July 28, 2024 — Charlotte Pennington

Beach days are undoubtedly one of the best things about summer. Sinking your feet in the warm sand, delighting in the soothing rhythm of the waves, and soaking up the sun for the most glorious tan — nothing beats this experience. 

However, it only gets better as the sun dips below the horizon and the sandy shores transform into a lively nightlife setting. If you want to indulge to the fullest but aren't sure of how to transition from beach to bar, the tips below will help. Take out your notepad and get ready to learn how to style day-to-night outfits for the coast!

Start With a Stylish Swimsuit

Woman in a blue swimsuit

As you begin your day at the beach, your swimsuit will be the foundation of your day-to-night clothes. There aren’t any restrictions on what you can or cannot wear but make sure you choose a swimsuit with a stylish design, whether it’s a chic cutout, fun pattern, or a classic silhouette, as it can double as a top when paired with the right bottoms. One-piece swimsuits are a great choice but a simple two-piece bikini set can also turn into a flattering day-to-night outfit when styled.

Cover-Up With Intention

Woman in a green maxi dress at the pool

You can’t go to the beach without a cover-up, but choosing the right one will make all the difference when transitioning from beach to bar. For casual evenings, opt for flowy, lightweight pieces made of breathable materials like cotton or linen. These fabrics keep you cool during the day while offering a sophisticated look. 

Linen maxi dresses and linen maxi skirts are not only comfortable and breezy for a day in the sun but can also serve as elegant day-to-night outfits. If you want to go with separates, there is no way you can go wrong with a women’s button-down linen shirt paired with linen beach pants or linen shorts

Master Layering to Adapt Fast

Woman in mini cargo skirt on the beach

As the sun begins to set, the warm breeze at the beach quickly gives way to chilly winds. You don’t want to be caught underdressed when that happens. The easiest way to adapt to fluctuating temperatures is to master layering. 

A lightweight denim jacket with a mini skirt will not only provide extra warmth but also make your day-to-night clothes bar-appropriate. If you’re keeping it very relaxed, you can also opt for a comfy boyfriend sweatshirt or cozy hoodie. If you’re going with shorts as your cover-up in the day, pack a pair of smart comfy cargo pants in your beach bag that you can throw on for a more put-together day-to-night outfit.

Elevate With Functional Footwear

A woman wearing sandals at an outdoor dinner table

Choosing the right footwear is just as important as choosing the right clothes because you wouldn’t want your feet getting cold after the sun has set. During the day when you’re swimming or lounging on the beach, comfortable and easy-to-remove sandals or flip-flops are ideal. For the evening, pack a pair of wedges or espadrilles in your beach bag. These shoes provide the right amount of elevation and style without compromising on comfort, making them perfect for day-to-night outfits.

Top It Off With Accessories

Accessories are the secret sauce for spicing up your day-to-night clothes and transforming your beach attire into a bar-ready outfit. Start with a wide-brimmed hat and oversized sunglasses for your daytime look. As the sun sets, swap them out for statement jewelry, like bold earrings, layered necklaces, or a stack of bangles. 

You’ll also need a beach bag for carrying all your daytime essentials. Be smart and choose one that can also double as an evening bag. Look for tote bags in neutral colors or materials like straw or canvas that can complement any day-to-night outfit.

Pull It Together With Makeup & Hairdo

After a whole day in the sun, a quick hair and makeup refresh can make a world of difference. Skip the full face of makeup and simply pack a small pouch with beauty essentials like facial wipes, a hydrating mist, a tinted moisturizer, and a tinted lip balm for a natural look.

For your hair, go for the classic beach waves and carry a travel-sized texturizing spray to add volume in the evening. If you prefer an updo, pack a few hair ties and bobby pins to create a chic messy bun or a sleek ponytail to complement your day-to-night outfit.

Wrapping Up

women walking down the street of Los Angeles

Transitioning from beach to bar requires a little creativity and with the tips we’ve shared above, you’ll be well on your way to enjoy the best of both worlds this summer. To make your wardrobe transition even smoother, consider shopping for day-to-night clothes from Cali1850. We offer high-quality, elevated basics for all seasons inspired by the Californian lifestyle. Embrace the carefree, beachy vibe of the West Coast and step into summer confidently with our women’s casual wear!

Author Bio

With a strong belief in using fashion as a means for self-expression, Charlotte Pennington helps individuals embrace their unique personal style and showcase it through their clothing choices. From her early days flipping through fashion magazines to her adventures scouring thrift shops for hidden gems, fashion has always been her muse. Shaped by California’s iconic and relaxed fashion influences and armed with a pen and a keen eye for trends, Charlotte now shares her love for fashion through her writing.