They say that dressing for the beach is a lot trickier if you’re not a size zero, but we’d like to prove that saying wrong. With a number of local and international brands gearing towards more inclusive sizing, fashion has definitely become a lot more accessible and diverse over the years. Now, even swimsuit brands have embraced a more body-positive approach to their designs. FLOAT and Skinni Swim are just some local labels who champion this style philosophy, and we’re all for it, TBH!
Now that there are more clothing options available, we dare you to actually cover up less and flaunt more skin at the beach. If you’re wary of showing off your bod just because it doesn’t abide by dated beauty standards—don’t let that toxic mindset hinder your love for dressing up! The best and most flattering tip to style your curves is confidence. Girls come in all different shapes and sizes; so there’s no use in trying to fit yourself into one societal mold.
That said, how do we then answer the FAQ, “What outfit would flatter my curves?” Our solution is to look at the fashion of proudly body positive celebrities, influencers, and models. These women defy conventions and prove that women—no matter their body type—can wear whatever they want at the beach! Below, we round-up some stylish outfits that’ll definitely inspire you to reveal and not conceal for your next summer getaway.
17 Stylish Beach Outfits to Try, As Seen on Body Positive Celebrities and Influencers
1. Bandeau Cropped Top + White Bikini Bottom + Hoop Earrings
If you’ve got the bust to flaunt, then show it off in an all-white bikini look like Lizzo! The key here is to style your hair in a sleek bun or ponytail to keep your shoulders and neck free from distractions. You want all eyes on your ‘fit!
2. Bikini Top + Hawaiian Shirt + Gym Shorts + Sneakers + Sunglasses
We love a quirky outfit at the beach. Actress Barbie Ferreira shows us the coolest way to inject some sporty pieces into a summer outfit. The trick here is to add a cover up or shirt with a tropical print to keep the island girl vibe despite wearing predominantly workout clothes.
3. Slip Dress + Slides + Mini Sling Bag
Stay cool but channel a hot girl summer with a simple short slip dress that hugs your body in all the right places. Pair it with a chic pair of slides during the day, but feel free to slip into some heels for a dressy dinner date by the beach!
4. Button-Down Shirt + High-Cut Bikini Bottom
You can trust Ashley Graham to come up with a simple but eye-catching bikini outfit that takes no effort to cop! All you need is to style one of your bright long-sleeved button-downs as a cropped top by knotting the hems by your waist. Be sure to pair your shirt with a bikini in a contrasting color to really level up your look.
5. Cami Dress + Bucket Hat + Chunky Necklaces + Bangles + Bucket Hat
Tired of your typical minimalist beach ‘fit? Give yourself a maximalist makeover like Rihanna and go crazy with tie dye prints and chunky accessories. This is great if you’re not a fan of layering with cover-ups but are willing to accessorize to add texture to your look.
6. Bikini Top + Button-Down Shirt + Denim Bermudas + Chunky Sandals + Tote Bag
If you’re looking for an outfit that can take you from brunch at a café to lounging by the shore, this look from model Lynley Eilers is simply perfect! The high-waist shorts that fall mid-thigh, help elongate her legs but also subtly cinch in her waist to create a flattering proportions.
7. One-Piece Swimsuit + Silk Scarf (Worn as a Sarong) + Sunnies
A one-piece swimsuit definitely provides your body with the coverage and support you need if you’re not one to flaunt too much skin. But if you’re planning to cover up even more, we suggest to not overdo it and opt for a printed scarf styled as a skirt!
8. Graphic Tee + Bikini Bottoms + Clogs + Sunglasses
When at the beach, color is the way to go! Don’t be scared to wear prints or bright-colored pieces during your getaway. You’re on vacation after all, so dress like you’re having fun! Offset a graphic tee (or baby tee in this case) by pairing it with a neutral toned bottom. Be sure to accent your look with statement footwear. Model Jilla Kortleve’s choice? A pair of waterproof clogs!
9. One-Piece Swimsuit + Midi Skirt + Flip Flops
Influencer Jammy Cruz has the most versatile outfit you can wear to almost any part of the island. This look is dressy but casual at the same time and elevates your plain flip flops effortlessly.
10. Bodycon Midi Dress + Heeled Mules + Minimalist Necklace
Out for a couple of drinks after a dip? Then be sure to pack a bodycon dress to snap a sultry sunset OOTD with a cocktail in hand. This ‘fit is simple but figure-flatering, and looks good no matter your size or type of curves.
11. One Shoulder Maillot + Choker
You should consider an asymmetrical one-piece if you’d like something more slimming. Style it with your hair in a sleek updo to look fresh even hours under the sun. Add a choker to dress up your look if you plan to take a pic for the ‘gram.
12. Cropped Cardigan + Midi Skirt + Strappy Sandals
Opt for this outfit when you’d rather chill by the beachfront with a book or drink in hand. Who ever said that all summer looks should involve a swimsuit anyway?
13. Halter Top + Min Skirt
This look screams beach party chic. But feel free to wear it during the day, too! This outfit will look good whether you’re tall or petite, busty or flat chested—versatile, we know. It’s a sexy but comfy look you can pair with your favorite sandals, heels, or even flip flops.
14. Underwire Bikini Set + Pearl or Shell Accessories
We can’t end this list without a straightforward bikini ‘fit! To keep your look youthful and fresh, opt for pearl or shell necklaces, earrings, and even bracelets rather than gold or silver accents. This way you’ll fully channel that beach babe vibe from head to toe.
15. White Dress + Minimalist Gold Accessories
You can’t go wrong with a white dress at the beach! But be sure to pick a frock that’s light and airy like influencer Bri Martinez so you don’t look to dressed up (unless that’s the look you’re after!)
16. Printed Bodycon Midi Dress + Hoop Earrings + Heeled Sandals
We love this look on Tess Holiday that looks amazing against her skin tone! When picking a sleeveless body-hugging dress to don at the beach, choose one in a sunshine hue to keep things bright and fresh.
17. High-Waist Bikini Set + White Button-Down
A white-button down looks good with everything. Use it as a cover up for chilly afternoons when you’re done talking a dip. It also provides extra coverage without excessively hiding your body even when you’ve opted for a high-waist bikini bottom.
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