What to Wear to the British Seaside in 6 Easy Outfits

Over the past few years, it feels like the British seaside has come increasingly into the spotlight as a tempting option for a staycation. Spots like Cornwall, Rye and Dorset have always been go-tos for gorgeous beaches, but now they’re bonafide hotspots, thanks to their incredible restaurants, shops, wine bars and more. But, as with any trip, planning a getaway to the British coast requires thinking about what to pack.

No matter which stretch of the coastline you choose, the sun-soaked bays of the Mediterranean it will not be. As someone who grew up spending many a summer on a Scottish island where not jumping into the freezing waters would earn you a week of family ridicule, I’m more than familiar than with a chillier beach day—and for me, it doesn’t take away from the charm. It does, however, mean you have to be realistic about your outfit choices.

First and foremost, check your chosen trusted weather app religiously. Sure, it’s sunny now, but are grey clouds heading your way in a couple of hours? The safest bet is to work with layers—and luckily, this can create a seriously chic look. Start with your shorts or linen trousers, add on a t-shirt or button down, but be sure to have a thicker knit tied over your shoulders or tucked into your raffia tote.