The 8 Best Beach Outfits for Long Days in the Sun

With summer on the horizon, even the thought of packing a suitcase (opens in new tab) gives us that fuzzy feeling. But preparing for a beach vacation doesn't end with finding the right swimsuit (or two, or three). Seasoned vacationers know that bringing the right cover-ups (opens in new tab), sandals (opens in new tab), and sunglasses (opens in new tab) for every occasion is just as important, but there's one highly overlooked facet of beach-packing: The beach outfit. It can be tricky to transition from a wet and sandy bathing suit to normal clothing, so we scoured the internet for the all-time best beach outfits that'll take you through this year's beach days whether you're planning a quick day at the shore or a full-out tropical vacation.

The Laid-Back Lounge Look

Being the typical Leo that I am, I love any excuse to get all dolled up, but it's also nice to lay back and wear something soft and comfortable—particularly on a lowkey beach day with friends. But remember: You can lounge and look good at the same time! Slip on one of these ultra-cozy, ultra-airy sets while you're on the beach, and accessorize with a simple gold chain or a chic pair of sunglasses if you need to dress it up for lunch or cocktails.

A Bright 'Fit to Light Up the Beach

There's no time like summer to rock flourescent colors, and, with these sets, you'll rival in the sunshine in how bright you shine. Couple the outfit with a neutral pair of sandals, or go all the way with a pair equally as bright as your clothes.

The Dress that Doubles as a Cover-Up

I try to be as low-maintenance as possible in the summer: The heat tends to make me feel languid, and, when I'm at the beach, any complicated outfit is bound to be undone by the wind and the sand, anyway. For this reason, my all-time favorite beach outfit is the dress-that's-also-a-cover-up. It's quick, easy, looks like it involved more effort than it actually did, and it doesn't involve having to wiggle into a pair of pants! Top it off with a pair of strappy sandals and a the go-to summer purse of French It-Girl Jane Birkin, the beloved basket bag. 

A Crocheted Number 

One of my all-time favorite summer styles is the crocheted look. It's classic and intricate, and can be subdued and family-friendly or flirty and fun. Check out some of our favorite pieces below, including options by Latinx designers (crocheting is huge in the Latinx community—evidenced in my own life by the sheer number of crocheted goods passed down within my Puerto Rican family!).

A Tee and Cutoffs

I'm a sucker for the classics, and there's nothing quite as classic Americana as pulling on a white tee and a pair of denim cutoffs in the summer. And remember: Just because something's classic, doesn't mean it needs to be boring! You can even enhance the look by adding an on-trend baseball cap or a pair of statement earrings. Check out our favorite picks below, which are fun and beach-friendly, but won't leave you feeling like you're 15 years-old.