How to Dress for the Beach

Co-authored by Lynda Jean

Last Updated: March 25, 2022 References

When you go to the beach, all you truly need is a bathing suit! Wear a cover-up, hat, and sunglasses to protect against the sun. If you want to easily go out to eat or hit the boardwalk, wear a tank and shorts or maxi dress. Throw all of your stuff in a canvas beach tote, and wear flip-flops or sandals to the shore. With a few items, you can easily dress for the beach.

Method 1

Method 1 of 5:

Choosing Feminine Bathing Suits

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Choose a bikini if you want a fun and flirty two-piece bathing suit. Select a bikini top with underwire if you want extra support, or go with a thin strappy set for a flirty, sexy choice. Pick your favorite style, color, and you’ll be ready for the beach!^{[1]
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- For instance, choose a hot pink bikini for a cute option, or go for a floral pattern for a summertime style.
EXPERT TIP

"For maximum support in a swimsuit top, look for an underwire type top or halter tops with thicker straps."

Erin Micklow
Professional Stylist
Erin Micklow is an independent wardrobe stylist and image consultant based in Los Angeles, California. She has worked in the acting, beauty, and style industries for over 10 years. She has worked for clients such as Hot Topic, Steady Clothing, and Unique Vintage, and her work has been featured in The Hollywood Reporter, Variety, and Millionaire Matchmaker.

Erin Micklow
Professional Stylist
2
Try a one-piece or tankini for a more conservative style.^{[2]
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Expert Source

Lynda Jean
Certified Image Consultant
Expert Interview. 17 November 2020.} Tankinis are also a two-piece style, but they have a more modest top. One-piece bathing suits come in open-back, deep “V” necklines, and monokini options if you want a flirty touch. These bathing suits come in all sorts of patterns and colors, so choose one that catches your eye and suits your style.^{[3]
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- Women’s bathing suit tops usually are sized by bust measurement, and bottoms often correspond to your pant size.
- A monokini is a one-piece style with an open back and cut-outs on the side. This is essentially a bikini that also covers your tummy.
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Mix and match your bathing suit tops and bottoms for a versatile look. If you have a few pairs of bikinis or tankinis, consider swapping out certain tops and bottoms to customize your swimwear. This is a great way to change up your style and add a personal touch to your outfit.^{[4]
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- For instance, if you have a royal blue bikini and a polka-dotted tankini, you can wear the polka dotted tankini top with the blue bottoms.
- If you are wearing a feminine style bathing suit, you can wear boardshorts in addition to your bathing suit bottoms. They can be more comfortable when walking around the boardwalk or taking a stroll down the shore.

Method 2

Method 2 of 5:

Rocking Swimming Trunks and Boardshorts

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Select a pair of swimming trunks for a masculine style. Swim trunks are made out of waterproof material, and they dry very quickly once you hop out of the water. You can choose neutral-colored trunks for a subtle style, or try a bright pair for a summery look. Shades of blue, orange, and green are great choices.^{[5]
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- Men’s bathing suits are sized based off of your waist measurement.
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Try boardshorts for another quick-drying bathing suit option. These shorts are made from a quick-drying material, but they may not be completely waterproof. Choose a colorful pair or a board shorts with a cool, summery pattern.^{[6]
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- If you plan on walking up and down the boardwalk or beach, go with a pair of boardshorts for comfort and style.
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Wear a swim shirt or rash guard to keep you covered. Swim shirts and rash guards are short-sleeve or long-sleeve, waterproof garments. You may want an extra layer if the water is chilly, especially if you are surfing. They can also help prevent chafing and sunburn.

Method 3

Method 3 of 5:

Covering Up and Creating Outfits

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Pick a cover-up dress for an effortless layering option. If you shop at a swimsuit or beach supply store, you’ll find dozens of cover-up options. Mostly all of the fabric comes in waterproof or quick-drying options, and you can pick a cover-up based on your personal preference.
- For example, choose a mesh dress for a flirty touch or a bright color for a summertime style.
- Wear your cover-up on the way to the beach or while walking on the boardwalk, for instance.
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Dress in shorts and a tank top for a boho beach style. Throw on a tank top in a summery color like coral, aqua or lime green. Then, pair this with denim or cotton shorts for a laid-back, relaxed vibe.^{[7]
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- This is a great idea if you are shopping or grabbing lunch before soaking up some sun.
- For instance, pair a green shirt with cotton shorts with a pineapple motif.
3
Choose a button-down or dress for a dressy beach look. If you want to make your beach outfit more formal, wear a floral or brightly colored button-down or maxi dress over your bathing suit. This works as a cover-up, and you can easily head right to the bar after you soak up some rays!^{[8]
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- For instance, pick a dress with a tropical pattern, and wear this with a bright pink bathing suit. You can also go with a floral button-down and blue swimming trunks.
- You may want to dress a little nicer if you are relaxing at a tiki bar, for example.

Method 4

Method 4 of 5:

Adding Accessories

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Secure long hair with a scrunchy or headband so it is out of your face. Go with a ponytail or bun to protect your hair from the wind, sand, and waves. Rock a high ponytail to show off your beach waves, or try a low bun for an easy option. You can also style your hair in double buns, add a headband, or braid the front section. With any style, you’ll be ready to catch the waves in no time.^{[9]
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- Another flattering option includes the twisted side ponytail or half-up half-down styles,
- If you have short hair, you can wear it down, add a barrette, or use a headband.
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Wear flip-flops or sandals for a beach-appropriate footwear option. Choose flip-flops for an effortless option, or try a pair of strappy sandals to protect your feet from the hot sand.^{[10]
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Expert Source

Lynda Jean
Certified Image Consultant
Expert Interview. 17 November 2020.}
- If your sandals strap to your feet and are waterproof, you can easily wear them in the ocean if you’d like.
- Alternatively, go with a wedge for a dressier style. However, it may be difficult to walk in sand, so save these for the boardwalk.
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Wear minimal jewelry so you don’t lose it at the beach. While you may want to feature your favorite necklace or bracelet with your summertime style, there’s a chance of losing it if you take it off to go in the water. Instead, leave your jewelry at home so your pieces can stay safe and sound.
4
Throw on a hat to protect you from the sun.^{[11]
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Expert Source

Lynda Jean
Certified Image Consultant
Expert Interview. 17 November 2020.} A good sun hat is a beachgoers best friend. Wear a baseball cap or wide-brimmed hat to keep the sun out of your eyes while you relax on the shore.^{[12]
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Put on sunglasses to keep the sun out of your eyes.^{[13]
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Expert Source

Lynda Jean
Certified Image Consultant
Expert Interview. 17 November 2020.} Select a pair that protects from UV rays and are polarized, if possible. Go with a funky, oversized style for a fashionable option, or choose an aviator pair for a classic look.
- It’s also helpful to bring a glasses case, so your lenses don’t get scratched inside your bag.

Method 5

Method 5 of 5:

Packing the Essentials

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Bring a beach bag to store your stuff. When you go to the beach, you don’t need to bring a nice, fancy purse or backpack with you. Bring something lightweight that you don’t mind getting a little sandy. Then, use this to house your beachwear, extra clothes, and sunglasses, for instance.^{[14]
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- For example, use a canvas tote or a waterproof bag.
2
Don’t forget your sunscreen! Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before you get to the beach to ensure you are covered, then reapply the sunscreen every 2-6 hours as needed. If you feel your skin start to heat up, it’s a good idea to put more on. This way, you do not get sunburned.^{[15]
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- Use sunscreen with at least a 30 SPF at the minimum.
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Bring a blanket and umbrella so you can sunbathe comfortably. Lay a beach blanket out across the sand, and stick an umbrella into the ground nearby. Push down on the umbrella with moderate pressure so it stays in place.
- You can arrange the blanket so it is half in the shade and half in the sun. Lay in the sun to get a tan and then roll under the shade whenever you need a break from the heat.

Community Q&A

Question

How do I dress like Ariel from The Little Mermaid for the beach?

Community Answer

You could wear a strapless lavender bikini top and pair it with green bikini bottoms.
Question

How do I dress like a mixture of Lilo from Lilo and Stitch and Moana for the beach?

Community Answer

Wear a red one piece with white flowers (like Lilo in Lilo and Stitch) with a Moana-like cover-up. Or you can do it the other way around with a 2 piece with a bikini top with the Moana style and a beige swim skirt, and a cover-up that is red with a white flower patter.
Question

Is it OK to wear flip flops or high heels on sandy surfaces?

Community Answer

I wouldn't wear heels. The coarseness of the sand could ruin them, and the heel would sink into the sand. Flip flops are a common thing to wear, and you can find super cute ones anywhere!

Things You’ll Need

Bathing suit
Cover up
Sunglasses
Hat
Flip-flops or sandals
Beach bag
Sunscreen
Blanket
Umbrella

Warnings

If you are swimming in the water, always check the water conditions before you get in. Look for warnings of riptides, sharks, and jellyfish, for instance.

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