How to Style Swimwear & Accessories
On a day at the beach, your swimsuit isn’t just for function—it’s part of your ensemble. You can strategically use accessories, coverups, and the right pair of sandals to elevate your entire waterside look.
Below, we’ll detail how you can style your swimwear to show off your summer glow and instill a newfound confidence in your beach or pool look.
Curating the Outfit
First on the list: choosing complementary clothes to go with your swimsuit. For women, the right clothing items will depend on if you’re rocking a one-piece or two-piece.
A one-piece is the perfect base to pair with a fun bottom. If your swimsuit is a single color or has a more subtle design, you could choose a patterned pair of balloon pants to complement your swimwear. With elastic at the ankles, balloon pants offer a chic billowy look without appearing too oversized.
Heading out for post-beach dinner or drinks? Pack a lightweight, midi skirt to slip on over your swimsuit. Satin, cotton, or chiffon skirts will keep you cool and comfortable throughout the evening. And if you want to achieve an even more polished look, add a wide belt over the skirt’s waistband.
If you love a two-piece, you can go the more casual route or opt for a coverup. With the casual look, you throw on some jean shorts or neutral linen shorts that won’t clash with your swimsuit top. If you want to cover your upper half, you could add an oversized button-down shirt or a matching linen shirt to your shorts.
When choosing a coverup, you’re not limited by your swimsuit print (as you likely won’t be able to see it). Instead, consider the shape you want. Are you wanting a flowy coverup? Then a maxi dress or kaftan option would be perfect. If you want a more fitted look, you can’t go wrong with a crochet dress or coverup.
Men
Men have it a bit easier in that men’s swimsuits can easily be matched with a t-shirt, plain or with simple designs, to go on top. Our Pima cotton will keep you comfortable in all weather conditions!
Accessories
Now that you have your clothing sorted, it’s time to accessorize.
Hats
In 2026, sun protection is very much in. Baseball hats are always a reliable and stylish option. Bucket hats have exploded in popularity, and there’s a print to match any swimsuit design. If your swimsuit has small flowers, for example, you could complement it with a green bucket hat that matches the leaves.
Wide-brimmed straw hats have also become a staple on the beach, protecting even more of your neck and shoulders than a bucket hat. For a pop of personality, look for styles that have a hidden pattern on the underbrim.
Sandals
Your footwear isn’t just for aesthetics—it also protects your soles from shell-filled terrain and scorching hot sand.
If you want a sandal with secure straps, try out the trending fisherman sandals. Often made from leather, these sandals won’t slip around when you’re navigating rocky ground and can easily be dressed up after your fun in the sun.
Jelly sandals are another popular type of footwear for the beach. Waterproof and flexible, the soft material of the sandal makes it comfortable to wear with wet or dry feet.
Sunglasses
The secret to having seriously flattering sunglasses comes down to face shape. If you’re not familiar with your face shape, discover what it is through these simple steps. These are the best sunglasses styles for each face shape:
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Round faces: Cat-eye styles
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Square faces: Aviator styles or oversized round frames
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Oval faces: Nearly any style
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Heart faces: Frames with a wider base
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Diamond faces: Rimless frames; narrow rectangle styles
Beach Bag
Your beach bag isn’t just for hauling snacks and towels to the sand. It can complete your overall look—or detract from it.
One of the best options is a sturdy canvas tote with a single color trim. These bags typically stand on their own and can hold all of your beach necessities. For a more sand-friendly style, opt for a neutral mesh bag. While the see-through look does offer a glance at your belongings, it’s a chic style that can pair especially well with a bold beach outfit.
Find the Perfect Swimsuit
Looking for stylish, modest swimwear for women? At Hadley’s Bungalow, we design high-quality swimsuits that are comfortable to wear for an entire day at the beach. With adjustable straps, hand-drawn prints, and classic coverage, our one-piece and two-pieces can easily be styled for any aesthetic. View our entire swimwear collection to see which suit is right for you.
