I’ve always been drawn to the effortless charm of coastal style—something about it just whispers sunshine, salt air, and calm. For me, coastal summer outfits aren’t just about looking put together; they’re about feeling good in your skin, like you’re walking along the beach even if you’re just headed to brunch.
If you’ve been craving outfits that look like vacation and feel like a sea breeze, you’re in the right place. In this post, I’m sharing 11 easy coastal summer outfits that have become staples in my wardrobe. Whether you’re jetting off to the coast or styling seaside vibes at home, these looks are fresh, flattering, and totally doable.
Coastal Starter Pack Checklist
Before we dive into each outfit idea, here are a few key pieces that will pop up throughout this list:
- White linen pants
- Lightweight button-down shirts
- Flowy sundresses
- Neutral sandals and espadrilles
- Straw hats and beachy totes
- Nautical stripes
- Coastal-inspired accessories (think shells, rope, and raffia)
Now, let’s jump into these dreamy coastal summer outfits, one breezy look at a time.
Coastal Summer Outfits with a White Linen Set
I was skeptical at first—white linen felt high-maintenance. But once I tried on a matching linen button-down and shorts combo, I got it. It’s classic, breathable, and instantly gives you that “I summer on the Amalfi Coast” energy.
How to Style It:
- Opt for a boxy-fit top tucked in loosely.
- Add tan sandals and gold hoops.
- Toss on a straw tote or market bag.
For Petite Ladies:
Choose a slightly cropped linen shirt and high-waisted shorts to visually elongate your legs. Avoid overly long or oversized sets that might overwhelm your frame.
For Curvy Ladies:
Go for a structured linen top with a defined waist or a belted version. High-waisted shorts with a wide waistband are super flattering and create that hourglass vibe.
Pro Tip: Worried about sheerness? Look for linen-blend fabrics or sets with lining in the shorts. Also: bike shorts save the day!
Picture This: You’re strolling a boardwalk with a gelato in hand, the linen catching the breeze as the sun glows on your shoulders.
Coastal Summer Outfits with a Striped Button-Down Over a Swimsuit
I’ve realized this is my secret weapon—it’s comfy, it works as a coverup, and it’s unexpectedly chic with jean shorts.
How to Style It:
- Layer it open over a white or navy one-piece swimsuit.
- Add high-waisted denim shorts and leather sandals.
- Tie a low messy bun and slip on some oversized sunglasses.
For Petite Ladies:
Roll up the sleeves and half-tuck the front into your shorts to avoid a boxy look. Vertical stripes can also help lengthen your frame.
For Curvy Ladies:
Opt for a longer, tunic-length button-down that flows over curves without clinging. Cinch it at the waist with a thin belt or tie to add shape.
Pro Tip: Size up one size for that billowy, borrowed-from-the-boys vibe.
Picture This: You’ve just left the beach, hair still salty, grabbing lunch al fresco with your toes in the sand.
Coastal Summer Outfits with a Flowy White Dress
I love how easy a white dress makes getting ready. I’ve been collecting flowy ones over the years, and they never fail me.
How to Style It:
- Choose a cotton or eyelet midi with flutter sleeves.
- Pair with espadrille wedges and a woven belt.
- Top it off with a straw hat.
For Petite Ladies:
Look for a dress that hits above the knee or has an empire waist to keep your legs looking long and proportioned.
For Curvy Ladies:
An A-line or wrap-style dress creates definition at the waist while floating beautifully over the hips and bust. Eyelet details draw the eye upward.
Picture This: A golden hour walk on the dunes, the dress catching light and movement as you twirl.
Coastal Summer Outfits with Nautical Stripes and White Jeans
I started noticing how every true coastal closet has some version of this. Navy and white stripes just work.
How to Style It:
- Go for a slightly oversized striped tee.
- Tuck into cropped white denim.
- Slip on tan slides and a dainty shell necklace.
For Petite Ladies:
Choose cropped white jeans or ankle-length styles and a fitted striped top to avoid overwhelming your silhouette.
For Curvy Ladies:
Go for high-rise, straight-leg jeans and a slightly loose striped tee that hits just below the hip. Add a front-tuck to define your waist.
Picture This: You’re on a breezy ferry ride, hair tucked into a cap, heading to a hidden beach.
Coastal Summer Outfits with a Blue Chambray Romper
For me, rompers scream easy style—especially in chambray. You just step in and go.
How to Style It:
- Choose one with rolled sleeves or a tie waist.
- Pair with white sneakers or raffia slides.
- Add a woven bag and sunnies.
For Petite Ladies:
A romper with a cinched waist and shorter inseam helps elongate the legs. Avoid drop waists—they can make you look shorter.
For Curvy Ladies:
Pick a romper with a defined waist and soft draping. A wrap front or button-up style enhances the bust and balances proportions.
Picture This: You’re biking along the coast with a baguette in your basket and sea air in your lungs.
Coastal Summer Outfits with Breezy Wide-Leg Trousers and a Tank
I’ve been reaching for wide-leg pants more and more—they’re flattering and perfect for breezy evenings.
How to Style It:
- Pick soft neutrals like sand, sage, or soft blue.
- Tuck in a ribbed or linen tank top.
- Add slides and a long necklace.
For Petite Ladies:
Choose high-waisted, ankle-grazing trousers to avoid a “swallowed-up” look. Pair with a fitted tank to keep your shape visible.
For Curvy Ladies:
Wide-leg pants in flowy fabrics are perfect—just make sure they’re tailored at the waist. A tucked-in tank or bodysuit keeps everything sleek.
Picture This: You’re on a rooftop patio overlooking the ocean, sipping a citrus spritz as the sun sets.
Coastal Summer Outfits with a Crochet Cover-Up and Beachy Accessories
I love layering a crochet piece over swimsuits—it’s playful and gives such effortless texture.
How to Style It:
- Drape a neutral or pastel crochet tunic over your suit.
- Accessorize with layered necklaces, a tote, and woven slides.
For Petite Ladies:
Choose a shorter crochet cover-up or wear it as a top with shorts. Open-knit designs show off a bit of skin and prevent bulkiness.
For Curvy Ladies:
Go for a tunic-length crochet cover-up that skims the body without clinging. Look for styles with side slits or v-necks to flatter curves.
Pro Tip: Use it as a layer over a simple midi dress and belt it—suddenly it’s brunch-worthy.
Picture This: You’re barefoot on soft white sand, cover-up catching the breeze as you gather seashells.
Coastal Summer Outfits with a Tie-Front Top and Paperbag Shorts
I was surprised how polished this combo looks when styled right. It’s playful but pulled together.
How to Style It:
- Choose light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Match with white or sandy-tone shorts.
- Add espadrilles or leather slides.
For Petite Ladies:
Stick to shorts that are mid-thigh or shorter with a high waist to lengthen your legs. A cropped tie-front top adds balance.
For Curvy Ladies:
Paperbag shorts with a wider leg opening and a defined waistband are your friend. Pair with a slightly longer tie-front top to create a waist-enhancing silhouette.
Picture This: You’re sipping sangria on a seaside café patio, laughing with your girlfriends as music drifts by.
Coastal Summer Outfits with a Maxi Skirt and Tank Combo
I’ve been loving the versatility of flowy skirts—so many colors and prints feel right for summer.
How to Style It:
- Go with lightweight cotton or linen-blend maxi.
- Pair with a fitted neutral tank.
- Finish with flat sandals and beachy earrings.
For Petite Ladies:
Pick a high-waisted skirt with a slit or vertical print to elongate your legs. Keep the tank top tucked or cropped for balanced proportions.
For Curvy Ladies:
Look for flowy skirts that skim over the hips and hit just at the ankle. A fitted tank balances volume on the bottom for an hourglass effect.
Picture This: You’re walking down the pier with an iced coffee, skirt fluttering with every step.
Coastal Summer Outfits with a Simple Ribbed Midi Dress
For me, this is the ultimate throw-on-and-go look. It hugs just right and can be dressed up or down.
How to Style It:
- Choose a midi in white, navy, or sand.
- Layer with a button-down or open cardigan.
- Pair with raffia sandals and beachy waves.
For Petite Ladies:
Choose a midi that hits mid-calf or slightly above the ankle, and pair with wedges or platforms to lengthen your look.
For Curvy Ladies:
A ribbed knit hugs curves in all the right places. Add a lightweight cardigan or button-down to create layers and vertical lines.
Picture This: You’re barefoot on the deck, hosting a seafood dinner party with string lights glowing above.
Coastal Summer Outfits with a Flowy Kimono and Shorts
I started layering kimonos a couple summers ago, and they instantly elevate the look.
How to Style It:
- Drape a patterned kimono over a tank and denim shorts.
- Choose beachy patterns—florals, watercolor stripes, or palms.
- Finish with shell earrings and gladiator sandals.
For Petite Ladies:
Choose a shorter kimono (hip-length or slightly longer) to avoid being overwhelmed. Keep the shorts high-waisted to balance proportions.
For Curvy Ladies:
Longer kimonos that hit mid-thigh or knee create a lengthening effect. Look for flowy silhouettes with an open front to frame your shape beautifully.
Picture This: You’re window shopping along a sunny coastal street, kimono swaying with every step.
Outfit Packing Guide for a Weekend by the Coast
If you’re heading off for a dreamy coastal weekend (lucky you!), let’s make sure your suitcase is filled with breezy style and not overstuffed chaos. Here’s a foolproof outfit packing guide so you’ll feel both effortless and prepared—from beach walks to sunset dinners.
What to Pack:
- 2 Light Dresses – One flowy white dress for daytime and one ribbed midi for evenings.
- 1 Linen Set – A matching shirt + shorts set = chic, easy outfit with mix-and-match potential.
- 1 Swimsuit + Cover-Up – A neutral one-piece and a crochet tunic go with everything.
- 1 Pair of Wide-Leg Trousers – Style them with tanks or your button-down.
- 2 Tanks or Breezy Tops – Neutral ribbed tanks or tie-front cotton tops.
- 1 Lightweight Sweater or Kimono – For breezy nights or ferry rides.
- 1 Pair of Denim or Paperbag Shorts – Comfy, casual, and cute.
- 2 Pairs of Shoes – Go for espadrilles and flat slides or white sneakers.
- Beach Accessories – Straw tote, shell earrings, oversized sunnies, and your favorite hat.
Pro Tip: Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space and avoid wrinkles. Pop a dryer sheet between layers for that just-washed freshness when you unpack.
Picture This: You unzip your bag and everything inside is light, coordinated, and ready to wear. No stress, no “ugh, what do I wear?” moments—just you, feeling coastal cute and fully in vacation mode.
FAQ: Still Wondering What Makes It Coastal? I’ve Got Answers!
Q: What makes an outfit feel ‘coastal’? A: Think breezy fabrics (like linen and cotton), nautical color palettes (white, navy, sand), and laid-back silhouettes. Coastal summer outfits should feel relaxed and sun-kissed.
Q: Can I wear coastal summer outfits if I don’t live near the beach? A: Absolutely. I wear these looks even when I’m landlocked—they bring those easygoing, vacation vibes no matter where you are.
Q: What’s a good budget-friendly coastal outfit starter? A: Start with a white linen button-down or a striped tee. They’re versatile, affordable, and instantly feel coastal.
Conclusion
I hope this list of coastal summer outfits inspires you to bring more sea breeze energy into your wardrobe. For me, these looks aren’t just cute—they’re a mindset. A way of dressing that feels light, calm, and always a little bit dreamy. So whether you’re packing for a trip or just dressing for a sunny day in your own backyard, let yourself feel those ocean vibes.
At Lady Lifestyle Blog, I use AI as a tool to assist with research, idea generation, and content refinement. While much of my content is shaped with AI’s help, I personally review and adjust each post to ensure it aligns with the blog’s style and purpose. My focus is on providing stylish, creative, and practical inspiration for every modern lady!
