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Summer is quickly approaching, which means it’s almost time to head back to my happy place: Cape Cod. I’ve been relishing in my New England summers since I began vacationing there 10 years ago. Nothing compares to the soft sand beaches, delicious seafood and the enviable fashions.
The locals know how to dress so nonchalantly while also looking effortlessly graceful. I’ve taken a ton of notes over the past decade and know exactly what to wear to fit in with true Cape Codders. Keep reading to find 17 styles that will have you feeling comfortable and stylish all summer long.
The Best Cape Cod-Inspired Fashion to Shop for Summer
Best Cape Cod Tops
1. Out of Office Attire: Button-downs aren’t just for board meetings — in Cape Cod, a linen buttoned shirt is a beach day must-have and exudes an air of casual relaxation.
2. Yacht Day, Anyone? You can automatically assume that anyone who wears a Breton striped blouse owns a boat in Cape Cod. Pro tip: Wear this style and try to become friends with them for endless summer sails.
3. Simple Summer Staple: Sleeveless sweaters, including this preppy design, are a mainstay in New England, where breezy summer days are the norm.
4. Night Out on the Water: Getting dressed up in the summer calls for a pair of jeans, simple heeled sandals and an elegant top. Anything that calls Jackie O to mind — like this tailored top — is perfect.
Best Cape Cod Bottoms
5. Better Than Pajamas: Linen has a reputation of being expensive, and no surprise, Cape Codders wear it every day. You can find affordable linen at Quince — I own three pairs of the 100% European Linen Pants.
6. Tailored Jeans: Skip the distressed, frayed shorts when you visit Cape Cod. The fashion there is much more refined. This pair, which features pretty patchwork pockets and a wide waistband, better suits the styles.
7. Elevated Comfort: Remember, Cape Cod is a vacation spot, so comfort always comes first. Paper bag pants, like this Quince design, beautifully blend functionality with sophistication.
8. Pretty Mini: When you want to dress up, wear white. More specifically, opt for this French Connection wrap skirt.
Best Cape Cod Dresses
9. Smocked to the Nines: Everyone (and I mean everyone) owns a smocked dress or two. This pick from Anrabess looks identical to options quadruple the price.
10. Simple and Elegant: White and navy will always be a winning color combo in Cape Cod. You can’t go wrong with this affordable style.
11. Nantucket Red: This color, which is like a worn, weathered red, is the epitome of luxury up in Cape Cod. You’ll fit in right with the wealthy locals in an adorable flowing dress that just so happens to come in the specific shade.
12. Time to Frolic: Summers in Cape Cod bring out the same joyful energy I experienced in childhood. That liveliness is enhanced when wearing a pretty dress, like a cotton puff-sleeve design from Quince.
13. A Floral Pick: I haven’t been able to find a floral dress with hydrangeas on it (a.k.a. the Cape’s unofficial flower), but Petal & Pup’s pretty printed midi will suffice.
Best Cape Cod Accessories
14. Fisherman Vibes: Unsurprisingly, the fisherman trend has totally taken off in Cape Cod. You can embrace the aesthetic with an elevated fisherman sandal from Franco Sarto, which is currently 30% off!
15. Boiled or Steamed? Cape Codders love their lobster, so while it’s a bit kitschy, this cute lobster claw clip is a must-have!
16. Protection First! Even though Cape Cod is far up north, the sun is still strong! Protect yourself at the beach (in style) with a BP. Straw Bucket Hat.
17. Smart Tote: Not only is this tote fabulous, but it’s extra functional. You can store all of your beach essentials with ease.
