Spending the summer months cruising across the French Riviera on a yacht is something most of us can only dream of, but the good news is, you can still look as glam as Beyoncé in full Valentino while on her super yacht, no matter what your summer plans.
So, say goodbye to ‘hot girl summer’, it’s time to embrace her sexy and rich little sister: ‘yacht girl summer’. It’s all about living your best life – whatever that might look like –while looking and feeling like a million dollars. Classy, elegant and expensive is how I like to define it. Think Shiv Roy meets Blair Waldorf. Now that’s a fashion moment I’d love to see.
You’re probably thinking right, that all sounds well and good, but we can’t all afford expensive-looking designer pieces hot off the runway.
Fear not, I’ve become somewhat of a connoisseur when it comes to hunting down the boujiest pieces of all time, so good that you can’t tell if they’re haute couture or hot off the high street. So, here’s my edit of the ‘yacht girl summer’ aesthetic everyone can get behind, even on a budget .
My favourite expensive-looking pieces from the high street to help you nail ‘yacht girl summer’:
Crochet fashion for beachside holidays
Not many things can look more expensive than a good quality crochet dress during summer. And if dresses aren’t your thing, then there’s so many different types of two-piece sets to choose from.
My summer holiday go-to look always includes a crochet dress and I will go to my grave telling everyone they need to have one in their wardrobe. Your best bet is to stick to neutral colours for that classy and elegant feel. Just add a glass of rosé in one hand and a basket bag to the other. Quiet luxury at its finest.
Satin pieces for a timeless look
A silk dress or matching set is the epitome of ‘yacht girl summer’, and it’s such a classic option that’ll never go out of style. I don’t care where I’m going, I always pack a satin dress (although I’d love to be downing limoncellos by the Amalfi Coast if I had the choice). And with minimal jewellery, slicked back hair, plus a natural mani, I would definitely characterise this look as the rich girl style, aka ultra luxe. It’s giving White Lotus vibes and I’m here for it.
Sheer dresses for sunset dinners
The sheer trend is only getting bigger and better. We’ve seen the likes of Rita Ora, Florence Pugh, Rihanna and Dua Lipa wear sheer dresses all over the red carpet, and it has slowly become one of this year’s most talked about styles. Are we surprised? Not in the slightest.
I don’t know about you, but if I was spending the whole summer on a yacht, I’d probably live in nothing but a sheer dress. It’s the perfect mix of sexy but you can’t touch. Now that’s a mood I can get behind. Although a daring look, it’s actually pretty versatile, dress it up with chunky gold earrings and kitten heels for the evening, or swap in some sandals and a shell handbag during the day.
Linen outfits for that off-duty model look
Linen will always be the fabric of the summer. Whether you’re spending the season in the city or by the beach, an all-linen outfit is a must-have. There’s nothing chicer than a matching beige linen waistcoat and trousers, or a white linen maxi dress for those warmer days. It’s a yacht girl summer uniform that’ll take you from that off-duty model look during the day, to a fancy summer soirée (just make sure there’s an iron to hand).
Chic swimwear for those chilled days by the water
It goes without saying that stylish swimwear is an essential for a summer spent on a yacht, but it doesn’t have to be limited to just that. Whichever beach or pool you’re going to be at, chic swimwear is always a good idea. Think Audrey Hepburn and her iconic bikini look in high waisted briefs. If all you wear this summer is a one-piece crinkle swimsuit, then mission accomplished.
Accessories that’ll elevate every outfit
If in doubt over the ‘yacht girl summer’ look, then turn to accessories to elevate your outfit. I’m talking sunglasses, sandals, beach cover ups, handbags, hats and jewellery. These will all help to make you look more expensive. Big gold earrings (especially this floral pair from Zara) are the perfect addition to any neutral or monochromatic outfit. The same goes for straw hats and shell handbags, as well as stylish beach cover ups (kimonos are a great choice).
Tie it altogether with some tortoise shell sunglasses and there you have it. You’re ‘yacht girl summer’ ready!