The Minimalist’s Guide to Dressing for the Beach

minimalist beach
Photo Courtesy of Matteau

We may earn a commission if you buy something from any affiliate links on our site.

If only getting to the beach was as relaxing and effortless as laying out at one. Getting dressed for a day at the beach, though, should be a breeze! A minimalist approach to beach dressing keeps things simple. In addition to your many other items—towels, chairs, snacks, umbrella, sunscreen, you name it—there are a few pieces to keep in mind when looking to achieve a sophisticated, beach-friendly polish. Think unfussy swimsuits in neutral shades and elevated cover-ups that can take you from one daytime activity to the next. You’ll want to accessorize in a minimalist fashion, too, with beach totes that don’t leave out the details, sunglasses frames in elegant silhouettes, and sandals that look the part. There’s even a more understated take on the bucket hat!

It’s also worth noting that adding these pieces to your beachwear repertoire will provide longevity to your seasonal wardrobe. At this point in the summer, we recommend investing in timeless pieces you’ll want to wear again next year too. Shop our beach-ready minimalist edit below.

Sophisticated Swimwear

Whether you prefer two-pieces or maillots, timeless silhouettes in neutral colors are the perfect foundation for minimalist swim. 

Lido one piece swimsuit

Eres Les Essentials bikini

Tropic of C

The Sculpting C swimsuit

Elevated Beachwear

There are a lot of coverup options out there, from sarongs to kaftans. We particularly love these options from Anemos, Matteau, Deiji Studios, and By Malene Birger.

Anemso The L.A. button-down wrap mini dress

By Malene Birget tunic set

Matteau maxi dress

Deiji Studios The 03 shirt and shorts set

Sleek Sandals 

There are options for both those who prefer a weightier slide or dainty strapped sandal. 

ATP Atelier Alessandria leather slingback sandals

The Row Avery leather sandals

Birkenstock 1774 Arizona leather sandals

Ancient Greek Sandals Mitos braided leather sandals

Understated Totes 

Your beach bag is just as important as the rest of your look; styles from Hunting Season to Hereu are not to be missed.

Dragon Diffusion Triple Jump basket bag

DeMellier Santorini basket bag

Hereu Cabassa straw tote bag

Hunting Season Irca raffia tote

Contemporary Toppers

Protect your face and shoulders stylishly in a lampshade-shaped bucket in classic raffia, black or chocolate brown. 

Janessa Leone Felix bucket hat

Zara openweave hat

Totême logo straw hat

Loewe Anagram raffia bucket hat

Luxe Shades

Sunglasses in understated silhouettes go best with black or tortoiseshell frames. Keep things chic with RayBan to Bottega Veneta.

Bottega Veneta Eyewear square-frame sunglasses

Ray-Ban Wayfarer sunglasses

Celine Eyewear square sunglasses

Loewe 55mm round sunglasses