Summer is great, but it's even better when it's spent doing something special. Sure, we all love a day at the beach or even a small getaway. But a day spent on a boat? Now that's peak summer. Realistically speaking, it's not necessarily a common experience to attain an invitation to be able to spend an entire weekend on a boat, yacht, or ship of any kind—unless you're made from money, which, if that's the case, love that for you. Therefore, for us mere mortals who have finally secured the elusive invitation to (or private tour of) a vessel, it can be both exciting and, well, extremely stressful. After all, no amount of binge-watching Succession can give us insight into what to wear on a boat in real life!
Sure, there's the obvious choice of swimwear, but beyond that, if you want to discern the dress code for a day on a boat, there are quite a few factors to keep in mind. Luckily, you don't have to chart these waters alone. In the spirit of being your captain, I've done extensive image research to create a guide on how to dress for a boat day. Ahead, you'll find a few boat outfit ideas, styling tips, and even some luxury shopping suggestions that are bougie enough for this big event. Whether you're joining friends for the weekend at a local beach or are heading off to Lake Como, these ensembles are sure to make you look like you own your very own yacht (even if you don't).
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).
Why not wear Celine sunglasses by the sea?
Give Gatsby something to pine after.
Mermaid vibes on deck.
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.
It's spacious enough to hold all your boat-day essentials without being basic.
Now here's a dress that says "Take me on your yacht."
Don't forget to stack on the jewelry.
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.
Boat day or not, these beauties deserve a place in your wardrobe.
The neckline on this halter is impeccable.
Imagine this skirt billowing in the wind. Chic, right?
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.
Brat summer, commence.
Striped button-down shirts are the staple of the sailing community.
A little linen miniskirt makes for a lovely addition to any summer wardrobe.
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).
Consider this your excuse to buy bigger sunglasses.
Oh, this print screams holiday.
Big earrings are a must for a boat day.
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.
Main character energy, embodied.
Who said black bikinis were boring?
There's also an anklet version of this bracelet, BTW.
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.
I'm obsessed with the shape of these earrings.
A simple black bikini will always look sophisticated. Pair with the matching smocked recycled bikini top ($130).
You can wear this with your swimwear or sundresses.
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.
You'll wear these hoops on land too.
It's not a summer vacation if you didn't pack something from Jacquemus.
Nothing is as classy as a simple white swimsuit. Pair with the matching divine bottom ($80).
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.
Pucci is always a good idea.
Simple but stylish.
A skirt that can be worn from the boat to the boardroom.
What You'll Need: Woven Hat + White Button-Down Shirt + Balconette Bikini Top + White Trousers
Styling Notes: If you want a bit more coverage when it comes to your boat outfit, consider opting for a matching set (as seen above). Whether you opt for a plissé or linen set, a matching button-down and trouser combo will always make you feel comfortable and ensure you look chic.
Woven hats are always worth the investment.
You can't go on a resort vacation without packing Andrea Iyamah. Pair with the matching capa high waist bottom ($105).
Trust me—you'll love these linen trousers.
What You'll Need: Polished one-piece
Styling Notes: Hopefully, by now, you have a good grasp on what to wear for a boat trip of any kind. But it's worth stating with the obvious: The best thing to wear at sea is a swimsuit. Especially if you are planning on swimming, it's important to have a suit that will look sophisticated. Luckily, a polished one-piece is up for the task. The best thing about wearing this item for your boat day is that it's the easiest option, yet it will ensure you look elegant throughout your excursion.
Meet the most comfortable swimsuit.
Warning: They may make you the captain in this piece.
It doesn't get classier than this suit.
This article was previously published and has since been updated.
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