If there’s one thing I’ve learned from years of chasing sunshine—from Nantucket escapes to long weekends in the Keys—it’s that a little pre-trip outfit planning goes a long way. I want pieces that feel polished but playful, coastal but not costume-y, and always easy to throw on after a beach day (bonus points if they work with a salty bun). Enjoy these 11 easy and chic pieces I always pack for a coastal escape.
This is the exact list I keep coming back to when packing for any kind of coastal getaway—starting with a striped one-piece swimsuit that gives me total retro yacht club vibes and linen shorts I can slip on right after a swim. The dreamy pajama pants set in regatta stripe is the kind of matching moment I’ll wear on repeat—from the best sleep ever to breakfast on the porch. And you know I never leave home without a great pair of retro style sunnies and a breezy white bucket hat to top it all off.
For dinners out, I’m bringing this white embroidered linen midi dress—so classic and pretty—and a lace-trimmed blue linen dress that feels like something out of a Nancy Meyers scene. Add flower drop earrings, barely-there gold sandals, and this knotted gold shoulder bag that pulls everything together in the prettiest way. And if I need a quick slip-on moment for poolside lounging? These jelly flip flops are back and better than ever.
These are the pieces I always pack, wear, and love—no overthinking, just easy, sunny style that feels like me. Scroll down to see them all!
11 Easy and Chic Pieces I Always Pack for a Coastal Escape
1. Striped One-Piece Swimsuit
I always pack a classic one-piece, and this scrunchie striped version is exactly the kind of suit I reach for over and over again. Timeless, flattering, and perfect for tossing on linen shorts and heading straight to lunch. I love that it feels polished but playful.
2. Embroidered White Linen Midi Dress
There’s always a white dress in my suitcase. This embroidered linen one is the kind I can dress up with gold sandals or wear barefoot in the sand. Effortless, breezy, and vacation-ready.
3. Lace Trim Linen Midi Dress in Blue
Soft blue, delicate lace, and the kind of easy fit that makes you feel instantly pretty. I always bring a romantic dress like this for dinner al fresco or even just to feel a little extra while exploring town.
4. White Bucket Hat
A sun hat is a non-negotiable for me. This bucket style feels fresh and gives major coastal-chic vibe. I throw it on over a messy bun and instantly look more pulled together.
5. Flattering Sunglasses
There’s something about a flattering sunglass moment that just makes a coastal look. I pack a pair of super stylish shades for every trip—they instantly elevate even the most laid-back outfit.
6. Flower Drop Earrings
I love bringing a fun earring that feels beachy and lighthearted. These flower drop earrings are the perfect little pop—great with linen dresses.
7. Jelly Flip-Flop Sandals
Yes, jelly sandals are having a moment again—and I’m not mad about it. I love packing an easy, wipe-clean flip flop like these for beach days and casual pool hangs. They’re fun, nostalgic, and practical.
8. Dreamy Pajama Pant Set
I always pack a soft, breathable pajama set for those slow mornings and cozy evenings—especially when I’m staying near the coast. This striped pair feels like vacation in lounge form. It’s what I wear while sipping coffee on the porch or winding down after a sun-soaked day. I might not wear it out, but it’s a coastal getaway must for me.
9. Gold Barely-There Flat Sandals
Simple, walkable gold sandals are always in my bag. They go with everything and add just the right amount of shine. I’ve worn mine to beach weddings, dinners, and even on travel days.
10. Gold Hand-Knotted Shoulder Bag
A statement bag like this adds personality to the simplest outfit. I always pack one special piece like this—a pretty woven or gold-accented bag—to dress up daytime looks or carry to dinner.
11. Linen Shorts
Whether I’m slipping them on over a swimsuit or pairing them with a tucked-in tank, I never leave home without a good pair of linen shorts. They’re cool, classic, and forever in rotation.
Beautifully Seaside has officially become an online coastal lifestyle website, and I’m so excited to bring you more stories, outfit ideas, and inspiration each day. Whether you’re planning your next beach escape or just love that sunny, relaxed vibe, there’s so much more to come. Make sure to subscribe here so you never miss a post!
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