10 Things to wear to the beach this summer

Ruffled swimwear

Flirty ruffles make their way into swimwear this season. From halter bikinis to swimdresses, you'll find ruffles everywhere. One look we love is the ruffled tankini. This two-piece swimsuit provides just enough coverage, while still being sexy and fun.

Don't miss these great one-piece swimsuits for less than $50 >>

Preppy beach tote

Your beach bag needs to be large enough to carry your towel, a paperback, sunscreen and all your other beach essentials. This summer, carry a preppy beach tote in durable canvas with nautical stripes, tiny flowers or bold colorblocking.

Check out: 7 beach totes under $50 >>

Colorful cover-up

When you step out of the water, instead of tying a towel around your waist or throwing on a t-shirt, put on a breezy, colorful cover-up. Pick a cover-up that provides enough coverage that you can wear it to a beachside cafe for drinks.

Wide-brimmed hat

Protect yourself from the sun and look glam too with a wide-brimmed beach hat. Straw hats don't have to be boring. They come in fun colors, unique shapes and dramatic designs.

Fabric headband

If you don't love hats, pull back your hair with a wide fabric headband instead. A stretchy headband offers an easy way to get your beachy locks away from your face while looking adorable.

Check out these 6 different ways to wear a headband >>

Oversized sunglasses

Oversized sunglasses are oh-so glamorous, and they're functional too. Sunglasses protect your eyes and the skin around them from the sun's harmful rays. This summer, we love shield style sunglasses as well as large Jackie O-type shades.

White watch

If you want to tell time at the beach, do it with a white water-resistant watch. A crisp white watch is the perfect beach accessory. We love the Casio Baby G collection with its modern styles and affordable price points.

Jeweled thong sandals

Leave your rubber flip flops at home. Look chic at the beach with a cute pair of jeweled thong sandals. Flat sandals are a must for walking on hot sand. Shoes in citrus colors (tangerine, lemon yellow and lemon green) are sizzling for summertime this year.

Giant hoop earrings

If you aren't going in the water and want to wear piece of jewelry at the beach or pool, pick a giant pair of hoop earrings. They look absolutely fabulous with a retro swimsuit and a pair of shades.

Lots of sunscreen

It goes without saying, but we'll say it anyway. At the beach, sunscreen is a must. Re-apply every two hours (and even more often if you are going in and out of the water). Don't miss often overlooked places like the top of your feet, back of your hands and behind your ears. Use haircare products that contain sunscreen to protect your head and scalp too.

Follow the 10 commandments of sun protection >>

More summer style tips

10 Sexy summer dresses for less
8 Great 1-piece swimsuits for less than $50
Fun flip flop styles