5 Beach Style Icons — And How to Copy Their Looks

Weathering the surf and sand in style isn’t always easy, but there are a few bathing beauties who were known for managing to make it look effortless. Some of the biggest names in fashion, film and more, these ladies’ impact reached far beyond the beach. When it’s time to round up your own look for hitting the shore, take a few cues from this classic crew of beach style icons — and you’ll never miss the mark.

1. Brigitte Bardot Beach Style

In her day, Brigitte Bardot was the ultimate boho beach bunny. This sun-kissed French icon played the California girl all too well, between her blonde locks and sweet freckles.

Get Bardot’s classic beach look with a ditsy bikini and a big straw hat. Then, use the crashing waves to your advantage — leave your strands salty to really play up this babe’s signature look.

The Bardot Hat

Bardot Hat, $59, Wyeth

The Bardot Bikini

Polo Ralph Lauren Off-The-Shoulder Bikini Top, $56 (on sale), Lord & Taylor

2. Sophia Loren

This silver screen siren had a way of glam-ing up even the simplest suit, by simply tying up a scarf over her locks to complement her LBOP (little black one piece).

Channel your inner Sophia by picking up a vintage print scarf at the thrift store and pair it with a simple black suit.

The Little Black One Piece

Black Ribbed Suit, $46, TopShop

 The Vintage Scarf

Destination Italian silk scarf in “California” print, $49.50, JCrew

3. Jane Birkin

The bang-and-brunette counterpart to blondie Brigitte Bardot, Jane Birkin was the French and English babe known for making a style scene seaside in Cannes. Her white-hot lace look inspires warm weather style season after season. And, thanks to a rise in crop top swim silhouettes, this look is easier than ever to imitate and make your own.

The Birkin Bikini

Crochet White Bandeau Bikini, $47, Lulu’s

4. Grace Kelly

If you’re feeling a bit more regal, go for princess and film star Grace Kelly. Slip into a white bandeau and matching white short or a high-waist bottom, and grab a striped beach towel to lay out on. Some retro shades and a coiffed ‘do and complexion complete the look.

The Grace Kelly Suit

Kate Spade New York Georgica Beach Bandeau Maillot, $75.50, 6pm

The Grace Kelly Towel

Wet Products Cabana Stripe Beach Towel, $17, Swim Outlet

5. Lauren Hutton

Lauren Hutton’s slicked back locks and long sleeve swim wear were made for those hanging in the cabana. This look is for the beauty who’s more about being seen by the water versus diving into the water.

Choose a plunging neckline to show off some skin in a more creative way. Pair it with a ballet bun for sophisticated style that keeps your hair out of the face and up off the neck. And, don’t forget to bring the bronze!

The Lauren Suit

Michael Kors Twist-Front Halter One-Piece Swimsuit, $83.99, Macy’s

The Lauren Tan

St. Tropez Tanning Essentials Self Tan Express Starter Kit, $27, Sephora

There you go — 5 beach style icons and the tips you need to copy their classic looks. See you on the sand!