How to Build a Capsule Swimsuit Collection: Versatile and Timeless Pieces

The idea of a capsule collection revolves around having cohesive pieces that you can mix and match, allowing you to create endless outfits while limiting the number of garments in your closet. Capsule wardrobes make it easy to curate put-together outfits that represent your personal style while adopting a minimalist and sustainable mindset for your clothes.

As the summer approaches, consider applying the capsule method to your beachwear. Just a few staple pieces of swimwear and swim accessories can give you tons of cute combinations for lounging poolside, relaxing at the beach, or going for a swim. The best part of a capsule wardrobe is that you can personalize it to your lifestyle and tastes, but there are a few classic, versatile pieces that fit with any collection. Here are some of our favorites:

Two Pieces

Because capsule wardrobes are all about mixing and matching, a two-piece swimsuit or two can be a great anchor for your collection. If you like having variety in your swimwear looks, start with a couple of two-piece sets that complement one another. Grabbing a swimsuit in a bikini style and a tankini with a skirt can give you up to four styles–you can wear each set on its own, or match the bottoms from one set to the top from another.

When choosing the two pieces for your capsule, try grabbing one in a neutral color and the other in an accompanying pattern. A black swimsuit is perfect for swapping with almost any other color or pattern, making them the perfect option for starting your capsule. Remember that the goal is to create an entire cohesive wardrobe, so pick fabrics that truly represent your personal taste and style.

One Pieces

A one piece swimsuit is a practical, timeless piece for any capsule wardrobe. If you typically wear one pieces on their own, you can get creative with the style and pattern. As long as your swim accessories match both your two pieces and your one piece, they can create a unified collection. Try using standout details from your one piece to unite the collection, like similar necklines or straps.

If you plan on layering a swim skirt or swimsuit shorts from your two piece sets over your one piece, think about how all the prints look together. You might focus on tans, whites, and light blues when building a beachy capsule collection, or choose rich jewel tones and bold aquatic patterns for a more tropical vibe.

Cover Ups

Cover ups add a modest touch to any swimsuit or beachwear. Because they’re designed to be layered with swimwear, shorts, or tank tops, cover ups are one of the most practical and versatile garments for your summer wardrobe. When picking out a cover up for your capsule collection, think about the overall theme or aesthetic you want to highlight.

You can choose a neutral cover-up to let your swimwear shine or pick a statement piece that stands out. Flowing tunics, beachy wrap dresses, and trendy maxi dresses can add a whole new energy to your poolside outfits. Comfy jersey dresses can fit into almost any capsule theme, while oversized button-up styles are perfect for a coastal boho collection.

Rash Guards

To level up your swimwear from stylish to high-performance, add a rash guard to your wardrobe. By pairing a swim shirt with your everyday swimsuit, you can enjoy extra protection from the sun’s rays, harsh waves, and even chafing. Because you wear a rash guard over your swimsuit, pick something that pairs well with the swim bottoms or one pieces in your capsule.

Pick a rash guard that elevates your other swim garments to meet the level of protection you need. Try on a comfy t-shirt style to make your favorite suit a bit more modest or simply keep your shoulders in the shade. A long sleeve, hooded zip-up rash guard can keep your face and neck covered while you transition from the beach to your daily errands.

Water Shoes

Don’t forget the footwear–finish your capsule with a pair of water shoes to prepare you for all kinds of summer adventures. Water shoes come in all sorts of materials and designs, so you can slip into convenient sandals or find a sporty closed-toe shoe for maximum protection. Water shoes can enhance your swimwear from a basic swimsuit to a fully coordinated outfit. Other matching swim accessories like goggles, swim caps, or even a coordinating towel add extra function and style.