Beach Outfit Ideas for Every Personal Style

Whether you're the kind of person who loves splashing around in the waves or the kind who'd rather sip a margarita while reading a good book, one thing's for sure: Beach days are the best days. And you know what makes them even better? The right outfit. And by the "right outfit," we mean wearing something over your bathing suit that makes you feel confident, comfortable, and ready for a Kodak moment without looking overdressed.

Since that can be something of a tall order, we scoured Instagram for fashionable beach outfit ideas and came away with a ton of inspiration. Unsurprisingly, the best ones were dawned by stylish travel bloggers, fashion It girls, and design-savvy influencers. So if you're headed to a coastal locale or have a pool party to attend this summer, consider these beach outfits ideas from the most stylish women on the 'gram.

1. High-Waisted Shorts + Bikini Top + Visor + Straw Bag

As much as we love a classic straw hat, we're really digging this visor look—it feels decidedly sportier and unexpected. Create cohesion with a matching straw circle bag and high-waisted shorts. 

3.1 Phillip Lim Belted Denim Shorts $344 $206

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Available in sizes 4, 6, and 8. 

2. One-Piece Swimsuit + Denim Skirt

Make things easier on yourself by wearing a one-piece that can double as a top if you're planning on dining at a nearby restaurant during a midday sun break. And you can't go wrong with a casual yet polished denim skirt. 

Veronica Beard Denna Denim Mini Skirt $258

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Available in sizes 0 to 12.

3. Button-Down + Scarf + Bikini Bottoms

Never underestimate a classic button-down, especially if you're looking for something that's easy to change in and out of. It exudes simple, easy elegance. Plus, you get to spice things up with accessories—we love the retro look of the hair scarf, just tie and go. 

Freepeople On The Road Scarf Pony $18

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4. Kimono + Bikini Top + Trousers + Slides

A lightweight robe or kimono is a great coverup for the beach if you want to wear something that shows off your outfit but also allows for some coverage when needed. Some slouchy trousers and easy slide-on sandals complete the look.

Solid & Striped The Rachel Striped Bikini Top $70 $40

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Available in sizes XS to XL.

5. Flowy Maxi Dress + Embellished Bag

It doesn't get easier than a flowy, oversized maxi dress. Loose, breathable, and sophisticated, it's everything you could ask for in a beach outfit. We also love how Emili Sindlev opted for a cute beaded bag to dress things up and keep her look intriguing.

Three Graces London Tasseled Ramie Maxi Dress $630 $378

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Available in sizes 6 to 14.

6. Crop Top + Sunnies + Sarong

Sarongs were literally made for the beach, so if you plan on spending a lot of time by the water this summer, you should definitely have one of these on hand. They're super easy to adjust to your liking, and when you pair them with a crop top, you get instant summer vibes.

Everything But Water Leopard Pareo Patterned Sarong $150

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7. High-Waist Trousers + Scarf + Sunnies + Hoops

If you don't plan on swimming and your #1 goal is to snap a great photo, consider tying a printed silk scarf into a makeshift bikini top. Pair it with high-waisted linen trousers for a more casual edge, and then add some interest via large gold hoops and dainty layered necklaces.

Moda Operandi Toro Pointelle-Knit Cotton-Terry $245

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Available in sizes XS to L.

8. Button-Down + Shorts + Straw Tote + Sandals

If you want to wear bottoms with your button-down on your way to and from the beach (or just while walking around a city dreaming of the waves), consider this your blueprint. Try tying your shirt up for a retro look that shows off your shorts or skirt. 

J.Crew Classic Fit Boy Shirt $70

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Available in sizes 00 to 20. 

Shop Our Favorite Beach-Ready Picks

Cult Gaia Kennedy Large Hoop Earrings $62

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Rhode Naomi Tiered Broderie Anglaise Cotton Midi Dress $465

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Available in size XS/S.

Karen Walker The Bird Rimless Square Sunglasses $210 $139

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GANNI Cotton Poplin Top $145

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J.Crew Grosgrain Tie Shoulder One-Piece Swimsuit $12

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Available in sizes S, M, L.

Hibluco Store Sheer Chiffon Floral Kaftan $10 - $20

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Available in sizes one-size.

Tinas Handicraft Multicolor Crochet Dress $422

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Available in sizes S to M.

Khols Women's Scala Bow Packable Floppy Hat $75 $60

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Susan Alexander Clem Bag Purple $285

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CUYANA Linen Ruffle Wrap Skirt $195

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Intentionally Blank Willow Heels $180

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Available in sizes 39 to 40. 

Show Me Your MuMu Jess Ruffled Midi Dress $198

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Available in sizes 0 to 10.

Boho Straw Semi Circle Basket Bag $44

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Floerns Printed V-Neck Bow Tie Crop Top $15 - $23

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Available in sizes XS to L.

Pia Crocheted Slide Sandals $68

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Available in sizes 36 to 41.