21 Beach Outfits That Epitomize Summer
21 Beach Outfits That Epitomize Summer
Now’s the time to usher in the newfound energy of the summer season in all its glory, from warmer temperatures and longer days in the sun to swimsuits, luxury straw bags, and of course, beach outfits.
Today’s beach looks have evolved beyond the basic bikini and cover-up. Whether it’s a beach sarong that can double as a mini skirt when paired with a strappy sandal or a low-back one-piece swimsuit that can be worn as a bodysuit with wide-leg pants, beach essentials have become an integral part of everyday style. This season is all about pairing your new summer fashion finds with your go-to summer capsule wardrobe pieces (think high-waisted trousers and Bottega slides). And most importantly, the best beach outfits are meant to be fun—think bold, bright-colored accessories and dramatically oversized straw hats.
Ahead, discover the most fashionable beach outfits to get you even more excited for summer (and yes, these can be worn to the pool, too).
Shop the Best Beach Outfit Ideas
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Bandeau and High-Waisted Trousers
Behold the effortlessly cool look of the summer: a bandeau bikini styled with a high-waisted, loose-fitting trouser. The best part? You can repeat this look hundreds of times with different colors, fabrics, and of course, accessories. Opt for a classic look with subtle hints of gold jewelry like a medium-sized hoop earring and dainty choker necklace. Now all you need is a designer beach towel.
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Beach Kaftan Outfit
Just because beach dressing has evolved does not mean the classic kaftan cover-up is no longer in style—it just got the minimalist makeover. Pair the oversized kaftan with a strappy sandal—our go-to is The Row’s Constance sandal— rectangular acetate sunglass, and chunky gold jewelry to complete the look.
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Bikini and Silk Bandana Beach Fashion
Perhaps our favorite styling piece for the summer is the silk bandana. It’s the ultimate versatile piece, from wearing it as a neck scarf or hair tie to a skirt or top; the silk bandana can be transformed into many different pieces. Our expert advice? Indulge in fun, bright prints and style with a basic black swimsuit.
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Knit Cover-Up and One-Piece
Summer knits made quite the splash last summer, and they are certainly not going anywhere this year. Embrace the trend by wearing a knit swimsuit under a knit dress and compliment the texture with Gianvito Rossi’s braided leather sandal and Prada’a straw beach bag.
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Striped Sweater and High-Waisted Denim Shorts
This outfit will forever be a classy beach look—especially when the weather errs on the cooler side. Update the striped sweater and denim cut-offs look by layering them over Lisa Marie Fernandez’s terry one-piece swimsuit and a sleek, leather tote bag.
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Summer Whites Beach Outfit
There’s nothing quite as fresh as wearing white linens on a warm day at the beach. Keep the button-down and shorts slightly oversized for a loose and breezy vibe. Complete the outfit with contrasting dark accessories like chunky black sunglasses and Jil Sander’s black sombrero tote bag.
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Matching Skirt Set Beach Outfit
If there’s anything 2020 proved, it’s that we love a matching set—whether loungewear or beachwear. Dress up your beach outfit with a matching tie-front top and tiered maxi skirt to wear down to the ocean and to dinner. Opt for a classic timepiece that both elevates the outfit while keeping it seemingly casual.
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Printed Short-Sleeve Top and Bikini
The oversized, wide short-sleeve top will continue to be the hero shirt silhouette of the season this year—and we are obsessed. Drape this shirt over a classic triangle string bikini and style with stackable rings for a modern beach outfit.
