How to look good on the beach…?

[thelinkisdead]

Just that really! How does one go about looking classy / stylish on the beach and not a sweaty, harassed mess?!

I'm glad you've asked that question OP as I have been thinking the same so will be watching with interest.
I always feel like a look a mess on the beach but this year I'm determined to feel better about myself so I've bought a few pretty cover ups to put over my swimwear and a wide brimmed hat instead of my usual baseball cap.

Floaty linen or cotton coverup (ideally a dress you can throw on over a bikini)
big floppy hat
sunglasses
sarong (v light big scarf material for lying on or covering shoulders).
in and out the water to cool off!
sunglasses
shade of some kind.

wish I was at the beach!!!

I always look a state at the beach. I've noticed the gorgeous young European women keep it all very simple. Small black bikini, even tan (not easy if you're naturally pale, simple flip flops, great sunglasses, big bag.

I think it's 90% not trying to impress and keeping yourself protected from the elements.

'Sweaty, harassed mess' usually comes from lack of sun protection and too much going on / too much trying to look good.

Easy and permanent access to shade, hair tied / clipped back, hat, sunglasses, a simple bikini or swimsuit, a simple cover-up, solid sliders to protect your feet from the hot sand, plenty of sun protection, some spray conditioner, lots of water, and minimal 'stuff'.

I live in a hot country and most of the people I see struggling at the beach are the ones who have tried to 'dress up' and look good. Jewellery, hair suffering in the salt and sun, complicated swimwear, trying to get a tan too quick and suffering in order to do so, wearing mad sandals that their feet still burn in the sand through... even makeup.

Think 'sleek, sensible and simple' and you'll be on the right track.

If you have small children leave them at home with someone else.