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Growing up in southern Massachusetts, I was exposed to coastal style firsthand. There were, of course, the summer people who visited from June to August wearing crisp, perfectly tailored button-ups and expensive brands I'd never heard of. Then there were the locals, who wore equally stylish, yet more utilitarian looks to accommodate a day working on or by the water.
While the aesthetics of both parties vary slightly, the common denominator was that everyone always looked seriously elegant. And nailing Cape style doesn't require having enough money to buy a waterfront house in Chatham—you just need to lean into classic prints (yes, stripes), breezy materials (linen and cottons), and timeless silhouettes.
To help you get the look for less, I scoured Walmart for the best Cape-approved styles. Shop my finds, which start at just $5.
Starting off strong with a classic navy-and-white striped button-up.
This looks like a designer bag without the designer price tag.
The number of people walking on the beach in white linen pants during the summer is endless. Look the part with these under-$30 trousers.
Customers love that this timeless red bikini is well-made and "fits like a glove."
Espadrilles are a Cape Cod staple, and this cute pair will only set you back $10.
New England weather is notoriously finicky, so a lightweight cardigan is the perfect elevated staple to keep on hand.
Wear this in your hair at the beach, around your neck with a button-up, or on your straw bag for a pop of color.
Denim cut-offs are great for the beach, but these more elevated shorts are more appropriate for a night out.
Fun shades are the easiest way to upgrade an outfit.
Along with linen, eyelet is the unofficial fabric of Cape Cod.
Cape Cod isn't all about beachwear: A smart navy blue blazer is perfect for a nicer dinner.
Speaking of nicer dinners, grab this mini bag for a night out.
Tennis is the Cape sport of choice, but you don't need a racket to look the part thanks to this skirt.
These 14-karat gold-plated earrings will dress up a maxi dress or a simple tee.
The clichés are true: Cape-goers love stripes.
Don't forget the bottoms.
You can't go wrong with a straw beach bag—especially one with a zip-closure to keep sand out.
If you only wear one accessory this summer, make it an elegant watch.
The gold-button detail is key for making this sleeveless cardigan look luxe.
Tip: Style this gold cuff over a long-sleeve button-up to change the shirt's silhouette.
This versatile swimsuit has adjustable straps, removable pads, and underwire support, so you'll be safe while jumping waves.
A breezy shirt to wear over your bathing suit or to throw on for your morning coffee run to Woolfie's Bakery.
If you're headed out on the Cape and islands, you're going to need shoes that can navigate sand and cobblestone streets. These will do the trick.
Every summer, I'm surprised at how hot it gets inland. This sweet little frock is made of 100% cotton, which means it'll be breathable and cool.
Psst: These straps are removable, making this dress a two-for-one look.
Snag these stylish sandals while they're on sale for $20.
Cape Codders are elevated but not fussy. These chic pants look sleek and effortless despite the elastic waistband.
No surprises here: The women of Cape Cod love a timeless ballet flat they can throw on with their shorts, dresses, or linen pants.
An effortless dress is key to getting up and out the door. This pull-on maxi dress will look chic while requiring minimal styling.
Stash this foldable hat in your beach bag for bonus sun protection.