I like to keep three things in mind when deciding what to wear to the beach:
1. I probably won’t be spending all my time on the beach so I’ll need an outfit that works for popping into restaurants and other fun places (who can resist a refreshing ice-cream cone?!).
2. It’ll be hot so everything I wear needs to help me stay as cool as possible.
3. I’m going to get wet so loose-fitting pieces will be easier to get on and off.
Keeping these three things in mind, I’ve created six easy formulas that will help you create comfortable, practical and stylish outfits you can wear to the beach.
What to wear to the beach formula 1
swimsuit + cut-off jean shorts + loose t-shirt
I’m not sure if there’s a beachier look than cutoff shorts with a loose t-shirt. It’s such an easy outfit to throw on as you run out the door for a day of fun-in-the-sun. I love the idea of making this outfit pop with a pair of brightly coloured sunnies and a patterned beach bag. Of course your favourite pair of sandals are also a must.
What to wear to the beach formula 2
strapless swimsuit + maxi dress + sunhat
Although a strapless swimsuit is not imperative here, I do like the idea of being able to throw on a maxi dress over your swimsuit with plastic bangles and jewelled sandals and immediately looked “dressed”. Without bathing suit straps showing, this outfit that could trick people into thinking you haven’t spent a minute at the beach and instead you are out for a lovely lunch with friends. A maxi dress and large-brimmed sunhat are also a great choice for women looking for extra sun coverage.
What to wear to the beach formula 3
swimsuit + rash guard + loose shorts
What’s simpler than a beach outfit that incorporates your bathing suit as part of your outfit. I like this slightly more covered-up look with the rash guard because it would be appropriate for most establishments. Of course, you could always just wear shorts or just wear a t-shirt with a bathing suit for really casual spots. If you like to be active at the beach, these quick-dry runners will make your heart skip a beat.
What to wear to the beach formula 4
This formula is similar to the first one but with a skirt and tank instead of shorts and a tee. Just as easy, but might appeal more to women who enjoy expressing their femininity. Bright gold sunnies, gold flip-flops and a pendant necklace make this outfit really shine.
What to wear to the beach formula 5
swimsuit + long-sleeve linen shirt + light-weight pants
If you have fair skin like me you may worry about spending an entire day in the sun. Consider a long-sleeve linen shirt with light-weight pants and sunhat for shaded sun protection. With a covered-up outfit like this you won’t need to worry about putting your walking sandals to the test for a long walk down the beach.
What to wear to the beach formula 6
swimsuit + t-shirt dress + carry-all wallet
This is my personal go-to formula when I’m at the cottage. Invariably I’ll be sitting on the dock and a visitor will come by or we’ll head over to the marina or even into town. I like to have a light-weight loose dress and a carry-all wallet handy for these type of occasions. My flip-flops get a lot of play at the cottage and I love to wear at least one accessory even when I’m dressed über casual (I’m told my love of accessories is the rooster in me).
Now I’m curious… what’s your favourite summer beach or cottage outfit?
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I am so happy to discover your website its so helpful full of great advice!
That’s great Julie! So happy to hear!
Love your collection. This post is very helpful to choose beachwear. We are planning to visit on a beach next week and I got some great ideas from your article. Thanks for sharing.