Must-Have Coastal Basics for Your Closet

Bring that breezy, sun-drenched feeling to your everyday outfits with these coastal-inspired fashion staples!

1. Linen Everything

Linen pieces are the foundation of a coastal wardrobe. Look for:

• Linen Shirts & Button-Ups – Oversized or structured, these are breathable, versatile, and effortlessly chic.

• Linen Pants or Shorts – Flowy wide-legs or tailored high-waist styles bring coastal elegance with comfort.

Tip: Stick to soft neutrals like sand, oat, white, and muted sea glass green for a true coastal palette

2. Easy Breezy Dresses

Coastal style thrives on simplicity and movement. Add these to your closet:

• Midi or Maxi Dresses – Think tiered skirts, smock or wrap cotton dresses.

• Slip Dresses – Lightweight and timeless, perfect layered over swimwear or under knits. (Linen is a great material for achieving coastal look)

Flowy, light fabrics are key—bonus points for stripes or delicate floral prints, or solid sun-washed shades

3. Lightweight Knitwear

Layering is key—especially when beach breezes roll in. Include:

• Fisherman Sweaters – A nod to nautical roots and perfect for chilly evenings.

• Cotton Cardigans or Pullovers – In creamy tones or faded blues for layering. Oversized or cropped!

These pieces add texture and warmth without sacrificing the coastal feel. Suggested colours are: taupe, sea salt white, faded blue.

4. Coastal Outerwear

Coastal outerwear is all about layering lightly. Choose:

• Utility Jackets – In faded sea green, cream, or sand.

• Denim Jackets – A super relaxed casual style is the ultimate throw-on for any coastal look.

Stick to muted tones that blend seamlessly with the rest of your closet. Lightweight keeps the coastal feel.

5. Simple Footwear Staples

Keep it minimal and versatile. Your go-to shoes might include:

• Leather Sandals – Simple strappy styles or classic slides.

• Espadrilles or Canvas Sneakers – Low-key and comfy.

• Woven or Raffia Sandals – Add texture and a beachy finish.

These styles work from beach walks to coffee runs. Our personal favourite is Birkenstock Bostons.

Tip: sometimes a coloured shoe (Sombas) to a casual outfit can make it your own and bring colour to the seaside look!

6. Coastal Accessories

This is arguably the most important part of uplighting an outfit and truly making it your own! Once you have a solid base outfit these are small touches that give your outfit coastal charm.

• Straw or Woven Bags – Totes or crossbodies with natural textures are easy add-ons!

• Sun Hats & Baseball Caps – Protect yourself from the damage of the sun while maintaining a summer vibe!

• Shell Jewelry or Pearls – Understated ocean-inspired details. A little shell necklace with a thin gold chain stack, unmatched. 

• Sunglasses - Sunnies can change any outfit. Either an oversized chunky pair or a small dainty pair.

They’re the small touches that give your outfit coastal charm.

Tip: Gold is a seaside's best friend!

7. Stripes & Soft Neutrals

Coastal wardrobes are grounded in a calming colour palette. Stick to:

• White, beige, soft blues, and sage greens

• Classic navy and white Breton stripes

• Warm neutrals like driftwood and muted clay

These tones are timeless and make mixing and matching effortless.

Tip: Don’t be afraid to add bright colours as accessories!

Final Thought

Coastal style isn’t just a look—it’s a lifestyle. These wardrobe basics blend comfort and elegance with a sense of slow, sunlit living. Whether you live by the seaside or are landlocked with a love for the coast, these timeless staples will bring a salty breeze to your closet.

with love,

Coastal Archive