear online and feeling overwhelmed, start with your foundations. Choose timeless shapes, soft neutrals, and high-quality fabrics that hold up through every season.
Final Vibe Check
So, babes — here’s the tea: a simple summer wardrobe isn’t about owning less, it’s about owning better.
The right summer bikini, a few neutral layers, and a dose of confidence will take you anywhere — beach, brunch, or a cheeky weekend away.
Tag me @dekotaswim.official when you pull this look — I’ll probably repost it, no cap.
Because effortless style never goes out of season — especially when it starts with Dekota Swim.Written by Zara Dekota
