The Ultimate Beach Look: Choosing Clothes and Accessories for Every Vibe
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By PAGE Editor
A beach day is all about having fun in the summer weather, but it is also an opportunity to show off your personal style. Whether you're going for a laid-back boho look, an ultra-glam vibe, or sporty chic, your choice of clothes and accessories can make your beach experience that much more enjoyable. In this guide, you’ll find a breakdown of the ultimate beach looks for every style and how to accessorize them for ultimate beach enjoyment.
The Classic Beach Babe: Effortless and Timeless
If you prefer a look that never goes out of style, the classic beach babe aesthetic is for you. Think neutral tones, flattering silhouettes, and effortless beachy waves. This can be achieved first with the first layer of a white or neutral-colored bikini, followed by a breathable linen coverup. This can be in the form of a long button-down or a pullover in shades of white, beige, or even black linen. For a bit more cover in case you want to go to a beachside restaurant after soaking up the sun, a pair of denim shorts with sandals or flip-flops are the right move.
As for accessories, you want to always choose items that will help protect your face from the sun’s rays. You can achieve this with a wide-brimmed straw hat and some oversized sunglasses. In terms of jewelry, minimalist gold pieces like small hoops or a dainty anklet pair well with the linen and neutral-toned swimsuit. Finish the look with a canvas tote bag where you can store your beach read, towel, and sunscreen.
The Boho Beach Goddess: Relaxed and Free-Spirited
If you love effortless, flowy fabrics and earthy tones, the bohemian beach vibe is your go-to style. Start with a textured swimwear piece like a crochet bikini or one-piece. On top, you can throw on a flowing maxi dress or some wide-leg pants to keep with the relaxed and comfortable vibe. For your feet, you can tie on some strappy leather sandals or go barefoot if you feel like it. Natural materials like leather and earthy tones like green, brown, and tan complement the boho look.
To keep with the bohemian vibe, accessories like wooden bangles, round sunglasses, and head scarves are a good choice. Woven beach bags and totes blend well with textured swimsuits and flowy clothing and can fit all of your beach essentials. For jewelry, throw on some layered beaded or shell necklaces to add variety to the look.
The Sporty Beach Babe: Active and Practical
For those who are planning to stay active at the beach by playing some volleyball or going on a barefoot run amongst the waves, your look should be functional yet stylish. A sporty one-piece that holds you together is great for activities like running while a high-neck bikini acts like a good sports bra by offering support for playing volleyball or spikeball on the beach. If you are trying to avoid a bad sunburn, a rash guard or cropped wetsuit top will keep you covered, no matter how hot it gets. If the sand is too hot for barefoot play, some waterproof slides are the perfect footwear both in and out of the water.
To pair sun protection and sporty functionality, invest in a pair of polarized sunglasses with a strap to keep them on your face while you play. A waterproof baseball cap will keep your eyes out of the sun and prevent your scalp from going red. Finish the look with a waterproof fanny pack and smartwatch so you can safely store all of your essentials and track your exercise.
The Glam Beach Diva: Luxe and Instagram-Ready
For those who are at the beach to turn heads and do nothing but lounge on a reclined chair, a glamorous look is the one for you. If you don’t plan on going in the water, you can be a bit more adventurous with your outfit, going for a bold-colored or metallic swimsuit paired with a sheer or silk cover-up. If you want to wear bottoms, a pair of high-waisted palazzo pants that make a statement. For the feet, go bold with a pair of platform sandals or embellished slides, adding a luxurious touch.
Sunglasses are an essential part of the luxe beach look and the bigger the better. A pair of oversized designer sunglasses with matching chunky hoop earrings and stacked rings show that you are there to show off your bling. As for your bag, a structured tote that can fit a big water bottle and snacks to munch on throughout the day elevates the look while still being functional.
The Retro Beach Beauty: Vintage-Inspired and Playful
If you love vintage fashion, channeling a retro beach vibe is a stylish way to stand out. Start with a 1950s-inspired high-waisted bikini with a polka dot or striped print. These classic patterns add a nostalgic touch and will bring countless Beach Boys songs to mind. Layered on top, a retro denim romper with a matching belt will allow you to continue your plans into the evening long after the sun goes down. Some peep-toe sandals allow your feet to breathe while completing the retro look.
To tap into the style of the 1950s and 60s, a pair of cat-eye sunglasses go great with a big floppy hat. These items are not only stylish but will keep you from getting burnt as you lay in the sun all day. Pearl earrings and necklaces keep the look delicate and really tap into the glamour of a time past. Finish off the look with bright red lipstick and some winged eyeliner.
The Tropical Queen: Vibrant and Playful
This last look is for those who love wearing bright colors and bold prints at the beach. If being by the water immediately puts you in a tropical mood, this look is for you. Start off with a floral or palm-print bikini or anything that feels remotely tropical. For the next layer, a sarong or wrap skirt work as colorful and versatile beachwear staples. Ruffled or off-shoulder tops add a playful and feminine touch. A pair of colorful flip-flops bring the look together and will keep your feet off of the hot sand.
To accessorize, try a pair of brightly colored statement earrings and a beaded or floral hair clip. Color-tinted sunglasses go well with all of the other colors in your ensemble and you can add a tropical-themed tote bag to match. Get a colorful manicure before your beach vacation so that everyone knows you are serious about the tropical theme.
Remember that the beach is almost always scorching hot, so choose breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, and crochet to keep you cool, no matter what style you choose. The sun on your skin may feel nice, but it will not stay that way if you neglect to reapply your sunscreen. Always keep a tube in your beach tote bag so that you don’t end up looking like your lobster dinner.
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