beach trip fashion style

19 Incredibly Stylish Beach Outfits for Women to Wear This Summer

Chic dresses, easy shorts and fun matching sets you'll want to wear on a hot day.

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If you're looking to put together a cute beach outfit that can easily take you from your towel to the town, we've got you covered. Whether you love to wear dresses, prefer all-black to color, or prefer to just throw a cute sarong over your bikini, there are so many ways to put together a cute and easy outfit for the beach. One trend you'll want to watch: Matchy-matchy looks are back in vogue, and we guarantee it's a style that will have you swimming in compliments all summer long. So grab your favorite sun hat, throw some sunscreen in your beach bag , and check out these stylish beach outfits for women (including affordable fashion from Amazon !).

Torrid Button-Up Shirt

Pair this cute top from plus-size fashion mecca Torrid with a pair of shorts and you're ready to head out to dinner post-beach.

SHEIN Triangle Bikini Swimsuit With Cover Up Set

Monochromatic looks are still on-trend and aren't going anywhere. This bikini with matching pants and jacket will turn heads for sure.

SHEIN Hollow Out Dress

Add fun a flair to your beach look with a mesh dress, available in this cute white, or black for those who like a darker palette.

Raviya Printed Cover-Up Dress

Move over floral print, animal print is making a comeback and this maxi cover-up dress is just what you need to spice up your bikini.

Becca Becca Ponza Jumpsuit

If you want to boost your beach wear wardrobe, but don't want to break the bank, this jumpsuit is for you. Not only does it work as a cover up, but it can also be worn to dinner.

Nina Parker Crochet Slit-Front Skirt and Top

The Nina Parker collection always brings some on the best plus-size looks including this matching crochet slit-front skirt and top (sold separately).

Ekouaer Beach Dress

A loose-fitting dress is always a quick and easy option to throw over your swimsuit. Wear this lightweight dress with sandals or pair them with sneakers, the versatile piece can be worn into the night.

ZESICA Ruffle Maxi Dress

The maxi dress is a summer staple, and when getting ready for a day at the beach, you can't go wrong with a simple option.

Torrid Strapless Dress

Bright, simple dresses are ideal for the summer heat. Pair this with a simple pair of sandals or a cute sun hat , and you have a stylish and comfortable outfit that is perfect for lounging on the beach in something other than your swimsuit.

madewell Pull-On Balloon Jeans

It may come as a surprise, but loose fitting boyfriend jeans are a great beach option. They are light weight, easy to slide on and off, and match everything. Whether you wear them with a cute tank , or just your bathing suit top, loose jeans are a beach staple.

Billabong Puff Sleeve Minidress

Floral prints will be everywhere. Join the fun trend with an extra bold, extra cute dress like this.

R.Vivimos Half-Sleeve Cotton Ruffled Maxi Dress

Who doesn't love ruffled dresses? They are flattering on everyone, and a lightweight dress like this one is a great option for anything from a beach picnic to a beach bonfire. If you're looking for something more colorful, it comes in 14 additional colors.

Summersalt The Beach to Brunch Wrap Skirt

The sarong is beach must-have, and this takes it to the next level. Give this classic a twist by opting for a fun pattern or color.

Eloquii Printed Wide Leg Pant

The elastic waist and easy, wide-leg fit make these pants perfect for a day at the beach. There's a matching cami top to help you complete the look.

Zella Gwen Ponte Knit Romper

We all know a day of fun in the sun can be hot, and while sometimes we wish we could run around in our birthday suit, that's not allowed. But, we can wear the next best thing: a tank-style romper that will look cute and feel like it's barley there.

Verdusa Sleeveless Slit-Back Tank Dress

Raise your hand if you like to wear black no matter the season or activity. If this is you, a simple midi dress like this one is meant for you. The tank style top will help you avoid overheating in the sun!

Begonia.K Sheer Duster Cardigan

With a simple duster jacket, you can keep your swimsuit style strong while still having something to throw on when the ocean breeze gives you a chill.

Signature by Levi Strauss & Co. Gold Label Mid-Rise Bermuda Shorts

Another timeless summer classic is denim cut-offs, and these Bermuda ones give this classic a nice update.

BILLABONG Wild Pursuit Overalls

Throw these lightweight cotton blend overalls on over your bikini and you're ready to go.

Raena Loper (she/her) is a fashion journalist and product analyst based in New Jersey whose work has appeared in Forbes, Good Housekeeping and O, The Oprah Magazine. Raena is a graduate from Montclair State University where she earned a degree in fashion studies as well as gender, sexuality and women's studies. In her free time, she enjoys sewing, cooking BBQ and spending time with family. 

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10 Beach Outfits to Wear All Summer

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.

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These 22 Dinner Date Outfit Ideas Will Make You Look Put-Together in Minutes

Dion Lamar Mills for Byrdie

Whether you love a casual evening or an all-out affair, dinner dates are an amazing way to spend quality time with loved ones and build both new and old connections. While drinks and coffee are solid for a first meetup , by date two or three, we're all ready to bring on the food—and with the slightly more involved plans comes the need for the ideal outfit. Luckily, having a lineup of looks for dinner dates doesn't have to be hard, and we have a plethora of outfit formulas at the ready to help you quickly put a look together for any restaurant or occasion. Ahead, see 22 straightforward and intentional dinner date outfit ideas , complete with tips from a fashion expert.

Meet the Expert

• Kate Bellman is the fashion editorial content director at Nordstrom . She has decades of experience in styling, e-commerce, and trend direction.

What to Consider

When determining the best dinner date outfit, the venue, vibe, and season should always be top considerations. If you're looking to dress up for a special occasion, a classic LBD and heels are sure to have you looking and feeling your most confident. For a first date, an elevated top and jeans are foolproof, whether you’re wearing flats or a sweet pair of kitten heels . In the colder months, a sweater dress and statement jewelry will help your look feel intentional while you stay bundled up. For a casual meetup with friends or family, you can also embrace laid-back pieces like a cozy sweater, loose-fitting jumpsuit, or sneakers. No matter which direction you go with your dinner date outfit, the key is mixing in a polished addition, be it a fun pair of earrings or a cool bag. 

Creating a Dinner Date Outfit Formula

Outfit formulas and of-the-moment pieces are perfect for anyone looking to make a splash with their dinner date outfit. Retro-inspired looks from the '80s, '90s, and aughts continue to be popular, from ballet flats to cropped boxy blazers to playful denim moments. "We’re currently in the midst of the romantic trend, which by name alone is perfect to infuse into dinner date outfits," says Nordstrom editorial content director Kate Bellman.

Highlighting romantic tops and dresses as essential pieces, Bellman says details like voluminous and billowing sleeves, delicate necklines, and blooming floral prints lend themselves to dinner date attire. "You can style it as casual or dressed up as the occasion calls for, such as a beautiful, romantic top pared back with jeans, or go all in [by] pairing it with a full skirt and heels," she says.

According to Bellman, creating unexpected styling juxtapositions is another way to make a standout dinner date outfit. "There are so many dynamic outfit combos to make the romantic trend relevant for all types of dates," she tells Byrdie. "With the romantic dress as the anchor, there are endless combos to carry it from winter to spring, snow to sun, and intimate evenings for two to a summer wedding." Among her favorite styling ideas: Mixing a dress with a long, textural cardigan and lug sole Chelsea boots for a cozy winter date night, or dressing up your look with strappy sandals and a bold lip look for a wedding date . 

To inspire your next dinner date ensemble, keep scrolling for 22 outfit formulas we love , from cute and casual to dialed all the way up. 

A Romantic Top, Jeans, and a Bag

For a look that’s sweet yet casual, you can’t go wrong with a puff-sleeve top, straight-leg jeans, and a pearl-adorned bag. We love how the neutral palette here allows the silhouettes and details to take center stage.

A Mini Dress, Platform Sneakers, and Chunky Hoops

Offset a sweet, airy mini dress with platform sneakers for an easygoing yet romantic dinner al fresco. Finish the look with chunky hoops for a sleek, classic touch. 

A Fitted Turtleneck, Printed Pants, and Heeled Ankle Boots

A cold-weather dinner date can be tricky to dress for, but a fitted turtleneck, printed pants, and heeled ankle boots are the secret to stellar style. Just add your favorite outerwear plus whatever statement accessories make you feel most confident.

A Romantic Dress, Strappy Sandals, and Statement Earrings

A romantic midi dress is perfect for a dinner date on a warm evening. Opt for strappy sandals and a pair of statement earrings to beautifully enhance the design without taking away from it.  

A Fitted Knit Top, Trousers, and Flats

Trousers and flats are a solid go-to dinner date outfit for any time of year. We love an off-white pair with a fitted knit top tucked in and ballet mules to finish in warmer weather. 

A Sweater Dress, Earrings, and Kitten Heels

A sweater dress is the ultimate dinner date look when there’s a chill in the air. Boots and tights are essential in fall and winter, but come spring, kitten heels and sculptural hoops feel fresh. 

A Cropped Cardigan, Leather Pants, and Gold Earrings

Leather pants are a mainstay when it comes to dinner date outfits. For a subtly nostalgic take, opt for a colorful pair with a shrunken cardigan top and chunky gold earrings.

A Midi Moment and Lace-Up Heels

Whether with a dress, skirt, or coordinating set, a midi silhouette pairs beautifully with lace-up heels for a romantic dinner date ensemble. A square-toe shoe design feels modern, be it a sky-high stiletto or dainty kitten heel.  

A Bodysuit, Trousers, and a Statement Bag

The easiest way to make a pair of trousers feel dinner date-appropriate? Pairing them with a bodysuit, of course. We love a low scoop back for a subtly sensual feel. 

A White T-Shirt, Slip Skirt, and a Chain Necklace

It's more than possible to make a white T-shirt feel dressed-up enough for a dinner date outfit. Team your favorite with a slinky slip skirt and chain-link necklace for one of the easiest formulas ever.

A Leather Blazer, Trousers, and Loafers

A tailored look with subtle edge is a solid choice for a wide range of dinner dates, whether you're going to a business function or need a confidence boost as you head out to meet someone new. Pair black trousers with a leather blazer, then tie the look together with coordinating platform loafers and whatever accessories feel best to you.

A Bold Cardigan, Lug Sole Boots, and Jeans

A rainy day doesn’t have to call for canceled plans. Instead, reach for a statement cardigan to pair with your favorite jeans and a glossy pair of patent leather boots—and don't forget your umbrella. 

A Leather Dress, Simple Heels, and Earrings

A leather mini dress is a fun, sassy choice for dinner date, whether you're meeting up with your S.O. or a group of friends. It’s an edgier look, so streamline the rest via simple sandals and sleek hoops. 

A Tank Top, Pretty Shorts, and Mules

There’s nothing better than swishy, light-as-air fabric for a dinner date in the heat. Pair some floaty shorts with a basic tank and a statement pair of mules for an effortlessly cool summer ensemble.

A Cropped Blazer, Slouchy Jeans, and Heels

Blazers are a constant staple with so many ways to style them, and the cropped variety is it this season. Team yours with a loose-fitting pair of straight-leg jeans and minimalist heels for a stylish offset. 

A Midi Dress, Tall Boots, and Earrings

Transition your favorite summer dress to fall by pairing it with tall leather boots instead of sandals. It’s an easy-to-wear formula that effortlessly goes from your workday to dinner.  

A Matching Set and a Statement Bag

Whether for vacation or balmy summer nights, a matching set is a heat-proof take on dinner date attire. Keep the outfit formula simple with a sleek, structured bag and your footwear of choice, be it sneakers, sandals, or high heels. 

A Chunky Sweater, Jeans, and Delicate Chain

It couldn't be easier to make a chunky sweater and jeans feel appropriate for date night when you opt for an off-the-shoulder silhouette. Draw attention to your neckline by mixing in a delicate chain. 

A Playful Top, Long Denim Shorts, and Slides

A summer dinner date with friends is the time to showcase your spirited side, like with a bold, mixed-print peplum top. Long denim cut-offs and simple slides are cool offsets, which you can further enhance with ultra-delicate jewelry. 

A Jumpsuit, Necklace, and a Bag

A comfortable jumpsuit makes for an effortless dinner date outfit with the help of a modern chain necklace and bag. This one features pretty puffed sleeves for a romantic moment, plus the unique take on denim feels right on trend.

A Crop Top, Wide Leg Pants, and a Shirt Jacket

A bralette-style crop top and wide leg pants are an ideal beach day outfit but trickier to take to dinner in town. The solution? Add an on-trend shirt jacket worn open, whether you’re dressing the look up with heels or keeping it low-key in slides. 

A Blouse, Capris, and Sambas

Capris are back , so next time you have a laid-back dinner date on a warmer day, take the nostalgic trend for a spin in tandem with pieces that lean into the retro-meets-modern feel. Here, a lightweight blouse and Sambas elevate denim capris in an unforgettable street style way.

Lead image wardrobe provided by  Rue Stiic and  ByFar .

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How Fashion Girls Are Packing for Their Beach Vacations

Now that the official start of summer is on the horizon—with things reopening and the temperatures and humidity only rising—it's likely you have one thing on your mind: the beach . Whether you live in a place where the sandy shore is only a drive away or you're planning to head to a tropical destination, having a full stock of stylish beach outfits on hand is always a good idea.

When you're dressing to bask in the sunlight or enjoy a seaside campfire on top of the sandy beaches, it's tempting to wear your most casual items (e.g., shorts and a tank top). However, if you've been in the mood to up your beach game, we've rounded up the chicest beach-ready ensembles that don't feel overdone. Scroll down to see them all for yourself, and then add the looks to your wardrobe for your next trip to the waterfront.

Style Tip: Throw a long, flowing maxi dress over your swimsuit when you're headed to and from the beach.

One classic cover-up, right this way.

Le Specs can do no wrong when it comes to eyewear.

Style Tip: For a look that feels more elevated than your average T-shirt and shorts, opt for a printed button-down with long denim shorts and heeled thong sandals.

Thong sandals are having a major moment this year.

It doesn't get more beach appropriate than this.

Style Tip: Looking for a cool way to cover up your swimsuit? Sport a one-piece with snake-print pants.

We're still not over cool prints.

This bodysuit is so simple yet so chic.

Style Tip: For the moments when you need a little more coverage, layer a button-down shirt with a tropical print over your swimwear look.

Because who wouldn't want to wear a tropical shirt to the beach?

A stunning one-piece is always a great idea.

Style Tip: If you're taking a casual stroll along the beach, opt for comfortable wide-leg trousers and a button-down shirt.

These can be worn on and off the beach.

Style this buttoned, or leave it open over your swimsuit.

Style Tip: Believe it or not, bucket hats are still big for 2021, and they're perfect for the beach. Wear yours for additional protection while you're on the shore.

We love this version of the bucket hat.

There's a reason It girls can't stop wearing this top from Réalisation.

Style Tip: When you aren't right on the beach soaking up the sun, wear a one-shoulder top with a knit skirt for a dressier evening ensemble.

Replace your classic tank tops with this one-shoulder version.

We've said it before, and we'll say it again: Midi skirts are the most comfortable way to add instant polish to any look.

Style Tip: Bask in the sunlight in a chic gingham skirt and an easy top.

Let's be honest: Gingham print for the oceanside will never get old.

Red sweaters don't seem to be slowing down one bit.

Style Tip: A knit skirt is the perfect way to dress up a beach ensemble that feels comfortable and polished.

Trust us—you won't ever want to take off this cotton tee.

A comfortable skirt that feels ready for a party.

Style Tip: A lightweight dress is the perfect easy, breezy piece to throw on over your swimsuit while you're running to and from the beach.

This is essential for the days that are too hot to handle.

Who would have thought that minimalist flip-flops could feel so chic?

Style Tip: For a French-girl take on beach ensembles, wear a striped button-down shirt with denim shorts and classic low-heel shoes.

Classic jean shorts for a classic warm-weather look.

Without a doubt, you can wear this with literally everything.

Style Tip: An unexpected but undeniably chic way to style your swimsuit on your next vacation is with a cool blazer and minimalist mules.

Whether you wear it to the beach or to dinner, this will be one of your best sartorial investments yet.

You won't be able to get over how versatile these heels are.

Style Tip: A tried-and-true beach outfit will always include comfortable pieces like a T-shirt and drawstring shorts.

Dress this casual top up or down for all of your everyday affairs.

Lounging by the beach can't get any better when you're wearing these.

Up next:  Non-Scary Bikinis Exist, and I Found Them

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Home » Style Guides » 21 Cute Beach Outfits for Your Summer Outfit Inspiration

21 Cute Beach Outfits for Your Summer Outfit Inspiration

Summer Beach Outfits

Ready for some fun in the sun?

It’s time to start planning your summer beach outfits. Whether you are going on a beach vacation, beach date, or just spending a lazy listening to the waves crash on the shore. I’ve put together a long list of stylish and cute beach outfits that will give you some ideas for various beach events and activities so you will know what to wear to the beach!

Beach outfits that are a little dressy are great for dates at the beach or beach events like a concert or evening cocktail gathering. Casual beach outfits are for those days when you want to go to the beach but not get into the water because you’re admiring it from afar. You could be enjoying a good book or just hanging out with friends. Then there are those cute beach outfits that you would wear at beaches in California walking the boardwalk in Santa Monica or Venice Beach.

Continue reading to get some beach outfit inspiration and style tips, so next time you go to the beach, you know what outfit to wear.

For each of the following 21 cute beach outfits, I share one outfit photos and a little explanation about the outfit, if you want to see more pics from that specific outfit click on the image.

3 Steps to Putting Together a Cute Beach Outfit

When it comes to cute beach outfits, the options are endless so start by narrowing your choices down to the occasion. What you wear to the beach with your friends on the weekend will be entirely different from what you wear to the beach for a cocktail event. Appropriate attire will not only help you look stylish, but it’s also respectful to the person putting on the event.

After identifying the occasion, it’s time to decide what type of outfit you want to wear. Do you want to look classically chic, boho, young, sexy? What do you want your beach outfit to say about you? Because our clothes speak for us before we do, you want to make sure you’re getting the right message across.

The last component in putting together your perfect beach outfit is the actual items themselves and making sure they all go together to create a stylish and cute beach outfit. Read this post on How to Look Stylish Everyday – Your 5 Step Checklist for tips on how to put together a balanced outfit. If you’re going to the beach for a dinner date, you most likely want to look stylish but still keep the beach vibe in your look.

For example, in the beach outfit below I paired a printed chiffon maxi dress in blue and white with a pair of blue wedges and a matching handbag. I kept the beachy essence by selecting a thin fabric, a fun print, light colors, and coordinated my accessories to the occasion.

The 21 beach outfits below cover a variety of looks for different occasions. These outfits are not just bikinis or dresses. I wanted to make sure this resource is something you could use when you need a dressy beach outfit or something to wear strolling the boardwalk. These do include some beach outfit essentials like a pretty beach coverup, a stylish hat, super cute sandals, and of course sexy swimsuit!

Use these beach outfit ideas for your inspiration, a jumping off point in putting together your outfit.

21 Cute Beach Outfits for Your Inspiration

1. beach vacation outfit.

This is a beach outfit I wore in Mexico during our vacation. So for this beach vacation outfit, the accessories were a must, hat, and sunnies for sun protection because the sun rays were intense. The simple breezy top has little patterned details which match the style of the bracelets I’m wearing. Simple green classic chino shorts, the chino shorts I’m wearing are from J.Crew , and a boho bag completes this beach outfit.

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2. boho beach outfit.

For your time in the sun, nothing beats a bikini but if you want to add some pizazz and make it extra boho add a flowy floral beach coverup, beaded accessories and a hat. The floral embroidery matches the floral pattern on the coverup which helps create a cohesive beach look. The coverup I’m wearing this beach outfit is from Sole Society if you’re looking for something cute and affordable they have a lot of great options.

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3. summer beach outfit.

This summer beach outfit has one piece that I love wearing in the summer, white shorts! This summer beach outfit can go from brunch to a bike ride to the beach, all in the same day. Under the beautiful blue spaghetti strap shirt, I wore a yellow bikini if I get the itch to take a dip in the ocean! The hat is a must to protect your hair and face from the sun, and the bracelets add a bit more color for fun. You could opt for denim white shorts but I prefer shorts that are a little more laid-back and loose. I’ve rounded up some options below this outfit pic!

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4. bright summer bikini.

For a day spent on the sand, this tie-dye bikini with denim shorts is the perfect combo. Remove the shorts if you are tanning so you don’t get the crazy tan line. I like to add on a pair of shorts for those transition periods. Walking from the car to the beach, the beach to lunch, from the beach to grab a cocktail, etc. Add in matching bracelets and a sun hat, and you’re ready for the sunshine.

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5. summer date outfit.

Do you have a romantic summer date coming up? Or are you planning on having a nice date with your significant other during your vacation? This calls for a summer date outfit! Make sure this beach outfit is a little dressy, cute, and flirty. For this summer date outfit, I wore an off-the-shoulder dress, some cute strappy sandals, a fringe bucket bag, and a hat! This is an outfit I wore on our vacation to Mexico, in the Riviera Maya.

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6. wear a mismatched bikini.

Wearing a mismatched bikini is not just because you forgot to pack to correct combo, it’s a cute and fun way to get more use out of your bikinis and create cute and unexpected combinations. I love to mix it up with beachwear, and this is the perfect example. The frilly style of the top is completely different from the traditional material and wrap bottom bikini. You can mix solid colors, like I do here, or have one piece be print and one solid. You can even mix prints if they are done right to create a unique beach outfit!

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7. cute vacation outfit.

I love this beach outfit because of the array of blues and fun prints. If you have not noticed yet, you will, that my favorite color is blue and that is also one of my favorite colors to wear to the beach. The two distinct patterns work so well together because they are in the same color scheme. This outfit is the perfect example of mixing prints and creating somewhat of a monochromatic look . I’ve decided to add a little more pattern to this outfit with the striped shoulder bag! To complete this cute vacation outfit, my hair has the cute beach waves look. You could also braid your hair which would be great to keep your hair out of your face and braids also look very cute at the beach! If you need braid ideas view 21 Braids for Long Hair with Step by Step Tutorials !

8. Simple Summer Outfit

What is more simple and stylish than wearing a beautiful printed dress in the summer. This is a great example of a simple summer outfit with a beach vibe, with the vibrant blues reminiscent of the sea and sky. I’ve paired a blue print dress, with blue wedge sandals, a fedora, and a lightweight denim jacket. Perfect for a summer date, girls brunch, romantic beach dinner, or even a beach party.

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9. summer bikini.

Everyone has their idea of the perfect summer bikini, and this one is mine. I like that the top is a bit different, while the bottoms are classic. It’s comfortable, wears well in the water, and looks good under a beach cover-up! I know this is simple but I say it still counts as a beach outfit.

10. Beach Party Outfit

Do you need to wear a beach outfit that is a little more dressed up? Why not opt for a maxi dress! A maxi dress is a great example of stylish beach attire. A beach maxi dress can be dressed up with heels or depending on the length of the dress you could wear cute flat sandals. I love this Donna Morgan dress, it’s got a beachy vibe but is classic in style with accordion pleating and the stark white top. Think about trying a dress with an ikat print, floral, tie-dye or stripe!

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11. cali girl beach look.

Are you going paddleboarding along the California coast? Or hanging at a SoCal beach like Venice, Santa Monica, or somewhere in San Diego? Opt for easy going beach attire and if you think your beach outfit is too relaxed then you’re probably right doing it right. I’m wearing a black print bikini with acrylic detailing on the straps, brightly colored shorts and, of course, a California Love tank (from Billabong).

12. Beach Cover-up Beach Attire

Wondering what to wear to the beach? Why not a maxi beach cover-up! This is a simple, sexy and stylish beach option if you want to show off your bikini but still feel like you need something for a little coverage. To be honest, I love beach cover-ups , they are such an easy way to look dress and feel appropriate when walking around or just hanging out by the hotel beach lounge. Make sure to put on sunscreen! This type of material will not provide protection from the sun, so keep slathering on that sunscreen so you don’t end up with weird tan lines.

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13. simple summer outfit.

If lying on the sand is not the primary activity you will be doing for your beach day then you’ll need a beach outfit that is a little more versatile and appropriate for strolling the beachside stores eating at a restaurant. Opt for beach attire that is comfortable for exploring; like many of my cute beach outfits, one my favorite item is white shorts! In this beach look, I paired the white shorts with a chambray top, printed Sperry Top-Sider shoes, hat, and a denim jacket in case it got cold in the evening.

14. Cute Beach Look

This is a beach outfit I wore while exploring Santa Monica Beach in California. (If you planning to visit this California beach make sure to read my guide: The Best Things to Do in Santa Monica & Venice Beach .) In this cute beach outfit, I paired a printed tank top with crochet shorts, a lightweight cropped jacket, and sandals.

15. Cute Beach Outfit Idea

Like I mentioned above, I love a beautiful beach coverup and this is one of my favorite. A crochet beach romper to wear over your bikini is just stylish enough and also very different and stylish beach outfit!

16. Classic Beach Attire

Reminiscent of the Breton sailors of old, this blue-and-white striped tee is a classic item you can wear to the beach! While I paired this striped shirt with crochet shorts you can easily wear it with denim, linen or chino shorts. I added a pair of fun sandals to bring some color to this outfit and a hat for sun protection!

17. Transitional Summer Beach Outfit

Do you want to go from the beach to a restaurant to boutique shopping then to the beach again? Then a transitional beach outfit like this would be a great option. I’m wearing a beautiful one-piece swimsuit and wore denim shorts over it. So when I want to jump in the water I just remove the shorts, cute sandals, and hat. I dry off in the summer sun and then put everything back on and I’m ready to go! This also saves you from having to find a place to change.

18. Cute Outfit With Shorts

For a cute summer outfit with shorts go casual and relaxed with neutrals. For this cute outfit, I a classic denim jacket with a white linen tank top, white shorts, and the only color comes from the sandals. This cute summer outfit works for a weekend hanging out with friends or just enjoying the view with a drink in hand!

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19. wear a bikini as a top.

If you have a very pretty bikini top that could pass off as a cut off shirt then wear it as one! In this outfit, I wore a bikini top as a shirt because I really loved the relaxed and pretty style of it. I paired it with forest green chino shorts, a denim jacket, and a cute striped bucket bag.

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20. stylish beach vacation outfit.

I love stylish beach attire and summer beach vacation clothing is the best! This is where you can really have fun with your beach outfits! You’re on vacation! I love experimenting with different styles of beach coverups and this printed one is so much fun! The knotted ends and crazy print really adds character to this outfit!

21. Miami Beach Attire

One of the most well-known beaches in the world! Miami beach! Who doesn’t get excited just thinking about this epic beach vacation! This is an outfit I wore while in Miami and yes a beach coverup is a necessity! I tanned on my first day there and need this printed coverup to protect me from the sunrays! As I mentioned in my previous outfits, have fun with your beach coverup!

Stay Stylish at the Beach!

I hope this style guide has given you plenty of ideas on what to wear to the beach! From cute vacation outfits to looks for a date night at the beach, let these outfit ideas serve as your inspiration! Deciding on your beach attire doesn’t have to be difficult. Remember the three steps I mentioned at the start of this post and go from there.

Stay Stylish, -V

P.S. In case this post didn’t leave you yearning for the summer and some fun times at the beach, check out these beach quotes and bookmark it for when you need some clever quotes for you Instagram post!

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You may also like, the penny loafer: a guide to wearing this classic shoe, a valentine’s day outfit for every occasion, three ways to style sneakers, 4 wine tasting outfits you’ll love, rachel frampton.

I’m planning to go to the beach next month, which is why I’m currently looking for fashion ideas that could be worn on this trip. Well, I agree with you that it would be best to mix a solid color bikini with a plain one. One more thing, maybe a cute seashell pendant would match my cute outfits as well.

Manvir Chahal

Hello mam, may i know about the navy blue off shoulder dress. I am going for a beach vacation and i wish to buy it.

Myfashionagent

I love FUN WITH PRINT dresses…..In your website all dresses are wonderful and Nice.

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Headed On Holiday? 8 Must-Pack Vacation Style Essentials

By Madeline Fass

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You have your plane tickets secured and hotels reserved , and now what’s left is the question of what to pack. Planning what to wear on vacation can actually be a fun task, knowing that there are lots of resort-ready accessories , dresses , and swimsuits made for a summer holiday . Plus, a last-minute buy means you have something new and exciting to bring along with you.

Tropical destinations and beach getaways require little clothing, but the following items make up a solid list of vacation essentials. You’ll want at least one resort-ready dress that you can wear to cocktails and dinner but also to the beach with sandy hair and flip-flops. Items that provide sun protection are key—a shady hat , a beach cover-up , and of course, a daily SPF for starters. An accessory (or two!) that will instantly activate your vacation mode and that you can wear with everything you’ve packed, say a pair of woven slides or an earring made out of a seashell, and of course, a practical but cute carryall to stash all of your beachy belongings into.

Look to the below for the ultimate packing guide for this summer’s holidays, tropical getaways, and relaxing retreats , and as a one-stop-shop for all of your vacation style needs.

Resort-Ready Dresses

Bring the relaxed vacation mindset to your wardrobe with one-and-done dresses that require little to no thought.

Johanna Ortiz Transit of Venus tie waist midi-dress

SAKS FIFTH AVENUE

A.L.C. Kai pleated maxi dress

Christopher Esber open-knit maxi dress

NET-A-PORTER

Rhode Madeline linen dress

ELYSE WALKER

Sand and Sea Sandals

Shoes that go with everything in your vacation capsule wardrobe, from neutral espadrille flats to cushy slide sandals.

Tory Burch Eleanor raffia kitten heels

Lafayette 148 grained calfskin leather slip-on espadrilles

LAFAYETTE 148

Khaite Venice sandals

A.Emery Nolan sandals

Beach Bound Bags

You’ll need something you can carry at the beach, on day trips, and out to dinner.

Loewe Paula's Ibiza confetti small basket tote

Zara beaded shoulder bag

Heimat Atlantica Chacha large rattan tote bag

MATCHESFASHION.COM

Muuñ Sophie leather-trim basket bag

Island-Inspired Jewelry

Look to shell necklaces and beaded baubles to transform any ordinary dress or swimsuit into an extraordinary resort-ready ensemble.

Lizzie Fortunato Clement convertible necklace

Marni fish charm-detail earrings

Catbird turbo shell earrings

Zimmermann charm anklet

Destination-Worthy Swimwear

No matter where your travel plans take you, there’s sure to be the perfect swimsuit for the destination.

Ganni crochet high-neck bikini top and string bikini bottom

Alexandra Miro Clara gingham swimsuit

Johanna Ortiz Unbroken cut-out swimsuit

Araks Quinn bikini top and Veronica bikini bottom

Paradise-Found Pareos and Cover-ups

Be it a sarong, caftan, or dress; it’s best to have at least one item you can use as a cover-up in your suitcase.

Louisa Ballou Aura floral-print cotton-blend kaftan

Caravana Tuznik leather-trimmed fringed cotton-gauze pareo

Matteau printed silk-georgette pareo

Dries Van Noten cotton voile long kaftan

BERGDORF GOODMAN

On-Holiday Beauty Heroes

Your on-vacation beauty routine should be simple, sun-kissed, and stress-free. Just don’t forget SPF.

Shiseido clear sunscreen stick SPF 50+

Merit Beauty Brow 1980

MERIT BEAUTY

Ilia super serum skin tint SPF 40

Soleil Toujours aloe antioxidant calming mist

BLOOMINGDALE'S

Tropical Toppers

Keep the sun out of your eyes and accessorize your beach vacation look at the same time.

Prada logo striped raffia bucket hat

Janessa Leone Franco packable hat

JANESSA LEONE

Cos straw sun hat

Tory Burch straw crochet short-brim bucket hat

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15+ Beach Vacation Outfit Ideas

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I recently got back from a dreamy getaway to South America. I took some time over my holiday vacation to unplug and reconnect with my family, and let me say, it was much needed. It’s crazy how much good can come out of a change in scenery, and it was just the way I had hoped to end one year and start another.

Truthfully, adjusting back to the freezing cold and snowy weather in Indianapolis has been challenging to say the least. I know that as a whole, the temperatures around the U.S. are pretty brutal right now, which has me and many of you guys lusting after a warm-weather trip .

Whether you have a spring vacation planned or you’re simply dreaming of more comfortable days, I thought I’d put together some beach vacation outfit ideas for you. All of these pieces are versatile enough to wear regardless of the destination you’re heading to (even if it’s just your neighborhood pool once summer hits .)

Here’s to sunnier days ahead!

Beach Vacation Outfit Ideas

Beach vacation outfit #1.

If you’ve followed me for a while now, then you have likely caught on to the fact that I am a big neutral girly. I love classic looks that focus on black and white pieces because they have a high-end, elevated feel.

When packing for a beach vacation, it’s important to consider how many ways you can wear each piece of clothing you bring. For example, can you throw your coverup on over your swimsuit but also wear it as a dress to dinner?

By sticking with simple colors, you increase your ability to mix and match things (which, hint, hint, means more room in your luggage for souvenir shopping.)

Beach Vacation Outfit #2

Don’t underestimate the wear you’ll get out of timeless and simple pieces, like this black fringe dress . This pretty dress could easily be worn to a nice dinner or happy hour yet could also be styled in a more relaxed and casual way. Swapping out heels for sandals is one example of how you could dress it down, or opting for a beach tote rather than a dainty clutch .

p.s. A beach vacation is the perfect time to play around with fun prints and patterns, like on this shirtdress .

What I Wore on My Latest Trip

Obviously no beach trip is complete without a good variety of swimsuits, and because they’re so compact, it’s easy to get away with packing many! I personally love and most often wear swimsuits from the brand Hunza G.

They’re so comfortable and are made with quality that’s hard to beat. Not to mention they are super cute, whether you’re a one-piece gal or you prefer a bikini (I’m totally obsessed with this bubblegum pink find .)

Hunza G Bikini Set

Hunza G Domino One Piece

Hunza G Square Neck One Piece

Another non-negotiable for me? A cute yet practical sun hat.

If you plan on spending any time on the sand or in the water, then you definitely don’t want to forget bringing a hat (sun protection is an essential part of skincare!)

The two I linked below were on heavy rotation for me throughout my trip, and I plan on wearing them a lot in the spring and summer.

Straw Boater Hat

Straw Bucket Hat

Is it just me or does it feel like cover-ups are the ideal choice to lounge around in during a vacation? They’re comfortable, easy to slip into, and they are practical—three major wins in my book.

To get the most bang for your buck, go with a cover-up that’s plain and simple—one you can wear over and over throughout the years.

I love this cream v-neck find and think the front slit adds such a flirty, feminine vibe. Prefer a skirt cover-up? This one will never go out of style.

Down the Line Cover Up

Havaianas Flip Flops

Adrift Midi Dress

Bright Dress

Just like bold, fun patterns are on-trend for beach vacations, so are bright and unexpected colors. During my trip, I got so many questions about this vibrant blue dress that I just had to include it in this post. It works just as well as a cover-up as it does for going out.

This exact dress is currently on sale (snag your size while you can!) but there are plenty of options in other colors if blue isn’t your thing.

Oversized Boyfriend Shirtdress

Matching Set

When you’re in the mood to wear something comfy but you don’t want to lounge around in your cover-up anymore, opt for a matching set. I’m wearing this pinstripe top and these bottoms in the photo below, but there are tons of sets you can choose from—you can even find some good sets on Amazon !

Cropped Linen Shirt

Pleated Linen Pants

Which beach vacation outfit idea is your favorite? Did a specific look stand out? Let me know in the comment section below!

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[…] that being said, I know a lot of you are shopping for vacation wear and summer wardrobe staples right now. If you follow me on Instagram or if you’ve read the blog for a while, you likely […]

[…] you’re planning a beach vacation for the spring or you’re simply shopping for the brighter days ahead, I’m sharing the […]

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The Best Vacation-Worthy Beach Dresses

From barely-there to playful fringe.

I’ve got a serious craving for a beach getaway—so much so that I can practically hear the melody of crashing waves, smell the aroma of briny sea air, and feel the warmth of the sizzling sun. As I impatiently wait for my next warm-weather vacation, I’m on a mission to find the best beach dresses to layer over my bikinis during the day and pair with a chic set of strappy sandals by night.

For the past few years, I’ve been cycling through the same rotation of beach dresses, and my vacation outfits have become, dare I say it, predictable, but with spring on the horizon, there are tons of new styles that practically scream, “take me to the beach.” On the Spring 2024 runways , Ulla Johnson showcased her signature dresses in slinky silks that match a sunset shade of red; Victoria Beckham delivered the ultimate crochet cover-up ; and Isabel Marant (the queen of elevated beach fashions) sent short, summery shift dresses down the runway. Designers like Hermès are championing the return of the longstanding cut-out trend, while long, lightweight, fluttering hems are taking cues from the fringe trend in beach-appropriate fabrics and summery colors.

Ahead, Marie Claire found the best 18 beach dresses for lounging in the sand all day or heading out for a night of coastal fun.

Beach Dresses in Sunset Hues

When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes recommended by a MC writer or editor, or by an expert we've spoken to. Learn more about how we review products.

On the runways of Fendi, Chloé, and Ulla Johnson, radiant shades took center stage.

There's an embrace of distinct vibrant color palettes this season. Fendi went the bodycon route, Chloé dabbled in drapery, and Ulla Johnson experimented with tiny textured ruffles. Whether you choose to wear orange, yellow, or red, you’ll shine just as brightly as a sunset by the sea. Style your bold beach dress with a pair of neutral-toned sandals to balance out your outfit.

Barely-There Beach Dresses

According to Victoria Beckham, Gabriela Hearst, and Chloé, less is in fact more.

For those beach days when you’re looking to cover up—just enough—slip on a naked dress that shows off your swimwear. Look to Victoria Beckham and Chloé for inspiration and select a barely-there dress crafted from gauzy fabrics, or take style notes from Gabriela Hearst and invest in a beautifully crafted crochet piece. To elevate your look, go monochromatic and match your bikini to the shade of your beach dress.

Abbreviated Beach Dresses

How high can a hemline go? Isabel Marant, Valentino, and Staud all answer this very question.

Although lengthy maxi dresses graced countless Spring 2024 runways, mini dresses had their fair share of fun, too, and practically speaking, this makes total sense as temperatures rise. Thigh-grazing hemlines present the perfect opportunity to stay nice and cool. Isabel Marant, Valentino, and Staud are proving the best way to beat the heat is to slip on a breezy tunic-like dress and grab a cool, tropical drink.

Cut-Out Beach Dresses

There are several ways to wear cut-outs, but Hermès, Valentino, and Gabriela Hearst seem to prefer exposed sides.

The contemporary wave of cut-out dresses notably began in the fall of 2021 when Gucci and Marques’ Almeida gave them the designer treatment Spring 2022 collections. Fast forward two years later, and you’ll find the style has proven its longevity (just look to Hermès, Valentino, and Gabriela Hearst for proof). Test the waters with a skin-baring beach dress and elevate it with strategic side cut-outs.

Fringe Beach Dresses

Akris, Feben, and Isabel Marant all put their own spin on the reigning fringe trend.

This past February, Marie Claire reported that fringed pieces—from skirts to jackets — dominated the New York Fashion Week street style scene. We predict trendsetters will likely take fringe from the streets to the shore with beach dresses adorned with dangling pieces of floating fabric this spring and summer. If you’re partial to fringe, but need some inspiration, look no further than Akris, Feben, and Isabel Marant to influence your warm-weather moodboard.

Little Black Beach Dress

COS, Valentino, and Balmain all say yes to wearing black during the warmer months.

During the Spring 2024 Fashion Week circuit, designers like COS, Balmain, and Valentino reminded us all that we can always rely on a straightforward black dress to deliver a polished look. Opting for an uncomplicated beach dress means you’ll also have a go-to piece for many vacations to come. Stick to a simple beach dress with a collared trimmed style, or zhuzh up your look with a formal thigh-high slit in a lightweight sheer material.

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Lauren K. Tappan is the Fashion Editor at  Marie Claire , where she writes engaging stories ranging from shopping pieces to trend reports. Prior to  Marie Claire , Lauren covered fashion and beauty for  Harper’s Bazaar  and  ELLE  as a freelance editor, with a specific focus on e-commerce. She also held editorial roles at  Town & Country ,  Into The Gloss , and  Philadelphia Style Magazine . Lauren earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, with a minor in Journalism, from the University of Pennsylvania. Follow her along at @ laurenktappan .

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30 Beach Outfits That Will Look Stunning in Your Spring Break Insta Posts

These 'fits need no filter.

Seventeen picks products that we think you'll love the most. We may earn commission from the links on this page.

The countdown app on your phone has been slowly ticking away the days until #SpringBreak2023 literally since your first day back at school. You've still got a couple more months of cool weather to get through (sorry), but after that, it's all sand, cute beach outfits, and relaxation for an entire week straight. If you're trying to get into vacation mode a few weeks early, there's one thing that always helps: SHOPPING.

Princess Polly Avoca mini skirt white

This crochet mini skirt is perfect to throw over your bikini while lounging by the pool or beach, or pairing with a cute top and some sandals for dinner.

Lulus Beachside Bliss Ivory Knit Cutout Sleeveless Midi Dress

Take some sunset beach pics for your Insta with a trendy and chic knit dress like this one.

Cider Toile de Jouy Bow Mini Dress

A delicate, airy dress like this screams beach vacay vibes.

SHEIN Cut-out Ring Linked Cover Up Dress

Dress this one up or down as a cute dinner 'fit to go out or a sizzlin' bikini coverup.

Old Navy Extra High-Waisted Wide-Leg Yoga Pants

Pair these wide-leg pants with a comfy oversized sweater to go watch the sunrise while sipping your morning coffee on the beach.

Hollister Crochet Knit Halter Tank

*Nothing* says beach like knit pieces. Style this top with a flowy skirt or denim shorts.

H&M Hole-knit Halterneck Top

Knit tops 4ever.

Marc Fisher Marc Fisher Steel Sandal

A classic beach staple that will never go out of style.

Larkkey Retro Rectangle Sunglasses

A cute pair of sunnies to accessorize your look is a *must*.

PAVOI 14K Gold Plated Paper Clip Pearl Necklace

Dressing for the beach is all about simple, effortless style, and this dainty gold pearl necklace is perf.

Wild Fable Women's Side Cinch Swim Cover Up Skirt

A cute cover up skirt is everything.

Billabong BILLABONG Believe In Magic Girls Tee

There's nothing like kicking back on vacation and relaxing in an oversize tee and some shorts.

Princess Polly Alicia mini dress orange multi

Major retro beach vibes!

Princess Polly Lincoln maxi dress white

Effortlessly look like an oceanside princess 🐚 in an all-white maxi.

Cider Floral Jacquard Mini Dress

A great option for going out to brunch on the boardwalk.

AWAYTR 3Pcs Floral Hair Bandanas Chiffon Head Kerchief

Keep your hair out of your face and look cute while doing it with a floral kerchief.

MOSHENGQI 2 Piece Spaghetti Strap Top Thong Swimsuit

Seriously how cute is this tropical flower print bikini? And it comes with a matching scrunchie? Adding to cart immediately.

Asos Sketchy Floral Hawaiian Print Tie Front Beach Shirt

You can't prep for a trip to the beach without packing the most iconic vacation garb: a tropical print shirt. This knotted version goes great with a pair of light-weight shorts you can wear in the water.

Lulus Vega Purple Multi Striped Shorts

Just picture this striped number among the tropical foliage – yep, it was made for the 'gram.

BDG Roman Statue Long Sleeve Tee

When 5PM hits and it gets windy on the beach, pair your long sleeve tee with classic shorts and Tevas.

Kelsey is Seventeen.com's fashion expert and resident Harry Potter nerd. At the office, she spends her day writing about style, beauty, and literally every move Kylie Jenner makes. On the weekends, you can find her sifting through vintage shops and hunting for the perfect burger. Follow her on Instagram at @klstieg.

Jaclyn Palermo is a Fashion Editor with the Hearst Fashion Group, specializing in accessories. Standing under 5 feet, she’s never afraid to make a big fashion statement, preferably at an art opening, and is always on the hunt for the perfect vintage home find in Brooklyn. Follow her on Instagram @j_palermo.

Bri is the editorial and social media assistant at ELLE.com. Before joining the team at ELLE, she worked as the editorial assistant for Seventeen.com and Cosmopolitan.com where she covered all things celebrity news and pop culture. You can probably find her sipping an oatmilk iced chai while searching for the best new makeup products or thrifting her entire wardrobe.

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Travel is finally back and whether you have grand plans for far away getaways, or simply a day trip to your local seashore, cute beach outfits are a must when it comes to summer shopping. If you’re aiming to keep things casual and cute, or prefer statement-making pairings that will stand out in a crowd, you will want to inject a little playfulness into your beach look. 

“ I think what makes beach dressing fun and fashionable is the freedom to try something new and embrace a look outside your typical style,” Patricia Bonaldi, founder and creative director of PatBo, tells WWD. “I know so many New Yorkers who wear head-to-toe black in the city, but lean into color and print for the beach as a fun, different expression of their style.” 

What to Wear to the Beach

We saw a lot of runway trends perfect for the beach this Spring/Summer 2022 season. Vacation was on many designers’ minds, from crochet summer dresses at Gabriela Hearst and Jonathan Simkhai, to surfer style taking center stage at Stella McCartney, Etro and Isabel Marant. Even the return of gladiator and other cute summer sandals at Alberta Ferretti and Valentino, instantly sparked ideas of dreamy, vacation-ready outfits. However, both our experts agree, you don’t have to follow the trends when it comes to forming your perfect beach capsule wardrobe. 

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“ I personally don’t tend to follow trends; I dress with my gut and what makes me feel good,” Bonaldi says. “I also love exactly that — a beach wardrobe! — pieces that are versatile and not just swim, but for the boat, seaside dinners and exploring the town, while still feeling comfortable and beachy,” agrees Marysia Dobrzanska Reeves, founder of Marysia. “ I’m not a super trends driven designer. I had this plaid print designed for years and it finally felt right to add it in. I loved our green plaid last season and wanted to continue in a slightly different feel but super strong, yet soft, by adding the water colored polka dots by my friend, artist Caitlin McGauley.” 

So what is important when shopping for beach outfits? “ Comfort! When you are comfortable in your own skin, your confidence shows,” Reeves tells WWD, while Bonaldi confirms that “for functionality, the key is to feel super comfortable, supported and free to not stress about the swimsuit brands and or the clothes after you unpack. Being on vacation and at the beach is a time to have fun and relax, not to worry or feel discomfort! I think about this every time I design for the beach and always aim for versatile, comfortable, chic, joyful and flattering.” 

Take it from the experts and have a little fun when styling out your beach looks this summer. Just remember comfort is key when it comes to pulling off any outfit. Below, discover the tips and tricks to building the best beach outfits for vacation and beyond.         

Cute Beach Outfits for Women for 2022   

• The Wide-Brimmed Straw Hat : Sensi Studio Aguacate Hat Long Brim  
• The Denim Cut-Off Shorts : Levi’s Women’s 501® Originals Shorts 
• The Printed Board Shorts : Roxy Women’s to Dye 7” Boardshort  
• The Rubber Slip-On Slide Sandal : Birkenstock Unisex Arizona Essentials Eva Sandals  
• The One-Piece Swimsuit : Marysia Mott Maillot 
• The Long-Sleeve Cover-Up : J.Crew Cotton-Linen Beach Shirt
• The High-Waisted Bikin i: Patbo Hibiscus Ruffle Bikini Bottom 
• The Wide-Leg Palazzo Pant : Alémais Sofia Printed Cotton and Linen Wide-Leg Pants
• The Flip-Flop Sandal : Havaianas Women’s Flip Flop Sandal
• The Floral Beach Dress : Patbo Aster Cut-Out Maxi Dress 
• The Billowy Long-Sleeve Dress : H&M Balloon-Sleeved Dress 
• The Oversized Designer Sunglasses : Celine Eyewear Square-Frame Tortoiseshell Acetate Sunglasses
• The Terry Cloth Short : Kule The Terry Venus Short 
• The Printed Cover-Up Robe : Cin Cin Oracle Sheer Robe  
• The Carryall Canvas Tote Bag : L.L.Bean Boat and Tote
• The Retro Crochet Dress : Mango Daisy Crochet Dress 
• The Sarong Skirt : Sea Ida Print Sarong  
• The Bucket Hat : Business & Pleasure Co. Bucket Hat  
• The Cabana Shirt : Tombolo Company Island Hopping Shirt 
• The White Denim Short Overalls : Madewell Denim Corsica Short Overalls  
• The Gladiator Sanda l: Cornetti Istana Sandal
• The Smocked Sundress : Hill House Home The Nap Dress® 
• The Rashguard Swimsuit : Marysia North Sea Rashguard  
• The Belted Linen Mini Dress : Anemos x Ciao Lucia Belted Mini Dress
• The Crafty Straw Bag : Cesta Collective Raffia Tote Bag  

Keep scrolling to see all the ways you can create cute beach outfits this summer from our experts and more. 

Sign up for WWD’S The Essentialist newsletter to get the scoop on the best in beauty and style with in-depth reviews of exciting new releases and buyer’s guides to find the products you need to try ASAP.

Sensi Studio Aguacate Hat Long Brim Hat

The Wide-Brimmed Straw Hat 

A wide-brimmed hat is equally fashionable yet functional, shielding the face from powerful rays while acting as a cute accessory, finishing off your beach look. Sensi Studio’s version is made from 100% Toquilla straw and features a thick black ribbon trim for a fashion -forward touch. Founder Stephany Sensi works closely with artisans in Ecuador, her birthplace, to create authentic products with a modern twist. This hat will look great with everything from denim cutoffs and a triangle bikini to cotton sundresses and luxurious kaftans. 

Sensi Studio Aguacate Hat Long Brim $258 Buy Now

Related: The 30 Best Sun Hats to Wear This Summer

Levi’s Women’s 501 Originals Shorts 

The Denim Cut-Off Shorts 

Levi’s 501  Originals jeans are a heritage cut that never goes out of style. It is no surprise that customers can’t quit the shorts version as well. As one customer raves, “ I waited a whole year to buy these shorts and I wish I wouldn’t have! They are INCREDIBLE.” Available in over twenty washes from blues to black and more, and with sizing up to 42, there is something for everyone. Mix yours with all the summer favorite pieces, from striped tees and sneakers to flowy tops and sandals for a day at the beach. 

Levi’s Women’s 501 Originals Shorts $59.50   $41.65 Buy Now

Roxy Women’s to Dye 7” Boardshort 

The Printed Board Shorts 

Surf-style saw a major comeback on the runway this spring and it’s the perfect opportunity to break out the board shorts when you’re hitting the waves. Roxy’s spin features a 7 inch length, for plenty of coverage, and comes in 6 colorways of various prints and solid colors. “ I really like these 7 inch board shorts to go in the water and be able to walk around without a cover-up on after,” one customer reviewed. Another adds “ They fit beautifully and are clearly well made but so light and comfy! Perfect for the beach and warm weather.” Take inspiration from the ‘90s, and pair yours with simple flip-flops, a solid colored bikini and an oversized white t-shirt for a relaxed feel. 

Roxy Women's to Dye 7 $46   $40 Buy Now

Birkenstock Unisex Arizona Essentials Eva Sandals 

The Rubber Slip-On Slide Sandal

When you’re headed to the seaside, you definitely want something waterproof that won’t ruin from sand, sun and the salty water. Birkenstock’s infamous Arizona sandal shape now comes in the Eva, a style made from rubber. The Eva sandals start at just $40 and are available in eighteen different colorways and counting. They are offered in unisex sizing and are extremely comfy, with Birkenstocks signature ergonomic footbed technology. “ These are very comfortable, and I think the black ones look enough like leather to fool most. But the comfort!!!!” one customer proclaimed. Wear yours with all your favorite casual wear items, from floral maxi dresses to overall shorts and tanks. 

Birkenstock Unisex Arizona Essentials Eva Sandals $50 Buy Now

Marysia Mott Maillot 

The One-Piece Swimsuit 

Every beach wardrobe begins with a great swimsuit. Marysia’s best-selling one-piece features a high-cut halter neck and moderately covered bottom. This style has become a fan favorite due to the special scallop details that the brand is known for and extensive color selections. “Our core customer loves our classic scalloped pieces,” Reeves shares with WWD. “They crave a fresh color in the same tried and true silhouette.” The soft and stretchy fabric is extremely comfortable and this particular style comes in sizes up to XXL. Wear yours with a billowy linen pant and lace-up sandal for a refined beach-to-street look. 

Marysia Mott Maillot  $349 Buy Now

J.Crew Cotton-Linen Beach Shirt

The Long-Sleeve Cover-Up 

“I love a long-sleeve cover-up in a lightweight fabric,” Reeves says. “It protects you from the strong rays when you’ve had enough or you’re standing around in line for a lobster roll from a food truck in Montauk.” J.Crew’s linen version is the perfect gauzy fabric that will keep you protected, but still have that easy, breathable feeling. This piece also comes in an array of colors and in sizing up to 3X. Style yours over a favorite one-piece or bikini and add a straw hat and sunnies for a simple beach outfit. 

J.Crew Cotton-Linen Beach Shirt $79   $57 Buy Now

Related: The 30 Cutest Swim Cover-Ups to Wear on the Beach This Summer

PatBo Hibiscus Ruffle Bikini Bottom 

The High-Waisted Bikini

Glam up your beach game with a high-waisted floral bikini, trimmed in feminine ruffles, like this little Patbo number. “I have equal appreciation for a chic one-piece, or a bikini, which I prefer to be high-waisted,” Bonaldi  tells WWD. High-waisted bikinis provide coverage in the mid-section, allowing for a comfortable feel. This bottom has a matching bandeau or string top, depending on your style preference. Pair yours with a coverup that opens down the front, whether it be an oversized button down or fluid robe shape, to show off the ruffle bottom details.  

PatBo Hibiscus Ruffle Bikini Bottom $150 Buy Now

A lémais Sofia Printed Cotton and Linen Wide-Leg Pants

The Wide-Leg Palazzo Pant 

A palazzo pant makes for a glam coverup that doesn’t need to be reserved for the beach only. This Alémais style is made from cotton and linen blend, so the fabric will be soft to the touch and breathable on hot days. The elastic drawstring band provides comfort around the waistline and the voluminous leg won’t cling to the skin. The retro-inspired print features olive branches and small bouquets, nodding to a vintage wallpaper motif. “ I’m really into wide leg pants,” Reeves mentions. “The looser the better, paired with one of my fitted maillots or tanks.” 

Alémais Sofia Printed Cotton and Linen Wide-Leg Pants $320 Buy Now

Related: The 25 Best Summer Pants to Keep You Cool All Season Long

Havaianas Women’s Flip Flop Sandal

The Flip-Flop Sandal 

We have seen a resurgence in ‘90s fashion the past few seasons, which includes the flip-flop sandals as a must-have summer shoe. When dressing for a day at the beach, Reeves says her essential footwear choice is “Easy flip-flops. I love black or gold Havaianas.” Known for their durable quality and comfortable feel, Havaianas have been a customer favorite for over 50 years. “ Over my 60+ years of flip flop purchases and wear I always look for sales of this brand! They are sturdy and with minimal use last f-o-r-e-v-e-r!” one customer raves. “Plethora of styles and patterns to choose from. Easy to pack and easy to wear. I never purchase any other brand.” 

Havaianas Women's Flip Flop Sandal $26 Buy Now

PatBo Aster Cut-Out Maxi Dress 

The Floral Beach Dress 

“I’m loving floral prints this summer — both bold and feminine, like our Aster and Hibiscus prints,” Bonaldi tells us. “[When packing], I’d definitely include one of our PatBo beach dresses — perfect for feeling elegant and pulled together for a boat day, cocktails or dinner, but still easy and beach-friendly.” PatBo’s cut-out maxi dress will fit over your favorite triangle bikini for beach barbecues. You can always remove the bikini underneath when you are ready to go home or on to the next location. Style this one with black gladiator sandals and a straw bag for an elevated look that will take you from sunrise to sunset.  

PatBO Aster Cut-Out Maxi Dress  $650 Buy Now

Related: The 30 Best Summer Dresses to Wear for Casual and Formal Occasions

H&M Balloon-Sleeved Dress 

The Billowy Long-Sleeve Dress 

This H&M style is designed with an oversized fit, in a linen and cotton blend, for a floaty option that is perfect over your favorite one-piece or bikini. The subtle striped pattern nods to the nautical, a favorite seaside print. The voluminous balloon sleeves provide breezy air flow, while still adding coverage for the skin to protect on the hottest of days. One customer reviews, “ Like this one very much. Great for hot days. I like to add a belt for a dressier look.” Pair yours with a chic espadrille shoe and an oversized tote for an effortlessly cool, French girl vibe. 

H&M Balloon-Sleeved Dress $29.99 Buy Now

Celine Eyewear Square-Frame Tortoiseshell Acetate Sunglasses

The Oversized Designer Sunglasses

A good pair of sunglasses is an essential beach item, when it comes to sun protection and style. We recommend splurging on a designer shade, whose quality will hold up over time over a cheaper alternative, for beach days and beyond. Celine Eyewear styles are a fashion favorite, with good reason. The clean, minimalist designs are flattering on most faces and never go out of fashion, season after season. They are made in Italy and offer 100% UV protection. This oversized square-frame shape will look great with everything from chic black maillots to floral swimwear and crisp shirt dresses.  

Celine Eyewear Square-Frame Tortoiseshell Acetate Sunglasses $400 Buy Now

Kule The Terry Venus Short 

The Terry Cloth Short 

Terry cloth is trending this summer and we are loving the cute and slightly ‘70s styles designers are offering for the season. Kule’s terry short features an elastic waist, making it a breeze to slip on, off and over your favorite suit with ease. Throw it on for quick runs to the beachfront taco stand or take a wander on the boardwalk. The short is offered in nine different color ways, from classic navy to bold and bright lemon yellow, in the irresistibly soft cotton blend fabric. When styling, we recommend trying out a full matching set with either The Terry Flamingo , their short-sleeved cabana shirt or The Terry Selena , cropped strappy tank top, to lean into the trend fully. 

Kule The Terry Venus Short $78 Buy Now

Cin Cin Oracle Sheer Robe 

The Printed Cover-Up Robe 

A lightweight robe cover-up is a no-brainer at the beach. Soft and flowy, it is a comfortable option for those moments that you need a little something extra. Go from hotel room to ocean front lounge chair with ease in this retro floral print version from Cin Cin . Wear it open or with the optional self-belt when you want to hide a bit more. “I love beautiful matching cover-ups and skirts to add interest and coverage over my swim,” Bonaldi recommends and we can’t agree more. Look out for matching bikinis or one-pieces in the same floral to wear together as a full look, or break it up with a clean and simple white or black suit for a mix and match look. Oversized hoop earrings and a minimal slide sandal will complete this cute beach vacation outfit. 

Cin Cin Oracle Sheer Robe $225 Buy Now

L.L.Bean Boat and Tote

The Carryall Canvas Tote Bag 

The L.L.Bean Boat and Totes have been a customer favorite for years. Their heavy duty canvas material comes in four sizes ranging from small to extra-large, and in 8 handle colorways. Starting at just $30, it is an affordable buy that can be used for the beach and beyond. “This bag is a beast! I used it as a carry-on on our recent international beach trip and I used it to carry everything to and from the beach every day,” one customer raved about the extra-large size. “I also use it all the time for going to the pool and it still looks new. Amazing quality!” Don’t forget the monogramming option that allows you to personalize your tote as well. Pair with a gingham dress and nautical-inspired swim for a truly New England summertime feel (the brand is based in Maine afterall).  

L.L.Bean Boat and Tote $34.95 Buy Now

Mango Daisy Crochet Dress 

The Retro Crochet Dress 

Crochet has been seen on and off the runways the past few seasons, making a comeback as a closet staple for beach getaways and vacations aplenty. Mango’s 100% cotton crochet dress nods to the ‘60s with the delicate daisy pattern design and mod, mini skirt shape, showing off lots of leg. The higher-cut neck allows for a little more coverage in the bust area, while dainty spaghetti straps highlight a strong shoulder. Style yours with a brightly colored string bikini that peeks out from below, adding an extra hit of fun. Bold shell jewelry and a cool bucket hat will instantly update the vintage feel of the dress.  

Mango Daisy Crochet Dress $119.99 Buy Now

Sea Ida Print Sarong 

The Sarong Skirt 

Sarongs are a one-and-done type pieces that are always a must-have beach buy. They are also easy to pack since they fold so thinly, whether you are traveling abroad or just throwing in your beach bag and heading to your local coast. Sea’s sarong adds that something extra, with a playful contrast ruffle trim. The tie-closure waist allows for easy dressing, while the 100% cotton fabric will be soft and breathable all day. Tie yours over your favorite one piece before heading to cocktails for a party look with a sexier shoe and beachy jewelry. 

Sea Ida Print Sarong $195 Buy Now

Business & Pleasure Co. Bucket Hat 

The Bucket Hat 

You already know a hat is a necessity for a day in the sun. Business & Pleasure Co.’s bucket hat style channels New England summer style in all the right ways. Designed in a soft pink and white stripe print and available in two sizes, you can find just the right fit while looking stylish. The canvas hat is 98% UV blackout and UPF 50+, adding even more protection, as well as being treated for water and mold resistance. Wear yours with a linen button down and wide-leg linen pants to reach peak coastal grandmother chicness.   

Business & Pleasure Co. Bucket Hat $59 Buy Now

Tombolo Company Island Hopping Shirt 

The Cabana Shirt 

Known for their quirky prints, Tombolo Company’s Island Hopping shirt depicts illustrations of the islands of the Northeast, from Shelter Island to Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard. The shirt is a sustainable style, made from 100% Tencel, and sizing is unisex with a relaxed fit, available up to XXL. “A shirt for any occasion! The colors are vibrant, the fabric soft and breathable,” one customer reviews. Pair yours over a simple swimsuit, denim cut-offs and add a fisherman sandal for a downtown take on the trend.  

Tombolo Company Island Hopping Shirt $138 Buy Now

Madewell Denim Corsica Short Overalls 

The White Denim Short Overalls 

Cut from a customer favorite vintage-inspired fit, the ‘90s one-piece overall short comes in an ecru shade for a truly summer appropriate wash. Available in sizes XXS to XXL, the relaxed style is m ade from premium 100% cotton non-stretch Cone® denim. Madewell partners with the BCI (Better Cotton Initiative) to improve cotton farming globally, for a more sustainable approach to production. “I love these! I got them on a whim and I’m happy I did,” one customer comments. “Loose, but not baggy. And the shorts aren’t too short.” Layer yours over a bandeau bikini for a truly ‘90s feel with gold chain jewelry and Birkenstock slip-on sandals. 

Madewell Denim Corsica Short Overalls $128   $100 Buy Now

Cornetti Istana Sandal 

The Gladiator Sandal

We saw statement gladiators rule the runway for Spring/Summer 2022, but if you are looking for something with a bit more practicality for seaside adventures, try this easy style from Cornetti . Handmade in Italy, Cornetti sandals are produced with care and comfort in mind. The Istana style is offered in a brown suede and a red and white calfskin leather. A wrapped ankle strap is delicately finished with a small gold buckle closure. Try the Istana with flouncy summer dresses over your favorite swimsuits for a Mediterranean look that is sophisticated, yet no-frills.  

Cornetti Istana Sandal $250 Buy Now

Hill House Home The Nap Dress ®  

The Smocked Sundress 

Hill House Home’s best-selling Nap Dress ® created a phenomena since launch. Now you can shop the shape in over 10 colors and prints as well as a variety of fabrications and sizes, from XXS to 2XL. The striped lavender version in soft linen is our essential summer buy for best dresses to wear at the beach. Featuring the signature smocked bodice and flutter sleeves, the dress will bring a feminine flair to any destination. In a blink of an eye, it can easily go from a day in the sand to sunset cocktails with a quick accessory change. Wear yours with flat sandals and a cute hat for long days by the ocean and swap for a strappy pump and statement earrings for dinner after at the local beach club.     

Hill House Home The Nap Dress®  $150 Buy Now

Marysia North Sea Rashguard 

The Rashguard Swimsuit 

Whether you are planning to surf, paddle board or just sunbathe at the beach, a rashguard allows for activity without any unwanted slippage, while providing a great layer of protection from the sun. Marysia’s version is made from recycled nylon and has a long zip closure. If you’d like to show a little more skin, throw on a coordinating biking top underneath, and unzip a bit. Keep things sporty on a day out with a board short of any length acting as your cover-up and an athletic-inspired pool slide sandal. A scrunchie and shield sunglasses will finish the look off fabulously. 

Marysia North Sea Rashguard $470 Buy Now

Related: The 21 Best Long-Sleeve Swimsuits for a Sleek and Safe Beach Day

Anemos x Ciao Lucia Belted Mini Dress

The Belted Linen Mini Dress 

Two warm-weather favorite brands, Anemos , a luxury swimwear brand, and Ciao Lucia, a RTW label known for their easy dresses, come together to create the perfect cover-up you didn’t know you needed until now. The ’90s-inspired fit of this mini button-down shirt dress was designed with a chic belt detail that can be tied along the waist. Available in an eco-friendly cotton voile, the dress makes for an ideal cover-up alternative in crisp white. It is a bikini or one-piece friendly style, and looks great with a raffia bag and a lace-up shoe to show off the legs for a cute beach vacation outfit. 

Anemos x Ciao Lucia Belted Mini Dress $290 Buy Now

Related: The 20 Best Linen Dresses for an Easy and Stylish Summer Wardrobe

Cesta Collective Raffia Tote Bag 

The Crafty Straw Bag 

No beach outfit is complete without a great bag, and summer is the best time to break out the raffia. Cesta Collective’s tote is made from organic vegetable-dyed raffia and handwoven by female artisans in Rwanda, Africa. Each piece is hand-finished in Italy with luxe details such as leather straps and 18k gold-plated brass hardware. The medium sized tote fits your beach necessities marvously, and the canvas liner is removable. The tote comes in seven different colorways and patterns, from this rainbow melange to breton-style stripes. Pair yours with a sleek swimsuit and oversized shades for a day of fun in the sun. 

Cesta Collective Raffia Tote Bag $695 Buy Now

Related: The 15 Best Designer Tote Bags That Carry It All

Tips for Women’s Beach Outfit Ideas

• Start with a great suit: The building blocks, if you will, to a cute beach outfit starts with a well-fitting and comfortable swimsuit. Whether you prefer a one-piece swimsuit , bikini , or even rashguard style, make sure to look for quality fabrics and fits that you will want to reach for time after time. The sky’s the limit when it comes to colors and prints, but make sure to have a few good, simple suits in the rotation, too. Shopping with mindfulness is key for longevity and a more sustainable wardrobe.
• Cover-up in style: A swim cover-up doesn’t have to mean an oversized kaftan (although we love them, obviously). Your favorite warm-weather essentials, like a smocked dress, an oversized button down, plain white t-shirt , wide-leg summer pants or even white jeans,  make for great options that will take you from beach to street effortlessly. Make sure to look for airy, lightweight materials, like cotton and linen, to keep you cool and refreshed all day long. And don’t forget the denim! Cut-offs and overalls are equally great for a day of play when it comes to casual beach outfits. 
• Accessorize: No beach look is complete without the right accessories. Summer hats will keep you cool and protected, just look for fresh shapes, like a straw wide-brimmed or the ‘90s favorite bucket (don’t worry, you can fake a natural summer glow with the best self tanners ). Reach for raffia designer beach bags or a classic canvas when looking for the best place to stow all your belongings. Cute summer sandals will complete every beach outfit and you can’t go wrong with a chic pair of glamorous sunglasses for the final touch.  

Meet the Experts

• Patricia Bonaldi is the founder and creative director of Patbo, a Brazilian brand that captures the vibrant energy of South America through its artfully hand-embroidered RTW and swim collections. Patricia began her career by opening a multi-brand store in her hometown of Uberlândia. Soon after, she began receiving requests to design her own collection, launching her eponymous label, known today for the richly detailed embroidery and bold prints that are a hallmark of the label and a perfect example of the brand’s commitment to both technical expertise and boundless imagination.  
• Marysia Dobrzanska Reeves is the founder of Marysia, her namesake luxury womenswear brand, which launched in 2009. While her scalloped edge swimwear has become her signature, Marysia continues to expand the brand’s offerings. With a focus on vacation wear, Marysia designs with travel in mind, creating collections a woman can wear from day to night. She is also constantly inspired by women who wear the collection and their appreciation for art, style, culture and adventure. Like them, Marysia wants her swim and off-duty resortwear to transport her to places she dreams of, from Harbour Island to Biarritz.

Meet the Author  

Kristina Rutkowski is a New York-based freelance writer and editor with a focus on fashion. She was previously the Senior Fashion Market Editor at InStyle , covering all things trends and shopping related. She has also worked in the fashion departments at Self and Glamour . Her bylines have appeared on Vogue.com, TheZoeReport.com , VanityFair.com and InStyle.com . Editing RTW and swimwear throughout her career, she has been able to see, try and research the best brands available on the market today.  

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6 Pieces, 15 Outfits, 1 Carry-on Friendly Capsule Wardrobe

Capsule Travel Wardrobe , FASHION

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!

Think you can’t travel with just six pieces of clothing? This genius capsule wardrobe hack will show you how!

Travel Fashion Girl x Vacay Style Capsule Wardrobe

ADVERTORIAL

You might think that traveling with just six pieces of clothing is absolutely impossible but I have a special travel clothing hack that shows you how to accomplish this and still create two weeks worth of travel outfits for a beach vacation:

Introducing TFG’s Minimalista Capsule Wardrobe inspired by Vacay Style !

Using Vacay Style’s genius two-piece items I was able to transform five of their clothes (plus one additional) to create a total of fifteen outfits!

See all the outfits on the Vacay Style TFG page !

Create Your Own Custom Capsule Wardrobe

Vacay offers themed capsule wardrobe collections, each of which are designed to mix and match to create 15 outfits. Each capsule includes five pieces but you have the choice of either buying a single item, the entire set, or…

… you can shop their entire line to customize your own five-piece capsule wardrobe like I did!

As a bonus, when you buy any five pieces (or more) you instantly get 20% off your entire purchase PLUS one of their gorgeous beach bags for free!

Keep reading below for an additional 15% off exclusive to TFG readers!

Travel Fashion Girl’s Vacay Capsule

Since Vacay allows you to customize your own capsule wardrobe I mixed and matched pieces from three of their themed collections:  Tahiti ,  Martinique , and  St. Bart’s .

Martinique MAXi  |  St. Barts MAXi  |  Tahiti 2-Piece Jumpsuit  |  Tahiti Caftan | Tahiti Halter

The reason why I love Vacay is that their clothing is versatile and you can easily mix and match the pieces together or with a few of your own wardrobe essentials.

All of their sets have lovely hues such as vibrant blues and pretty corals. However, I wanted a neutral capsule wardrobe that I could enhance with whatever color is currently dictating my mood when planning a vacation.

Versatility is key to a capsule wardrobe. Learn more in my guide !

St. Barts MAXi  worn four unique ways

I’m especially crazy about their MAXi 2-piece dresses. Wear the two items together to create a maxi dress or wear the skirt alone as a midi dress. Then, pair the top and skirt with other pieces to make a variety of other looks as shown above.

I used one of their MAXi dresses on my honeymoon and another in Isla Holbox in Mexico. Take a look!  You can also shop all of their styles here !

Tahiti 2-Piece Jumpsuit

And now they also have 2-piece jumpsuits! GENIUS! Wear them together or separately with contrasting color tops and bottoms for even more versatility.

Grab the 2-piece jumpsuits asap as they sell out quickly. Shop here!

For my capsule , I used the five pieces shown above and added one pair of denim shorts but you can easily replace the shorts for a pair of capris, mini skirt, or whatever else suits your personal taste.

In total I combined two (2-piece) MAXi dress, one (2-piece) jumpsuit, one caftan, and one of their halter tops. Take these five pieces, add one or two more of your own pieces, and create over fifteen travel outfits!

Shop my collection on the Vacay Style TFG page !

Why We Love Vacay Style

I’ve written about Vacay Style several times and even wore all of their clothing on  my honeymoon in the Maldives. Their Tahiti caftan is an absolute must in every sun chaser’s travel wardrobe! It’s light, beautiful, and beyond comfortable. Pic below:

wearing the Tahiti Caftan  on my honeymoon

The idea for Vacay came to Elizabeth Hynes during her own Honeymoon in 2008. It was during her epic sailing journey to Bora Bora that Elizabeth learned how to pull together a collection of items that could create multiple outfits.

She knows how important fabrics are for travel clothing so all their pieces have travel friendly fabrics that are wrinkle resistant or even wrinkle free.

The key to packing light is to use packing cubes to compress your clothing shown in this video!

Martinique MAXi 2-Piece Dress

Satisfaction is guaranteed and you can try the brand 100% risk free. You’re welcome to return unworn items within 2 weeks for a full refund – plus return shipping is free! Definitely worth giving it a shot.

Vacay offers free shipping and free returns within the US and also offers low flat-rate international shipping.

As a bonus, international shipping is FREE for orders over $500 – an awesome deal for travelers overseas.

Vacay Style us offering a special treat for TFG readers.  Not only do you get 20% off with a five-item purchase but you also get an additional 15% discount for being a travel fashion girl with the code  TFGVacay . Expires November 20, 2016.   Shop now!

What five items would you use to create your own collection? Share and comment below!

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For more about Vacay Style, read our other articles here:

• Luxurious (and Functional) Beach Vacation Clothing
• These 2 Piece Dress Styles are a Game Changer
• Beach Vacation Clothes made Simple
• Honeymoon Clothes that are Practical and Pretty

We hope you liked this post on my custom Vacay Style capsule wardrobe. Please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

12 comments.

I love these two-piece style dresses and the capsule idea but realizing that the company is now out of business. Are there any other companies offering something similar?? Thanks!!

Hi Becky, sadly we haven’t found anyone that offers quite what Vacay Style did.

You might like Encircled, another popular brand for travel clothing: http://bit.ly/2Ls3ADe

Encircled is a Canadian company that specializes in sustainable, stylish, versatile garments for travel and everyday wear. One item that is really popular is their Chrysalis Cardi, the ultimate travel convertible dress: http://bit.ly/2Ls3ADe

A common issue for travelers attending special occasions abroad is that they struggle with the idea of packing a dress they’ll only be able to wear once on their entire trip. Read my Chrysalis Cardi Dress review to learn how this dress solves that problem: https://bit.ly/3PHIf5A

Most recently, their travel clothing line has expanded to include shirts, blouses, pants, jumpsuits, skirts, jackets, and more! We love Encircled and you will, too!

I would also recommend that you join our TFG facebook group and post asking there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ It’s a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that love to share their travel advice and recommendations.

Hope this helps.

I like the clothes but they are teally pricey. I think for the price, the fabric could have been of a higher quality such as linen.

Thanks for sharing Cali.

I love Vacay! I have several of the pieces. Elizabeth is a delight to work with! My problem is trying to decide which pieces to take! I love the 2 piece maxis, too!

Love the 2-piece maxis!! Glad you love them as much as we do!! Happy travels Kimberly and thanks for reading!

Alex. You and I are both short. How did you make the St. Barts maxi work for you in flats. Or did you have to wear it with heels?

I hiked it up very high up my waist 😉 However, what I’ve started doing is getting all my dresses and skirts hemmed to a preferred length – it’s a game changer!

I love the two-piece jumpsuits!

Thanks, me too!

This is cute and I love the concept, however even with the discounts, Im not sure that I will be buying. They are really expensive though. For those prices, I would have preferred natural fabrics such as hemp or linen rather than synthetics.

Thanks for the feedback Cali!

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I Only Packed One Outfit for My Weeklong Vacation

Whenever I go anywhere, I end up bonding with one thing — that thing you wear the most on a trip — but before I go, I don’t know what that’s going to be. For our trip to St. John, I was only packing a backpack , and I knew it would need to be light or else I’d be grumpy carrying a heavy bag around. So I tried to figure out what the item I’d bond with would be before the trip and edit down based on that. About a week before the trip, I saw a shirt and I just knew that was going to be the one. Same thing with my shorts : I ordered them, and when I tried them on, I was like, Oh man, these are going to be the ones. And then I found the sandals in my closet — and I ended up bonding hard with all of them. Those three things were literally what I wore every single day.

When I last went into the Wythe store, I saw this and was like, Oh man, that’s a great khaki shirt . The fabric has the softness of cotton with a little bit of the nice texture of linen. It breaks in so awesomely: It kind of stretches out a little bit. The weave is a little loose on this thing, and it just gets looser. So it was the perfect beach shirt, and after six days in a row, this thing was soft as butter. What I like to do is I’ll take something — if it’s new — I’ll dump it in the salt water so it gets crusty, and then I rinse it out. I did that with this, and then it acted as a safety blanket. Sun protection. Headwrap. When your shoulders are sunburned, you lay this thing over yourself and put your bag over that so it doesn’t rake against your sunburn. This was like a Swiss Army Knife shirt. I felt like Magnum P.I. in this shirt.

Oh man, these are tremendous. The quality of nylon is enough to be structured but not feel heavy. And these are their shorty shorts. These are super-short — risky short — but I loved that about them. It made them that much more comfortable. They were like not-even-wearing-shorts short, but again, I wore these every single day. I would swim in them, snorkel in them, and then go to lunch in them. That was the uniform right here. I like the solid black, especially with the khaki — it feels sophisticated, but not at the expense of comfort or chillness.

Bedrock is just a great outdoor-sandal brand. They really care about their product and what they make. Wearing these was like not wearing anything at all. They’re made with a Vibram sole but it’s like an eighth of an inch thick. They’re so thin and feel like being barefoot since the straps are thin, too. They were my beach sandal and hiking sandal — I would do mileslong hikes in these up hills and on rocks. You definitely can feel things through the sole, but they’re awesome and super-versatile.

I get asked about this bag every time I use it. For the money, it’s pretty valuable. It’s not a cheap canvas tote, but it’s not luxury priced. You can dress it up; you can dress it down. At the end of our trip, I landed from St. John at 11 o’clock at night, got home, and had to be on a flight to New York the next day. This thing went from St. John to the city, and it was filled with sand at the bottom from the beach. It was pouring that day in New York, so I was like, Oh man. Three days ago I was on a beach with this thing, and now I’m trudging through pouring rain in New York.

My friend Jenny Olson’s mom started this cookie company Sweet Martha’s, and they sell them at the Minnesota State Fair. They started making merch for the fair, and this hat is from that. I just love it. It’s my favorite thing. It started out as navy blue and then faded to this weird sort of tie-dye-looking purple color. People love Sweet Martha’s so much, and now the hats have this weird cult following.

Note: The hat is currently sold out, but you can sign up to be notified when it’s back in stock on Sweet Martha’s website.

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Sandal Trends 2024 Are All About These 7 Styles

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It’s time to move your knee-high boots to the back of your closet because it’s officially sandal season. Pick a nail polish shade for your pedicure and pick a sandal trend for 2024 to slip on your feet. Whether you plan on spending the summer at a beach, bopping around the city or somewhere in between, this year’s sandal trends include an option for any setting.

If you’re like me and can’t walk in a heel, you’ll want to opt for a more comfortable (but equally chic) kitten heel. With Y2K fashion in full swing , the mini heel is here to stay. The trend just picked up steam on TikTok—and with summer just around the corner, the it-girls of New York City will soon be dusting off their favorite pairs. The kitten heel is the perfect shoe to wear whether you’re going to a formal event, or just want a cute shoe to run around in.

For the well-deserved beach vacation on your calendar, you can count on comfortable slides and fisherman silhouettes to take over your suitcase. Plenty of the vacation sandal options work for day and nighttime activities so you won’t have to double pack.

If you’re a fan of platform boots , rest assured chunky sandals will be just as big (pun intended) this summer. The platform silhouette has been a huge trend this year and summer is the perfect time to experiment with sandals that help you reach new heights.

No matter what you’ll be doing this summer, there are tons of sandals to slay in. Thankfully, 2024 has brought us a plethora of sandal trends—so you’re sure to find your perfect pair.

Slingback Sandals

This summer, if you can’t decide between a ballet flat or a sandal—we have the perfect shoe for you. Slingback sandals are the perfect choice for a chic yet comfortable look. Like kitten heels, they’re easier to walk in than traditional heels. If you’re packing light for your summer getaway, slingback sandals are a necessity because they can be dressed up or down.

Fisherman Sandals

Fashion inspired by the 2014 Tumblr-era has made its way back into the trend cycle and fisherman sandals are a prime example. Fisherman sandals feature a caged silhouette and are typically made out of a leather material (though you’ll also find rubber jelly iterations). The design makes the shoes comfortable and easy to walk in. They’re especially a great choice if you live in a city and don’t want any part of your foot to get too close to the ground.

Kitten Heels

Kitten heels were huge in the 2000s and they’re making a big comeback this summer. (Carrie Bradshaw would be proud.) Mini heels are certifiably cool again and as someone who hates blisters and high heels, I’m thrilled. The style is getting back to its Y2K roots with tons of options featuring bows, flowers, and butterflies—making them a girly staple for your wardrobe. Wear them with a mini skirt, a maxi dress or breezy jeans for the ultimate summer look.

Slide Sandals

When you’re running out of the house, you don’t want to deal with buckling or lacing a shoe up. Slide sandals are the most effortless sandal option to put on your feet while still looking totally put together. There are so many different versions of slide sandals on the market right now, which means you can either opt for a minimalist black leather pair or go for something fun (I prefer the second option).

Platform Sandals

Whether you need extra height or just love stomping around, platform sandals are the it-girl shoe for the summer. They come in a variety of materials and colors making them a very versatile silhouette. Not to mention, they pair perfectly with almost any outfit. While countless designers have released their own version of platform sandals, there are tons of options that aren’t as high end.

Mule Sandals

Mules are the perfect hybrid shoe between platform sandals and slides. Just like slides, you can slip them on in a rush and look effortlessly stylish. ’90s shoe trends will always be cool and these are proof. When in doubt, a mule sandal is always a great shoe to wear out to dinner because it can easily be dressed up or down.

Platform Flip Flops

You read that right. Flip flops are officially chic again—but more specifically, platform flip flops. Like a lot of 2024’s sandal trends, platform flip flops are straight out of the ’90s. They might not be the most practical shoe, but they’re a great choice for hitting the beach or running around on a hot day. Everything’s better in platform so naturally these controversial shoes are making a comeback in a bigger silhouette.

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As the evenings get lighter and we anticipate the weather (hopefully) getting warmer, summer is finally approaching, and that means one thing: wedding season is on the horizon. 

Shopping for the perfect wedding guest outfit can be a hard feat in itself, but when it comes to a destination wedding, it’s a whole different ball game. Despite its picturesque setting, cool sea breeze and endless Aperol Spritz, considereing an appropriate outfit is at the forefront of our minds. 

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What do guests wear to a beach wedding.

Generally speaking, beach weddings tend to have a more laid back, playful feel on dress codes compared to a typical black tie wedding. With this in mind, don’t be afraid to opt for an outfit on the more daring, brighter, sexier side - but still appropriate to the occasion. When it comes to styling your outfit, accessories play a big part. Pull colours from your outfit to ensure a coherent finish, or keep it simple with neutral tones and plainer pieces to keep all eyes on your dress.

Can you wear white to a beach wedding?

Unless the couple has stated otherwise, we'd avoid it. White will always be a no-go for guests... in recent years bridesmaids have taken to wearing ivory shades, so you don't want to be mistaken for the bridal party.

What is beach chic dress code?

Flowy dresses in brighter hues work best. But don’t go for anything with too much volume, we don’t want a situation if there’s a big gust of wind. Due to the heat, try opting for lighter fabrics, looser silhouettes and sleeveless ensembles. Don’t be afraid to choose a printed piece or bright colour - it will fit in with the idyllic beach setting. 

What shoes should I wear to a beach wedding? 

Don’t rule out flats, but keep them on the chicer, more stylish side rather than a flip-flop. If flats aren’t your thing, opt for a strappy sandal or a pair of wedges. 

Hello! Fashion  shares the best beach wedding guest dresses to shop this season:

Elizabeth Cut-Out Printed Twill Halterneck Maxi Dress

Diane Von Furstenberg

A slight cut-out side dress can be wedding appropriate. We love this floaty maxi number with its contrasting printed panels and flattering halterneck silhouette.

Printed Linen Blend Dress

Lighter fabrics like linen are perfect for an oceanside ceremony. Stay away from its usual neutral tone and instead opt for bright, printed pieces like this straight neckline number from Zara.

Simone Maxi Dress

Boasting pastel hues the silky fabric makes this the perfect destination wedding ensemble. Pair with similar toned accessories to complete the look.

Brigette Pastel Floral Jacquard Maxi Dress

Florals don't have to mean the ditsy style, we love this oversized iteration with its asymmetric waterfall hemline. Pull out colours from the dress for your accessories, or opt for neutral tones to keep focus on the outfit.

Bubblegum Stripe Julia Dress

Pink City Prints

If florals aren't your thing but you still want a printed piece, opt for the classic stripe instead. A halterneck, belted dress is the ultimate flattering silhouette and we love its bright hues - just find a cocktail to match.

Catarina Dress

Rat & Boa

A floor-sweeping dress with a cowl neckline and tie-back detail, it's an ultra-flattering piece in more muted tones if brights aren't for you. Pair with black strappy sandals and add a pair of sunnies and you're beach wedding ready.

Delilah Tiered Floral-Print Cotton-Poplin Maxi Dress

A strappy, maxi dress style is a great option. We love the contrasting coloured, fun floral print with a subtle cut-out front. Its delicate straps add a girly element. Perfect for a summer wedding and could be reworn for your next holiday too.

Asymmetrical Gradient Dress

Channel oceanic tones and opt for this ombré asymmetrical blue one-shouldered piece. It's flowy fabric is perfect for the heat on the day and strappy back straps add the perfect finishing touch.

Rust Ruched Halter Neck Bodycon Maxi Dress

River Island

Block-coloured brights are great alternative if you don't fancy a print. We love the beaded neckline detailing and its ruched front is ultra flattering.

Cadence Dress Caribbean Ombre

What better for a beach wedding than an ombré dress that resembles a sunset? Chiffon is a the perfect light fabric option and we love the chain strap finish, so swap your gold jewellery for silver to match.

Crochet Mix Emma Dress

Never Fully Dressed

We love this contrasting printed and mixed fabric piece. Crochet is perfect for a beach destination, whilst the glossy satin skirt adds a more formal spin on it. The monochrome hues allows you to pair similar accessories, or make a statement with a pop of colour instead.

Giuliana Dress

Piece of White

One for the minimalist: this Piece of White number has an effortlessly stylish appeal. Its shirred bodice panelling and open back gives a subtle sexy finish without being too OTT for a wedding guest.

Avia Printed Dipped Hem Midi Dress

Reiss is another one of our go-to's for chic occasion wear pieces. We love this pleated midi dress with its back strap detailing for added interest. Go for white accessories to compliment the dress and emphasise your tan.

Samara Linen Dress

Reformation

Reformation is every fashion insiders go-to brand for occasion dressing and this piece ticks every box for us. With its pastel-toned green, slight cut-out side and open back and contrasting floral print, we'd pair it with white strappy sandals or chic flats and matching clutch.

Layered Violets Print Midi Dress + Belt

We love the puffed sleeves and belted waist on this ME+EM number. Style it with bright pink sandals to compliment the tones in the dress for a put-together look.

Floral-Print V-Neck Minidress

If you want a printed option but don't want to go bold and bright, brown and red tones are a great alternative. A wrap dress is flattering on any silhouette. Pair with wedges and a raffia clutch for a real beachy feel.

How we chose:

• Style and variety: We have scoured and selected pieces appropriate to be worn as a guest to a beach destination wedding in an array of styles to suit every taste. Our selections vary in design but they are united by the fact that they have a certain lasting appeal and can be styled in multiple ways.
• Price:  Variety is key, and therefore alongside pieces by some of our favourite designer labels, we've included some stylish picks from the high street if you're looking to save.

Why you should trust me:

I am Hello! Fashion ’s Style Writer, with seven years of experience within the fashion journalism industry. I have a love for fashion and spotting upcoming trends, coveted pieces and scouring online for irresistible new-in finds.

HELLO!'s selection is editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items our editors love and approve of. HELLO! may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. To find out more visit our  FAQ page .

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Press your pool button for Rosé: Why Marbella's Amare Beach Hotel is the perfect spot for your girls' trip

Sequins glisten in the sunlight on the bikini top of a beautifully bronzed bride-to-be by the pool at the Amare Beach Hotel . The pool area is home to the young and the gorgeous drinking afternoon cocktails under the palm trees.

This adult-only hotel positively screams posh girls trip and on my flight from Dublin, I bumped into a group of trendy 30-somethings on their way over for a weekend of bonding at the beachfront resort.

It is easy to see the appeal of Marbella which has long been hailed as Europe's playground for the chic, glamorous holidaymaker, and the Amare Beach Hotel makes for a great short-stay hotel.

Located half an hour from Malaga airport, the all-white hotel has a fantastic location on the beachfront and is a ten-minute stroll to the Old Town of Marbella with its numerous restaurants and boutique shops.

If you don't fancy moving from the hotel, rest assured you don't need to as it offers all the trappings needed to never leave the grounds. A button by your pool lounger signals for the impossibly good-looking staff to serve you up anything you want from morning Mimosas to afternoon Rosé.

There is also a spa should the weather turn inclement that offers the full range of treatments and a hydrotherapy circuit.

This resort exudes a hip and trendy vibe, with a constant backdrop of trance music and art installations that adorn the walls, including graffiti-style murals in the elevators.

It is so hip they even bottle the aroma of the lobby which you can buy at reception, allowing you to take home a piece of the Amare experience.

The pool and beach restaurant

The highlight of the hotel is undoubtedly its pool area, overlooking the ocean. Picture yourself lounging on pristine white leather sunbeds, shielded by white parasols, surrounded by swaying palm trees. In one corner, a bubbling hot tub beckons for a soak.

A short stroll across the boardwalk leads to the Amare Beach restaurant, where a large private area is cordoned off for sun loungers on the beach.

This unique feature sets the hotel apart and creates a vibrant party atmosphere. Live music and DJs entertain the crowd clad in Tory Burch kaftans from 2pm to 6pm daily.

The menu boasts sushi, fish tapas, and mouthwatering chips with guacamole dip, perfectly complemented by the chilled-out tunes.

The Rooftop bar on the 9th floor

For breathtaking sunset views over the sea, a visit to the Belvue rooftop bar on the 9th floor is a must. From this vantage point, you can admire Marbella's Old Town and the majestic Sierra Blanca mountains while having a few sundowners.

It's no wonder that this rooftop has witnessed more than a few proposals.

There are 236 rooms in the Amare and the decor is crisp. Think pale wooden floors and white headboards, Nespresso machines, and Molton Brown products in the shower. Mini fridges come well stocked with Moët and wine.

The basic rooms here start from €188 per room, per night, on a bed and breakfast basis, and €242 per room, per night, on a half board basis. This is based on two people sharing an 'I Was Here' room.

Consider upgrading to the 'Oh Là Là The One' rooms, 20 of which offer sea views and access to the exclusive 'The One Lounge' in the lobby. Inside this exclusive lounge, you'll discover a bright space with a spacious terrace.

Here, an unlimited selection of food and drinks awaits, including cocktails, wines, and beers, served from 11am to 10pm daily and features a smart TV for any important sporting events!

Prices start from €361 per room, per night, on a bed and breakfast basis, and €415 per room, per night, on a half board basis, based on two people sharing a room. The price also includes one water circuit per day at the SPA by Germaine de Capuccini and a 10% discount at a wide range of local businesses.

The housekeeping service at the Amare Beach Hotel is exceptional, providing a thorough cleaning and an evening turn-down service. In every room, you'll find comfortable robes and slippers and most rooms boast good views of the bay.

The Breakfast

Breakfast at the Amare Beach Hotel is fantastic. Early-rising golfers mingle with the trendy 30-somethings before hitting the nearby golf courses around Marbella of which there are many.

The breakfast spread is extensive. Beginning at 7:30am you will find an array of hot and cold options, including an omelet station and a buffet brimming with sausages, bacon, eggs, and potatoes.

Trays overflowing with fresh fruit, cheeses, cold meats, cakes, and an assortment of breads tempt your taste buds. To complement the meal, bottles of Prosecco stand ready for those seeking a morning mimosa. The breakfast area, both indoor and outdoor, overlooks the pool and the magnificent sea, providing a fab atmosphere to start your day.

Whether you spend your days lounging by the pool, partying at the beachfront restaurant, or sipping cocktails while admiring the sunset from the rooftop bar, put the Amare Beach Hotel on the list for your next girly weekend.

For more information and to book, go to  www.amarehotels.com  or call 0800 084 3493 or email  [email protected]

Rooms at Amare Beach Hotel Marbella start from €188 per room, per night on a bed and breakfast basis and €242 per room, per night on a half board basis. This is based on two people sharing an 'I Was Here' room. For a 'Keep The Secret' room, prices start from €221 per room, per night on a bed and breakfast basis and €275 per room, per night on a half board basis, based on two people sharing a room.

For an 'Oh Là Là The One' room, prices start from €361 per room, per night on a bed and breakfast basis and €415 per room, per night on a half board basis, based on two people sharing a room. The price includes access to The One lounge, with snacks and drinks available from 11am to 9 pm, one relaxing water circuit per day at the SPA by Germaine de Capuccini, and a 10 per cent discount at a wide range of local businesses.

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Taylor Swift fans spy stylish nod to Jason Kelce in ‘Tortured Poets Department’ album shoot: ‘What did you do’

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There’s no tiptoeing around this connection.

Taylor Swift dropped her new album, “The Tortured Poets Department,” on Friday, unleashing a whopping 31 songs along with fresh album art that embodies her sultry yet scholastic new style era .

But fans couldn’t help but zero in on one particular pair of shoes featured in the moody black-and-white snaps: a set of simple black thong sandals reminiscent of Jason Kelce’s favorite casual footwear .

“Jason is gonna be flabbergasted when he finds out where his favourite [sic] pair of Flipflops [sic] went,” one posted on X (formerly Twitter), while another joked, “oh no what did you do @JasonKelce?!”

Jason — whose younger brother, Travis, has been dating Swift since last summer — promptly liked the latter post, sending Swifties into a tailspin.

Of course, judging by the fact that Swift’s been gravitating toward quiet luxury labels like The Row, Saint Laurent and Khaite while promoting her latest project, it’s likely her sandals are a splurge compared to the former Philadelphia Eagles center’s.

Kelce lives in his beloved Olukai flip-flops ($130), which he’s raved about on his “New Heights” podcast with Travis.

JASON KELCE LIKED MY TWEET IM AKAHAKAHAKAKAHAKAK pic.twitter.com/1X36RU5rDO — haleigh (@swifts_latte) April 21, 2024

Olukai Mea Ola Men’s Leather Sandals

“These are really quality sandals,” Jason told his brother during a past episode. “They still offer arch support in them so it’s not just a piece of flat foam. It feels good, and I think they kind of look nice.”

Added the retired NFL pro, “If it’s functional, high quality and it looks good, I’m all for it.”

Meanwhile, a Saint Laurent pair similar to Swift’s will set you back $745 , while The Row’s flip-flops retail for closer to $900 .

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Caitlin Clark and the Best-Dressed at the W.N.B.A. Draft

The next class of basketball stars are ready for their close-ups. Finally, fashion is paying attention.

By Vanessa Friedman

When it comes to peacocks, it’s hard to beat male athletes. Their tunnel walks have been painstakingly documented; their fits have dominated the draft day conversations for the N.B.A . and the N.F.L .; their love of Vuitton and Hermès has been parlayed into brands of their own.

But on Monday evening at the W.N.B.A. draft, following the most-watched women’s college basketball game in history and the most-watched basketball game at any level since 2019, that all changed. Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese and Cameron Brink, among others, saw that style marker and raised it one.

Well, they are elite competitors — in image-making as on the court. Fashion, it seems, has finally figured that out. Stylists and brands are waking up and reaching out.

“People are seeing us for who we are now,” said Rickea Jackson, the No. 4 pick of the night, who is going to the Los Angeles Sparks.

It started with Ms. Clark, the No. 1 pick, who is going to the Indiana Fever and continued her record-breaking streak by becoming the first basketball player, man or woman, to be fully decked out by Prada for the draft.

She wore a white satin miniskirt and oversize shirt with rhinestone buttons and a cropped rhinestone top, tinted aviators and black sling-backs, and she carried a small patent leather Prada bag. The net effect was very “future of my sport.” Prada had approached her, she said, or at least her styling team, which is a coronation of a different sort.

She wasn’t the only one to go haute. Ms. Reese, the seventh pick, going to the Chicago Sky, worked with Naomi Elizée, the Vogue fashion editor who had styled her for her draft declaration in that magazine, and looked as if she had taken a side road on her way to the Met Gala. See her backless Bronx and Banco silver knit dress with a plunging V-neck and hood and coordinating Christian Louboutin pumps, which she duly name-checked in her strut down the orange carpet.

“I wanted something that was going to pop,” Ms. Reese said of her dress. And she wanted to seize the moment. “I don’t want to just be a great basketball player,” she said. “I want to leave my impact. I want to be a model. I can cook. I can do hair. I can do nails. I can do it all.”

That is, in the end, why all of this matters. Fashion is the fastest route to personal branding, which leads to influence, which leads to an even bigger stage. Not to mention endorsements, no small consideration given the continuing salary disparities between men and women in professional basketball. (Ms. Clark’s base salary will be $76,535.)

So there was Ms. Brink, chosen second and going to the Los Angeles Sparks, in a black and white asymmetric Balmain gown with a slit to the upper thigh and a rose on one shoulder. She found the dress with the help of the stylist for the actress and Sweet July founder Ayesha Curry (her husband, Steph Curry, being Ms. Brink’s godbrother).

And there was Alissa Pili, of Samoan and Indigenous Alaskan descent, who was chosen by the Minnesota Lynx, and who worked with the designer Jason Vu to make a dress that, she said, paid honor to her heritage and the people who got her to the draft. Hence the gold Polynesian print on the skirt and a silhouette cut to showcase the tribal tattoos on her leg and shoulder and, she said, “to represent them on the biggest stage.”

There was a lot of white, not just on Ms. Clark but also on Aaliyah Edwards (No. 6, Washington Mystics), who carried a crystal handbag shaped like a basketball, because, she said, “I always have a ball in my hand,” and Celeste Taylor (No. 15, Indiana Fever).

Also red, on Kamilla Cardoso, the No. 3 pick, going to the Chicago Sky, who wore a sharply tailored suit, and Ms. Jackson, who, taking a page from the Oscar red carpet, swapped the crimson bustier and trousers she had worn on the orange carpet with some Cartier crystal sunglasses for a sparkling silver suit when she took the draft stage.

The looks “gave two different vibes, so I said, ‘Why not?’” Ms. Jackson said. She found them with the help of Tasha Hartzog, a stylist who had messaged her on Instagram. “The first was Detroit fierce, and I am from Detroit, and the second was more glitz and glam,” Ms. Jackson said. “I know that where I’m going I am going to want to style it. And I want to be big.”

The point, she continued, is “the bigger you get, the more people that brings, the more eyes, the more money.”

“We are people outside of basketball,” she said. “You have your own brand.” Even if she and her draft mates are only at the beginning of their careers.

“One day, the ball is going to stop bouncing,” she said. “So you want to have things in place for what’s next.”

An earlier version of this article misidentified the designer of Alissa Pili’s dress. It is Jason Vu, not Jason Wu.

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Vanessa Friedman has been the fashion director and chief fashion critic for The Times since 2014. More about Vanessa Friedman