Cute Plus Size Options for What to Wear to the Beach

Published August 9, 2018
Woman on beach inflatable ring

Warm summer weather provides the perfect opportunity to spend time chilling at the beach. However, as this is usually an all-day affair, it's important that you feel comfortable with whatever you're wearing. There are many options when it comes to styling beachwear to ensure that you look and feel fabulous.

Standalone Swimwear

On a particularly hot day, you might choose to just rock swimwear. It's easy to find plus size bathing suits that flatter your shape if you know what you're looking for. If you're unsure, the safe bet is to invest in a one-piece with ruching at the waist to distract attention away from your stomach. Alternatively, if you want to embrace your curves, try a one-piece that looks like a two-piece and has unique, chic cutout detailing. Either way, finish up your gorgeous swimwear with a matching fedora and color-popping sandals for an aesthetic that's sure to wow.

woman in bikini with white hat

Statement Sundress

Ideal for throwing on at a moment's notice, a fun yet effortless sundress is always a winner for the beach. If you feel like making a serious style statement, opt for a kitsch print (like florals or polka dots) with bold sunglasses. Make sure that you choose a wrap-around, strappy, or bandeau design that is elasticated or pulls in at the waist to add definition to your figure. It's important to avoid anything too clingy or thick to prevent you from becoming flustered in the sun.

Retro A-Line Dress in Dotted Navy
Retro A-Line Dress in Dotted Navy

Classic and Cool

An oldie but a goodie, the one-piece bathing suit with denim shorts combination continues to kill it at the beach. It helps if your one-piece is black in hue as this is slimming on curvier frames. In terms of your denim shorts, any color tends to look cute; however, choose a pair that are high-waisted and will pull you in where you want them to. The general rule? The darker your denim shorts, the more flattering they will be on your figure. Finish off your classic, sophisticated look with black, red, or white flip flops and a smile.

Woman in denim shorts at beach

Fashion-Forward Co-Ord

If you're a self-professed fashionista and like to try out the latest catwalk-inspired trends, a cool co-ord might just be your new best friend. A high-waisted pair of shorts or skirt will effectively nip you in at the waist. Team your bottoms with a sleeveless crop top as this will keep you feeling comfy while helping you to nail it in the style stakes.

Woman in blue skirt and crop top

Elegant Maxi Dress

For a beautiful and elegant beach look, opt for a maxi dress that will satisfy even the most exuberant maximalist. Ruffles and draping look feminine and romantic and will take the attention away from unwanted areas. Style tip: make sure that your dress draws in at the waist and falls down to your toes to give you an incredible hourglass figure.

Woman in yellow maxi dress

Simple and Sassy

If you're not feeling too confident about beachwear, don't sweat it - you can just try this simple yet stylish option that will cover you up a little more than the average outfit. It consists of a sleeveless top (with a print or embellishment to draw focus to the fabric) tucked into a high-waisted skirt. The skirt can be denim, midi in length, or a full-on maxi skirt to amp up the drama. Either way, team this combination with cute espadrilles or sturdy sandals if you're planning to walk long distances.

Simple top and denim skirt

Cute and Comfortable

Searching for a plain, no-frills beach outfit? A simple cami in a summery color is guaranteed to keep you feeling and looking cool if you opt for a soft cotton fabric. If you have your sassy swimwear peeking out from underneath your cami, even better! Polish off your cute look with flip-flops and either printed or solid-hued shorts that contain elastane so that they're stretchy and comfy for all-day wear.

Cute and comfortable beach outfit

Sweet Coverups

Usually, a trip to the beach usually means that you'll be strolling along the sand and paddling in the sea, as well as sunbathing. For these activities, you can always invest in a sweet coverup if you don't want to solely rock your swimwear. Whether you choose to wear your bikini top with cropped linen pants for comfort or opt for a free-flowing kaftan or sarong over your bathing suit, be sure to pick pieces that reflect your personality.

Plus size woman in beach coverup

Finding What Works

There are lots of different and cute plus size outfit options that are appropriate for spending a day at the beach. When it comes to beach fashion, however, it's important to wear what makes you feel comfortable. When you're feeling good, this confidence shines from within and it makes you stand out from the crowd for all the right reasons.

Trending on LoveToKnow
Cute Plus Size Options for What to Wear to the Beach