Beach to Brunch Looks You Can Find Preloved

If there’s one thing every smart fashionista needs during the busy summer season, it’s versatility. You want an outfit that can take you from lounging poolside to brunch with your girlfriends to an evening stroll downtown.

That’s where beach-to-brunch style steps in. The right transitional pieces take you from sand and sea to pancakes and mimosas – zero outfit changes required.

And the best part? You can find most of these versatile treasures preloved, giving you luxe style without the sticker shock.

Here are some of our favorite must-have transitional pieces for summer style.

1. The Classic Button-Down

Every summer wardrobe needs at least one oversized button-down shirt. This timeless staple is the definition of versatility. Wear it open as a breezy beach cover-up over your swimsuit… Then after the beach, button it up, knot it at the waist, or tuck it into your denim shorts for an effortlessly cool brunch look. Bonus points if it’s linen or a lightweight cotton that dries fast and breathes like a dream.

Styling tip: Look for classic colors and patterns like white, pale blue, chambray, or stripes for a cute coastal chic vibe.

2. Swimsuits (That Double as Bodysuits)

The new rule of summer dressing: your swimsuit is your outfit. One-piece swimsuits can double as bodysuits, acting as the foundation of your brunch ensemble. Just throw on a maxi skirt, palazzo pants, or high-waisted jeans, and you’re brunch-ready and beach-ready with minimal effort.

Styling tip: Shop for swimsuits that feel a little more ready-to-wear than ready-to-swim. Ribbed textures, matte finishes, and square necklines lend themselves especially well to streetwear styling. Also look for elevated details like belted waists, asymmetrical cuts, or bold patterns if you want to add a little pizzazz to your look. 

3. The Woven Straw Bag

A woven straw tote or crossbody can carry your sunscreen and book to the beach in the morning, and your wallet and lipstick to lunch in the afternoon. Look for bags with fun detailing like pom-poms, leather trim, or colorful lining, which feel more intentional and curated. These beauties are often hiding in the accessories racks of consignment shops, just waiting to join you on all your summer adventures.

Styling tip: A medium-sized structured bag can handle all your beach essentials but isn’t too clunky for brunch time. Learn how to find the perfect investment bag for you here.

4. Breezy Midi Dresses

There’s nothing more effortlessly glam than a flowy midi dress, especially one you can toss on over your bikini and still feel chic enough for cocktails. Look for flattering silhouettes like smocked bodices, tiered skirts, or puff sleeves. These feminine details hold their own at brunch but don’t feel overdressed on the boardwalk. Consignment stores are the perfect place to find classic midi dresses that scream summer.

Styling tip: When it comes to the versatility of a dress, it’s use accessories to change up the look. For the beach, keep it loose and flowy. For brunch, add a belt to cinch the waist and some sleek sandals for instant polish.

5. Oversized Sunglasses & Statement Hats

Let’s be real: no beach-to-brunch outfit is complete without the accessories. Oversized sunglasses are equal parts glam and practical, perfect for upgrading your outfit while protecting your eyes. A wide-brimmed hat or bucket hat also takes your outfit up a notch while keeping your face shaded and cool.

Styling tip: This is where consignment shopping shines. You can find high-end designer sunglasses (like Dior, Gucci, and Celine) that are in fantastic condition – for a price that won’t break the bank… and you’ll look like you walked out of a resort catalog.

6. Elevated Shoes

Leave the sandy flip-flops behind and opt for sleek leather slides or espadrille wedges that move easily from cabana to café. You can find stunning summer-worthy shoes on consignment from your favorite designers without the hefty price tag of buying new.

Styling tip: Look for shoes in neutral shades like camel, ivory, or metallic gold. These colors pair well with everything in your vacation closet and add a hint of luxury to even the simplest outfits.

7. Lightweight Layers

Warm days don’t mean skipping out on the layering game. Lightweight toppers like crochet vests, lightweight kimonos, or sleeveless duster jackets add interest and texture without causing you to overheat. They’re the perfect finishing touch that makes your outfit feel styled rather than thrown together.

Styling tip: Toss a sheer kimono over your swimsuit or outfit, and your outfit suddenly looks intentional, even if you just rolled out of your beach chair five minutes ago.

8. Preloved Jewelry That Tells a Story

Your beach-to-brunch outfit isn’t complete without a few carefully chosen jewelry pieces. There’s nothing quite as feminine as delicate gold chains layered over sun-kissed skin, vintage shell earrings that nod to your coastal vibe, or a chunky statement ring that instantly makes you look polished (even if you're still drying off from the ocean).

Styling tip: Preloved jewelry is a goldmine for one-of-a-kind pieces with personality, like enamel bangles, charm bracelets, or retro earrings. These treasures add just the right amount of glam without feeling overdone for daytime.

Beachin’ and Brunchin’ in Style

With a closet full of beach-to-brunch staples, you’re ready to take on summer. The magic lies in smart layering, intentional accessorizing, and pieces that move with your day and lifestyle.

Shopping preloved at Current Boutique means you can experiment with luxe fabrics, high-end labels, and vintage gems without draining your budget. Browse our hottest summer pieces here to start curating your perfect beach-to-brunch wardrobe.