I absolutely love a good boat or yacht party. As someone who grew up near the water, I’ve been lucky enough to score invites to many fabulous floating soirees over the years.
But I quickly learned that figuring out what to wear on a boat can be tricky – you want an outfit that’s stylish yet practical for the unique setting.
Through trial and error (and a splash or two!), I’ve mastered the art of choosing boat party outfits that are both fashionable and seaworthy.
Whether you’re headed to a casual daytime boat gathering or a glamorous evening yacht affair, this comprehensive guide will ensure you look and feel confident while having fun on the water.
Understanding the Boat Party Dress Code
The first step to nailing your boat party outfit is clarifying the dress code specified on the invite.
Casual daytime boat parties tend to be more relaxed and laidback – think tropical prints, breezy fabrics, and nautical accessories. You’ll blend right in with shorts, tanks, sundresses and swim coverups.
For afternoon or sunset cruise boat parties, the attire steps up slightly to smart casual – polished casual pieces like nice jeans, trousers, blouses, and dresses. These transitional hours call for versatile layers over swimsuits.
Nighttime and yacht boat parties are decidedly more glamorous and formal. Cocktail attire and black-tie apparel keeps things classy, so break out the summer suits, evening gowns, and dress shoes. Just don’t go overboard with anything too ornate or ostentatious.
The venue matters too – more intimate boats or yachts may dictate dressier digs than huge multi-level party boats. When in doubt, overdressing is better than underdressing. You can always lose layers, but you can’t gain them!
What to Wear for a Daytime Boat Party
Daytime boat parties tend to kick off in the late morning and continue well into the afternoon. The vibe is generally more low-key and casual than evening soirees. You still want to look stylish, but comfort and practicality take priority during daylight hours on the water.
I always opt for breathable, lightweight fabrics that can handle the seaside elements while keeping me cool. Natural textiles like linen, cotton, rayon, and silk fit the bill perfectly. They also drape nicely for a flattering silhouette that moves with you whether you’re mingling on the bow or hitting the dance floor on the upper deck.
In terms of specific pieces, you have ample options for creating cute, casual boat party outfits perfect for daytime frolicking on the water.
Breathable Tees and Tanks
For tops, nothing beats breezy knits and lightweight tees and tanks. Playful patterns like stripes and sailor motifs channel nautical vibes. Bright whites pop against sun-kissed skin while navy and red call out those maritime flags whipping in the wind.
Striped 3/4 sleeve tee with white denim shorts
Sailor striped tank tucked into high-waisted jeans
Cropped striped tee with a fluttery mini skirt
Polo shirts offer another preppy possibility for partying during the day. Pop the collar and pair with casual shorts or trousers to ace summer sophistication.
Sundresses and Rompers
When temperatures really soar, sundresses keep you looking cute and feeling cool. Flowy silhouettes, flirty details like tie straps and shirred waists, plus breezy hems that won’t fly up in the wind check all the boxes.
Spaghetti strap sundress with espadrilles
Shirred midi sundress with flat sandals
Strapless sundress with denim jacket and white sneakers
For the same fuss-free vibe with a sportier spin, rompers can’t be beat. They handle action comfortably while showing off some leg.
Striped romper with boat shoes
Printed romper with sun hat and slides
Shorts Sets
Matching shorts with tanks, cropped camis, or relaxed tees channels effortless seaside style. Tuck longer tops in or leave them loose – either way plays up that carefree vacation mood.
High-waisted shorts with cropped striped tee
Printed shorts with breezy button down
Denim shorts with graphic muscle tank
Breezy Bottoms
When it comes to bottoms, lightweight fabrics that won’t cling are ideal for comfort and coverage. Flowy maxi skirts, wide-leg linen pants, and soft shorts make moving around the boat deck a breeze. For a splash of nautical charm, incorporate navy and white hues or maritime motifs.
Tiered maxi skirt with tee
High-waisted wide leg linen pants with off the shoulder top
Printed shorts with breezy blouse
Swim Coverups
Don’t forget the bathing suit! Boat parties always involve water, so have your swimwear ready under breezy coverups. Light and gauzy kimonos, caftans, sarongs wrap dresses and tunics easily take you from poolside to dance floor.
Floral kimono with contrast trim over a bikini
Sheer caftan with pom pom trim over a one-piece swimsuit
Tie-dye sarong skirt with triangle bikini top
Lightweight Layers
Boats can get chilly out on the open water, particularly in the early morning and late evening. Pack versatile lightweight layers than can handle drops in temp while matching your outfit. Denim jackets, breezy cardigans, utility jackets and longline dusters protect your skin without weighing you down.
Oversized denim jacket over a strapless sundress
Open front crochet cardigan with a romper
Hooded utility jacket with shorts and tank
Footwear and Accessories
The right accessories polish off your maritime looks. Prioritize footwear with grip that can handle wet and slippery surfaces. Waterproof leather boat shoes, rubber soled espadrilles, sporty sneakers and sturdy sandals with straps keep you steady on your feet.
Top things off with sun hats, glam sunglasses and delicate jewelry accented with shells, beads, pearls and nautical motifs. Don’t forget waterproof bags – cross body pouches work better than heavy totes for keeping valuables safe and hands free.
Boat shoes with printed shorts and pearl stud earrings
Espadrilles with breezy button down and woven sun hat
Sporty sneakers with denim shorts and backpack
Flat sandals with sundress and seashell pendant necklace
No matter your personal style, these effortless outfit ideas make dressing for daytime boat parties a breeze. Focus on lightweight layers in breezy natural fabrics and incorporate nautical details through patterns, accessories and color palettes. The result? Carefree seaside style perfect for a relaxing time on deck.
Outfit Ideas for a Nighttime Boat Party
Once the sun goes down, boat parties take a decidedly dressier turn. Glitzy evening affairs call for more elevated, glamorous outfits ranging from smart casual at sunset to outright black-tie glamour under the moonlight.
Fabrics turn luxe – silks, satins and chiffons bring movement and sheen. Hemlines skew shorter, silhouettes slimmer and details extra special. But comfort still matters – anything too restrictive or heavy risks spoiling your fun.
These stylish boat party outfit ideas strike that perfect balance between elegance and ease. Prepare to sparkle brighter than the stars reflecting off the water!
Cocktail Dresses
When you picture the quintessential boat party outfit, chances are it’s a cocktail dress. These medium length numbers hit at the knee or just below for leg-flaunting allure that still lets you maneuver with ease.
Choose styles cut from flowy fabrics with elements of movement – fluttery hems, cowl necklines, wrap details, soft gathers. Streamlined silhouettes in satin, chiffon and charmeuse work well too. Just avoid anything too voluminous or heavy.
Black halter neck satin cowl neck dress
Blush chiffon one shoulder dress
Navy blue wrap dress
Jumpsuits
For a modern spin on evening elegance, jumpsuits make an unexpected choice that wows. Sleek cuts with wide legs or flared hems add drama while the secure foundation on top lets you walk and dance carefree.
Black crepe culotte jumpsuit
Emerald green satin wide leg jumpsuit
Printed chiffon strapless jumpsuit
Separates
Skip the dress altogether by pairing dressier tops with bottoms in luxe fabrics. Create dimension by playing with proportions – try an oversized billowy blouse over tailored cigarette pants. Accessorize to polish the look.
Satin camisole with high-waisted velvet trousers
Lace crop top with maxi chiffon skirt
Embellished off-the-shoulder blouse with tuxedo pants
Short Suits
Make a seriously chic statement in a short suit. Tailoring takes on a softer sensibility when rendered in fabrics like satin or crepe. Shake up colors and silhouettes – black is classic but don’t shy from bold hues and prints.
Tuxedo style satin blazer and shorts with heels
Printed crepe shorts suit with metallic camisole
Pastel pink co-ord set with lace bralette
Menswear Inspiration
Gents can take style cues from timeless tuxedos and tailored suits. Start with properly fitting pieces in fine fabrics like wool, linen and silk. Then choose whether to go full formal or nod to tradition by embracing elements of black tie.
Classic peak lapel tuxedo
Navy suit with black dress shirt
White dinner jacket with black trousers
Linen suit with bow tie
Whatever you choose gents, keep the lines clean and fabrics lightweight enough for comfort on board. Polish the look with leather dress shoes, fine watches and coordinating silk pocket squares.
Evening Appropriate Fabrics and Details
Fabrics make all the difference after dark, so seek out varieties that drape, shimmer and move. Satin, silk and chiffon are perfect choices. Embrace luxe embellishments like lace, intricate beading, delicate embroidery and hints of sparkle.
Rich jewel tones like emerald, sapphire and amethyst make dramatic statements, as do metallic sheens in silver, gold and rose gold. Don’t shy away from tropical inspiration either – palm prints, orchid motifs and splashy florals feel festive.
Finish with towering heels, statement jewelry and sleek minaudières. Now you’re ready to dance the night away looking fabulous!
What to Avoid Wearing to a Boat Party
Now that you know what to wear, let’s cover what not to wear so you can avoid boat party outfit fails. Steer clear of anything too casual, constricting, heavy or prone to malfunctions. Prioritize clothing that helps you feel confident while allowing full fun in motion.
Overly Casual Attire
Leave the jeans, t-shirts, sneakers and flip flops on shore for elevated events. Distressed denim cutoffs, baggy tanks, sweatshirts and sporty kicks bring the vibe down, even at daytime parties. Make an effort to dress it up a notch.
Tight and Restrictive Pieces
Super skinny jeans, bodycon dresses, restrictive waistbands and plunging necklines that demand constant adjusting all hinder mobility on board. Seek out flowy fabrics and looser silhouettes that move with you.
Heavy Fabrics
Skip thick fabrics like wool tweed, leather and dense knits that insulate heat and weigh you down over time. In hot sun, they’ll have you sweating. In cool breezes, they hold dampness. Light, breathable textiles work best.
Dangerous Footwear
I cannot stress enough – leave the spiky stilettos, slick-soled wedges and flimsy flats at home! Between wet surfaces, uneven terrain, crowded dance floors and tipsy guests, your footwear needs serious grip. Prioritize rubber soles, straps, and moderate block heels for safety.
Sheer Pieces
Boat parties mean sun, wind and water. Sheer fabrics turn transparent when wet, while flimsy constructions won’t withstand gusts. Seek out lined, layered or opaque pieces that maintain coverage and structural integrity.
Excessive Jewelry
Skip the layers of chunky chains and jangly bangles that could catch, snag or make distracting noise on board. Less is often more when it comes to boat party accessorizing.
Essentials to Pack for a Boat Party
The right accessories can make or break your boat party outfit. Beyond fashionable flourishes, practical additions help you handle changing conditions on deck. These packing essentials have saved my skin – often quite literally!
Versatile Layers
Boats accelerate wind, so temperatures drop quickly once you pick up speed. Pack lightweight layers than can handle shifting weather without weighing you down. Breezy kimonos, cropped cardigans, denim jackets and utility coats offer insurance.
Protective Accessories
Don’t forget hats, sunglasses and protective skin savers! Wide brim sun hats and vintage inspired cat eye shades add style. Reapply waterproof sunscreen often.
Spare Outfits and Swimwear
Bring extra pieces! Between water activities, spills, seasickness and shifting weather, backup options ensure you stay looking on point. Toss in rashguards, coverups, and weatherproof outer layers too.
Appropriate Footwear
I simply can’t emphasize enough – do not wear spindly heels on boats! Pack rubber soled wedges, low block heels, strappy sandals, boat shoes or sporty sneakers with serious grip instead. Waterproof leather works best.
Waterproof Bags
Keep valuables like phones, cash and cards in waterproof pouches or cross body bags to prevent disaster if unexpected splashes occur. Bonus – cross bodies free up hands better than heavy totes for balancing ease.
Seasickness Remedies
Even salty sea dogs can get queasy on the open ocean. Come prepared with ginger candies, pressure point bands and motion sickness meds if you tend to get green. Dramamine is my go-to for keeping seasickness at bay.
Touch Up Supplies
Between sun, wind and water, maintenance matters. Toss oil blotting sheets, lipstick, hair ties, bobby pins, dry shampoo and deodorant in your bag for quick refreshes. Waterproof makeup works wonders.
Don’t let minor mishaps sink your #OOTD game. With the right backup items, you can handle anything while looking fabulous afloat!
Handy Styling Tips for Boat Party Outfits
Boat parties have unique styling needs. Beyond your ensemble, optimize hair, makeup, grooming and accessories to effortlessly align with nautical surroundings. These pro tips help take your look to the next level.
Coordinate Metals
Mixing metals reads disjointed. Stick to jewelry and accessories featuring one dominant metal. Warm gold, silver and rose gold all relay luxury. Just don’t pair them together.
Incorporate Nautical Accessories
Cleverly nod to maritime with well-placed accents. Belts or bags with anchor details, necklaces with charms of ships wheels and seashells, pearl drop earrings, or striped headbands capture coastal spirit.
Style Wind-Proof Hairstyles
Plan breezy-resistant hairstyles that won’t lose shape or flyaway in gusts. Braids, buns, ponytails and sleek strands with strong hold products withstand wind best. Have multiple hair ties and bobby pins on hand too.
Apply Lightly Scented Products
Skip strong perfumes and body sprays that could nauseate sensitive guests in tight quarters. Lightly scented moisturizers, hair products and deodorants still allow freshness without overwhelming.
Practice Walking in Boat Shoes
New footwear needs breaking in to prevent blisters. Wear your boat party shoes around the house to ensure comfort and stability before dancing the night away.
Pack Static Spray and Mini Steamers
Synthetic fabrics like polyester and rayon generate static electricity from dry boat air that makes them cling awkwardly. Static guard eliminates this issue. For wrinkles, pack a mini steamer.
Mind the Details Gentlemen
Refinements matter for the gents. Match leathers in belts, shoes and watch straps. Show pocket squares but avoid loud patterns. Select socks complementing your outfit’s color scheme. It’s all in the details!
Apply Powder and Deodorant
Between heat, humidity and tightly packed dance floors, perspiration happens, especially in sweltering midsummer parties. Apply deodorant liberally and dust powder across chests, underarms and thighs to quell moisture buildup so you stay dry, fresh and chafe-free.
Proper Boat Party Etiquette
Beyond your outfit, minding manners helps everything sail smoothly. Follow boat party etiquette to avoid awkward situations and ensure everyone enjoys themselves. These tips help you make a polite impression.
Research the Dress Code: Know what’s expected by the host.
Slightly Overdress: It’s better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.
Avoid Revealing or Sloppy Attire: Stay classy and respectful.
Be Careful with Drinks: Avoid spills and accidents.
Mind Your Space: Respect personal space in a confined setting.
Limit Accessories: Avoid loud or jangly jewelry.
Hands-Free Bags: Crossbody bags are practical.
Limit Personal Items: Bring only essentials.
Avoid Loose Clothing: To prevent accidents with railings.
Remember to pack essentials and follow proper etiquette to ensure a delightful experience. With the right outfit, you’ll be ready to enjoy the unique ambiance of a boat party and create lasting memories.
Get ready to embrace seaside chic and have a fantastic time on the water!
