Summer is great, but it’s even better if you can do something special with it. Sure, we all love a day at the beach, even if it’s just for a quick getaway. But a day on a boat? It’s summer prime time. Let’s be honest, it’s not uncommon to get an invitation to spend an entire weekend on a yacht, or any type of boat.
Sure, there are swimsuit options, but beyond that, if you want to know the dress code for a day on a boat, that’s another story. Ahead, you’ll find some boating outfit inspiration and styling tips to help you rock the event.
What You'll Need: Sunglasses + Earrings + White Dress + Bangles + Handbag
Styling Notes: Contrary to popular belief, not all days on the boat require you to wear a bikini. Planning a boat day is the perfect excuse to dial up the drama by opting for a billowing dress. Whether you're a modest dresser or need an excuse to dress up, consider this your moment to do the most (just be sure to keep the rest of the look simple so you don't stick out too much).
What You'll Need: Scarf + Sunglasses + Strapless Minidress + Bangles + Handbag
Styling Notes: Not all days spent at sea are during the day. If you happen to secure an invite to a dinner party on a boat, it's worth picking something a bit fancier (like the 'fit above). A simple strapless dress styled with a scarf, bold jewelry, and a bag will not only transition you from day to night but also make you feel like a movie star.
What You'll Need: Sunglasses + Hoops + Halter Top + Full Skirt + Ballet Flats
Styling Notes: Okay, so it's not easy to secure an invite to a seven-course meal at sea, but it's quite easy to book a private boat excursion while traveling. Whether you're touring the luxurious Lake Como or Saint-Tropez, you'll want to choose an outfit that's both comfortable and chic. May I suggest my ensemble for inspiration? I can assure you this simple outfit formula will ensure you're the most sophisticated person at sea for the day.
What You'll Need: Sporty Sunglasses + Striped Button-Down Shirt + Miniskirt
Styling Notes: Although it's great to spend the day at sea wearing something special, it's not always pragmatic. If you know the dress code is casual, you'll want to consider re-creating the outfit above. Pairing a striped button-down shirt with a miniskirt will not only keep you comfortable throughout the day, but you'll look cool, too.
What You'll Need: Rimless Sunglasses + Gold Earrings + Chain Necklace + Printed Maxi Dress
Styling Notes: Another simple way to look stylish while spending the day on a boat is to embrace a bolder outfit, like the one above. If you're going to be by the sea, you might as well wear one to two statement pieces that will make you stand out (e.g., a colorful printed maxi dress).
What You'll Need: Woven Hat + Sunglasses + Bangles + Chain Necklace + Black Bikini + Anklet
Styling Notes: Besides opting for vibrant prints or colors, the next best way to an outfit that will rock the boat (in a good way) is by paying extra attention to your accessories. Even the most basic black bikini can feel bolder with the addition of a big ol' sun hat.
What You'll Need: Black Sunglasses + Bikini + Chain Belt+ Oversize Earrings
Styling Notes: If wearing a sunhat feels a bit too simple, another way you can spice up your simple black suit for a day by the sea is with jewelry. Specifically, you'll want to add oversize earrings, a chain belt, and even bracelets to give your suit a little extra shine.
What You'll Need: Hoops + Shirtdress + White Bikini +Sandals
Styling Notes: Although accessories can add flair to your 'fit, the most important thing to consider when planning a day at the beach or on a boat, for that matter, is what type of cover-up you're going to wear. If you know you don't want to wear a full maxi dress but still want more coverage than a sarong, consider wearing a shirtdress or oversize button-down shirt. It's a simple swap for sure, but it always looks so much more stylish than a sarong.
What You'll Need: Sunglasses + Gold Hoops + Brown Bikini Top + Maxi Linen Skirt
Styling Notes: One more alternative to the sarong to consider when styling your boat-day ensemble? A linen maxi skirt. It's the perfect way to show off your favorite bikini top while still giving off a bougie vibe.
