You’ve just been invited to a destination wedding in Aruba. A full week of activities in a seaside paradise sounds perfect, but you’re going to need multiple statement outfits that won’t take up a ton of space in your suitcase. It’s time to get creative. Read on to learn seven tips for having a stylish wardrobe for just about any beachside occasion.
1. Day-to-Night Wardrobe Upgrade Pieces
Start by finding statement pieces that can be used in a variety of ways. For example, pick two swimsuits: a one-piece for activity and a more daring two-piece for lounging. And then pick a couple of bottoms that match well with them both to go from a day at the beach to a romantic dinner. We love breezy, high-quality apparel that can be paired with just about anyone or a two-piece swimsuit to make a stunning impression.
2. The Must-Have Floppy Hat
We all know that Vitamin D-rich sunlight is good for you…in moderation. What you get at the beach is anything but moderate, so you need to protect your skin from overexposure. This means applying (and reapplying) sunscreen whenever you’re near the water. But sometimes, even that’s not enough.
Thankfully, the floppy hat is 100% on trend and equally functional. Wear it at the beach to protect your face (especially your eyes!) from the sun, and then keep it on for afternoon drinks to tame your beach-swept hair. As an added bonus, floppy hats are exceptionally packable! To make a true statement, pair your hat with chunky candy-color earrings or beaded necklaces to upgrade to an evening look.
3. Kaftans
Even in the most tropical of locations, you’re bound to experience a few chilly nights. The sea breeze can be downright cold, especially if you’ve spent the day soaking up the sun. To keep off the chill without being weighed down, pack a lightweight long-sleeve kaftan.
The beauty of the kaftan is that it never goes out of style and its floaty fabric won’t weigh down your luggage. It’s been a staple of American couture since the ’50s. And its versatility means you’ll look equally at home on the beach or the town. Wear it with sandals (or barefoot) to the beach. Or, pair it with a chunky gold necklace and heels for a wedding or a night out.
4. Linen
When traveling, you want clothes that you can put on straight out of the suitcase. But, at the beach, you want fabrics that are lightweight and breathable. Linen is almost the perfect choice. Its thin yet stiffer fabric won’t stick to your skin in the salty air. Unfortunately, the stiffness also means it’s prone to creasing, keeping many people from packing it for a week away. However, it can still be a great choice for your beach vacation.
Today’s linen styles look, dare we say, better when slightly wrinkled. Just pack your linen carefully to avoid deep creases (fold along seams, then roll your linen items together before packing) and embrace the breezy, flowy, and wrinkly look that is a must-have for any beach vacay. And don’t be afraid to go full linen from head to toe! Pair your linen with chunky sunglasses to offset the flowy vibe.
5. The Tank Top
The tank top is a summer essential. Fitted tanks look great under sheer summer dresses or with sports shorts and tennies for a quick workout before brunch. Plus, their versatility allows them to be paired with shorts and flip-flops for a walk on the beach or a day of local shopping or with a sarong for a casual evening on the town.
And there are more tank options than grains of sand on the beach (ok, not really, but there are a lot). Pair a billowy and strappy tank with a pair of shorts and platform sandals or try a fitted tank with a flowing skirt and strappy flats. A couple of tanks can be used to create multiple looks without taking up valuable space in your suitcase.
6. The Trendy Shorts Set
You don’t want to pack a suit, but you want something a little classier for brunch with the ladies. Try one of this year’s trendiest items: the short set. Whether you opt for an upscale silk set or a more casual option, matching shorts sets are all the rage this year and will keep you cool, comfortable, and 100% on trend.
The best part is you will spend zero time picking matching items. Go for lighter colors paired with natural makeup to pull off the effortless style we are all craving. Or, for a bridal shower, opt for slightly brighter colors to highlight the upbeat nature of the event.
7. Anything Boho
Boho just screams beach. With its loose, billowy lines and colorful fabrics, you can’t go wrong packing a few boho pieces. Breathable, bohemian pants pair beautifully with tanks, swimsuits, or crop tops, for a night on the town, or a brunch by the sea. Or, throw in a strappy sundress paired with a few bangles and some flip-flops for a minimalist look.
If you don’t embrace the full boho vibe, try a few boho accessories like a scarf or fringed earrings to set off a more classic look. However you create your boho look, you’ll fit right in at almost any beachside activity.
Conclusion
With a little planning and some clever packing, you can easily be fashionable in just about any beach setting imaginable. Whether you’re at your best friend’s wedding, a late-night bonfire, or an afternoon boating adventure, you can have functional, on-trend looks with little to no fuss by following these simple ideas.
