6 Stylish, Beach-Ready Looks That Have Me Dreaming of My Next Holiday
At this point, who isn't desperate to get away? Whilst I'll always love a city break or a good old-fashioned road trip, when it comes to truly relaxing and taking the time to recharge, nothing beats a beach holiday. Sure, I'll take the gorgeous coves of a Greek Island or the tropical sands of the Caribbean, but the British coast will serve me well, too. After all, seaside towns like Cornwall have only continued to grow in popularity thanks to the gorgeous beaches and the new crop of stylish restaurants and rentals.
Wherever it is, a beach demands a specific kind of wardrobe, one that normally involves pieces you wouldn't typically wear on a day-to-day basis. I won't even begin to vent about the ridiculousness of the "beach body" conversation. What's important is to focus on finding styles that you feel undeniably confident in, whatever that may look like. The good news is, this summer there are plenty of options to choose from, and our favourite tastemakers are proving that there are countless ways to style those pieces to create holiday-ready looks.
Dressing for the beach does require some thought for practicality. Light fabrics like linen and cotton are a must if you're headed to hot climates, whilst layers are essential if you're spending a day in a more temperamental spot in England. Holiday dressing can be the perfect time to get bold with colour, and this season it looks like bright pinks, reds and greens are going to be popular options. But if you're a committed minimalist, you've got plenty to choose from, too—linen sets in earthy tones always look effortlessly chic when layered over a black or white swimsuit.
Here, I've pulled together six influencer looks that absolutely nail the beach dressing brief, along with the perfect pieces to re-create the ensembles. All that's left is to book your tickets.
1. Knitted Set
Style Notes: This is the perfect outfit for visits to the British coastline—can't you just picture wearing this over your swimsuit in Cornwall? The oversized jumper and loose knitted shorts feel both classic and fresh, especially when paired with the raffia tote, which is one of summer 2024's must-have items.
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You could also go for the full set.
Shop the matching Lumi Mozart Crochet Vest (£45).
2. Bright Bikini + Matching Sarong
Style Notes: On the opposite end of the beach style spectrum is this look, which screams island lounging. This is the kind of outfit that is destined for a stylish beach club where you'll be dancing all day with a cocktail in hand. Sign me up.
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3. Cream Bikini + Crochet Trousers
Style Notes: Crochet has kept popping up each summer over the past few years, and for good reason. It's understatedly chic with a beach-appropriate, bohemian vibe. Take inspiration from Allison Ho's look and style with a very on-trend beaded necklace to complete the outfit.
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You could also get the matching top to create a full crochet look.
Shop the matching Sleeveless Crochet Crop Top (£48).
4. Brown Bikini + Oversized Button-Down + Linen Trousers
Style Notes: Olivia Marcus' outfit is a breezy summer dream. Bandeau bikini, striped button-down and drawstring linen trousers? Perfection.
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This button-down could easily be worn for the office too.
5. Lace Dress + Slides
Style Notes: Understatedly sexy, this is such a chic look from Camille Charriere. The white lace dress lets the black bikini be seen, but the white slides keep the whole thing feeling elevated.
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6. White Shirt + Trousers
Style Notes: Brittany Bathgate wore this simple yet striking white set for a sunset beach picnic, and really, is there anything more perfect? This is the kind of refined, understated look that is perfect for end-of-the-day beach gatherings.
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You could also style this with denim shorts for city strolls.
These are becoming the sunglasses of the summer.
The kind of sandals that go with absolutely everything.
Jess Kelham-Hohler is a freelance writer, editor and content strategist. She has been a contributor forBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing UK since 2023. Currently based in London following six years in Washington D.C. and New York, she was previously the Digital Editor for Soho House Co, an international group of private members’ clubs for creatives. She has interviewed a range of artists, creators and more, including Alighieri founder Rosh Mahtani, photographer Misan Harriman and fashion editor Lindsay Peoples Wagner. Today, she writes primarily about fashion, travel and culture for various publications, and has worked as a copywriter and content strategist for brands such as Belstaff, Olivela and Equinox.
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