What to Wear to the Beach

As the vivacious Go-Go's once said, "Vacation ... all I ever wanted."

I'm more than ready to shed bulky layers in favor of summer outfits, specifically those I can live in on the beach or by a pool. However, if you, like me, are new to the whole swimwear-as-ready-to-wear aesthetic, piecing together beach-day outfits worthy of Instagram or a Pinterest board can prove no small feat. So, in addition to browsing social media for inspiration, I asked a roster of fashion stylists to break down the best beach-day outfits for summer.

Ahead, expert-approved beachwear suggestions, from seasonally appropriate dresses and cover-ups to sun-protection accessories and lightweight fabrics. 

Keep It Colorful

Summer means breaking out the vibrant shades that have been collecting dust in our wardrobes, starting with our beachwear. For example, bold hues like lush tangerine, magenta, and lime are all on style expert Christian Sismone's mood board for her beach-day outfits.

"The color brings a little razzle-dazzle to your life," she told InStyle. 

If you're feeling adventurous, Sismone recommended an all-neon outfit, saying of the bold color, "It will surely make you the conversation starter."

Add a Sarong

Sarongs came into style in the 1930s, and the piece of clothing quickly became a vacation essential. Most popularly worn as a skirt over bare legs, this fabric is typically tied around the waist to cover your bare legs or over your shoulders for additional sun protection.

Vanessa Valiente, a San Diego-based personal stylist and fashion blogger, loves a sarong for its versatility but says her preferred beach-day outfit is a triangle bikini with a large printed sarong tied into a halter dress and a pair of water-friendly flip-flops. 

"This look can gracefully go from your wet and sandy activities to the casual waterfront restaurant without issue," she said.

Channel a '90s Vibe

If you thought all-things '90s fashion was exclusive to fall outfits, think again. Valiente told Instyle that channeling the alternative era with beach outfits is as simple as layering a pair of short overalls over your bikini or even pulling on denim shorts. Add a straw Panama hat "to make it more modern and protect your face from the unforgiving sun rays," and you're good to go.

Embrace the Linen Everything Trend

Easy, breezy linen looks are huge for summer, meaning linen dresses, pants, button-ups, and skirts in the material are all fair game when putting together your beach-day outfit.

"It's the perfect summer indulgence," celebrity stylist Cindy Conroy said of the fabric. "The lightweight material is beach ready and will protect you from the sun's rays while making you feel light and airy like a goddess."

Prioritize Convenience

If you're the kind of beach-goer who likes to make the most of their trip, alternating between lounging, swimming, and joining a game of volleyball, Tobi head stylist Joanna Angeles recommended sticking with a simple ensemble consisting of a one-piece swimsuit, sun hat, and beach sandals. That way, you've dressed appropriately for every possible scenario, no matter where your day's itinerary takes you.

Wear a Bandana for Some Retro Flare

Stylist Christina Stein can't get enough of the iconic '50s throwback accessory that is bandanas and handkerchiefs, especially when paired with beach outfits.

"I am obsessed with silk bandanas," Stein told InStyle via email. "They can be worn in your hair, or you can make them into a chic top with a pair of denim shorts! This is my go-to accessory for summer."

Don't Overlook Accessories

Lisa Sanchez, the fashion editor at The Nines, suggested that sunblock isn't your only line of defense against the sun; your accessories can help, too.

Add a sizable (and probably delightfully floppy) hat, sunglasses, and a long-sleeved or a UPF short-sleeved shirt to your packing list, Sanchez advised, noting that cowboy, woven straw styles, and bucket hats are great picks. 

"Lastly, don't forget a cover-up for the chilly evenings or extra blast of the sun when you're not in the water," she said.

Balance Is Key

Yes, balance is important, even on the beach. For instance, when sporting a geometric print or vibrantly colored swimsuit, Stitch Fix stylist Heather Tooker told InStyle that she'll offset the something bold with something chill, like an oversized button-down or denim shorts.

Pack Something Sporty

If your idea of a day at the beach involves a run, a game of paddle ball, or virtually anything active, Tooker recommended wearing an activewear skort or comfortable pair of shorts over your bathing suit. Something the sand will easily brush off of or that provides SPF protection is a winner in her book. As an added bonus, "performance wear is often anti-odor and moisture-wicking," Tooker said, "which is ideal for a warm day."

Get Dressy for Dinner

You don't have to dress to the nines for dinner on the boardwalk, but if you do want to upgrade your look from beach bum to beach chic, Tooker said either jeans and a flowy top or a sleeveless dress that will move in the ocean breeze and show off your shoulders can get you there. Add a lightweight layer in case it gets chilly, like a denim jacket or a lightweight cardigan, and opt for a wedge over heels for maximum comfort.

ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7qrrSrbClnV6YvK57xZqqoaGfo3ykuM6tn6Kml2Svpq3CoWSoraSbtrW%2F