10 Beach Outfit Must-Haves

BE THE QUEEN OF THE BEACH THIS SUMMER

Heading off to a relaxing weekend getaway at the beach? Whether you’re going swimming, surfing, attending a beach event or just planning to enjoy the sun and sand, you can become a summer queen by having the right beach outfit to match whatever occasion.

This doesn’t mean you should bring an entire wardrobe with you on your weekend trip! You don’t have to stress yourself out too much over what clothes to bring. All you need is a few essential pieces that you can mix, match and layer to fit any mood or activity whilst you’re away on your weekend beach escapade.

Take a look at the 10 outfit essentials below. These will give you some ideas on what to pack for your trip to achieve a no-fuss, comfy-but-stylish summer queen look!

1. The Hat You Can’t Do Without

Let’s start from the top, shall we? One of most important pieces for your beach outfit is, of course, a sun hat! This is crucial especially when you’re out at the beach when the sun is high during the day. It doesn’t just protect your head from the hot sun, but also acts as a stylish accessory to go with the rest of your outfit. 

If you’re wearing bright solids or colorful prints, perhaps you can top it off with a neutral-colored fedora or a simple, white broad-brimmed hat. You could even pair a funky, bright-colored sun hat with neutral shades.

2. Sunnies For Your Eyes

A day at the beach is fun and relaxing, but you can’t fully unwind when you’re squinting in the sun, can you? Thus, a pair of sunglasses is the next must-have to bring on your weekend getaway. 

It is a good idea to bring at least 2 pairs with you, preferably in different styles for variety. This way you can match them with different outfits, the style and color is up to you. Wayfarers and aviators seem to be most popular. 
Some ladies also opt for large round or square frames for maximum protection from the sun’s glare. Just choose styles that are most comfortable for you and in colors that would match with any outfit.

3. An All-Around Scarf

A scarf is one versatile piece of accessory. You can drape it over yourself when the sun is hot and there are no beach umbrellas around for shelter. Same goes for when the day is cold or the wind is chillier, like early mornings or evenings. You can spread it out on the sand for sunbathing (just don’t ever forget sunscreen). 

You can even wear it as a cover-up over your swimsuit if it’s big enough. Just wrap around yourself and voila! Instant summer dress! Bring 2 or 3 scarves in a variety of colors and patterns. You’ll surely turn heads at the beach with them!

4. Some Fun Swimwear

   

Of course, summer beach escapades mean swimming! The way to stand out from the crowd of beach-goers is to be bright and uncommon. Try rich, bold colors and unique patterns that catch the eye. However, don’t forget to go for styles that you are comfortable with, whether it’s a 2-piece bikini, tankini or 1-piece swimsuit. Bring at least 2 pairs of bikinis and maybe a tankini, if you like. 

The great thing about bikinis or tankinis is you can pair one of the pieces with a different piece of clothing, say, a bikini or tankini top with a pair of shorts. If you feel like snorkeling or surfing, you can even don a rash guard top and a bikini bottom if that’s more your style.

5. A Maxi Dress or Summer Dress

   

A maxi dress is great for when you’re out on the beach but you’re not really sure if you want to go swimming or not. You can wear it over your swimsuit while you relax on a beach towel or lounge chair. If you suddenly get the urge for a stroll around the area, go souvenir shopping, or eat out a local restaurant. 

You can just grab a tote and slip on a pair of wedges or sandals and off you go! When you feel like hitting the water later on, you can simply take the dress off and you’re ready for swimming.

You can try floral prints or beach-themed patterns for style, or go simple and elegant with sheer whites or lace.

6. Comfy Shorts or Skirts

You can’t go wrong with a pair of shorts for your weekend trip. Perfect for warm days at the beach, market shopping, and strolling or biking around the neighborhood. Denim is the common favorite because it’s casual and can be paired with almost any style of top. 

Perhaps you can take with you 2 pairs of shorts, one for very casual moments and another that you can use for other occasions maybe for things like a dinner date with friends.

You can also add a skirt to your beach outfit essentials. It can be mixed and match with various tops as well; you can do a printed skirt with a neutral top for a splash of color.

7. Cozy Tees Or Blouses

 

What else would go well with your shorts? Pack a cozy short-sleeved t-shirt or an awesome light blouse to match your shorts and you’ll have the perfect beach vacation outfits. 
Perhaps a tank or halter top? Again, the trick is to be able to mix and match different pieces so that your outfits don’t seem repetitive or boring. For a weekend getaway, you probably won’t need more than a couple of these, considering that you are bringing the other pieces on this list.

8. Light Jacket or Cardigan

Another trick to creating fresh looks with the different pieces you have in your luggage is to layer them. A jacket or cardigan is essential; layer it on top of a blouse or shirt. Wear with shorts for casual get-togethers, or a skirt or dress for more formal social gatherings. It can also keep you warm on cooler nights!

9. That One Special Outfit

If you’re attending a posh beach social event, or you get asked out to a dinner date on the beach, you’ll need to make sure you pack at least one special outfit to match the occasion. 

The rule is still to pack light, though, so don’t bring any heavy dresses or outfits that may crease or get ruined before you have a chance to wear it. Trendy dresses are awesome special outfits. Bring one that is comfortable and easy to put on; you can always layer with one of your scarves or a jacket when it gets cold.

10. Essential Footwear

Stay light, right? The best footwear to go with your beach outfits are flat sandals and wedges, although you can really wear something that suits your own style. Sneakers or light rubber shoes would still work, especially if you like to go jogging in the mornings. 

You can also wear flip-flops on the beach – they dry easily and don’t get too much sand on them. Flat sandals allow you to be really stylish while still remaining casual; you can wear sandals with cute embellishments and designs to show off your personality. Wedges are best for going out to more formal gatherings or special dates.

So there you have it, our list of must-haves for your beach getaway. Of course, you must also never forget your sunscreen! Remember, keep it light, mix and match, and always stay comfortable. You’ll be sure to rock it at the beach this summer!