Keeping the Summer Vibes Alive in Winter at El Matador Beach
Just because summer has officially ended doesn’t mean we have to say goodbye to the beach! We decided to embrace the beauty of El Matador State Beach, even in the chill of November. The temperature was in the low sixties—perfectly mild for a winter beach day. While it wasn’t warm enough for a bikini and shorts, it wasn’t so cold that we had to bundle up in heavy coats either. If you’re planning to hit the beach in the colder months, here are our top five winter styling tips to help you look cute while staying comfortable.
#1: Layers, Layers, Layers
You can’t go wrong with layers, especially at the beach. Even in summer, I tend to layer up because once the sun sets, it can get pretty chilly. The same goes for winter beach trips. Dressing in layers gives you the flexibility to adjust to the temperature throughout the day. You can shed layers when the sun is out and add more when it gets colder. It’s the ultimate way to stay comfortable no matter what the weather decides to do.
#2: Choose Shoes that Make Sense
Footwear at the beach in winter can be tricky. While it’s tempting to go barefoot, it’s not always the best idea when the sand and water are cold. If you’re planning to dip your toes in the water, ballet flats are a solid choice. They’re warm enough, easy to take off and on, and perfect for walking on the beach. If you’re planning to stay dry, go for long flat boots. They’ll keep you comfortable while avoiding the sand problem that comes with booties. Trust me, sand gets everywhere in those!
#3: Mix Summer Favorites with Winter Staples
One of the best things about layering is that you can incorporate some of your favorite summer pieces into your winter look. Consider wearing a summer dress or tank top as a base layer and then add a cozy cardigan, hoodie, or jacket for warmth. When the weather is colder, a heavier jacket can really complete the look and keep you comfortable. It’s all about mixing and matching to create an outfit that’s functional and stylish.
#4: Tie It All Together with Accessories
Accessories are the perfect finishing touch, and winter accessories are so fun to play with! Whether it’s a patterned scarf, a warm beanie, a knitted head wrap, or a chic beret, there are endless options to complement your look. But, a word of caution: avoid wool floppy hats. I learned that lesson the hard way! The breeze will have a field day with that hat, and you’ll be chasing it around the beach. Stick with something more secure for a carefree experience.
#5: Hands-Free Accessories are a Game-Changer
Crystal and I are constantly taking photos with our phones, especially when we’re out exploring new places. We always find ourselves holding the phone in our hands, making it hard to put it away when we’re done snapping pics. That’s when we discovered Bandolier, a hands-free phone accessory that’s been a total lifesaver. Just a heads-up, we’re not sponsored by this company, but we really should be! This nifty item lets you wear your phone like a crossbody bag, making it super easy to keep it close while having both hands free. Plus, it’s perfect for those chilly days when your hands might get a little shaky by the water. We love how secure it feels and how it’s helped us take better photos without worrying about dropping our phones.
Final Thoughts & FAQ
As much as we’d love for summer to last forever, winter beach days can be just as magical with the right approach to styling. By layering smartly, choosing the right shoes, and adding stylish accessories, you can make the most of your chilly beach day without sacrificing comfort or style.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: What should I wear to the beach when it’s cold?
A: Opt for layers! Start with a base layer like a tank top or summer dress, and add a cozy cardigan or hoodie. A heavier jacket will keep you warm when temperatures drop.
Q: Can I wear sandals to the beach in winter?
A: While sandals are great for summer, we recommend ballet flats or boots in winter. If you want to dip your toes in the water, ballet flats are the most practical option.
Q: What are some must-have accessories for a winter beach day?
A: A scarf, beanie, or knitted head wrap is a perfect accessory. But skip the wool floppy hat—it’s best saved for calmer, wind-free days!
Q: How can I keep my phone safe and accessible while on the beach?
A: A hands-free phone accessory like Bandolier is perfect for keeping your phone close while keeping your hands free. It’s stylish, secure, and great for taking photos without the worry of dropping your phone in the sand!
Embrace the beach vibes all year long with these simple yet effective styling tips. Stay comfortable, look great, and enjoy the beauty of the ocean no matter the season!