Summer Outfit Ideas for 2022

It’s already summertime and that means the temperature is rising! So how can you keep your style cool and trendy this season? Check out these easy summer outfit ideas for 2022. In this post, we’ll show you some stylish and affordable outfits inspired by our new Outfit Formulas® Summer 2022 Capsule Wardrobe!

summer outfit idea #1 - denim jacket, floral top, and linen pants with espadrilles

Denim Jacket + Floral Blouse + Linen Bottoms + Espadrilles

Dress It Up: This look is pretty dressy already, just swap out the denim jacket for a light blue blazer for instant polish!

Dress It Down: For a more casual vibe, try this look with a graphic or printed tee paired with neutral shorts or joggers and flat sandals.

summer outfit idea #2 - maxi dress, sandals and a hat

Maxi Dress + Sandals + Hat

Dress It Up: Level up this look by adding a wide neutral belt, and finishing off with metallic heels. Skip the hat.

Dress It Down: For a more laid-back feel, skip the dress and instead opt for a solid tee and denim shorts.

summer outfit idea #3 - white tee, denim shorts, bright sandals, and a hat

White Tee + Denim Shorts + Bright Sandals + Hat

Dress It Up:  Opt for a white or light color blouse and pair with a light blue skirt or pair of slacks. Finish off the look with bright colored heels or wedges.

Dress It Down: This look is already pretty casual, but add some white sneakers to really be comfy!

summer outfit idea #4 - bright tee, white shorts, denim jacket, and white sneakers

Bright Tee + White Shorts + Denim Jacket + White Sneakers

Dress It Up: Try this outfit with a bright solid color blouse, paired with white slacks or a skirt and a light blue blazer. Finish off the look with white or nude heels.

Dress It Down: Skip some of the accessories if you like a low-key look.

summer outfit idea #5 - gingham dress and bright sandals

Gingham Dress + Bright Sandals

Dress It Up: Add a blazer or boxy cardigan and colored heels for a pop of color.

Dress It Down: Try this look with a printed tank and denim shorts, or simply add white sneakers.

If you love these looks, then we know you’ll love the Outfit Formulas® Summer 2022 Capsule Wardrobe! This guide is your key to effortlessly chic summer style, and includes 30+ days of easy, casual outfit ideas that can be dressed up or down to fit any occasion. You’ll also get a shopping list of essential items and on-trend pieces that are perfect for summer. So whether you’re hitting the beach, going out with friends, or just want to feel confident in your everyday style, this guide has you covered!

Are Outfit Formulas really for everyone?

We get asked this question a lot- and we love answering it! Outfit Formulas® can help anyone stuck in a style rut or in need of a style update. Our 100,000+ members include women of every age and stage of life. 

First, let’s break down who we think are a good fit for Outfit Formulas®: 

  • WOMEN WHO WORK FROM HOME: where it’s easy to get caught up in work and let style fall by the wayside.
  • STAY-AT-HOME MOMS: who often dress more for utility than style because they have to.
  • MID-LIFERS: who aren’t sure what’s in but want to look stylish and age-appropriate.
  • YOUNG WOMEN: who want to update their wardrobe as they begin a new career.
  • BUSY PROFESSIONALS: who don’t have time for a fight with their closet each morning.
  • EMPTY NESTERS: who finally have time again to focus on themselves and want a fresh look.

Did you notice we haven’t mentioned size yet?! That’s because Outfit Formulas® is just that- a formula in which you can follow by using clothes that you love and that fit YOU, from ANY store. So, if you’re a size 2 or a size 20, you’re going to love our capsule wardrobes! 

The ability to choose where you shop also makes Outfit Formulas® great for any range of budgets, since you can find similar pieces at Walmart that you could also find at Nordstrom! Many of our members even shop at thrift stores and online stores like ThredUp and Poshmark.

The adaptability of the Outfit Formulas® is what makes them such a great investment. Can’t wear jeans to work? Swap them out for your favorite dress pants. Is it hot where you live? Swap those jeans for shorts, and tee for a tank. Need to dress something up for a date night? Swap those flats for heels! Not a fan of pink? Find a color top that YOU love instead. No matter where you are or what you do, there’s an Outfit Formula® perfect for your lifestyle!

Over the years, we’ve found only two types of women that Outfit Formulas aren’t a good fit for: 

  • Fashionistas or anyone looking for runway style.  We cater to everyday women who are rebuilding their wardrobes, not someone looking for fast fashion.
  • Anyone not willing to get out of your comfort zone. 

If you’re still ont he fence if Outfit Formulas® are right for you, check out our reviews to hear how our style guides have impacted the lives of other women in our community.

About Outfit Formulas®

Much like combining the ingredients from a recipe to create a meal, an Outfit Formula is a combination of pieces to create a complete look. It’s like meal planning for your closet! The beauty of an Outfit Formula® is that you can make it your own by shopping your closet and filling in any gaps by looking for similar pieces at your favorite stores. The Outfit Formulas® Style Guides help you choose the right clothing from your favorite stores with our easy shopping lists, and pair them effortlessly with our daily outfit ideas. You can learn more about how it works and the benefits of building your own capsule wardrobe here.

How to Mix Patterns for Spring

Looking stylish and staying on-trend can sometimes seem like a daunting task, especially if you’re not sure how to mix patterns. But with just a few simple tips, you can easily create amazing outfits that are sure to turn heads.

Let’s mix patterns for spring- keep these three rules in mind!

mixing patterns option 1 - multi-colored strip cardigan, white jeans, tote bag and yellow and white striped slip ons

Match at least one color

The first rule of mixing patterns is to stick with one color. This means choosing two patterns that have one color in common. For example, you could pair a rainbow-striped cardigan with a bright yellow striped shoe.

mixing patterns option 2 - floral blouse, striped pants, brown satchel bag, and brown mules

Vary Your Pattern Size

The second rule is to vary the size of your patterns. Pairing large prints with smaller ones helps create visual interest without looking too busy or overwhelming. For instance, you might choose to wear a large floral print top with pinstripe patterned pants.

mixing patterns option 3 - denim jacket, striped tee and floral skirt with white sneakers and small handbag

Pair a simple and complex pattern

The third rule is to pair a simple pattern with a complex one. This is a great way to add a pop of interest to your outfit without going overboard. For example, you could wear a ditsy floral skirt with a striped top.

Here are three other examples of mixing patterns:

multiple outfit options mixing various patterns

We get asked how to mix patterns a lot in our member community, and we know that trying this trend can be daunting. Following these three rules helps you be confident in trying two different patterns without going over board.

About Outfit Formulas®

Much like combining the ingredients from a recipe to create a meal, an Outfit Formula is a combination of pieces to create a complete look. It’s like meal planning for your closet! The beauty of an Outfit Formula® is that you can make it your own by shopping your closet and filling in any gaps by looking for similar pieces at your favorite stores. If you’re looking to build a closet you love with less, The Closet Staples Casual Capsule Wardrobe is perfect for you! It includes coordinating tops, bottoms, shoes, and accessories every woman needs in their closet for Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter looks. It’s the ultimate style guide!

5 Ways to Wear a Cardigan for Spring

When it comes to spring and summer, a cardigan is one of the most versatile pieces in your wardrobe. With just a few simple styling tricks, you can easily wear a cardigan that looks stylish and on-trend.

Here are 5 ways you can pair this closet staple with different pieces to create a variety of outfits for any occasion.

cardigan outfit 1 - cardigan + stripped tee + black jeans with boots

Stripped Tee

The cardigan is the perfect piece to add some polish to an otherwise casual outfit. Pair your cardigan with a striped tee and black jeans for a cool, laid-back look that’s perfect for running errands or heading out on the town with friends.

cardigan outfit 2 - cardigan + grey tee + denim overalls with animal print slip ons

Denim Overalls

Denim overalls are the trend you never knew you needed this spring! Pair them with a cardigan and a cute pair of leopard sneakers and you’ll look put together without sacrificing comfort.

cardigan outfit 3 - cardigan + graphic tee + faux leather leggings + sneakers

Leather Leggings

For a more edgy look, try pairing your cardigan with leather leggings. When you add a graphic tee and white sneakers, you’re really rocking it!

cardigan outfit 4 - cardigan + tiered dress + sandals

Tiered Dress

Looking for something on the dressier side? A tiered dress is a chic and sophisticated choice that’s perfect for any spring occasion. Simply add your cardigan over the top to create an elegant ensemble.

cardigan outfit 5 - cardigan + floral print blouse + straight leg jeans + booties

Floral Blouse

Add a touch of whimsy to your cardigan with a pretty floral blouse and favorite denim. This is a great option for an afternoon lunch or brunch with family and friends.

We really can’t tell you how much we love a quality cardigan. Layering up really helps you go from cooler mornings to warmer afternoons in the spring, not to mention they are super cute! With just a few key styling tricks, you can create endless looks that are perfect for any occasion. So get out there and start cardigan weather in style!
Want more trendy spring outfit ideas? Easily create stylish outfits that fit your body and budget this spring with the Outfit Formulas® Spring 2022 Capsule Wardrobe guide- including 30+ days of casual outfit ideas with “dress it up” and “dress it down” tips so that these looks work for every lifestyle! You also get an easy-to-follow shopping list of budget-friendly classic essentials and on-trend items, including accessories! From brunch with friends to running errands around town, the Outfit Formulas® Spring 2022 Capsule Wardrobe has got you covered! This go-to edit of easy outfits will have you feeling confident all season long.

Style Trends for 2022

This just in… we’ve completed our forecast of style trends for 2022! In typical Outfit Formulas fashion, we have highlighted pieces from our 2021 seasonal capsule wardrobe style guides that we anticipate will continue to be a top trending item in your closet in 2022. That means less clothes you need to buy this year which you know we love!

Spring 2022 – Cardigans + Overalls

spring 2022 style trend - cardigan with overalls and tee

A colorful button front cardigan is a must have this season. You’ll still see longer style cardigans around but a cropped or boxy fit is currently trending to help show off your jeans with a high waisted fit.

Overalls may be a bit of a throwback to your younger days but many of the latest styles are updated with distressed details for a more modern look. Don’t even get us started on how comfortable they are to wear – pants that don’t feel like you’re wearing pants? Yes please! 

Summer 2022 – Eyelet + White Sneakers

summer 2022 style trend - eyelet blouse with white sneakers and denim shorts

We get asked all the time how to add interest to summer outfits without adding heat – it’s all in the details! Eyelet fabric is the perfect subtle detail to add a little something extra to your look without making you sweat.

We may be cheating on this one a little bit, will you forgive us? Arguably white sneakers are a timeless classic but they made the cut on this trend forecast because they are having such a style moment! Whether you prefer a slip-on, a low cut profile, or a high-top you’ll be right on trend with a pair of these classic and trendy kicks.

Fall 2022 – Blazer + Leopard Mules

fall 2022 style trend - blazer with leopard mules + striped tee and jeans

Who doesn’t love a blazer moment? From closing deals at the office to a date night out it’s gotta be the most versatile topper in your wardrobe. We love a ruched sleeve in a classic black or navy color.

In case you’re new around here let us fill you in, leopard print is a neutral! If you feel like your OOTD needs a little something extra try adding a pop of leopard. Mules with metal and chain accent details are en vogue so keep an eye out for that added touch of glam to take your look to the next level!

Winter 2022 – Straight Jeans + Shacket

winter 2022 style trend - straight jeans with the shacket + long sleeve tee and booties

The renaissance of the straight leg jean is here! Real talk, it’s a classic cut that has been on the back burner for a while now so we’re glad to see it taking front and center stage the last few seasons. (In case you missed it we already covered the controversial question – Are Skinny Jeans Out of Style?)

A touch of menswear inspiration coupled with an oversized fit makes the shacket a year round go-to choice for the perfect layering piece. They are typically middle of the road in weight being thicker than a traditional flannel shirt but lighter than a standard jacket. Let’s just call it the Goldilocks of outerwear – not too warm, not too cold, it’s truly just right!

About Outfit Formulas®

Much like combining the ingredients from a recipe to create a meal, an Outfit Formula is a combination of pieces to create a complete look. It’s like meal planning for your closet! The beauty of an Outfit Formula® is that you can make it your own by shopping your closet and filling in any gaps by looking for similar pieces at your favorite stores. The Outfit Formulas® Style Guides help you choose the right clothing from your favorite stores with our easy shopping lists, and pair them effortlessly with our daily outfit ideas. You can learn more about how it works and the benefits of building your own capsule wardrobe here.

Postpartum Looks for Spring

We know how frustrating it can be trying to figure out your style postpartum, so we’ve put together 5 different looks using postpartum wardrobe-essentials. As your body changes, these pieces will be able to change with you!

No matter where you are in your postpartum journey, it’s always a good idea to have some essentials on hand. Between nursing and adjusting to a new body, having pieces that make you feel comfortable, confident, and stylish is key to embracing your new silhouette!

Here are our top 5 looks for spring that incorporate these essentials are: 

sprint postpartum look 1 - black tiered dress + structured jacket with brown bag and mule flats

Tiered Dress + Structured Jacket:

Tiered dresses are a great one-and-done clothing option for postpartum that help you feel put together, comfortable, and covered up. If you’re nursing, look for dresses with easy access!

spring postpartum look 2 - black nursing cami, beige cardigan, boyfriend jeans with a black bag and animal print slip on sneakers

Nursing Cami + Boyfriend Jeans: 

A nursing cami is a must! You can wear them by themselves, under an open cardigan, or underneath your sweaters or tops.  This look is super comfortable and will have you feeling chic in no time. 

spring postpartum look 3 - button down shirt, long cardigan, cozy joggers with a black bag and white sneakers

Button-Down Shirt + Cozy Joggers: 

Button-down shirts are great because they allow easy access for breastfeeding and pumping, not to mention joggers are perfect for resting and snuggling with your new baby!

spring postpartum look 4 - button down dress, structured denim jacket with a brown bag and animal print mule flats

Button-Down Dress + Structured Jacket: 

Button-down dresses perform the same as button-down shirts and are great for concealing any extra weight you may be carrying- not that we think you should be hiding it! 

High-Rise Leggings + Henley Shirt: 

We love high-rise leggings because they hold everything in and give you additional abdominal support. They also look great with flow tops, tunics, and sweatshirts (which are postpartum essentials).

Whether you’re days, weeks, or even months postpartum, these 5 looks for spring will have you feeling great and looking stylish! From tiered dresses to button-downs, there are plenty of options that are comfortable and easy to wear while breastfeeding or pumping. It’s important to remember that your clothes should serve YOU, and you shouldn’t worry about making your body fit into clothes that don’t serve your life anymore. Embrace your new body, and enjoy it! 
If you’re looking to build a closet you love with less, The Closet Staples Casual Capsule Wardrobe is perfect for you! It includes coordinating tops, bottoms, shoes, and accessories every woman needs in their closet for Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter looks. It’s the ultimate style guide- and can easily be adapted for your pregnancy and postpartum journey!

Athleisure Looks for Spring

The rise of athleisure style over the past few years is no big surprise. An outfit that checks all the boxes regardless of what’s on your agenda is always a winner in our books – from a casual work day, to the gym, or coffee with a friend this style has you covered! Check out these 4 go-to casual athleisure looks for spring.

Look 1 – Athletic Jumpsuit

spring athleisure look 1 - jumpsuit with flannel shirt and sneakers

Jazz up a plain jumpsuit with a flannel and some fun sneakers! You can style your flannel open or tie at the waist for added interest.

Look 2 – Classic Joggers

spring athleisure look 2 - classic joggers with a strip tee, denim jacket, and white sneakers

These are no longer your Dad’s sweats, this classic fit with cinched ankles is right on trend. Try adding a denim jacket and striped tee to your favorite pair of joggers – they are timeless classic closet staple pieces!

Look 3 – Sweat Set

spring athleisure look 3- sage green sweat suit set and white sneakers

Who knew looking good could be so comfy with a matching sweat set?! Choose a color that suits your mood – from muted neutrals to bright bold hues there’s truly something for everyone!

Look 4 – Colored Leggings

spring athleisure look 4 - colored leggings with oversized long sleeve tee, black hat, and sneakers

You can wear your leggings – and look cute in them too! Many leggings now have pockets so you’ve got the perfect spot for your phone and chapstick while you’re on the go and getting stuff done!

About Outfit Formulas®

Much like combining the ingredients from a recipe to create a meal, an Outfit Formula is a combination of pieces to create a complete look. It’s like meal planning for your closet! The beauty of an Outfit Formula® is that you can make it your own by shopping your closet and filling in any gaps by looking for similar pieces at your favorite stores. The Outfit Formulas® Style Guides help you choose the right clothing from your favorite stores with our easy shopping lists, and pair them effortlessly with our daily outfit ideas. You can learn more about how it works and the benefits of building your own capsule wardrobe here.

Are Skinny Jeans Out of Style?

Long story short, no. Skinny jeans are not out of style. But let’s dig a little deeper.

It’s important to understand the difference between out of style vs. not on trend.

Skinny jeans held the top spot as the trendy silhouette option for nearly a decade. That kind of longevity has earned the style some serious staying power and has pushed skinny jeans into a timeless classic category. This means you can still wear them with confidence if that’s what floats your boat. Think of them like you would bootcut jeans, it’s a classic cut denim.

Having said that, it’s safe to say that skinny jeans are not what is currently trending. While most stores are still stocking skinny jeans the current silhouette trends being showcased at retailers are wide leg, flares, relaxed, and slim fit.


The good news is that there are plenty of options to choose from no matter what style you prefer. Denim is truly having an ‘anything goes’ moment so choose the cut and style that you feel most confident in — you can’t go wrong!
The Outfit Formulas® Style Guides help you choose the right clothing from your favorite stores with our easy shopping lists, and pair them effortlessly with our daily outfit ideas. You can learn more about how it works and the benefits of building your own capsule wardrobe here.

Color Cardigan + White Top + Medium Wash Jeans + Neutral Loafers

This Outfit Formula® has been a recent favorite from the Spring 2022 Capsule Wardrobe. A classic with a trendy twist- you can even dress it down by swapping the loafers for leopard slip-on sneakers and skip the belt for a more casual vibe.

Color Cardigan: 

A pink rib-knit cardigan sweater or any solid color cardigan or jacket. This one is a bit oversized with tortoise buttons for a relaxed look. 

White Top: 

A white V-neck short-sleeved tee shirt will work. You can choose your favorite long-sleeve tee or tank top, too! Dress it up with a button-down if you’re feeling fancy. 

Medium Wash Jeans:

Medium wash boyfriend jeans, distressed or not, work for this outfit. High-waisted and straight cut jeans are very on trend. You can also choose any skinny, flare, or wide-leg jeans in a medium wash, too!

Neutral Loafers: 

Light tan loafers with tassel detail or any neutral flats, shoes, or ankle boots are perfect to complete this Outfit Formula. 

About Outfit Formulas®

Much like combining the ingredients from a recipe to create a meal, an Outfit Formula is a combination of pieces to create a complete look. It’s like meal planning for your closet! The beauty of an Outfit Formula® is that you can make it your own by shopping your closet and filling in any gaps by looking for similar pieces at your favorite stores. 

The Outfit Formulas® Style Guides help you choose the right clothing from your favorite stores with our easy shopping lists, and pair them effortlessly with our daily outfit ideas. You can learn more about how it works and the benefits of building your own capsule wardrobe here

How to Clean Out Your Closet

Are you tired of feeling like your closet is a cluttered mess? Do you want to make more space and get rid of clothes you no longer wear? If so, then you’re in the right place. We’ve compiled three easy steps on how to clean out your closet.

Starting the season out with a prepped closet is one of the best gifts you can give to yourself. You have to know what you have to determine what you need. Our recommendation is to go through these steps once a season. After you complete it the first time, each time thereafter should get easier. This guarantees that you curate a closet full of only the pieces you wear and love.

The process may seem daunting, but we promise it’s not as difficult as it seems! Follow these three simple steps: 

Step 1: Prepare to Sort

Find three medium to large boxes and label them CASH, STASH and TRASH. If you don’t have boxes on hand, trash bags will do. In each box, you will categorize the following:

  • CASH: These are items that can be sold or donated. They are in good condition, but you haven’t worn them in a year or more and will probably never wear them again.
  • TRASH: Anything stained, worn out or damaged beyond repair.
  • STASH: This is clothing purgatory. Put anything in here that you haven’t worn in two seasons but don’t want to part with. This will go into storage, at least for now. Let’s call this the “maybe” box.

Step 2: Pull & Assign

Pull every item out of your closet one by one, including shoes, handbags and scarves or other accessories. Find a category for each item and place it in its respective box. All items that you decide to keep can be put in a pile on your bed for now.

But how do I know what to keep???

  • Have I worn it in the past year?
  • Is it a classic piece that will stay in style?
  • Is it still in good condition?
  • Can I pair it up in more than one way?

If you answered “no” to one or more of the questions above, it’s probably not a keeper. But you can always put it in the STASH box and store it for now. If you’re still thinking about it within the next six months, pull it out of the box and use it. If not, tape up the box and donate it.

Step 3: Organize the Keepers

Once you’re done categorizing what you have, it’s time to organize what’s left in your KEEP pile. Most people have a preferred method of organizing their clothing. You can organize your pieces in groups of like items, by season, or by color. It really doesn’t matter as long as it makes sense to you and you know where to find everything.

If you don’t have velvet covered hangers yet, run, don’t walk to replace and upgrade your hangers TODAY! The velvet keeps pieces in place so they won’t slip off and they usually have a slimmer profile than wooden hangers, which gives you more space on the rail. You can thank us later!

Once you’ve completed the above steps, you’ll be in a GREAT position to rebuild your wardrobe. Pay attention to items that you need to replace or upgrade and also any gaps in your wardrobe. These are the items you will want to have on your shopping list.

If you’re looking to build a closet you love with less, The Closet Staples Casual Capsule Wardrobe is perfect for you! It includes coordinating tops, bottoms, shoes, and accessories every woman needs in their closet for Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter looks. It’s the ultimate style guide!