What to Wear to the Beach (Other Than a Swimsuit) for Summer

Wondering what to wear to the beach? These five beach outfit ideas are trendy and chic for summer 2026. Shop editor-approved pieces for your next vacation....

11 Mayıs 2026 yayınlandı / 11 Mayıs 2026 11:24 güncellendi

What to Wear to the Beach (Other Than a Swimsuit) for Summer

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With summer just around the corner, swimming season is officially upon us. But planning what to wear to the beach—beyond just a bathing suit—can be a chore, especially if your day involves more than just sunbathing and swimming. The key? Finding a balance between comfort, breathability, and style. Whether you need coverage for a day strolling along the boardwalk or you’re dressing to impress at a fancy waterfront dinner, the best beach outfits consist of everyday silhouettes with an emphasis on all things breezy. Here’s what to wear on the beach this summer, no matter where you’re headed.

Beach outfit ideas for summer 2026

Breezy for the beach

Swimsuits are essential, obviously, but a cover-up is equally important when you’re done splashing in the ocean. Stay cool with a coordinating set made from breathable and lightweight linen for all-day comfort. While bold pieces can be fun, it’s best not to risk losing your valuable jewelry, so keep accessories to a minimum—but a pair of retro sunglasses is nonnegotiable.

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Abercrombie & Fitch Beaded Underwire Bikini

$60

Abercrombie & Fitch

$45

Abercrombie & Fitch

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Nordstrom Cover-Up Shirt

$59

Nordstrom

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J.Crew Soleil Linen Pants

$98

J.Crew

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Quay Felt Cute Sunglasses

$70

Nordstrom

A daytime stroll

A walk along the beach or the boardwalk calls for outfits that’ll prevent you from breaking too much of a sweat. Minimize the layers with a flowy linen dress, and go with barely there sandals to complete your outfit. (They’re easy to slip off when sand inevitably gets in your shoes.) A beachy tote bag is essential for the necessities, like sunscreen and a straw çizgi.

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Reformation Balia Linen Dress

$278

Nordstrom

$278

Reformation

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Suiara Strappy Flat Sandals

$30 (25% off)

Amazon

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Coach Straw Brooklyn Shoulder Bag 34

$295

Coach

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Free People Essential Beach Hat

$28

Free People

Sand to street

Ready to hit the town? A tank top and jean shorts make a quick, comfortable outfit for a long day of exploring. Bring along a lightweight cardigan for when the temperature drops in the evening. Finish off your look with a pair of walking sandals for all-day wear—they’re great in case you decide to taban your toes in the water. Another option: Skip the top and instead throw shorts and a cardi over your bikini or one-piece.

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Cider Boatneck Top

$28

Amazon

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Levi’s ’94 Baggy Shorts

$45 (31% off)

Amazon

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Banana Republic Cotton Crochet Cardigan

$150

Banana Republic

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Papillio by Birkenstock Arizona Flex Platform Sandals

$124

Nordstrom

A taban in the water

Once you’re finished swimming, draping a sarong over your bikini or one-piece will provide coverage and give the impression that you’ve put way more effort into your beach ensemble. Rich-girl flip-flops and themed accessories, such as a waterproof seashell necklace, crank the beach vibe to the max. Piña colada, anyone?

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Boden Mykonos Deep-V Swimsuit

$149

Boden

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Vitamin A Sirena Sarong

$60

Nordstrom

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Cushionaire Surf Flip-Flops

$25 (38% off)

Amazon

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Katie Loxton Cochellia Twist Necklace

$38

Nordstrom

Out and about

After spending the day by the ocean, a simple combination of a crochet T-shirt and white maxiskirt is a practical option for those looking to pack light. A trendy headscarf can help keep damp hair and flyaways under control, on top of adding romance to your look. Finish your look with sandals—why not kitten heels?—to ensure you look put-together as the sun sets.