As the summer season approaches, many of us are looking forward to spending quality time on the water. With so much to consider when it comes to planning a successful boat day – from organizing activities and food to inviting friends and making memories – one crucial aspect often gets overlooked: what to wear! The right outfit can make all the difference in terms of both comfort and style.
Whether you’re hosting a party or embarking on a casual cruise, you’ll want to look great while staying cool and relaxed. In this post, I’ll be sharing a comprehensive guide to help you dress to impress – from spring and summer must-haves to fall and winter looks that are perfect for cooler boat days. We’ll also dive into hairstyles, nautical-themed accessories, makeup tips, and the essential items you should always pack when heading out on the water.
What to Wear on a Boat? (Styling Tips)
When preparing for a boating adventure, it’s essential to prioritize comfort and practicality while also considering the occasion and weather conditions. To make the most of your day on the water, we recommend dressing in layers, opting for nautical colors like blue and white, and accessorizing with sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen. Don’t forget to bring a windbreaker, as unpredictable weather is always a possibility.
In terms of footwear, boat shoes or sandals are perfect for casual days on the water. When it comes to clothing, keep it simple and avoid delicate items that might get ruined. Consider wearing denim or linen fabrics, which are both easy to clean and comfortable. As you plan your outfit, be mindful of hats and scarves, which can blow away in the wind. Long skirts or dresses with a well-fitted belt are also a good option for sailing, as they won’t get caught in the wind.
Shoes that can slip on and off make it easy to switch between water and land activities. And remember, dress accordingly for the weather and don’t wear anything you wouldn’t mind getting wet. Finally, bring extra sunglasses, an extra outfit or two, and tie a scarf around your hair to keep it tidy.
Spring & Summer Outfits
23 – Sweatshirt with Jeans Shorts
22 – Off-the-Shoulder Dress
When it comes to dressing for a leisurely boat trip, there’s no better option than an off-the-shoulder dress. Its effortless charm and relaxed vibe make it perfect for a casual afternoon on the water. To add a touch of whimsy to your look, try pairing the dress with soft pastel hues that evoke a sense of summertime ease. Complete the outfit with a delicate pair of hoops and you’re ready to take on the day in style.
21 – How to Style a Maxi Dress
As you prepare for your boat trip, consider beating the heat with a flowy maxi dress that exudes style and comfort. This versatile piece is perfect for both spring and summer, making it an ideal choice for a lovely evening on the waters. To elevate your look, accessorize with a beach hat and a pair of sandals, giving your boat style a unique twist. For added flair, cinch your waist with a belt and bring the entire ensemble together seamlessly.
And if you’re looking for more inspiration, be sure to check out our collection of stylish and trendy maxi skirts for women.
20 – French Girl Style
As the sun sets over the water, there’s nothing quite like the effortless charm of a flowy skirt or a lightweight summer dress. To capture the essence of a carefree summer evening on the lake or ocean, imagine yourself in an outfit that exudes French girl chic. A flowing ocean-colored dress paired with delicate bracelets is the perfect combination for a stylish and relaxed boating look. Complete the ensemble with sandals or flip-flops for a laid-back yet elegant finish.
19 – Perfect Summer Beach or Lake Outfit for Boating
As summer sets in, a boating trip invitation is a rare treat that shouldn’t be missed. It’s an experience to cherish and make the most of. When it comes to styling for a day on the water, we adore this fresh and chic look that effortlessly combines nautical stripes, trendy white sunglasses, a vibrant yellow tote bag, and crisp white capris.
The perfect finishing touch is a pair of stylish wedge sandals that will have you feeling not only comfortable but also adorable as you soak up the sun and enjoy the ride. Inspired by this look? Check out our recommendations for Bardot’s Squishee Tote and Tommy Hilfiger’s Women’s Mili Wedge Sandal.
18 – Keep It Casual
For a laid-back yet stylish weekend boat trip, consider pairing cotton shorts or pants with a lightweight top and flip-flops. This versatile outfit is perfect for a casual nautical-themed ensemble that can be worn multiple times. And if you’re looking for more inspiration, check out our comprehensive list of 18 Cute Casual Friday Outfits For Women.
17 – Linen Pants to the Rescue
Looking for the perfect boating outfit? We’ve found a stylish solution! These linen pants are not only lightweight and breathable, but also incredibly versatile. Pair them with a cropped tank top and slip-on shoes for a chic and comfortable combination that’s perfect for a day on the water. Add some finishing touches with oversized sunglasses, statement earrings, and layered necklaces to complete the look. And don’t forget, this outfit is sure to be a repeat favorite!
As seen at Nordstrom, you can grab these great pieces: Linen Pants ($59), Round Sunglasses ($129).
16 – Add a Denim Jacket
15 – Perfect Boating Outfit
When it comes to effortless fashion, rompers take the cake. Unlike tees and sundresses, which can be great on their own but lack versatility, rompers offer a multitude of styling options. Whether you’re going for chic and sophisticated or bohemian and laid-back, there’s a romper out there that fits your unique aesthetic. And let’s not forget about the practicality – a well-chosen romper makes an excellent cover-up for those beach days when you want to transition seamlessly from sun to dinner.
Pair it with some stylish sandals and you’ve got a look that’s both stylish and easy to pull off.
14 – Party Ready
As the sun shines bright on summer days, boat and yacht parties are the perfect excuse to dress to impress. While flowy dresses remain a popular choice among A-listers, there’s no shortage of ways to create a stylish ensemble. For instance, pairing an off-the-shoulder blouse or crop top with light-hued pants and dainty earrings can add a touch of sophistication to your summer party look.
The key is to strike the right balance between comfort and glamour, ensuring you’re prepared for a breezy night out that’s equal parts relaxed and radiant.
Fall & Winter Looks
13 – Cute and Classic
Fall fashion is all about effortless style, and this jumper or romper combo checks all the boxes. The built-in pockets and understated buttons create a chic, no-fuss look that doesn’t require excessive accessorizing. To add some extra warmth and polish, throw on an olive green cardigan or sweater for a cozy touch. For footwear, go for a sleek pair of slip-on shoes like these. Meanwhile, let a statement bag like this take center stage – the perfect addition to any Fall outfit.
For added flair, tie your favorite scarf to the handle for a thoughtful finishing touch. Complete the look with some trendy shades and a spritz of sea salt spray in your hair to achieve that effortless, beachy vibe.
12 – Cute Button-down Top and Pants
Elevate your nautical experience by combining a light-hearted, billowy button-down shirt with your go-to cotton pants and slip into a comfortable pair of sandals for a day out on the water. Add a touch of understated elegance with delicate gold jewelry.
11 – Cute and Casual Boating Outfit
For many, overalls are the ultimate comfort wear. When venturing out on a boating trip, simplicity is key. Consider pairing your trusty overalls with a classic plaid or crisp white shirt, complemented by a pair of laid-back TOMS and a practical cap to keep your locks looking great despite the windy conditions.
10 – Stylish in Stripes
When it comes to dressing, there’s an undeniable charm to stripes that evokes the seaside. So, if you’re unsure what to wear, consider pairing a striped top with linen or cotton pants – it’s a timeless combination that exudes effortless style. Add some golden earrings and understated accessories to elevate the look even further.
9 – What to Wear at Night on a Boat
For a cozy and effortless evening on the water, opt for light cardigans as your go-to choice. To make your nighttime boating experience even more relaxed, consider pairing your cardigan with a tank top or a sundress for added comfort. When it comes to footwear, Toms or Vans are excellent options for a warm summer’s night out. And if you’re looking for more inspiration, be sure to check out our curated outfit board for some great ideas!
8 – Outfit for a Chilly Day
Embrace the warmth of autumn and defy the notion that boating is solely a summer activity. A stylish vest jacket can seamlessly integrate into your casual ensemble, elevating the overall experience to a cozy and inviting one. Alternatively, why not try pairing sleek flats with distressed denim, a graphic tee, and a trendy beanie? The crisp air and vibrant foliage will create the perfect backdrop for a memorable boating adventure.
7 – Nautical Boating Attire
There’s a general consensus that hoodies have the incredible ability to elevate any outfit. When paired with a button-down shirt, a casual tee-shirt, and denim, they bring a sense of comfort and style together seamlessly. To complete the look, Converse or boat shoes are the perfect accompaniment. While we’ve curated 27 Best Winter Travel Outfits for Women Trending these Days for your inspiration.
6 – Stay Warm & Comfy
Embrace the coziness without sacrificing style! Oversized sweaters are the perfect companion on chilly nights. Their versatility makes them a wardrobe staple, as they can be styled in various ways. Pair yours with skinny jeans and slip-on sneakers for a laid-back look. Add a coat or light jacket to keep warm while still looking great.
5 – Layers for Cold Evenings
The resurgence of puffy windbreakers has brought back a sense of nostalgia and style to the world of fashion. As the fall season approaches, there’s no better way to enjoy a relaxing boat ride or stroll through the crisp autumn air than by donning a puffy jacket with some comfortable jeggings or tights. This outfit combination perfectly captures the essence of a cozy evening, perfect for snuggling up with a warm cup of coffee or enjoying the beautiful fall foliage.
4 – Semi-Formal Attire
When it comes to dressing for a fall or winter boating party, the task can be slightly more challenging than usual. To create a cohesive and stylish look, we suggest elevating your fashion game by choosing pieces that exude sophistication. One such ensemble features a thick woolly black dress as its centerpiece, paired with a classy coat and knee-high or over-the-knee boots for added length.
Complete the look with understated makeup, subtle jewelry, such as long earrings and rings, to create a refined and polished overall appearance.
3 – Formal
Make a statement at your next winter yacht or boat party by opting for a chic and sophisticated long-sleeve ankle-length dress. The partially floral and black mesh design of this stunning dress is sure to turn heads when paired with some elegant heels and a matching purse.
2 – Stylish Jumpsuit and Hat
Jumpsuits are an excellent choice for both fall and summer boating excursions, offering a versatile and stylish solution for your nautical adventures. To elevate your look, consider adding a hat or cardigan to create a comfortably chic ensemble that’s perfect for the water.
1 – Casual Look with Cardigan
Elevate your everyday style without going overboard. Try pairing a trendy tank top with high-waisted jeans and cinch the look together with a belted waist. Add some texture with a cozy cardigan, and don’t forget to add a touch of glamour with statement earrings and oversized sunglasses for a chic, effortless vibe.
Hairstyles for Boating
Whether you’re heading out for a casual day of sunbathing or dressing up for a more elegant evening on the water, your hairstyle can make all the difference. A relaxed ponytail or messy bun can instantly add a laid-back vibe to your look, while accessorizing with a bandana takes it to the next level.
On the other hand, if you’re going for a more polished appearance, a classic and sophisticated updo like a bun is the way to go – perfect for a formal beach party or even just a romantic dinner cruise.
Nautical-Themed Accessories
Elevate your personal style by incorporating delicate yet eye-catching accessories such as dainty bracelets, statement-making hoop earrings, and whimsical floppy hats. You can also add an extra touch of sophistication with a pair of midi-rings that add just the right amount of visual interest to your overall look.
Boat Party Makeup Tips
Emphasize simplicity when it comes to your daytime makeup routine. Focus on defining your brows with a subtle shade, adding warmth to your cheeks with a light blush, and highlighting your cheekbones for a radiant glow. Finish off the look with a sheer coral lipstick that complements your natural lip color. This understated approach will leave you looking effortlessly beautiful throughout the day. At night, though, it’s all about evoking a sultry atmosphere on the boat.
Achieve this by creating a smoky eye effect using earthy tones, pairing it with a nude or caramel-hued lip gloss, and amplifying your lashes with generous mascara application. Complete the look with delicate earrings and let loose curls gradually morph into beachy waves as the evening progresses.
Boating Essentials That You Must Pack
When venturing out onto the water, don’t forget to pack these must-haves:A pair of trusty sunglasses to shield your eyes from the sun’s glareA hat or cap to protect your face and neck from harmful UV raysHigh-quality sunscreen with a suitable SPF for your skin type to prevent burns and premature agingComfortable flip flops that provide support and traction on slippery surfacesAnd, if you’re looking to capture memories or touch up your look, consider bringing along:A camera to snap photos of the breathtaking views and wildlifeExtra makeup essentials to refresh your appearanceChapstick for dry lips and chapped skin, a common issue when spending time outdoors
