15 Chic and Comfortable Outfits for a Summer Beach Day
A day at the beach — the sun, the waves, the salty breeze — is like nothing else.
That’s my happy place, but I’ve learned that what you wear can make the experience even better.
I have since perfected my beach attire over the years to find the right combination of style and comfort.
This guide is full of outfit inspiration for readers who want to look effortlessly chic while also comfortable on the sand.
So whether you need to lay out under an umbrella, grab drinks at a beachside bar or just away doing photos against a beautiful ocean backdrop, I’ve got you.
1. Flowy Maxi Dress with Sandals
A flowy maxi dress is beach-to-dinner perfection.
Select one in lightweight material, such as cotton or chiffon, in a vivid print or solid pastel.
Style it with flat sandals and a woven tote to keep it fresh but elegant.
I wore a coral maxi dress on my most recent beach trip, and it transitioned seamlessly from lounging to a seaside dinner.
2. A Kimono Cover-Up over a High-Waisted Bikini
This combo is as practical as it is stylish
A high-waisted bikini is flattering for most body types and a long kimono adds boho flair.
Opt for a colorful kimono with tassel detailing to take the look up a notch and oversized sunglasses for the glam finish.
It’s my killer look for walking along the shore and the experience of being in a fashion spread.
3. Shorts and linen shirt pairing with espadrilles
Linen is a beach day worship no-brainer — lightweight, breathable, and effortlessly chic.
Combine a white linen button-down with neutral linen shorts and slide-on espadrilles.
Slightly tuck in the shirt for the polished yet relaxed look.
The outfit helped me stay stylish while exploring the boardwalk in a very hot day.
4. Denim Cutoffs With a One Piece Swimsuit
It’s classic while being cool and is a good solution for beach bumming or a casual walk.
Wear a statement one-piece — say, one with a striking low back or print — and add some high-rise denim cutoffs.
Throw on a straw hat and flip flops and — bam!
I wore this for an impromptu day at the beach, and I could just slip off the shorts when it was time to swim.
5. The Wrap Skirt with a Cropped Tank
Throw on this combo for an effortlessly chic feel.
A fitted cropped tank looks great with a floor-length wrap skirt in a vibrant pattern.
Finish with strappy sandals and a simple tote to complete the look.
I like this ensemble for brunches near the beach — it’s stylish without overdoing it.
6. Co-Ord Set With Slides
A matching two-piece set says laid-back summer style.
Stay away from heavy fabrics; opt for light fabrics with interesting patterns such as stripes and tropical prints.
Match the set with slides and simple accessories so the outfit can shine.
Last summer, I wore a striped set to the beach, and I felt more put-together without any additional effort.
7. A Braided Crochet Cover-Up Over a Bright Bikini
Crochet cover-ups are practical as well as eye-catching.
Wear one over a brightly colored bikini to let the textures shine through.
Complete the outfit with aviators and slip-on sandals for a little behind-the-scenes glam.
It’s one of my favorite looks for beach pictures — I think the crochet just adds so much texture to the outfit.
8. Oversized Button-Down As Cover-Up
An oversized button-down shirt serves as a minimal cover-up.
Toss it over your swimsuit and roll up the sleeves for a relaxed, yet chic vibe.
Pair with sporty sandals and a canvas tote for something more modern.
But this look saved me when I needed something quick and stylish for a run to the beach last minute.
9. Midi Sundress With Strappy Sandals
A midi sundress is a fail-safe option for a more feminine silhouette.
Choose a dress in soft, drapey fabric, with thin straps and a cinched waist.
Wear with strappy sandals and a straw bag for beachside glamour done effortlessly.
My last beach picnic, I wore (and was practical and photogenic enough to remember to bring) a yellow midi dress.
10. Romper with Wedge Sandals
Another no-brainer are rompers for beach days—incredibly easy to wear and unbelievably versatile for the vacation wardrobe.
Select a lightweight fabric in a bright or neutral color, and add wedge sandals for height.
Pair it with a wide-brim hat for a dash of glam.
I wore a floral romper for a beach barbecue that was just the right mix of casual and chic.
11. Bandeau Top with a High-low Skirt
This matching set shrieks beach goddess.
For the boho vibe, opt for a flowy high-low skirt with a bandeau or strapless top.
Layered necklaces and flat sandals are all you need to keep it simple, but still stunning.
This was my favorite for a sunset beach party; it’s so easy and elegant.
12. A Bikini Top with Sheer Palazzo Pants
For a hot, statement vibe, wear sheer palazzo pants over your bikini top.
The breezy, lightweight pants sway nicely in the ocean breeze and add an element of drama.
Wear with flat sandals and a tiny clutch.
I wore this for a beach concert, and it was the perfect mix of comfy and eye-catching.
13. Off-the-Shoulder Top + Linen Pants
An off-the-shoulder top and wide-leg linen trousers are breezy, yet sophisticated.
Resist getting too colorful for a modern vibe, and complete the look with understated slides and a woven tote.
It’s the ideal outfit for a laid-back beach day with friends.
14. Statement Accessories with a Patterned Kaftan
For good reason, kaftans are a classic beach option.
Pick one with bold patterns or embroidery and really go for it with statement accessories, such as chunky earrings or a stack of bangles.
Throw on a pair of sandals and you’re set.
This outfit is my favorite for hanging by the water — comfortable, chic.
15. Denim Skirt With a Lightweight Tank
There is nothing you can do wrong for a beach day, but a denim skirt and tank top is always bikini friendly.
Tuck the tank into the skirt for a streamlined look, and add flip-flops or slides for a relaxed feel.
Slap on a crossbody bag for the basics.
This was what I wore to go get ice cream after a day at the beach, and it felt effortlessly cool.
