This post is all about cute beach dinner outfits to wear on your tropical vacation.
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Let's imagine it together right now . . . you just spent the entire day out in the warm sun and cooling off in the salty water. You finally call it a day and head back up to your hotel room where it is time to shower and get dressed for your evening dinner reservation. You've got a fresh tan, clear skin, and a huge appetite. There is only one thing left to do, pick out your outfit. But, you are in luck because you already planned out the CUTEST beach dinner outfits for this vacation.
You deserve to feel confident on vacation, so that's why we want to help YOU find your perfect tropical evening outfit. So, get ready to choose from the most adorable dresses, two-piece sets, skirts, and tops to make your fashion goals come to life.
P.S. if you are headed to a beach destination wedding, then you are going to want to consider these beach wedding guest dresses.
Beach Dinner Outfits
Dresses
1. Eleni Bodycon Midi
If the occasion calls for something slightly dressier, you’ll certainly be turning heads in this curve-hugging knit bodycon dress from Eleni. The lightweight fabric shows off your curves with just enough give so that you can easily maneuver on the beach. The sweetheart neckline adds a romantic touch for the perfect date night out.
How To Style It:
- Opt for minimalist, strappy sandals in a neutral tone to keep the focus on the dress.
- Dainty, layered gold or silver necklaces and matching earrings will elevate the look without overwhelming your outfit.
- Complete the look with a woven or raffia clutch and a lightweight shawl for cooler evenings.
2. Lavender Daze Dress
Perfect for an evening picnic on the beach, this breezy lavender midi dress is the epitome of effortless elegance. The soft cotton fabric and flowy fit will keep you cool and comfortable, while the smocked bodice and drop-waist detailing flatter your figure.
How To Style It:
- Pair this dress with some espadrilles to keep the look casual and beachy.
- A woven crossbody bag, a delicate necklace, and hoop earrings are the perfect way to accessorize this feminine, floral dress.
- Add a wide-brimmed hat for a chic, sophisticated touch.
3. Phila Maxi Dress
I can imagine wearing this dress and sipping limoncello on a balcony overlooking the crystal-clear waters of Portofino. Così elegante! This stunning ankle-length dress features a beautiful crochet design in a beautiful cream and blue color palette. I really love the geometric striped pattern that gives it a modern yet retro look.
How To Style It:
- Keep the rest of your look simple, including hair and makeup, to let this dress be the star of the show.
- Take a cue from the Italians and wear this dress with your most glamorous shades and some simple leather slides.
- Elevate the dress with wedges and a clutch for a more dressed-up dinner. Styling your hair in loose waves and a touch of gold jewelry for some summery glam.
Related Post: 21 Must-Have Coastal Cowgirl Outfits In 2024
4. Ace Cut Out Mini Dress
Channel your inner Malibu beach Barbie with this cut-out mini dress from Ace. This super-cute dress features a bold palm print in ombre pinks and oranges. It's perfect for an evening out on the town during Spring Break or your next summer vacay.
The structured swimwear fabric ensures a comfortable and supportive fit, while the asymmetric cut-out highlights your waist.
How To Style It:
- To really complete the Barbie look, pair this dress with some white thong kitten heels, a mini bag, and some cute gold hoops.
- This dress would look great under a black leather jacket, which would really set off the pink and orange.
- To keep this look a little more casual, throw on your favorite white sneakers and lightweight wrap over your shoulders.
5. AE Dreamy Drape Pleated Strappy Mini Dress
Channel that effortless East Coast prep look with this classic pleated strappy mini dress from AE. This dress is the perfect thing to throw on when you have no idea what to wear. It really goes with everything!
Wear it for a game of tennis, throw it over your bathing suit, or pair it with some strappy wedges. You can literally take this dress anywhere.
How To Style It:
- For a casual night out, we like to pair this dress with a slouchy cardigan, our favorite ball cap, and a pair of sneakers.
- You can just as easily dress this look up with some gold bangle bracelets, espadrille wedges, and a rattan clutch.
- Throw on loafers and a cute sweater, and you’re ready for dinner with the parents.
6. Flutter Sleeve Mini Dress
This ultra-feminine mini dress is perfect for when you want to dial up the flirty vibes. The soft cotton fabric and flutter sleeves with eyelet details bring the romance, while the tie-neck and corset bodice add flattering structure. The tiered skirt brings a playful touch of movement and volume.
How To Style It:
- Pair this dress with flats or wedges and a French-inspired straw bag for a relaxed and sweet look.
- Since this fluttery dress already has a lot of movement, keep your accessories simple. A delicate necklace or single-bangle bracelet will add to your look without overwhelming it.
- Be sure to bring a jacket or sweater to throw on over this dress in case the evening ocean breeze picks up.
Jumpers/Rompers
7. Oxford Romper
This collegiate-inspired romper is the perfect throw-on-and-go option for a casual beach dinner. The relaxed fit with a cinched waistband flatters your figure, while the structured button-up front and smocked detailing keep it classic.
How To Style It:
- Pair with platform sneakers and a bomber jacket to give your look a little edge.
- A big leather belt at the waist and a turquoise statement necklace can easily take this romper from day to night.
- Wear over your favorite bathing suit top with your hair wrapped up in a bandana for a more casual dinner look.
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8. Sweet Dreams Ruffle Romper
This flirty romper by Urban Outfitters is a great basic that you can wear as a bathing suit cover-up or can be accessorized for a casual night out with the girlies.
The strapless neckline and fitted bodice make it a great piece to mix and match with different tops and jackets, while the all-over ruffle trim adds to this feminine look.
How To Style It:
- My favorite way to wear this look is with a high pony, an oversized jean jacket, and some ballet flats or classic sneakers.
- Make the look a little hippie-chic with a fringed, floral kimono and some suede moccasins.
- For a cooler evening, throw on an oversized cardigan or leather jacket with a cute slouchy bini and some chunky moto boots.
9. Hutch The Mabel Sleeveless Wide-Leg Jumpsuit
When you need something on the dressier side but still want to be comfortable, this sleeveless wide-leg jumpsuit by Hutch is my go-to piece to reach for. You’re sure to turn heads with this bold floral print. And the best part about this super-comfortable jumpsuit? It has pockets!
How To Style It:
- Pair this jumpsuit with some flat gladiator sandals or wedges and a woven tote when you want to keep it casual.
- Add a belt around the empire waist with some chunky heels and layered bracelets for a more elevated casual look.
- This laid-back style is begging for loose waves or a messy up-do to show off some dangly statement earrings.
TOPS & SWEATERS
10. Bosworth Top
I’m ready to go on vacation just looking at this top! This flirty off-the-shoulder top in vibrant tropical pink and orange floral print is my ideal blend of casual and chic. You’ll be ready for wherever the night takes you.
The relaxed silhouette with blousy sleeves and elastic cuffs keeps everything in place. So get out there and let your hair down on the dance floor if you want to.
How To Style It:
- Pair this top with high-waisted denim shorts, sandals, and a little white clutch for a look that will take you from day to night.
- This top would also look great with a flowy white maxi skirt, wedges, and a straw hat for some real vacation vibes.
- For a more casual look, pair this top with denim cut-offs and sneakers. Add a crossbody bag and a baseball cap for an action-packed evening.
11. Mahila Floral Embroidered Crop Top
How cute is this cotton crop top with bright floral detailing?! It’s the quintessential summer top that can go with anything from your favorite pair of jeans to a flowy maxi skirt. I love how the flower embroidery gives this top a timeless throw-back vibe. It's like I could have pulled it right out of my Mom’s closet.
How To Style It:
- Pair this crop top with neutral-colored high-waisted linen pants or a flowy maxi skirt to really let the embroidery shine.
- Combine this top with some platform sandals and denim shorts for a more casual, laid-back dinner.
- Complete the look with a statement clutch or a woven beach tote that ties in with the colorful embroidery for a pop of color.
12. Candyce Top
Super soft, comfortable, and feminine. Could there be a more perfect date-night top? This Candyce top in pink with its ruched bust adds a girly touch to whatever you’re wearing. Pair it with your favorite boyfriend jeans, a little white skirt, or a long denim skirt. This top looks great with anything.
How To Style It:
- I like to wear this top with distressed boyfriend jeans rolled up at the cuffs with a pair of heeled sandals or mules for date night drinks by the beach.
- For a fresh and feminine fit, combine with a little white tennis skirt and white sneakers. I love this look with a slicked-back pony, a simple gold chain necklace, and matching earrings to bring out the girly vibes.
- This top would also look super cute with some high-waisted shorts and a baseball hat over a loose pony.
Related Post: 29 Easy Ways To Become a Coastal Granddaughter In 2024
13. Morley Off Shoulder Sweater Cream
Evenings by the coast can get chilly without warning. So I love an off-the-shoulder sweater for when I want to stay warm but still keep it cute. This cozy off-the-shoulder sweater will keep you warm when the breeze picks up but is super flattering, so you can still show off your style.
How To Style It:
- For cooler evenings, we like to style this sweater with a long denim skirt and cute sandals or chunky sneakers.
- You can also dress this look up with a flowy maxi skirt or relaxed linen pants.
- You could also tuck this sweater into high-waisted jeans and pair it with heels or booties for a night-out-ready look.
14. Cropped Button-Front Cardigan
This versatile cardigan is crafted from luxurious, cashmere-like yarn that's soft and comfortable against the skin, making it ideal for layering over breezy summer outfits. At this price point, it’s perfect to keep in the back seat or trunk of your car to throw it on when the evening turns cold so you can keep the fun going.
How To Style It:
- Throw this cardigan over a flowy maxi dress or a tank top and shorts for added warmth and effortless style.
- Layer it over a mini dress or a graphic tee and high-waisted jeans for a bonfire hangout with friends.
- Make your outfit evening ready by wearing this cardigan with a fitted camisole and high-waisted trousers or some loose-fitting linen pants.
SKIRTS & PANTS
15. Seashell Capri Skirt
When you need something quick to take you straight from the pool or the beach to dinner, just throw on this cute Seashell Capri skirt. While it might not be the best option for a fancy dinner date or a night out at the bars, it's the perfect pick for oceanside cocktails while watching the sunset.
How To Style It:
- Pair this skirt with a strapless bikini top, sandals, and a statement necklace for a relaxed and beachy look.
- Keep it classy with a chic black one-piece underneath, a big straw hat, and some fabulous sunnies.
- This sarong would also look really cute with a ruffly crop top like the Bosworth top and some kitten heel strappy sandals.
16. Split Front Denim Maxi Skirt
A good denim skirt is a classic piece that can be paired with anything. It can add a polished yet relaxed look that can transition from day to night with the right accessories. I like this particular skirt for its universally flattering high-waisted slim fit. And the front slit adds a touch of leggy appeal.
How To Style It:
- For a warm evening, you can pair this denim skirt with your favorite bikini top and a loose weave crochet sweater over the top.
- For a cooler evening wear this skirt with an off-the-shoulder sweater or a slinky camisole and a slouchy cardigan.
- If need to dress up your look, a blousy crop top like the Bosworth top would look stunning with some white strappy heels.
17. Waterfall Skort
At a loss of what to wear to a beachside BBQ followed by a game of beach volleyball? In this fun and flouncy skort from Free People, you’ll be ready for anything.
This skort is the perfect solution for windy beach days when you still want to look cute but don’t want to stress over your outfit. It’s a true staple that will never go out of style.
How To Style It:
- Choose a sophisticated blouse or a sleek halter top made of silk or chiffon for a fancy date night at the beach.
- Balance the flouncy skirt with a fitted sweater to keep warm on a chilly evening.
- Pair this skort with a roomy, embroidered blouse over your bikini to go straight from the beach to dinner.
18. Retreat Wide Leg Linen Pants
From day to night, these breezy linen pants from Athleta are the perfect choice for a comfortable and stylish beach dinner. The lightweight, 100% washable fabric is breathable and flows beautifully, keeping you cool and comfortable on those tropical summer evenings.
How To Style It:
- Wear these pants with a flowy tank top or a tucked-in blouse and flat sandals or wedges for a resort-wear chic look.
- Top with a colorful cropped tank with an extra large button up for relaxing fireside with your friends.
- Opt for a silk camisole, kitten heels, and a mini bag for a dressier dinner. Layer on some dainty necklaces and rings for a little evening sparkle.
SETS
19. Xander Set
I love a good set! Don’t you? Your complete outfit is already done for you. No thinking required. This white crochet Xander Set from Princess Polly is a fun and beach-ready option for dinner by the ocean. This set has tons of style and is the perfect way to show off your tan.
How To Style It:
- Keep your accessories and hairstyle minimal, and let your glowing, dewy skin be the star of the show.
- This all-white set is also the perfect blank canvas to show off some chunky statement jewelry. I love turquoise or gold jewelry to complement my tan in the summertime.
- A fun fedora or wide-brimmed hat over beachy waves would be a totally cute way to top off this set.
Related Post: 12 Must-Have Beach Graphic Tees For Summer 2024
FAQs
What do you wear to dinner on the beach?
Really, whatever you want! But depending on the occasion and the weather, here are some beach dinner outfit ideas:
Flowy dresses: A maxi dress or a midi dress in a light, breathable fabric like cotton or linen is a perfect option for a beach dinner. You can choose a solid color or a floral print. Pair it with flat sandals or wedges.
Rompers: A romper is a cute and casual option for a beach dinner too. Choose a romper in a breezy fabric and pair it with whatever shoes are right for the occasion.
Skirt and top: A skirt and top is another classic option. You can choose a maxi skirt, a midi skirt, or a mini skirt, depending on your style. Pair your skirt with a cute top and some pretty gold jewelry.
Pants and tops: For a more casual dinner, you might prefer pants. You can choose a pair of wide-leg linen pants or flowy culottes that will keep you cool in the warm summer months.
Sweaters: Even summer evenings can get cold, so don’t forget to pack a sweater or a jacket with whatever you’re wearing.
How can I look elegant on the beach?
Embrace simple silhouettes: Consider cuts with a cinched waist or empire waist to accentuate your figure. Choose fabrics like chiffon, silk, or linen for a graceful drape.
Accessorize with intention: Keep jewelry minimal and avoid overly flashy or bulky jewelry. Choose elegant sandals in neutral tones and small clutches or cross-body bags in materials like straw or raffia.
Remember the details: Keep your hair and makeup simple and natural, like loose braids or beach waves, and makeup that highlights your natural features.
Confidence is key! Ultimately, the most important element of looking elegant is feeling confident. Choose an outfit that makes you feel comfortable and beautiful, and own the look with your posture and attitude.
How do you dress beachy?
Achieving a "beachy" look is all about embracing a relaxed and carefree vibe that reflects the coastal atmosphere.
Look for light and breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and chambray.
Breezy silhouettes of flowy dresses, wide-leg pants, and oversized shirts and sweaters help create a relaxed, beachy look.
Incorporate beachy prints and colors like nautical stripes, floral prints, and neutral tones.
This post was all about the best beach dinner outfits.
Written by: Jenna Stenderup
