Beach parties are the epitome of summer fun, blending sun, sand, and socialising. If you’re wondering what to wear to a beach party, you’ve come to the right place.
At Simply Beach, we understand that your outfit can make or break your experience, balancing comfort and style.
In this article, we’ll dive deeper into the best beachwear options, including shirt dresses, summer skirts, colourful prints, kaftans, beach pants, and maxi dresses.
We’ll also share tips on how to accessorise your beach outfit to perfection. So, if you’re ready to look fabulous and feel comfortable all day long, continue reading.
What this article covers:
Our Top Picks
As your trusted beach fashion experts, we’re proud to present our collection of bikinis and beachwear, boasting many well-known brands such as Seafolly, Pia Rossini, Watercult, and many more.
Amongst the collection, our top picks are the Graffiti Bandeau bikini set from Roidal and the Pineapple Sea Beach Tunic from Lidea.
The Graffiti Bandeau bikini is a blue and white Graffiti print style with ruched underwired cups, a clip back, and optional straps, combined with a ruched front bikini pant that offers good rear coverage.
The Pineapple Sea Beach Tunic from Lidea is a beautiful turquoise-based print featuring placed florals and bordered hems.
Made from slightly stretchy fabric, it comes in a mini length with a V-neck, perfect for a stylish and comfortable beach look.
Shirt Dresses
Shirt dresses are a versatile and stylish choice. They’re easy to slip on over your swimwear, providing a chic yet casual look.
Our findings show that lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen are ideal. One such piece from our collection is the beautiful Mystic Maxi Shirt Dress from Maryan Mehlhorn.
It features a muted green and pink oversized tropical floral print on a cream base with orange and khaki highlights and subtle metallic top-stitching.
This statement maxi shirt dress includes a full gathered tiered skirt, cinched at the waist with a wide belt, a ruffled V neckline with ties, and three-quarter length sleeves.
From our experience, shirt dresses with vibrant prints or pastel shades are perfect for capturing the beach party vibe. If you’re wondering what to wear in summer, shirt dresses are an excellent choice for both style and comfort.
Summer Skirts
Summer skirts are another fantastic option. Flowing, airy skirts in materials like chiffon or rayon keep you cool and comfortable. High-waisted skirts paired with a crop top or bikini top create a fashionable, flattering silhouette.
That’s why the Elsie Mini Skirt from Pink City Prints is a standout piece. This fan favourite is an A-line skirt with a tiered style accentuated with pink scalloped edge trim in a standout lime colour adorned with a charming pink tulip print.
Based on our observations, skirts with tropical prints or bold colours add a fun touch to your outfit, making them ideal for those wondering what to wear to a summer wedding as a guest.
Colourful Prints
Embrace colourful prints to stand out at any beach party. From floral to geometric patterns, prints add a playful element to your attire.
The Seychelles dress from Pink City Prints is a breezy and effortless midi dress designed for sunny beach days.
Featuring thin straps and a gathered bust, this dress offers a flattering silhouette. The full, floaty skirt adds a touch of movement and ensures comfort and breathability, perfect for staying cool and stylish in the heat.
As per our expertise, combining prints with solid colours can balance your look and keep it from becoming overwhelming, ensuring you capture the beach party vibe perfectly.
Kaftans
Kaftans are a beachwear staple. They’re effortlessly elegant and provide excellent coverage while remaining lightweight.
The Reverie Kimono dress from Maryan Mehlhorn is a sophisticated floral print with straw and white coloured blooms on a pale lilac base, creating dream-like delicacy.
This maxi-length boho look dress has ruffle detailing, a V neck, and a button-through front with a waist tie.
Kaftans with intricate embroidery or beading add a touch of luxury to your beach ensemble, making them ideal for those looking to combine style and comfort at beach parties.
Beach Pants
For those who prefer more coverage, beach pants are a stylish alternative. Loose-fitting, wide-leg pants in light fabrics are perfect for staying cool.
Such is the Naomi Beach Trousers from Iconique. A pull-on style with straight, cropped legs, the white Naomi trousers are woven from a cotton and linen blend for airy comfort. Wear yours at the beach and beyond.
From our experience, pairing beach pants with a simple tank top or bikini top creates a relaxed yet chic look, offering versatility for both beach outings and casual summer days.
Maxi Dresses
Maxi dresses are perfect for transitioning from the beach to a more formal setting. They offer a breezy, elegant look that’s ideal for evening beach parties.
The Island Nostalgia Maxi Dress from Watercult is a pretty pale blue maxi dress with a full gathered skirt and tonally embroidered bodice, narrow straps, and a tie at the back.
Maxi dresses in lightweight fabrics with slits for added movement are both practical and stylish. They provide an effortless way to look glamorous while remaining comfortable, making them an excellent choice for beach parties and beyond.
How to Accessorise Your Beach Outfit
Accessorising is key to completing your beach party look. Wide-brimmed hats, such as the Tropics Woven Raffia Hat from Seafolly, sunglasses, and statement jewellery can elevate your outfit.
A stylish beach bag (which we recommend the Mirage Woven Tote Bag, also from Seafolly) is important for carrying your essentials.
And lastly, adding a pair of comfortable yet fashionable sandals or espadrilles can tie your entire look together.
Conclusion
Choosing what to wear to a beach party involves balancing comfort, style, and practicality.
At Simply Beach, we’re dedicated to providing you with the best beachwear options to ensure you shine at every summer event.
Whether it’s a shirt dress, summer skirt, or kaftan, our collection has something for everyone. Visit our website for more inspiration and to shop our latest arrivals. Make your next beach party unforgettable with Simply Beach.
If you want to learn more, why not check out these articles below:
- What to Wear on a Plane in Summer
- Best Swimsuits for Large Bust
- Best Swimsuits for Plus Size
- Best Swimsuits for Small Busts
- Best Place to Buy Swimsuits
- What to Wear Under Swimsuit
- Where Can I Find Swimsuits in Winter?
- How to Buy a One Piece Swimsuit
- Best Summer Shirts
- Best Petite Summer Dresses for Over 50s
- Summer Dresses to Wear with Leggings
- Best Beach Bag
- Best Summer Shorts
- Best Summer Hats
- Tops to Wear with Leggings in Summer