Kris Santos
Summer is here, and that means sun-soaked beach days, salty ocean breezes, and endless opportunities to show off your best beach outfits to try this season. While swimsuits and sunglasses are beach-day essentials, there’s so much more to summer fashion than just that. The right outfit can make you feel comfortable, stylish, and effortlessly put together, whether you’re strolling along the shore, grabbing a bite at a beachside café, or dancing under the stars at a bonfire.
No matter your style—whether you love breezy dresses, chic monochromatic looks, or playful mix-and-match ensembles—this guide has something for you. Plus, with the resurgence of Y2K aesthetics, coastal cowgirl vibes, and minimalist fashion, there’s never been a better time to revamp your beach wardrobe. Below are the must-have beach outfits to try this summer!
10 Trendy Beach Outfits to Try This Summer for a Stylish Look
1. Cotton Dress: The Ultimate Summer Essential
A lightweight, breathable cotton dress is a summer wardrobe staple. Opt for a cream-colored or pastel-toned cotton dress to keep things fresh and airy. This timeless piece is perfect for days when you want to look effortlessly chic without sacrificing comfort.
How to Style It:
- Pair it with a wide-brim sun hat and woven tote bag for a relaxed, coastal look.
- Add a pair of flat strappy sandals or espadrilles for an effortlessly stylish finish.
- Accessorize with minimalist gold jewelry for a touch of elegance.
Free People “Santorini Maxi Dress” – $128
- This boho-chic maxi dress is made from lightweight cotton gauze, featuring delicate lace trim and a tiered skirt that flows beautifully in the ocean breeze.
H&M “Linen-Blend Tie-Strap Dress” – $39.99
- A budget-friendly yet stylish cotton dress, this piece features adjustable tie-straps, a smocked bodice, and a breezy A-line silhouette.
2. Breezy Jumpsuit: Effortless and Versatile
A jumpsuit is an easy, one-and-done outfit that works for everything from a casual beach stroll to an impromptu dinner by the water. Look for a flowy, lightweight fabric like linen or chiffon for maximum comfort.
Why You’ll Love It:
✅ Functions as a beach cover-up and a stylish outfit for post-beach plans.
✅ Gives an effortlessly put-together vibe without much effort.
✅ Comes in bold tropical prints, soft pastels, and classic neutrals to match any aesthetic.
Styling Tip:
Layer it with a cropped denim jacket for cooler evenings or pair it with statement sunglasses for a chic daytime look.
Madewell “Beach Linen Jumpsuit” – $98
- This lightweight linen jumpsuit features a loose fit, adjustable straps, and cropped wide legs, making it ideal for warm beach days.
Abercrombie & Fitch “Relaxed Fit Utility Jumpsuit” – $120
- A chic and structured take on the beach jumpsuit, featuring a button-up front, cinched waist, and breathable cotton fabric.
3. High-Rise Boyfriend Jeans: The Cool-Girl Beach Staple
For those who love a casual, laid-back aesthetic, high-rise boyfriend jeans are a perfect choice. These jeans are loose-fitting, lightweight, and easy to slip on and off—making them ideal for the beach.
How to Wear Them:
- Pair with a crochet bikini top for a boho-chic vibe.
- Add a sheer kimono or lightweight button-down shirt for a relaxed cover-up.
- Roll up the hems and go barefoot for a dreamy, beachy feel.
Levi’s “Ribcage Straight Ankle Jeans” – $98
- A high-rise fit with a relaxed straight leg, perfect for layering over a swimsuit.
Zara “Relaxed Boyfriend Jeans” – $59.90
- A softer, looser fit for effortless styling, featuring distressed details and a light wash.
4. Tiered Ruffle Maxi Dress: Romantic and Flowy
A tiered ruffle maxi dress is a great option if you’re heading to a beach picnic, sunset cruise, or a bonfire party. This flowy, elegant dress flatters all body types and creates a whimsical, effortlessly stylish look.
Pro Styling Tips:
✔️ Stick to earthy tones or vibrant summer hues like coral, mustard, or sage green.
✔️ Add a woven belt for a defined waistline.
✔️ Pair with minimalist sandals or go barefoot for a natural, effortless appeal.
Anthropologie “Ruffle Tiered Maxi Dress” – $148
- A romantic, bohemian-inspired dress with layered ruffles and a soft chiffon fabric.
ASOS “Pleated Ruffle Maxi Dress” – $65
- A budget-friendly choice with a lightweight pleated skirt and ruffled neckline.
5. Printed Chiffon Sarong: A Classic Beach Must-Have
A sarong is a summer staple that never goes out of style. Whether you tie it as a skirt, a halter dress, or even a one-shoulder wrap, a printed chiffon sarong is a versatile, packable piece that instantly elevates your beach outfit.
Why You Need It:
- Works as both a cover-up and a statement piece.
- Comes in fun tropical prints, bold animal patterns, and classic solids.
- Can be styled in multiple ways depending on your mood and outfit.
Style Hack:
Tie your sarong asymmetrically for a modern twist, and pair it with statement earrings and oversized sunglasses.
Revolve “Tropical Print Sarong” – $58
- A bold, tropical-print sarong made from light chiffon fabric.
H&M “Sheer Chiffon Sarong” – $19.99
- A budget-friendly option in neutral and pastel shades.
6. Black Midi Dress: The Chic Minimalist’s Go-To
If you love sleek and simple outfits, a black midi dress is your summer essential. While black may not be the first color you think of for a beach day, a lightweight, flowy fabric makes all the difference in keeping cool.
Style Tips:
✔️ Choose a spaghetti strap or sleeveless design to stay cool.
✔️ Pair with gold accessories for an effortlessly elegant look.
✔️ Throw on a woven sun hat and neutral sandals for a sophisticated touch.
Reformation “Maren Linen Dress” – $178
- A sustainable linen dress with thin straps and a flowy A-line silhouette—perfect for staying cool while looking effortlessly put together.
Mango “Flowy Midi Dress” – $59.99
- A budget-friendly yet stylish option, featuring a deep V-neck and adjustable spaghetti straps for a breezy, sophisticated vibe.
7. Ruffled Duster Jacket: The Perfect Layering Piece
A lightweight ruffled duster jacket is ideal for layering over a swimsuit, especially when the ocean breeze kicks in. This stylish piece keeps you warm without sacrificing fashion.
Why You’ll Love It:
✅ Adds a boho-chic element to any beach outfit.
✅ Can be worn over bikinis, dresses, or rompers.
✅ Works for both day and night beach occasions.
For a trendy coastal look, opt for a crochet or lace duster and pair it with chunky sandals.
Free People “Morning Light Duster” – $148
- A bohemian-style, longline duster with soft ruffle details and an open front for easy layering.
ASOS “Sheer Chiffon Duster” – $45
- A lightweight, sheer cover-up with delicate ruffle trims, perfect for layering over a swimsuit.
8. Maxi Sundress: A Timeless Summer Classic
A maxi sundress is perfect for long, relaxing days at the beach. Flowing fabric, breathable material, and vibrant prints make this a must-have for 2024 beach fashion.
Best Ways to Style It:
- Go bold with a bright floral print or stick to earthy neutrals for a minimalist vibe.
- Add a straw tote bag and layered necklaces for an effortlessly stylish finish.
- Pair with flat sandals or wedge espadrilles for a chic yet comfortable look.
Zara “Floral Print Maxi Dress” – $69.90
- This stunning floral dress features a flowy silhouette, ruffled sleeves, and a subtle slit for extra movement.
Revolve “L*Space Smocked Maxi Dress” – $158
- A smocked maxi dress with adjustable straps and a breezy A-line skirt, perfect for warm beach days.
9. Tie-Strap Romper: Cute and Playful
Rompers are the ultimate low-maintenance yet high-style outfit choice for summer. A tie-strap romper keeps things breezy and comfortable while looking effortlessly cute.
Why You’ll Love It:
✔️ Lightweight and breathable—perfect for hot beach days.
✔️ Super easy to throw on and go.
✔️ Works for both casual beach days and dressier outings.
Pair it with platform sandals, a woven tote, and some dainty jewelry for a fun, youthful beach vibe.
Abercrombie & Fitch “Linen-Blend Tie-Strap Romper” – $79.99
- A breezy linen romper with adjustable tie straps and a smocked bodice, offering a lightweight and comfortable fit.
Old Navy “Floral Print Tie-Strap Romper” – $39.99
- An affordable and playful option, featuring cute floral prints, an elastic waist, and tie-strap details.
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10. Wide-Leg Pants: The Elegant Alternative to Shorts
If you want to elevate your beachwear game, wide-leg pants are the way to go. They’re airy, and stylish, and provide the perfect balance of comfort and elegance.
Best Fabrics to Choose:
🌿 Linen – Lightweight and breathable.
🌿 Chiffon – Flowy and elegant.
🌿 Cotton Blend – Soft and comfortable.
Pair them with a cropped top, bandeau, or tucked-in tank for a put-together yet relaxed beach look.
Everlane “The Linen Wide-Leg Pant” – $98
- A classic, high-waisted linen pant with a relaxed fit, perfect for beach days or casual strolls.
H&M “High-Waisted Beach Pants” – $34.99
- An affordable option made from a lightweight cotton blend, featuring a flowy, relaxed silhouette.
Elevate Your Beachwear This Summer!
Your beach outfit should be a reflection of your style, comfort, and confidence. Whether you love breezy dresses, chic black ensembles, or bold prints, this summer’s trends offer something for everyone. By mixing and matching these pieces, you’ll create stunning beach outfits that feel effortlessly stylish and comfortable.
So, grab your favorite sunglasses, a woven tote, and some chic sandals—because it’s time to hit the beach in style!
