Nothing beats the feeling of sun, sand, and sea as the summer season approaches. Whether you’re planning a seaside vacation or just heading to your local beach, having the right beachwear is crucial to looking chic while staying comfortable. From flattering swimsuits to effortlessly cool cover-ups, the perfect pieces will make your summer as stylish as it is relaxing. Here, we take a look at the beachwear essentials you’ll need for a fashionable summer escape, and how to put them together for that effortlessly chic beach look.
1. The Perfect Swimsuit: Flattering and Fun
The foundation of every great beach look is the swimsuit, and choosing the right one can make all the difference. Today’s swimwear trends offer a wide variety of styles to suit every body type and taste, from classic one-pieces to flirty bikinis.
- One-Piece Wonders: One-piece swimsuits are back in a big way, and for good reason. Not only are they comfortable, but they can also be incredibly flattering. Look for one-pieces with unique cut-outs, plunging necklines, or asymmetrical details to keep things stylish and modern. One-piece suits in bright colors or bold prints are perfect for those looking to make a statement.
- Bikini Classics: The bikini remains a timeless beachwear option that allows for mixing and matching to create different looks. High-waisted bikini bottoms are particularly on trend, as they provide a retro feel while offering more coverage. If you prefer a minimalist look, opt for a classic triangle bikini in a solid color. Bold prints, ruffles, and underwire tops are also popular styles that bring both comfort and flair.
- The Trendy Tankini: For those looking for more coverage or versatility, the tankini offers a great balance between the one-piece and the bikini. Pair a tankini top with high-waisted bottoms for a comfortable yet stylish look that allows you to move freely without worrying about wardrobe malfunctions.
When choosing a swimsuit, it’s important to pick a piece that not only looks good but also feels good. Confidence is key, so choose a style that makes you feel comfortable and fabulous at the same time.
2. Breezy Cover-Ups: Effortlessly Stylish Layering
No beachwear look is complete without a chic cover-up. Cover-ups serve a dual purpose—they provide protection from the sun and make transitioning from the beach to a beachside café or stroll seamless.
- The Classic Kaftan: Kaftans are a classic choice for a reason. Loose, flowing, and available in a variety of prints, kaftans are perfect for covering up without compromising on style. Opt for a kaftan with a bold print or bright embroidery for a vibrant summer vibe.
- Sarongs and Wraps: Sarongs are one of the most versatile cover-ups you can own. They can be worn around the waist as a skirt, draped over your shoulders like a shawl, or tied into a halter dress for a little extra coverage. Lightweight and easy to carry, a sarong is a must-have item for any beach trip.
- Sheer Maxi Dresses: Sheer maxi dresses add a layer of glamour to your beachwear. A floor-length sheer dress over a bikini creates an elegant silhouette perfect for going from the beach to a poolside party. Look for maxi dresses in lightweight fabrics like chiffon or cotton gauze for maximum comfort.
- Button-Down Shirts: Oversized button-down shirts have become a go-to beach cover-up for those looking to achieve a laid-back, effortlessly chic look. Throw on a white cotton button-down over your swimsuit for an easy, classic vibe. This option is also perfect for adding a touch of menswear-inspired style to your beach look.
3. Chic Beach Hats: Shade in Style
Staying safe in the sun is essential, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. Hats are a must-have accessory for any beach day, and the right hat will not only protect you from the sun but also enhance your outfit.
- Wide-Brimmed Hats: A wide-brimmed straw hat is a classic beach essential that exudes elegance and keeps the sun off your face. Go for a hat with an extra-wide brim for that glamorous, movie-star feel. A ribbon accent adds a playful touch to a classic design.
- Bucket Hats: Bucket hats have made a huge comeback in recent years, and they’re perfect for a more laid-back beach look. These hats are lightweight, easy to pack, and come in a range of fun colors and patterns. Pair a colorful bucket hat with a simple bikini for a casual, stylish look.
- Fedoras and Panama Hats: For a sophisticated beach vibe, opt for a fedora or Panama hat. These hats look great paired with a chic one-piece or a breezy maxi dress and provide a more tailored, polished style than the relaxed bucket hat or oversized sun hat.
4. Sunglasses: The Ultimate Cool Factor
Sunglasses are a non-negotiable part of beachwear, adding a cool factor while protecting your eyes from the sun’s rays. When choosing sunglasses, make sure to look for pairs that provide UV protection.
- Oversized Frames: Oversized sunglasses scream glamour and instantly elevate your beach look. Look for bold, square frames or round lenses for a retro feel that channels Old Hollywood.
- Cat-Eye Sunglasses: Cat-eye sunglasses are playful and chic, adding a bit of vintage flair to any beach ensemble. They pair well with high-waisted bikinis or one-piece swimsuits and bring a touch of feminine elegance.
- Colored Lenses: Lenses in bold colors like pink, yellow, or blue are perfect for adding a fun twist to your look. Pair them with simple, neutral-colored swimsuits for a stylish pop.
5. Sandals: Comfort Meets Style
Your choice of footwear can make or break your beachwear look. You need something practical for walking in the sand but still stylish enough to complete your outfit.
- Slides: Slides are the ultimate in easy beach footwear—just slip them on and off as you move between the sand and the boardwalk. Look for slides with decorative elements like metallic straps, buckles, or even embellishments for that extra touch of style.
- Espadrilles: Espadrilles are a great choice for adding a bit of height while still keeping it comfortable. Espadrille wedges in neutral colors go well with breezy cover-ups and maxi dresses, making them perfect for beach-to-bar transitions.
- Gladiator Sandals: For those who prefer a little more structure, gladiator sandals are a great choice. They provide a bit more support and look fantastic when paired with shorter cover-ups like kaftans or sarongs. Opt for leather straps for a classic, beachy feel.
6. Beach Bags: Practical Yet Stylish
A good beach bag is essential for carrying all your seaside necessities—like sunscreen, a book, and a water bottle—but it can also be a key element of your beach look.
- Straw Totes: Straw totes are a classic beach bag choice and for good reason. They’re roomy enough for all your essentials and add a touch of boho charm to your look. Choose one with colorful pom-poms or embroidery for an extra playful element.
- Mesh Bags: Mesh beach bags are practical, lightweight, and easy to clean. They give off a sporty, modern vibe that pairs well with sleek, minimal swimsuits.
- Canvas Bags: Canvas totes are a timeless choice. Opt for a canvas bag with a fun graphic print or slogan for a bit of personality. They’re versatile and can easily transition from the beach to a casual day out in town.
7. Jewelry: Keep It Simple, But Make It Shine
Jewelry at the beach should be simple, yet it can make all the difference in your look. Delicate, beach-inspired pieces add a touch of shine without overwhelming your outfit.
- Shell Necklaces and Bracelets: Shell jewelry is perfect for a beach setting—it’s subtle, yet instantly adds a coastal feel to your look. A simple shell necklace or bracelet pairs well with any swimsuit and gives off an effortless summer vibe.
- Gold Accents: Gold jewelry looks great against sun-kissed skin. Choose delicate gold chains, hoop earrings, or stacking rings for a subtle glint in the sunlight. Just be mindful of the water; if you plan on swimming, make sure you’re not wearing anything too precious.
- Anklets: Anklets are making a comeback, and they’re ideal for adding a playful twist to your beachwear. A simple beaded or gold chain anklet can be the perfect finishing touch to your outfit, especially when paired with strappy sandals or bare feet.
8. Playful Beachwear Trends to Try
- Crochet and Knits: Crochet bikinis and cover-ups are a big trend for summer beachwear. The textured, handmade feel of crochet adds a boho vibe to your beach outfit. A crochet crop top paired with denim shorts also makes for an easy, stylish look for the beach and beyond.
- Ruffled Swimsuits: Ruffles add a romantic touch to any swimsuit, giving a flirty and feminine vibe. Whether it’s ruffled bikini straps or a tiered one-piece, this trend is perfect for those who want to add a little extra detail to their swimwear.
- Bold Prints: Summer is the season to embrace prints—tropical florals, animal prints, and geometric patterns are all the rage. Pick a bold printed swimsuit or cover-up to make a statement. Mixing and matching different prints can add even more personality to your look.
With the right beachwear essentials, you can make your summer vacation as stylish as it is fun. It’s all about combining comfort, practicality, and a touch of glamour to create effortlessly chic outfits that work both on and off the beach. This summer, embrace bold accessories, playful prints, and breezy cover-ups to create your ultimate beachside look.
