It’s time to “have fun with new prints, colors, and fabrics,” says the designer.
No one does minimalism like Jenni Kayne. The beloved clothing and lifestyle line, founded by the designer of the same name, has developed a cult following over the years, and for good reason: When you buy these clothes, you buy them for life. They’re made with comfort and versatility at the forefront and the pieces are designed to work seamlessly with each other, making it oh-so-easy for anyone to pull together a classic, California-cool aesthetic.
As we approach the most social season of the year, we turned to Kayne herself for guidance on creating a capsule wardrobe — a small, well-curated collection of high-quality pieces — that can take us through the warmest months of the year without adding unnecessary bulk to our closets.
Jenni Kayne’s Summer Capsule Wardrobe Guide
While the ideal capsule wardrobe can span multiple seasons, Kayne says there’s space for seasonality in your calculations, too. “A good exercise is to look at your current wardrobe and identify any missing pieces,” she says. “Maybe it’s time to update your dress rotation, or perhaps you need a new lightweight sweater that’ll work for dinners out and vacations you have planned.”
Lightweight fabrics and relaxed silhouettes, Kayne says, are key pieces for a summer repertoire. “Linen and cotton are must-haves for the heat and humidity — I practically live in our linen-blend dresses and cotton sweaters during the warmer months,” she says. “Not only are those fabrics easy to style, but they’re also easy to pack, which makes them perfect picks for summer travel.”
When it comes to styling, Kayne has a few key tips: Embrace relaxed silhouettes, work in texture, and layer up. “A simple sundress can be elevated by adding a sweater on top or accessorizing with a raffia bag,” she says, “just as a pair of trousers can feel instantly at ease in any setting, with a tailored tank and pair of classic sandals.”
Overall, she says, it’s about being intentional while embracing the joys of the season. “Have fun with new prints, colors, and fabrics, but don’t forget to view everything as a piece you’ll have in your closet for years to come,” Kayne says. Below are some of Kayne’s top picks for the warm-weather season.
Jenni Kayne’s Summer Capsule Wardrobe Checklist
Sweater Tank
Jenni Kayne
“I’m in love with the fit of this sweater tank. It’s lightweight, relaxed, and the textural component makes it fun to style.”
Boyfriend Shirt
Jenni Kayne
“Every wardrobe needs a classic button-up, regardless of the season. Our Boyfriend Shirt is perfect down to every detail, and is the dream piece for anything from office days and date nights to an afternoon at the beach. It’s truly so versatile.”
Blair Dress (left) & Callan Dress (right)
Jenni Kayne
“We just launched both of these dresses and I couldn’t be more excited: I think they’re equally feminine and enduring and have endless styling power. From polished occasions to casual moments throughout the summer months, I love these two dresses alone or with lightweight sweaters, depending on the look you’re going for.”
Seersucker Summer Dress
Jenni Kayne
“I find myself reaching for this dress nearly every day during the summer. It’s so incredibly flattering and makes getting dressed feel like a total breeze. Adding this to your warm-weather wardrobe is an immediate yes.”
Chloe Crewneck
Jenni Kayne
“This is the dreamiest lightweight sweater. I love the simple stripe and slight crop — and it’s such a classic knit for summer styling.”
Cotton Cocoon Cardigan
Jenni Kayne
“You can’t go wrong with a Cocoon in your wardrobe, and a Cotton Cocoon is a must during the summer. I love traveling with this sweater, bringing it to the beach for sunset, and pairing it with jeans and dresses for a casual but pulled-together look.”
Relaxed Trouser
Jenni Kayne
“Our relaxed trouser is yet another piece I think every wardrobe needs. While dresses are always a go-to in the summer, I think having a pair of lightweight pants is essential for easy styling.”
Crochet Raffia Sun Hat
Jenni Kayne
“I truly couldn’t live without this hat. It’s the perfect summer accessory and I bring it everywhere! It’s super packable and provides the best amount of coverage.”
