When you finally get to the beach on a busy weekend, what’s the first thing you notice besides the roaring waves and sand? The lack of style, right? Truthfully, you can get away with anything when at the beach because everyone’s more focused on the waves and surfboards. But this doesn’t mean you can show up looking like you just rolled out of bed.
A messy hair bun, an oversized t-shirt with a hideous print, and ratty old sneakers won’t cut it when you’re trying to get that perfect Instagram photo with the ocean in the background. And if you’ve worked all week long for that six-pack, the last thing you want to do is cover it up with a baggy pair of swim trunks.
So, to ensure you always look beach-ready (and Instagram-worthy), here are a few style tips to keep in mind.
Pick the Right Material
We agree most of us love the feeling of the sun on our skin, but please don’t arrive looking like a lobster. Opt for swimsuits and cover-ups made with Lycra, which has built-in SPF to avoid sunburn. It effectively protects your skin from the harsh summer sun and dries quickly, so you’re not stuck in a wet bathing suit all day.
And if you want to wear a flowy dress or skirt to the beach, make sure it’s made with a lightweight fabric like chiffon. You don’t want something that will blow up in the wind and give everyone a show. Thankfully, stores like Charles Vermont have a great range of premium quality, beach-appropriate clothing options for women. With an amazing range of brands such as Dolcezza, Frank Lyman, Joseph Ribkoff, and many more.
Find the Right Fit
Most of us hate body-hugging clothing because it’s so constricting and uncomfortable. And if you’ve stuffed roasted chicken and potatoes into your belly before hitting the beach, you don’t want the bulge and bloat to show. But if you want to avoid a fashion faux pas, it’s important to find swimwear that fits perfectly well. Otherwise, you’ll end up with a pair of trunks that are too big and saggy or too small and uncomfortable.
If you don’t know your size, take a quick trip to the store and try on a few different pairs. And when in doubt, always size up. It’s better to have a dress/swimsuit that’s a little big than one that’s too small.
Choose the Right Color
It’s time to put away the blacks and grays and bring out the bright colors. When you’re at the beach, you want to stand out, not blend in with the sand. And the best way to do that is by wearing a bold color. If you’re not used to standing out, start small by incorporating a pop of color into your outfit. For example, if you’re wearing a black bathing suit, pair it with a brightly-colored sarong or cover-up.
Or, if you’re wearing a white sundress, add a brightly-colored scarf or piece of jewelry. What’s currently trending are floral prints, tie-and-dye, and neon colors. So, have fun with your beach look, and don’t be afraid to experiment.
Glam Up with Accessories
What’s your must-have beach accessory? It’s probably your old wide-brimmed sun hat you’ve had since you were a kid, right? But it’s high time you part ways with the touristy vibe. Instead of a sun hat, try a Panama hat or straw fedora. And ditch the old-fashioned beach bag for a chic tote bag or crossbody purse.
If you want to spice things up with a little color, try a brightly-colored scarf or piece of jewelry. Trust us; you’ll get compliments on that statement necklace all day. Oh, and don’t forget anklets. Those beautiful, intricate anklets are quite popular right now, and they add a touch of bohemian elegance to any outfit. More importantly, don’t forget your sunglasses.
Looking for a stylish yet functional option for your next beach trip? Consider adding a pair of women’s surf trunks to your beachwear collection.
Up Your Shoe Game
When it comes to (often ignored) shoes, there are two things you should keep in mind: comfort and style. You’ll have a long day of walking on hot sand, so wear comfortable shoes. But please, for the love of everything, don’t wear your Crocs to the beach. No one wants to see that. And the funny, spotty suntan lines on your feet will look like fish scales gone wrong.
Instead, try a pair of espadrilles or strappy sandals. If you’re going to be in the water, invest in a good pair of water shoes. They’ll protect your feet from the hot sand and sharp shells. And if you want to get fancy, try a pair of gladiator sandals. They’ll make you look like a Roman goddess in no time.
Conclusion
When it comes to beachwear, there’s only one rule you need to remember: less is more. You don’t want to look like you’re trying too hard. The whole point of going to the beach is to relax and soak up the sun. So, keep your outfit simple and don’t overdo it with the accessories.
A good rule of thumb is to start with a basic bikini or one-piece and then build your outfit around that. If you’re unwilling to expose your body, try a sarong or kaftan over your swimsuit. They’re perfect for covering up and can double as cute beach dresses. Enjoy the sun, sand, and surf, and don’t forget to click some heart-able photos while at it.
