Coastal Style for the Hottest Days of Summer
When temperatures soar, lightweight layers and coastal-inspired accents make staying cool look effortlessly chic.
Photos by Lisa Staff
Styled by Bailey Gilliam
Summer in the Lowcountry demands a little bravery. The heat is relentless, the days are long, and plans rarely stay indoors. Local boutiques are embracing the season with breathable fabrics, soft coastal colors and versatile pieces made for life between the water and the dinner table. Whether you’re spending the afternoon on the dock, meeting friends for cocktails or savoring a summer evening long after sunset, these looks bring comfort, confidence and style to every part of a Lowcountry summer.
Fresh finds: Summer essentials
July fashion is built for days spent outdoors. From beach mornings and farmers markets to waterfront dinners and evening strolls, this month’s finds celebrate the season with bright colors, practical accessories and a healthy dose of Lowcountry personality.
A straw hat from Brims on the Bluff proves sun protection doesn’t have to be boring. Adorned with distinctive embellishments around the brim, it adds personality and artistry to any outfit while providing welcome shade during long days outdoors.
Inspired by the colors of the water, this Gabriel & Co. teardrop pendant necklace from Forsythe Jewelers centers on a brilliant blue topaz framed by sparkling diamonds. Crafted in 14-karat yellow gold, it offers just the right amount of color and shine, whether paired with a casual sundress or an evening ensemble.
Island Child has everything little ones need for a day in the sun. Blue swim trunks for boys and a coordinating one-piece swimsuit for girls bring classic beach-day style, while a matching silicone tote complete with castle-building molds turns every stretch of sand into an opportunity for adventure. It’s a collection made for saltwater, sunshine and summer memories
Spartina 449‘s Nadia Sleeveless Blouse and matching Admiral Josie Shorts bring a burst of color to summer dressing. Featuring an eye-catching orange, blue and pink print against a buttercream backdrop, the coordinated set feels cheerful, polished and unmistakably coastal. The linen- cotton blend keeps things cool, while the drawstring waist ensures a comfortable fit from brunch to boardwalk.
Get the look: Two-in-one dress
The best summer wardrobes aren’t built around having more clothes. They’re built around having the right ones. This look centers on a versatile dress that can be worn multiple ways, proving that a handful of thoughtfully chosen pieces can go a long way. Paired with a lightweight sweater, natural textures and versatile accessories, the result is a collection of looks equally suited for bike rides around town, waterfront lunches and evenings spent outdoors.
This Free People piece from Maggie & Me is the ultimate summer multitasker. Featuring a soft blue print and a smocked bodice, the versatile design can be worn as a flowing strapless dress or transformed into a skirt with a simple adjustment. Comfortable, flattering and easy to style, it’s the foundation for countless warm-weather outfits.
A navy button-front sweater from Palmettoes brings versatility to the ensemble. Worn open over the dress, buttoned as a top or knotted at the waist, it completely changes the look while adding just enough warmth for breezy evenings along the coast.
This handbag from Spartina 449 combines woven detailing with bamboo-inspired handles for a look that feels right at home in the Lowcountry. The structured shape keeps it polished, while the removable strap offers additional styling options.
One look, many possibilities
Versatile pieces create more options, stretch your budget and make getting dressed a little easier. This month’s ensemble demonstrates how a few simple changes can transform a look. Using the same dress, sweater, necklace and accessories, we present three outfits suited for a variety of summer occasions.
Pull the smocked bodice down to transform the dress into a flowing maxi skirt. Button the sweater and wear it as a top for a completely different look that feels tailored and put together. Moving the necklace outside the sweater creates a focal point while adding texture and contrast. It’s a simple styling trick that turns one outfit into another.
Wear the strapless dress as intended to showcase its flowing silhouette and coastal-inspired print. Drape the sweater over your shoulders, tie it around your waist or keep it nearby for cooler evening breezes. Paired with the woven handbag and statement necklace, the look is perfect for summer gatherings, dinner dates and evenings by the water.
For a more relaxed approach, knot the bottom of the sweater to create a cropped silhouette that balances the volume of the skirt. Leave a few buttons undone, and let the necklace take center stage. The result is playful, comfortable and ideal for shopping, sightseeing or an afternoon spent exploring the Lowcountry.
These sunglasses from Eyeland Optique provide the finishing touch. Their classic shape complements the outfit’s relaxed coastal palette while adding a little personality, whether worn on your face or perched atop your head.
These brown leather Taos sandals from Outside Hilton Head are designed for days that don’t follow a schedule. Comfortable enough for exploring and polished enough for dinner, they bring practicality and style to every version of the outfit.
Gifted‘s coin-pendant necklace serves as the visual anchor throughout all three looks. The warm gold tones add contrast against the cool blues of the outfit while creating a focal point that works, whether the dress is worn as a dress or a skirt.
