What to wear: your summer beach inspiration

Everybody is raring for a vacation nowadays — and nothing is more summer than a day (or more!) at the beach! The smell of salt water, the windy breeze, the warm sun and blue skies, silky sand, and rustling waves are irresistible invitations to lounge around and relax. But just because you are chilling on your vacation doesn’t mean you need to look sloppy on the beach. After all, you never know who you’ll meet!

Here’s a quick guide on what to wear to look stylishly cute and at home on your next beach adventure.

Swim wear

There may be a dizzying array of options for swim wear – one-piece, tankinis, bikinis – and styles, in terms of fit and coverage. The shape of your body can determine what type of swim wear best accentuates your features. For example, if you want to slim your hips, bring the focus up with details or bold colors and patterns. You can also opt for high-cut bottoms to make your legs look longer. A small bust can be better shaped with underwire support, designs on top like ruffles and beading, and avoiding bandeau tops.

Sporting a belly you’d like to hide? Avoid shiny fabrics that tend to cling to every curve. Drawing eyes away with a high-cut leg or a low-cut top will favor your body type. An ample bust is best supported with underwire, hidden bra, or a halter top, but avoid high necklines and triangle tops that are unflattering. In general, curves can be slimmed by choosing angled or vertical stripe patterns and a wrap style top that trims the waistline.

No matter your body type and preference, but the most important rule for choosing what you will wear is what makes you comfortable and confident. Browse the Banana Moon swimwear collection for your must-haves and be ready to be beach pretty!

Coverups

Coverups are important for sun protection and for turning your outfit from seaside to strolling. These can come in a variety of styles — for example, sarongs, tunics, cardigans, and dresses — and fabrics like cotton, chiffon, and rayon, and may be sheer to opaque. When choosing a coverup, make sure the colors and style complement the swim suit you’re wearing. The breezy style of most coverups can make you look delicate and feminine. You may also opt for outfits over your swimsuit, such as rompers or wide-leg pants.

Accessories

The little frills allow you to make a statement. Don’t forget your sunglasses, tote bag, oversized hat, flip-flops, and threaded bracelets/anklets! For sunglasses, polarized types are recommended to reduce glares and make you more comfortable in the bright sun. A water-repellent tote bag, beach bag, or even basket, that’s large enough to contain your beach necessities is cute and useful. An oversized hat, whether it is a straw, floppy one or a sleek visor, is glam and looks great on the ‘gram. Flip-flops are comfy and will allow sand to slip out.

What not to wear

There are some items that are impractical to wear to the beach. Sweaters and any black clothes are out, as expect it to be really hot in the summer. Sneakers are not advisable, nor any shoes you do mind losing, as sand tend to get everywhere. You do not want saltwater ruining the fabric of your shoes, especially if they’re suede or lavish. Tight clothing is also not recommended because they make post-sunburns unbearable, while expensive jewelry should not be worn lest they be lost. Sparkly accessories are also a shark hazard, resembling the scales of fishes.

And, speaking of sharks, here are some tips for your safety. Nail polish that greatly contrasts with your skin, and tattoos should be covered or avoided.

Conclusion

Now that you have some outfit ideas — go shopping, plan that fun outing with family and friends, and pack your bags. Lastly, don’t forget to bring your sunscreen, smile, and get ready to play!