Partying on the beach always sounds like a brilliant idea; sun, sea breezes, ice-cold drinks and just a general good time. And then you ask yourself, “what do I wear?” and things start getting a little tricky. You’ve got your party looks sorted, beach attire isn’t giving you any sleepless nights but what on earth are you supposed to wear when partying on the beach?
One of the key tenets of being fashionably dressed is to know the occasion you’re dressing for. The same is true for dressing for the beach; you’ll be dressing vastly different for a casual day frolicking with friends, sunset cocktails or a beach wedding. One safe bet though is that you can leave the heels at home; heels at the beach look great in fashion editorials but they really weren’t made for making your way over fine white sand.
In this article we’ve put together a (hopefully) helpful guide on what to wear to a variety of different beach parties. We’ll start off very casual and get progressively dressier.
1. The Essentials
There are some absolute essentials to pack into any beach bag and foremost amongst these is sunscreen. Whatever the occasion, if you’re going to be spending an extended period of time in the sun, pack the sunscreen. Other forget-me-nots to take along would be a great beach towel, a cover-up or sarong and a straw hat. And let’s not forget about the item you should definitely not leave at home when heading to the beach, your swimwear.
There are numerous guides out there offering all kinds of advice on what sort of swimwear would suit any particular body shape best, but all you really need to remember is this; get the swimwear that makes you feel the most confident. Looking good in your swimwear – like fashion in general – is all about confidence so if you’re comfortable in a one-piece, don’t be bullied (by fashion, expectation or anything else) into a scanty bikini and vice versa.
2. Super Casual – One-Piece + Denim
Not every party requires dressing-up, sometimes the best times are just a group of friends casually enjoying their time together. If you’re planning on spending the day just sunning at the sea with a group of your besties there’s no reason for extensive outfit planning. A one-piece and denim (skirt or shorts, whichever takes your fancy) combo is a great look for this casual day out. Your swimsuit will act as a top when paired with the denim while the denim itself is a great cover-up piece when travelling to and from the beach or if you’re going to get a bit of lunch. Choose a pair of shoes that would be easy to get on or off like some sandals, flip-flops or slip-on sneakers. Easy peasy.
3. Jumpsuit or Playsuit
If you’d still like to be very chill and casual but denim skirts or shorts are just not your thing, a casual jumpsuit or playsuit would be a great alternative. These casual garments would fulfil all the roles that a denim skirt or pair of shorts would but with a little added incentive; if you’re thinking of heading to that great seaside bistro for some tapas at sunset, a fun little playsuit would definitely be restaurant-ready.
4. Shorts + Straw
If the event you’re heading to is more beach adjacent than actually on it, like a seaside restaurant or bar, but the dress code is still casual and relaxed I’d suggest opting for a pair of tailored shorts. A buttoned or wrap blouse will elevate the look while a printed scarf tied in your hair keeps it casually chic. Finish off the look with the season’s must-have straw bag.
5. Kimono + Trousers
If the party you’ve been invited to is going to be hosted at a rather swanky beach house or hotel pool and would generally require you standing around in your swimsuit while not actually using it for the purpose it was intended, i.e. swimming, then opt for a floaty kimono and large brim sun hat, not only as protection from the blazing sun but also as an extra way to add some drama into your look. A slouchy pair of trousers, especially a printed pair or one with a tie waist, is an easy piece to slip on when heading to or from the event.
6. Dressed Up To The Beach – Maxi Dress + Wedges
Flowy maxi dresses, especially printed ones, are an absolute no brainer when you need to be dressed up to the beach. They’re especially great for beach weddings because they are casually elegant and sophisticated while still looking completely at ease in its surrounding. Maxi dresses work really well will flat sandals, especially embellished ones but if you’re looking to add some height opt for a pair of wedges or wedge espadrilles. Finish your look with a pair of tassel earrings to give it a care-free and almost boho feel.
Related:
What to Wear to the Office When You Know You’re Heading Out After
