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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Perfect for protecting you against the sea breeze.
You could also go for the full set.
Shop the matching Lumi Mozart Crochet Vest (£45).
Plenty of room for all your beach essentials.
The raffia detail beautifully ties in with the bag.
The chicest finishing touch.
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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Hunza G bikinis have become a firm favourite amongst the fashion set.
This would also look so gorgeous styled over a white swimsuit.
Not exactly made for walking on sand, but very much made for a beach club.
Pink sunglasses really complete the Barbiecore look.
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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I love the crinkled texture.
The perfect pairing.
You could also get the matching top to create a full crochet look.
Shop the matching Sleeveless Crochet Crop Top (£48).
The beachiest necklace.
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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A strapless bikini is so classic.
Such a great cut.
This button-down could easily be worn for the office too.
A summer-holiday essential.
You'll love these forever.
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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I'm a big fan of this bikini, largely because it's made from materials crafted from regenerated fishing nets and plastic waste.
The good thing about a black bikini is that you can mix and match with bottoms that best suit you.
How to make see-through lace chic.
These will go with everything.
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.
The detailing is so pretty.
These are becoming the sunglasses of the summer.
The kind of sandals that go with absolutely everything.
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