This Festive Red, White, and Blue Donut Recipe Will Get You in the Fourth of July Spirit

As a child of immigrant parents, I grew up fascinated by classic Americana motifs. My family may not have celebrated Fourth of July if it weren’t for my annual neighborhood block party, but I love our national holiday for the opportunity to dress up in red, white and blue, munch on flag-bearing cakes, and watch all the fireworks. Don’t get me wrong; I love my Taiwanese heritage, but I embrace the fact that I’m an American as well. This Fourth of July, I want to incorporate some festive patriotism in one of my favorite treats: donuts! Read on to learn how to make this grand ol’ dessert.

Ingredients:

Makes 10 donuts

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ⅔ cup whole wheat flour
  • 1 cup raw cane sugar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 eggs
  • ¼ cup melted butter
  • ¼ cup vegetable oil

Instructions:

Baking the donuts

1. Combine butter, oil, and sugar together in a medium bowl. Add eggs and vanilla and whisk to combine.

2. In another bowl, stir together flours, baking powder, salt, baking soda, and nutmeg. Stir half the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, then stir in buttermilk. Add the rest of the flour mixture and mix. The batter will be thick.

3. Spoon batter into a greased donut pan. Bake for 7-9 minutes at 425 degrees Fahrenheit.

Frosting your donuts

1. Melt a tub of vanilla frosting in the microwave to make a glaze. Divide the glaze in three bowls. Add drops of blue food coloring in one bowl and red food coloring in another bowl. Mix to dye glaze.

2. In a shallow dish, spoon glaze in red, white, and blue stripes.

3. Dip donuts in glaze and set on parchment paper for glaze to set.

Combine butter, oil, and sugar together in a medium bowl. Add eggs and vanilla and whisk to combine.

In another bowl, stir together flours, baking powder, salt, baking soda, and nutmeg.

Stir half the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, then stir in buttermilk. Add the rest of the flour mixture and mix. The batter will be thick.

Spoon batter into a greased donut pan. Bake for 7-9 minutes at 425 degrees Fahrenheit.

While your donuts are cooling, make the glaze. Melt a tub of vanilla frosting in the microwave. Divide the glaze in three bowls. Add drops of blue food coloring in one bowl and red food coloring in another bowl. Mix to dye glaze.

In a shallow dish, spoon glaze in red, white, and blue stripes. Dip donuts in glaze and set on parchment paper for glaze to set.

Time to paint the town red, white, and blue!

As Uncle Sam would say, “I want YOU!”

How will you celebrate the Fourth of July? Share your photos on Instagram using #britstagram, and follow us on Pinterest for more festive recipes.

DIY Production and Styling: Irene Lee
Photography: Brittany Griffin

Once summer rolls around, strawberries take center stage, which means strawberry desserts are the highlight of the season. From classics like strawberry shortcake to innovative creations like strawberry s’mores, these 32 strawberry desserts push the boundaries of that fruity, juicy flavor we all know and love. Get ready to indulge!

Strawberry Freakshakes

Think of this recipe as your traditional strawberry milkshake, but leveled-up beyond compare. The "freak" label for these decadent shakes is entirely accurate, as they get loaded with sugar, ice cream, donuts, whipped cream, and of course, rainbow sprinkles. (via Brit + Co)

Strawberry Donuts

These strawberry donuts earn a healthy (or well, healthier) edge by using whole wheat flour, coconut oil, and Greek yogurt. Don't worry though – they're still as sweet as ever, and they'll be super tasty alongside some coffee for a nice morning treat! (via Brit + Co)

Strawberry Tart

This tart looks impressive, but it's not all that hard to execute. Get your hands on just 5 ingredients – store-bought pastry dough and custard help expedite the process – and you'll be well on your way to strawberry, dessert-y goodness. (via Brit + Co)

Strawberry Chia Oatmeal Cookies

Turns out, you can eat cookies for breakfast! These strawberry-filled lil' bites serve as a quick power-up with fruit, oats, and chia seeds. You can even pack a few in your lunchbox for a healthy mid-day snack sesh. (via Brit + Co)

Boozy Chocolate-Covered Strawberries

These skewered strawberry desserts would make a fun Friday night activity to share with your boo! Simply soak some fresh berries in pink champagne overnight, then assemble them onto skewers before dipping them right into a dark chocolate bath and garnishing with more chocolate and crushed pistachios! (via Brit + Co)

Strawberry Lemon Cookies

Strawberries and lemons are a match made in flavor heaven, and these easy cookies (they only take 20 minutes) deliver a strawberry lemonade-type taste. Summer, here we come! (via The Edgy Veg)

Chocolate Strawberry Cake

We are salivating for this chocolatey cake! The cakey layers are quite simple to make, then you'll use fresh strawberries for the mid-layer and as a beautiful garnish. Don't you dare forget to add that creamy chocolate ganache! (via Give Recipes)

Strawberry Shortcake

Strawberry shortcake is an absolute classic! This recipe makes a few simple swaps (like whole wheat flour instead of regular, and maple syrup instead of white sugar) to make each and every bite a tad bit lighter than your traditional take. (via Whole and Heavenly Oven)

Dark Chocolate Strawberry S'mores

You haven't lived until you've tried putting fresh strawberries on your s'mores. Just look at that gooey goodness! (via Feel Good Foodie)

Peanut Butter Cake with Strawberry Frosting

Once you learn how to make this sweet strawberry frosting, you'll wanna put it on everything you make, from cupcakes to cookies. And yes, even this nutty peanut butter cake! Pile it on real high. (via Pink Owl Kitchen)

Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars

The crunchy coating on these strawberry shortcake-inspired ice cream bars is exactly why you need to make them this summer. It's comprised of brown Rice Krispie pieces and freeze-dried strawberries to add some variety in texture, and wow, is it delicious! (via Half Baked Harvest)

Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

Rhubarb makes an excellent partner to strawberries. Case in point: this no-frills, uber-fresh pie with an impressive lattice crust! (via Completely Delicious)

Strawberry Cocoa

This sip is like if you combined a strawberry shake and hot chocolate into one. It's so dreamy! (via Two Peas & Their Pod)

Chocolate Strawberry Hi-Hat Cupcakes

That cross-section, though! These rich chocolate cupcakes are piled high with strawberry Swiss meringue buttercream icing. Once they're iced, they're dipped in even more chocolate to form a satisfying outer shell. (via Butternut Bakery)

Strawberry Fudge with Marshmallow Fluff

These strawberry fudge bites are just perfect for a little Valentine's Day dessert. This recipe surely doesn't shy away from sugar! (via Where Is My Spoon?)

Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Matcha Madeleines

Matcha, chocolate, and strawberries?! We are totally swooning over these tiny strawberry desserts. While the madeleine cookies are soft and airy, the dark chocolate layer on the outside provides a nice crunch, contrasting the textures and flavors in each bite. (via The Original Dish)

Strawberry Cake Mix Brownies

Strawberry cake mix makes these strawberry desserts so much quicker, but they don't skimp on flavor at all. If you want to take things up a notch, try adding some fresh strawberries on top! (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

Strawberry Rice Krispie Treats

These Rice Krispie treats would make our child selves go crazy. You'll only need four ingredients to make 'em: freeze-dried strawberries, cereal, marshmallows, and butter, so they're a good dessert to make if you don't have a lot of ingredients on-hand and don't feel up to baking! (via The Endless Meal)

Chocolate Strawberry Mock-tini

This non-alcoholic, dairy free martini is decadence at its finest. You'll create your very own chocolate coconut simple syrup before concocting a mix of cashew milk, strawberries, and swirls of melted chocolate. (via Chef Bai)

Chocolate Fudge Brownies with Strawberry Jam

We all need more brownie recipes in our life, right? These rich bars are instantly elevated by a homemade strawberry jam that you'll likely have leftovers of to put on toasts, sandwiches, and more strawberry desserts! (via Two Spoons)

Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed French Toast

Although this recipe's a bit more breakfast-y, it still qualifies as dessert in our minds because it's loaded to the brim with a super-sweet cream cheese filling and sweetened strawberries worthy of the dessert table. Plus, there's plenty of syrup to go around! (via Live Eat Learn)

Homemade Strawberry Pop Tarts

These strawberry desserts are snack-worthy in the morning, afternoon, and as a late night snack, of course! If you thought store-bought Pop Tarts were good, just wait 'til you make them for yourself with fresh strawberries. (via Crowded Kitchen)

Strawberry Cheesecake Vatrushka Buns

The strawberry cheesecake filling stuffed into these airy buns is to die for! Prep a batch for a fun cafe-themed party, or keep the half-dozen all to yourself for morningtime bliss. (via Vikalinka)

Strawberry Banana Bread

Banana bread is a total lifesaver when it comes to using those overripe bananas sitting out on your counter, and it gets even better once strawberries enter the mix! This recipe is moist, sweet, and perfect as a little treat. (via Averie Cooks)

Vegan Strawberry Cupcakes

Looking for vegan strawberry desserts? Your search is over with these vegan strawberry cupcakes covered in vegan whipped cream. Add some more fresh berries for full effect! (via Earthly Provisions)

Strawberry Scones

Dare to make your local coffee shop jealous with these homemade scones using strawberries. Once you're done baking them, you'll cover each one with a delicious strawberry cream cheese frosting for maximum flavor. (via Most Hungry)

Strawberry Rhubarb Galette

Sweet galette recipes are our weakness. They're so sweet and shareable, plus this one in particular is a good way to start using all your farmer's market produce! (via Amanda Wilens)

2-Ingredient Strawberry Banana Ice Cream

Simply blend some frozen strawberries and bananas together, and you've got a sweet treat that can fulfill your cravings for creamy ice cream! For even more dessert vibes, top this recipe with sprinkles, Oreos, or chocolate syrup, Or all three. We'd do it, too. (via Rachel Mansfield)

Strawberry Chocolate Mint Smoothies

The addition of mint leaves takes this sweet sipper to a whole new level. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Strawberry Jelly No-Bake Cheesecake

Have you ever seen a cheesecake so beautiful?! Plus, this one requires zero baking, making it the perfect pick for hot summers. (via Takes Two Eggs)

Strawberry Macarons

If you're up to the challenge, making macarons yourself can be so rewarding. Each of these little sweet sandwiches is filled with strawberry jam and a cheesecake-inspired icing. (via Barley & Sage)

Vegan Fruity Pebble Cheesecake

Colorful, fruity, and sweet? Say no more. This Fruity Pebbles cheesecake just earned the top spot on our "to-bake" list!(via No Eggs or Ham)

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Lead image via The Endless Meal.

Grab your bears, your beets, and your Battlestar Galactica because a new The Office is on its way! It's been more than 10 years since we said goodbye to Michael, Dwight, Jim, and Pam, and it looks like we'll be saying hello to a new cast of characters soon. The new iteration of our favorite comfort show won't be a reboot in the typical sense — even though it's within the same universe as the OG, it'll feature a brand new cast of characters. Here's everything you need to know about the newThe Office revival.

When is the new The Office coming out?

The Office reboot doesn't have a release date yet, but the show is scheduled to begin filming this July so we could see it as early as 2025! The series is coming to Peacock, which is where you can stream the original The Office now!

What is the new The Office about?

Image via NBC

We finally have plot details for the new The Office show! According to the official logline, the series will follow the same fictional documentary crew behind the show-within-the-show: “The documentary crew that immortalized Dunder Mifflin’s Scranton branch is in search of a new subject when they discover a dying historic Midwestern newspaper and the publisher trying to revive it with volunteer reporters.”

Who's in The Office reboot cast?

Image via Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

It's reported that Domhnall Gleeson and Sabrina Impacciatore will lead the new cast. The original cast of The Office includes icons like Steve Carell, Rainn Wilson, Mindy Kaling, John Krasinski, Jenna Fischer, Craig Robinson, B.J. Novak, Creed Bratton, Angela Kinsey, Oscar Nunez, Ellie Kemper, and Ed Helms.

Will Greg Daniels return to write for the new The Office?

Image via NBC

Yes, Variety confirmed that Greg is leading the creative team alongside Michael Koman.

Chatting about a The Office reboot with Collider in 2022, Daniels was admittedly apprehensive. “[The Office] was such a wonderful and rare experience that obviously you don't want to just go back to it and kind of possibly disappoint people when right now, they couldn't be happier about it,” he says in the interview. “I can't tell whether fans would want more of it, and when I say more of it, I don't think it would be the same characters. I think it would just be sort of like an extension of the universe, you know what I mean, like the way [The] Mandalorian is like an extension of Star Wars. But I don't know if that would be something people would want or not, it's hard to tell.”

What do people think about The Office reboot news?

Image via NBC

The TV show, which ran for nine whole seasons, undoubtedly has a cult following, but not everyone is thrilled about a possible remake. “Please just stop with the reboots/remakes,” one user wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter. “I’m tired.”

“A reboot of a remake lord help us,” someone else said.

Based on fans’ reactions, it seems like they’re ready for newer, fresher shows and movies after the strike in Hollywood, rather than investing in all-too-familiar plot lines. Plenty of people will be thrilled to see the Scranton paper company back on screen, though! Fingers crossed we get more iconic episodes that will make us feel God in any and every Chili's.

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Lead image via NBC.

This post has been updated.

Paleodesserts typically avoid processed ingredients, grains, dairy products, and refined sugars – but that doesn’t mean they have to be bad. Sure, they primarily focus on using whole foods, but there are tons of paleo desserts out there that don’t feel like you’re eating on a diet at all.

Common ingredients in paleo desserts include almond flour, coconut flour, coconut oil, dates, and various fruits like berries or bananas. You can feel really good about eating these 11 paleo desserts. They’re nutrient-dense and perfectly sweet! From snack-sized bites to fully-fledged cakes, we’ve got you covered.

Paleo Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Cookies are superior when it comes to paleo desserts, or any desserts for that matter. These addictive bites take on the flavors of pumpkin and chocolate, all without leaning on process ingredients! (via Brit + Co)

Cherry-Cranberry Almond Paleo Scones

These paleo scones are just as good as the ones you'd snag from your local coffee shop. Cherries and cranberries dot the sweet dough for a fresh touch, plus there's a delicious cranberry glaze to top it all off! These paleo desserts would work so well for serving a large party crowd – or, you could save the leftovers all for yourself. (via Brit + Co)

Fudgy Paleo Brownies

Though you might assume paleo desserts say 'no' to chocolate, this brownie recipe will instantly prove you wrong. The batter, made primarily from almond flour, coconut flour, and cocoa powder, gets balanced out in terms of moisture with coconut oil, eggs, and maple syrup. Dark chocolate is the key to this dessert's success! (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Paleo Gummy Bears

Our list of paleo desserts wouldn't be complete without the more fruity snacks! These paleo-friendly gummy bears only require three ingredients and a gummy bear mold with a dropper. You can make any flavor you want depending on the type of fruit juice you use – just make sure it's labeled “not from concentrate” and is organic to abide by the paleo guidelines. (via Clean Cuisine)

Berry Paleo Banana Bread with Lemon Glaze

Banana bread is the ultimate treat you can snack on in the morning, afternoon, and at night. This paleo version is doctored up with even more healthy stuff like three types of berries and an addictively tart lemon glaze. Swoon! (via The Endless Meal)

Coconut-Coated No-Bake Energy Bites

For paleo desserts that you *don't* have to actually bake, energy bites are the sweetest solution. These can be crafted within minutes using a short list of ingredients: prunes (healthy fiber FTW!), almonds, chia seeds, and surprisingly, orange juice! Pop one in your mouth for a workday snack, or wait for bedtime to indulge in this daily sweet treat. (via Live Eat Learn)

Raw Chocolate Avocado Pudding

This spoonable paleo dessert is also plant-based, gluten-free, and made with 5 ingredients. The creamy base is made with 2 ripe avocados, which get masked with the flavors of cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and the natural sweetener of your choice. (via Veggie Society)

Paleo Coconut Cream Pie

You may be a bit skeptical at just how good a keto, paleo, vegan, gluten-free, and sugar-free pie could really taste, but we promise this one is ahh-mazing. The coconut flour, coconut milk, coconut whipping cream, and *actual* shredded coconut form the signature flavor without taking over too strongly. You'll wanna eat slice after slice! (via No Eggs or Ham)

Paleo Thin Mints

Wanna enjoy your fave Girl Scout cookies year-round? Look no further than these paleo thin mints that incorporate the minty, chocolatey flavors you love, without any harmful additives. (via Whole and Heavenly Oven)

Paleo + Vegan Caramel Apple Slices

Us any apple variety you love alongside some melted dark chocolate and caramel to create these mouthwatering apple slice pops. You can go crazy with with topping 'em with nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and the like, but it's really up to you on how to best enjoy them. (via Rachel Mansfield)

4-Ingredient Chocolate Chia Pudding

This chocolatey chia pudding is too tasty. With an ample serving of chia seeds, cocoa powder, almond milk, and maple syrup, this is a certifiably healthy paleo dessert. (via Two Spoons)

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Stomach problems are never fun, but they seem to be even less so when you're in the middle of a travel day. Ironically, that's also when they tend to flare up! We're all swapping spring break for summer vacation soon, which is why I talked to digestive health dietitian Alyssa Simpson RDN, CGN, CLT and The Points Guy travel experts Ellie Nan Storckand Caroline Tanner for all the secrets, insights, and hacks that will make your travel smoother (and less painful) than ever.

Why do I always have stomach issues when traveling?

Image via Jason Toevs/Pexels

Routine can benefit our mental health, but it also benefits our physical health, too! "Stomach problems tend to flare up while traveling because our usual routines, like mealtimes and sleep patterns, get thrown off, which can disrupt digestion," Simpson says. "Plus, not drinking enough water and trying new foods or eating at odd hours can make matters worse by dehydrating us and upsetting our stomachs.

"Travel anxiety significantly affects our stomachs," she continues. "When we're anxious, our bodies release stress hormones that can disrupt digestion, potentially worsening existing gastrointestinal problems or causing new ones."

And it turns out, flying itself can also affect your gut physically. "Flying or changes in altitude can make your stomach uncomfortable by making the gas in your intestines expand, causing bloating," Simpson says. "Also, the difference in cabin pressure and oxygen levels can dehydrate you, which might worsen digestion and existing stomach problems."

How do you fix travelers stomach?

Image via RDNE Stock project/Pexels

While travel day stomach problems can take you by surprise, there are a few you can do in the moment to help ease discomfort. "As a traveler with a colon disease and dietary restrictions, I always have Tylenol and digestive enzymes on hand," Tanner says. "Whenever I arrive at my destination, I try to locate the nearest juice/smoothie place to maintain the daily habits that make me feel my best at home."

"I usually bring Dramamine with me just in case I experience a rare bout of nausea, and I've recently been taking 1 teaspoon of digestive bitters before meals to help with heartburn (cute, right?) — they come in really small bottles so they're generally fine to go through security," Storck says. "The day before a long flight, I try to eat whole non-processed foods — nothing that could upset my stomach — and lots of water. I try not to drink on the plane if my stomach feels sensitive (otherwise, a glass of red helps me sleep!)"

You'll also want to be aware of dehydration on your travel day (dehydration makes everything feel worse), and that includes what kind of water you're drinking. "For those with sensitive stomachs, it's a good idea to go for bottled or filtered water while traveling because tap water safety can differ from place to place," Simpson says. "Opting for bottled water helps lower the chance of drinking contaminated water and reduces the risk of health problems."

"It's smart to be careful when sampling new foods while traveling to prevent stomach issues," Simpson continues. "Stick to dishes you're familiar with and that are fully-cooked, and avoid street food in places where cleanliness might be a concern. Also, keep an eye out for any potential allergens or foods that might not agree with you."

How to make travel easier?

Image via Brit + Co

Your travel day should actually start before you wake up. Just like meal prepping can set you up for an easy week of eats, travel prepping can ensure your day-of journey goes as smooth as possible. While you can't control flight delays or traffic, there are a few things you can add into your routine.

"Include stress-relief techniques in your plan and feel reassured that you have strategies in place to prevent travel-related anxiety from causing stomach issues," Simpson says. Try our Best Breathing Techniques and Daily Journal Prompts when you have a moment to spare!

"I definitely pack the day before and try to make my carry-on bag really organized (for example, I put all my chargers in a small pouch so that there aren't wires getting tangled, I pack snacks so that I don't have to spend a ton of money at the airport, etc.)," Storck says. "I also download shows or movies on to my iPad beforehand (or pack a good book) — I like having something to look forward to if it's a long flight! Simple things, but they help the day go smoothly."

"I try to plan in advance as much as possible to alleviate travel prep and travel day stress [and] I make a list of items I want to pack on my phone," Tanner says. In addition to packing plenty of snacks that are easy on her stomach, she also figures out what to eat when she gets to her location. "Depending on my flight time, I will pick up a Sweetgreen salad to eat on the plane to keep me satiated and full of greens until I can find my next whole foods meal."

Should I pack anything specific to avoid stomach problems?

Image via Brit + Co

It's a good idea to have natural remedies or over the counter medicine in the event you need to ease bloating or discomfort (think antidiarrheals, laxatives, or antacids). "Bring along essentials like enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules or activated charcoal tablets for bloating and discomfort, antacids for heartburn and acid reflux, and magnesium citrate or magnesium oxide supplements if you're prone to constipation," Simpson says.

"You might also want to pack dandelion or fennel tea for digestive support and hydration tablets or powders to prevent dehydration, especially in hot climates," she continues. "Just remember to check in with a healthcare professional before trying any new remedies, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking medications."

And to make the travel in and of itself more enjoyable, Storck has a few travel must-haves: "Headphones, comfortable clothing (big fan of black leggings, sneakers and a sweater; I'll never be a fancy plane outfit girl) and my water bottle." Tanner's must-haves include a portable phone charger, headphones, eye patches, and sunscreen.

How to eat in moderation on vacation?

Image via Diana Titenko/Pexels

We're big fans of Little Treat Culture at Brit + Co, especially if you're somewhere you've never been before. I mean, how could you visit Paris and NOT buy pastries?! Even if you have a sensitive stomach, Simpson says it's okay to indulge — as long as it's in moderation.

"Indulge in local delicacies moderately, savoring each bite and paying attention to your body's hunger and fullness signals," Simpson recommends. "Include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your meals to offset any extra calories from treats and to keep you feeling full and satisfied. Also, incorporate physical activities into your plans to burn off any additional calories consumed from indulgences."

"To avoid stomach issues while traveling, steer clear of spicy, fatty, and greasy foods," Simpson continues. "Additionally, limit alcohol, caffeine, and carbonated drinks, and ensure fruits and vegetables are thoroughly washed to prevent food-related illnesses. Lastly, maintain regular meal times to prevent overeating and refrain from skipping meals."

If you do deal with the dreaded traveler's stomach (it happens to us all!) swap your fancy meals for a few tried-and-true foods. "If you're dealing with stomach issues while traveling, stick to gentle foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast to soothe discomfort, and steer clear of foods that might worsen your symptoms," Simpson says. "Keep yourself hydrated, take time to rest and recuperate, and try relaxation methods like deep breathing or meditation to ease stress-related digestive problems. If your symptoms persist or become severe, don't hesitate to seek medical help."

Make sure to check with your healthcare professionals before trying new medication or making a major lifestyle change. Let us know your best hack for stomach problems in the comments and check out our weekend newsletter for more health tips and expert advice!

Lead image viaDiana Titenko/Pexels

A capsule wardrobe should be super timeless and dependable enough that you won’t dream of ditching the pieces you have in a year or so. This is all about longevity, people!

Since summer’s on its way (and I fear the heat is here to stay for a while), it’s time to start developing a stylish collection of summer clothes that you truly want to wear. Plus, ones that’ll help you survive the painfully warm weather.

My rule of thumb for building a great capsule wardrobe (for summer and any season, really) is starting with the most basic of basics. For instance, I typically lean towards solid pieces (without any patterns) in neutral colors, like black, white, brown, or cream. Another important factor for my personal style is comfort – you want to make sure you enjoy wearing each and every piece you have. Having garments without any extra bells or whistles in your closet means you’re more likely to reach for them, plus they’ll wear quite well with additional basic pieces.

Don’t feel pressured to find all these pieces in a single thrift trip. Oftentimes, it takes multiple thrifting sessions to gather exactly what you’re looking for, especially for a reliable capsule wardrobe. But that’s the fun in thrifting for me – you never know what you’re going to find!

Here are 18 summer capsule wardrobe items to keep an eye out for on your next thrift store visit!

Tops

Photo by Dmitriy Steinke / PEXELS

White Tee

Any white tee is deserving of your summer uniform. They go wonderfully with denim and linen bottoms, and pretty much anything in between. Thrift for your staple white tee in whatever silhouette suits your style. For me, I prefer a cropped baby tee, but you may see yourself wearing a boxier, longer fit based on your preferences.

My best advice here is to avoid see-through white t-shirts at all costs. Since thrift stores typically have older styles and fabrications in stock (they truly don't make things like they used to!), your search shouldn't be too hard. Go for the thicker materials and make sure to try 'em on before sealing the deal.

White Tank Top

For the non-tee days, white tank tops are a godsend. They're the perfect base to layer under light button-ups or cardigans for summertime when needed.

Again, avoid anything that's not giving full coverage. I like my tank tops to be form-fitting (and compatible when I don't feel like wearing a bra), but you may reach for something looser. Either way, make sure you really jive with it!

Photo by Anna Nekrashevich / PEXELS

Black Tee

Because black is just as versatile as white, having a basic black t-shirt on-hand will work wonders for your capsule wardrobe and save you time when you're getting dressed for the day.

Any solid black tee is gonna match with denim bottoms like shorts, skirts, or jeans, as well as summer-ready white pants or shorts.

As always, comfort and coverage is key.

Photo by Leah Newhouse / PEXELS

Black Tank Top

You can also layer black tanks pretty easily. For any tank top you're adding to your capsule wardrobe, I might recommend styles with wider straps rather than spaghetti straps. This way, the garment will fit more comfortably and last longer than any style with flimsy straps.

Photo by Meredith Holser

Colorful Going Out Top

It's hot girl summer after all. You'll want something hot to step out in for happy hours and dinner dates!

Whether it's a halter tank, a top with a tie-front, or a cheeky open back shirt, the most important aspect to consider when adding a going out top to your capsule wardrobe is that you see yourself wearing it again and again – perhaps in different ways from the next!

Photo by Meredith Holser

Buttoned Top

Buttoned tops are good to have as a light layer for when the sun goes down in the summer. For the warmer weather, I recommend searching the thrift racks for cotton or linen fabrications – they are superior for being breezy and breathable, which is what you want in the hot temps.

Basic whites, blacks, or other neutral colors like taupe or sand are an easy addition for building on top of other solid pieces (remember that white tank top?). If you wanna mix things up a bit, look for undistracting patterns like minimal stripes or dots in neutral colorways (so you can still pair it with the rest of your capsule).

Bottoms

Denim Shorts

High waisted denim shorts are just as popular as longer bermuda jorts right now, so the particular style you thrift for is really up to you. No matter what, you want to prioritize comfort and quality, along with your personal preferences. Try to put micro-trends aside!

For thrifting denim, I like looking for brands like Lee or Levi's. I typically like to feel the material in my hands, making sure it's thick and has zero holes, thinning, or rips.

Boxer Shorts

Boxer shorts are hugeee for this summer, but they have longevity for outfits in and out of the house – beyond summer, too. These flowy shorts are super light and airy, and you can literally can hop out of bed and look chic when you pair 'em with a basic tank, light cardi or button up, and ballet flats.

It sounds icky, but you're most likely to find the boxer shorts you're looking for in the men's section of the thrift store. I'd look out for fun patterns like plaids or stripes, but also basic solid colors like light blues or grays. From there, you wanna wash everything you thrift before wearing (you may already know the drill, but it's worth the reminder)!

Track Shorts

Track shorts are also popping off right now, but they can live in your wardrobe forever. With some cute sneaks and a basic tee, your next casual outfit is set. Track shorts can be dressed up or down with ease, depending on how you style them, and they're great for working out too . Hot girl walks, here you come!

Linen Pants

Any sort of linen garment is gonna do you extremely good this summer.

Linen pants are a great option to have in your capsule wardrobe for the summer nights you might have to dress up a bit more than usual, – office lunches, cocktails with the girls, etc. They are so easy to wear with a tank and chic flip flops for a beachy look, or layer with a light cardi and ballet flats for a sophisticated ensemble.

White or cream colors are super cute for linen pants, but you should be able to track some down in essentially any color you wish!

Dresses + Skirts

Photo by Meredith Holser

Black Mini Skirt

It might just be me, but I think you're gonna want something short for a hot, hot summer. Mini skirts are here to save the day, and you can track them down at the thrift store pretty easily!

Black is an instant match with just about anything, and I've found myself reaching for my thrifted black mini skirt more than usual as things start to heat up.

Even better than a skirt? A skort. With skorts, you have more comfort and security. To scour the racks for skorts, I typically look around the athletic wear section.

Denim Mini Skirt

Again, the mini length is so helpful for tackling summer heat. Denim is timeless as can be, and a denim skirt can be worn in countless ways! Go for the cowgirl chic look with some cowgirl boots and a pointelle tank, or go cute-girl with some slingbacks and a going out top!

The denim mini skirt you land on all depends on your personal style and preferences for fit. I personally have an affection for medium-wash denim, but you might prefer darker colors. The denim skirt I always reach for is easy to put on with a simple zipper and button closure, but you might be able to find a piece that slides right on and stretches.

Casual Little Black Dress

It's worth repeating: black goes with everything! Whether it's a-line, a swing dress, or a babydoll look, a casual LBD is perfect for summertime. It's easy to wear with tall boots, sandals, flats, etc., plus you can dress it up or down based on what you're up to!

Remember, comfort is key.

White Maxi Skirt

A white maxi skirt delivers such whimsical vibes! It's my go-to summer farmer's market get-up since I don't have to deal with pants at all. But the white maxi skirt works for a variety of situations like brunch or park walks, too!

It's a great match with a black tank top or breezy bandeau, if the temps are really scorching.

Shoes

Ballet Flats

Ballet flats (or even Mary Janes) are a reliable cozy shoe for wearing this summer and beyond! Unlike sneakers or clogs, they won't leave your feet super sweaty – which is something I try to avoid at all costs.

They're perfectly femme, so cute, and go with everything from pants to dress.

Photo by Roman Odintsov / PEXELS

Comfy Sandals

If ballet flats aren't your vibe (for style or comfort reasons), sandals are another breezy choice you can track down at the thrift store. It's best to opt for ones with a substantial sole, so you can be sure your feet are getting as much support as possible.

Looking for lightly-used shoes are best when thrifting.

Accessories

Photo by Addy Bronzzz / PEXELS

Basic Shoulder Bag

You gotta take stuff with ya wherever you go this summer! A small shoulder bag is perfect for toting things around, from the cafes to the bars. I adore my small black shoulder bag since it goes with everything, and looks even better when I'm wearing black shoes.

If a small shoulder bag isn't roomy enough for your lifestyle, a canvas tote is great, too.

Photo by Meredith Holser

Black Sunnies

Keep those eyes protected and those 'fits looking super cool with some chic sunnies!

Thrift stores often have vintage-y glasses, so this is a great opportunity for finding something unique rather than spending too much $$$ on something new!

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Lead photo by Polina Tankilevitch / PEXELS.