Beach Vibes: Styling a Casual Look for Men in Coastal Photography
When it comes to beach photoshoots, nailing the perfect casual look for men is all about blending relaxed style with the natural beauty of the coastal environment. Whether you’re planning a sunrise session or a golden hour shoot, understanding how to choose the right outfits, fabrics, and textures can take your photos to the next level. In this post, we’ll explore various outfit ideas and how to match them with the serene, sun-kissed vibe of the beach.
1. Keep It Simple: The Classic T-Shirt & Shorts Combo
Sometimes, less is more. A classic T-shirt paired with comfortable shorts is a timeless option for beachwear. Go for neutral colors like white, beige, or light gray to complement the soft tones of the sand and ocean. If you want to add a bit of character, consider shirts with subtle stripes or small prints, which will stand out without overpowering the setting.
For shorts, linen or cotton materials are ideal, offering breathability and comfort. Khaki, light blue, or olive green shorts are great for a laid-back, beach-friendly aesthetic. Don’t forget to roll up the sleeves for a relaxed, effortless vibe that looks great in photos!
2. Layering Light: Button-Up Shirts for an Elevated Casual Look
For a slightly more polished take, a lightweight button-up shirt layered over a T-shirt can bring depth to the outfit while keeping things casual. Linen and chambray fabrics are perfect for this because they’re lightweight and have that beachy, laid-back feel.
Opt for pastel or earth tones like light blue, or sandy beige to match the natural coastal color palette. You can leave the shirt unbuttoned for a more relaxed look or wear it buttoned-up for a cleaner, more structured style. Rolling up the sleeves adds an extra casual touch and makes the outfit look less formal.
3. Textures and Fabrics: Embracing Linen, Cotton, and Chambray
The beach is all about natural, breathable fabrics. Linen, cotton, and chambray are staples for any coastal wardrobe. These materials not only look great but also offer texture that works well in photography, especially in a beach setting where you want to feel the breeze and see how the clothing moves.
Linen is ideal for shirts and pants because of its lightweight, breezy quality that matches the relaxed vibe of the beach. Chambray, often mistaken for denim, is another fabric that adds texture without being too heavy or stiff. Cotton basics like T-shirts or casual shorts are always reliable, ensuring comfort while still looking stylish.
4. Footwear: The Barefoot or Sandal Dilemma
Footwear at the beach should be as casual as the rest of the look. Going barefoot is an easy choice and adds a natural, earthy vibe to your photos. If you want to wear shoes, go for sandals or slip-ons in neutral shades. Leather sandals or woven espadrilles are great options for a beach shoot, as they keep things comfortable while still looking chic.
Avoid anything too formal or bulky, as beach settings call for simplicity. Footwear should complement the relaxed tone of the shoot without drawing too much attention.
5. Accessories: Hats, Watches, and Sunglasses
Accessorizing can take a simple beach outfit up a notch. A classic baseball cap offers both function and style, protecting from the sun while adding an interesting element to the photos. Sunglasses are a must on a bright day, and a stylish pair can complete the look while enhancing the beach vibe.
Keep jewelry minimal—perhaps a simple watch or bracelet. The key is to complement the outfit and the relaxed coastal atmosphere without overwhelming the overall look. I love a plain cord or chain necklace as well.
6. Color and Mood: Matching the Beach Setting
The colors you choose should reflect the natural beach environment. Stick to soft, neutral tones like white, beige, and soft blues to harmonize with the sand and water.
If the session is during sunrise or sunset, consider how the changing light will affect the colors of the clothing. Softer shades work well with the pastel hues of sunrise, while warmer, earthy tones complement the golden light of sunset.
7. Final Thoughts: Keeping It Effortless
The key to styling casual beach looks for men is to keep it simple and relaxed. The beach is already a stunning backdrop, so your outfit should enhance, not distract from, the natural beauty around you. Comfortable fabrics, light layering, and simple accessories will create a timeless, effortless look that captures the essence of beach life.
No matter the outfit, confidence and ease will shine through in the photos. Whether you go for the classic T-shirt and shorts or layer up with a button-down, the most important thing is to feel comfortable and connected to the coastal surroundings.
With the right mix of style, textures, and a little personal touch, you’ll create stunning, laid-back beach portraits that feel as relaxed and natural as the waves rolling in.
Ready to plan your next coastal photoshoot?
