4 swim looks for a beach town day (with video), plus what to wear off the sand
Late-summer swim ideas that still work on a warm fall weekend, and the easy outfits to pull on when you leave the beach.
1. The black bikini
- Black is the easiest swimsuit color to wear. It looks sharp in photos and works with every cover-up you own.
- A scoop top with thicker straps stays put through waves and long walks.
2. The white bikini
- White glows against a tan, which is why it shows up every late summer.
- Look for lined or double-layer fabric so it stays opaque when it gets wet.
3. The black one-piece
- A high-cut one-piece reads polished at a resort pool and lengthens the leg.
- Add gold hoops and a claw clip and you are dressed for a poolside lunch.
4. The navy boat-day set
Navy is a softer alternative to black that looks great against turquoise water. A sporty bralette top and full-coverage bottoms stay secure on ladders and swim platforms. More tips in what to wear and pack for a beach or boat day.
Off the sand: denim shorts and a crop top
- Light-wash denim shorts and a ribbed white crop top go over a swimsuit and look finished for ice cream or a boardwalk walk.
Off the sand: a sundress
- A bright floral sundress with espadrille wedges is easy for a farmers market or brunch, and the wedge is far easier on uneven ground than a stiletto.
- For evening, swap to a white dress and white strappy heels.
Looking for similar swimsuits, cover-ups and sandals? I keep picks on my shop page.
Shauna and the photos and videos in this post are AI-generated. Shop links may earn a commission.
Next up: Fall shoe edit: ankle boots, pumps, mules and strappy heels (with video)