How to Dress for a Beach Party

When you dress for the beach party, consider whether it's an indoor or outdoor party. If you are going to a celebration right on the beach, you'll want to bring a lot of sunscreen and wear sunglasses, plus a hat or sun visor. Have a good idea how long the party will last and plan accordingly. But whatever you do, dress for fun.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Plan Your Attire for a Beach Party

1. Pack an extra bathing suit just in case yours gets too sandy or you want to wear a dry one. Visit Evite for more beach party dress tips.

2. Bring additional layers of clothing for the cooler nighttime weather. Some beach parties go from day into night, so you'll want to be sure you have a sweatshirt, light pants or cardigan to ward off the chill. Nothing takes the fun out of a beach party quite like shivering with cold.

3. Plan for socializing in your beachwear. Be comfortable in your attire. If you are self-conscious about how you look in a bathing suit, wrap a sarong around your waist or consider comfy beach shorts. Guys can wear tank tops and shorts. There's nothing wrong with covering up a little if it puts you at ease.

4. Accessorize your outfit. Do not wear your most expensive jewelry, but add little accents for a nice touch. Add to your dress or outfit with colorful bangle bracelets or scarves. A long, lariat-style necklace can look very sexy with a bikini, and a rope-and-shell necklace can be very hip.

5. Dress appropriately for the theme. Some hosts will encourage you to wear Hawaiian outfits. For ladies, wear a floral print dress, shorts and a floral top or a miniskirt and tank. Guys can choose khaki shorts and a floral shirt or a brightly colored T-shirt or tank top.

6. Slip into appropriate footwear. If the party is on the beach, pack a pair of water shoes and sneakers for any games you might participate in. Wearing flip flops or flat sandals is also acceptable for a beach party.

Tips & Warnings

• Bring a nice beach tote, wicker handbag or gym bag for your extra clothes and shoes. Pack a little towel and cleaning wipes to wash off your sunglasses.
• Buy slip-on canvas mules or flip-flops for a beach party. You will be comfortable walking on the sand, and they are easy to get on and off.
• If it's a children's party, ask the parent what activities are planned, so you can dress your little one safely.