What to Wear in Miami

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Updated: 9/22/2019 | What to Wear in Miami

Miami is home to South Beach (SOBE), one of the most densely populated sea-side cities in the East Coast. It is known for its humid climate and long stretches of white sand beaches, with Latin-inspired food and Art Deco architecture.

Miami offers visitors a variety of adventures ranging from suntanning on the beach, handling alligators in the Everglades, to clubbing at night. Therefore, it is important to pack appropriately for a trip to Miami.

Related: What to See and Do in Miami

I got to spend 5 days in Miami with my best friend! I wanted to pack only what I needed for my vacation. I ended up with a suitcase that was intentionally packed (I wore every piece I brought) and lightweight!

Reasons Why We LOVE Miami

The beaches are amazing. You’ll experience clear blue waters and the breeze blowing across your sun-kissed skin is what I live for. I never really understood why Spring Break in Miami was such a big deal in Miami until I went to Miami for Ultra Music Festival in 2010.
The food scene is incredible. You’ll find lots of Latin American food and fresh seafood.
Colorful scenery everywhere you go. The streets, buildings, cars, art districts, and beaches are filled with color! It’s appropriate that your attire blends in with the surroundings.

Colorful Miami Beach Lifeguard Tower

Now to my favorite part of trip planning…deciding what to wear! My favorite season in Miami is Springtime, so we typically travel between the months of March to May. The sun is out and there’s a cool breeze wherever you go. It’s also when there are music festivals and parties everywhere you go.

Here’s what I packed for my Miami beach vacation!

Day 1

I packed this outfit for our first dinner in Miami.

It’s casual yet classy. We got into the city late in the evening so I wanted to be comfortable after a full day of travel.

McGuire Sorbonne Linen Top in white ($225) – I decided on this top because it’s breathable and looks stinking adorable with distressed jeans. Find similar tops here.
Lovers + Friends Ezra Slim Boyfriend Jean in Angelus ($118) – This brand runs small. I had to size up to a size 29 and regularly wear a 27. Similar pair sold here and here.
Banana Republic Half Moon Crossbody in Green ($140)

Day 2

Day two of Miami takes us to South Beach!

We woke up and found a cool breakfast spot. Then we’re off on a boat tour in Biscayen Bay. Afterwards, we took the hop on hop off bus and cruise around SOBE. We made it just in time to catch the sunset from our hotel room.

We then headed to a food event called Savor Brickell to see what food and beverages the Brickell neighborhood had to offer.

Pam & Gela Off Shoulder Dress in Grey ($99) – Sexy slimming dress that can be easily worn up or down. I love how slimming it is on the body.
Circus by Sam Edelman Smiley Face Crossbody ($25) – I’m matching my grey dress with this fun 90’s inspired smiley face bag. I love my retro ensemble!
Free People Just like Honey Dress in Ivory ($128)
Beach Bunny Siren Song Sequin Bikini ($260) – First day on Miami beach! It’s time to sparkle!
Free People Mirror Mirror Sunglasses ($20)
Banana Republic Half Moon Crossbody in Green ($140)

Day 3

Today we went on a tour of the Everglades where we got to explore the swamp and all the wildlife.

I wanted to keep it casual in case I needed to run from the wild animals. Afterward, we continued with our second day on the hop-on hop-off bus to explore the Wynwood Art District and Little Havana.

Lorna Jane Fenna Tank Top in Snow Grey Marl ($45) – similar tanks here
Torn Shorts by Lovers + Friends ($56) – similar styles here
Banana Republic Half Moon Crossbody in Green ($140)
Spiritual Gangster Retreat GOOD VIBES Swimsuit ($98) – check out other similar styles here.
Muche et Muchette Faux Sueded Lace Cut-out Dress ($98 – on sale for $59!) – SUPER cute and comfortable dress with side-tie design. Definitely more of a coverup than anything.

Day 4

Today I unleashed my inner boho festival chic.

I may have missed the Coachella boat, but it doesn’t mean I couldn’t find my own music laden adventure on the opposite coast. We’re also heading to the nightclub later.

Marysia Scalloped Mott Bikini top and Antibes Bikini Bottom ($180) – Similar looks found with the PIlyQ Scallop, ASOS Scallop and Kate Spade Marina bikinis.
Kimono – Cupshe makes adorable kimono cover-ups. We also love their swimsuits!
Torn Shorts by Lovers + Friends ($56) – similar styles here
Banana Republic Half Moon Crossbody in Green ($140)
Free People Mirror Mirror Sunglasses ($20) – comes in three different colors!
Windsor Body-Con Velvet Dress ($40) – I bought mine secondhand but you can find similar styles here.

Day 5

Today we rest and recover before heading back home. I want my outfit to be as relaxed as my body and mind.

Our What to Wear in Miami outfit of the day is a loose fitting dress, comfy bikini and backpack for us to lug a change of clothing in.

We’ll start with a yoga class in the AM and complete it with massages in the afternoon.

Afterwards, we’re beach bumming it until dinner at Employee’s Only, our favorite hip food and cocktail joint.

Beach Bunny Gunpowder and Lace Gold Bikini ($260)
Herschel Parker Tarpaulin Backpack ($91 – reduced from $130)
Do Not Disturb Sun Hat ($17) – A Eugenia Kim knockoff
Ray Ban Aviator Green Mirror Sunglasses ($175)
Love Sam Allie Tie Dye Dress in Ocean Blue ($200+) – Bought long ago, but you can find a similar dress here.

Eileen Fisher Ellis Heel ($250)

As for shoes, I am all about being comfortable nowadays.

I recently found these beauts by Eileen Fisher. The style name is Ellis and they are so fashionable yet comfortable.

They also come in neutral colors like black and nude which matches any outfit.

Other Necessities

Herschel Parker Tarpaulin Backpack ($91 – reduced from $130)
Phone charger
Laptop & laptop charger
ID/Passport
Wallet with debit card and best cashback and travel credit cards
Shae Lip Balm (most moisturizing for my lips)
lululemon baseball cap
Sunblock
Thong sandals
Rain poncho (in case you’re caught in a rainstorm)

We hope these outfit ideas brought you some inspiration for your next beach vacation. Remember to dress comfortably and apply a lot of sunblock. Enjoy the sun!