The warm summer months beckon many to spend time at the beach, soaking up the sun and relaxing by the water. However, beach fashion is not just about looking good; it’s also about staying comfortable and protected from the elements. In this article, we’ll explore the latest trends in beach fashion, including stylish yet practical pieces that will keep you looking and feeling your best.
Swimwear Trends
Swimwear is the foundation of any beach fashion ensemble, and this season has brought a variety of styles to choose from. One standout trend is the resurgence of classic one-piece swimsuits, which offer a retro-inspired look while providing ample coverage. Brands like Solid & Striped and Summersalt have embraced this trend with sleek and flattering designs.
For those who prefer a two-piece, high-waisted bikini bottoms paired with bandeau or triangle tops have been popular. This style flatters various body types and offers more coverage for those seeking a more modest look. Brands like Cupshe and Swimsuits For All offer a wide range of stylish and affordable options.
Pro Tip: When shopping for swimwear, consider investing in a few high-quality pieces that will last for multiple seasons. Look for swimsuits made from durable, chlorine-resistant fabrics like polyamide or Xtra Life Lycra.
Cut-Out and Asymmetrical Designs
One of the hottest trends in swimwear this season is cut-out and asymmetrical designs. These styles add a modern and edgy touch to traditional swimsuit silhouettes, creating visually interesting and flattering shapes. Brands like Frankies Bikinis and Riot Swim have embraced this trend, offering a range of unique and stylish options.
Pro Tip: When trying on cut-out or asymmetrical swimsuits, pay attention to the fit and coverage. These styles can be tricky to pull off, so make sure you feel comfortable and confident in your chosen piece.
Cover-Ups and Beachwear
While swimsuits are essential for beach days, cover-ups and beachwear add a fashionable touch while providing protection from the sun’s rays. Lightweight, flowy dresses and rompers have been a hit this season, offering a breezy and effortless look. Brands like Show Me Your Mumu and Lulus offer a variety of stylish options in vibrant colors and prints.
For those seeking more coverage, kaftan dresses and kimonos are a chic and versatile choice. These pieces can be dressed up or down, making them perfect for transitioning from the beach to a beachside restaurant or bar. Brands like Roxy and Billabong offer a range of stylish and functional options.
Pro Tip: When choosing a cover-up, consider the fabric’s breathability and quick-drying properties. Lightweight cotton, linen, or rayon blends are ideal for beach days, as they’ll keep you cool and dry quickly after a dip in the water.
Crochet and Lace Detailing
For a bohemian and romantic touch, crochet and lace detailing have been popular in beach cover-ups this season. These delicate textures add visual interest and a touch of femininity to beach ensembles. Brands like Free People and Anthropologie offer a range of crochet and lace cover-ups, dresses, and tops that are perfect for beach vacations.
Pro Tip: When packing crochet or lace pieces, be sure to roll or fold them carefully to avoid snagging or stretching the delicate fabrics.
Accessories and Footwear
No beach ensemble is complete without the perfect accessories and footwear. When it comes to footwear, comfortable and functional sandals or flip-flops are a must. Brands like Havaianas and Reef offer stylish yet durable options that can withstand the sand and water.
Accessories like oversized sunglasses, floppy hats, and tote bags can add a fashionable touch while also providing practical benefits. Sunglasses from brands like Ray-Ban and Quay Australia offer stylish protection from the sun’s harmful rays, while wide-brimmed hats from brands like San Diego Hat Co. and Helen Kaminski provide shade and a chic look.
Tote bags are essential for carrying beach essentials like towels, sunscreen, and snacks. Brands like Aloha Collection and Bando offer a range of stylish and durable options in various prints and colors.
Pro Tip: When choosing beach accessories, consider their functionality as well as their aesthetic appeal. Look for sunglasses with polarized lenses to reduce glare, and opt for tote bags with water-resistant or quick-drying materials.
Beaded and Embellished Accessories
For those seeking a more bohemian and glamorous beach aesthetic, beaded and embellished accessories have been a popular choice this season. Brands like Cult Gaia and Lele Sadoughi offer a range of beaded and embellished bags, hats, and jewellery that add a touch of luxury to beach ensembles.
Pro Tip: When wearing beaded or embellished accessories, be mindful of their care and storage. Avoid getting them wet or exposing them to saltwater, as this can cause discolouration or damage. Store them carefully to prevent tangling or snagging.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Options
As consumers become more conscious of their impact on the environment, many brands have embraced sustainable and eco-friendly practices in their beach fashion offerings. Brands like Reformation and Outerknown use sustainable materials and production methods to create stylish and environmentally friendly pieces.
For those seeking eco-friendly swimwear options, brands like Summersalt and Vitamin A offer suits made from recycled materials or sustainable fabrics like ECONYL®, a regenerated nylon fiber made from ocean plastics and other waste.
Pro Tip: When shopping for sustainable beach fashion, look for certifications like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) or OEKO-TEX®, which ensure that products are made using environmentally friendly and socially responsible practices.
Swimwear Made from Recycled Plastics
One of the most exciting developments in sustainable beach fashion is the use of recycled plastics in swimwear production. Brands like Girlfriend Collective and Natasha Tonic create stylish and functional swimsuits using recycled materials like plastic bottles and fishing nets.
These eco-friendly swimwear options not only reduce waste and pollution but also offer high-quality, durable fabrics that are perfect for beach days. By choosing these sustainable options, you can look great while contributing to a healthier planet.
Pro Tip: When caring for swimwear made from recycled plastics, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. These fabrics may require special care to maintain their shape and quality over time.
Here is a table comparing various beach fashion brands based on style, sustainability, and affordability:
| Brand | Style | Sustainability | Affordability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solid & Striped | Classic, Retro-Inspired | Eco-Friendly Materials | Moderate |
| Summersalt | Trendy, Flattering | Recycled Materials | Moderate |
| Cupshe | Trendy, Affordable | Some Sustainable Options | Affordable |
| Swimsuits For All | Inclusive, Size-Inclusive | Some Sustainable Options | Affordable |
| Show Me Your Mumu | Boho Chic | Some Sustainable Options | Moderate to High |
| Lulus | Trendy, Affordable | Limited Sustainable Options | Affordable |
| Roxy | Surf-Inspired | Some Sustainable Options | Moderate |
| Billabong | Surf-Inspired | Some Sustainable Options | Moderate |
| Reformation | Trendy, Modern | Sustainable Materials | Moderate to High |
| Outerknown | Casual, Eco-Conscious | Sustainable Materials | Moderate to High |
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Beach Outfit
When it comes to choosing the perfect beach outfit, there are a few key factors to consider:
- Comfort: Beach fashion should prioritize comfort and breathability. Look for lightweight, loose-fitting pieces made from natural fibres like cotton or linen, which will help you stay cool and comfortable in the heat.
- Sun Protection: Protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful rays is crucial. Look for cover-ups, hats, and sunglasses that offer ample protection, and don’t forget to apply sunscreen liberally.
- Versatility: Beach outfits should be versatile enough to transition from the beach to other activities, such as grabbing a bite to eat or exploring the local area. Look for pieces that can be dressed up or down with the addition of accessories or a change of footwear.
- Personal Style: While trends can be fun to experiment with, it’s essential to choose pieces that align with your personal style and make you feel confident and comfortable.
Pro Tip: When trying on beach outfits, pay attention to the fit and movement of the pieces. You’ll want to ensure that you can move freely and comfortably, whether you’re lounging on the sand or engaging in beach activities.
Packing for a Beach Vacation
If you’re planning a beach vacation, packing the right items can make a big difference in your overall comfort and style. Here are some essential items to consider packing:
- 2-3 swimsuits
- 2-3 cover-ups (dresses, rompers, kaftans)
- 1-2 pairs of comfortable sandals or flip-flops
- A wide-brimmed hat
- Oversized sunglasses
- A lightweight tote bag
- Sunscreen and other beach essentials
Pro Tip: When packing for a beach vacation, roll your clothes instead of folding them to maximize space in your suitcase and minimize wrinkles. Additionally, consider packing a small travel steamer or wrinkle-release spray to help refresh your beach outfits during your trip.
As the famous fashion designer Coco Chanel once said, “Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.”
This quote resonates with the essence of beach fashion, which is not just about the clothes we wear but also about the lifestyle and mindset that comes with spending time by the ocean. Beach fashion is about embracing the carefree, relaxed spirit of summer while staying stylish and comfortable.
Conclusion
In conclusion, beach fashion is a perfect blend of style, comfort, and practicality. By embracing the latest trends and incorporating sustainable and eco-friendly options, you can create a fashionable and responsible beach ensemble that not only looks great but also aligns with your values. So, whether you’re lounging on the sand, taking a dip in the ocean, or exploring a seaside town, let your beach fashion choices reflect your personal style and the essence of summer.