yacht rock costume party

Yachty by Nature

Yacht rock outfits, yacht rock outfits 101.

Whether you just discovered the art of smooth or been digging smooth soft rock for a while now, the subject of Yacht Rock Outfits is on your mind. Let me just say, for those about to dock, we salute you. There is an unmistakable moment when Yacht Rock is revealed to you. For me, it happened at a fancy industry party in LA. This fab girl came up and mic dropped it so smoothly to my then 80’s band, Neon Nation , saying “you guys play any yacht rock”? Holy crap, I pretty much spit out my drink and fell to the floor wondering what I was in for.

“You walked in to the party, like you were walking onto a yacht.”

Yachty Attire

The rest is history and I’m now well into 7 years of playing keyboards in a nationally successful yacht rock band, Yachty by Nature . No doubt, I’m living that dream and it goes without saying, I’m deep in the yacht myself. With weekly yacht party after monthly yacht wedding and more, I’m becoming a Yacht Attire expert in thought and practice and already guiding the band and others in this area of fashion.

Truly, if you get the clothing right, enough people with that common goal, just add yacht music and the fun ensues. Truth be told, I’ve watched as a room full of punk rockers that committed to the groovy, eclectic yacht rock dress code transformed like you wouldn’t believe.  They turned a simple celebration with a yacht rock band into a full scale 1978 throwback LOVE FEST and the clothes were off the hook. The energy, the vibe, the clothes, the music became something so magical all its own. Build the yacht and they will sail to it.

So, next time you are having a yacht party or watching your favorite yacht rock band indulge yourself with an epic outfit that will make all it happen. It’s not just the music, the band, the vibe, the look, the energy. It’s the sum of its parts and those smooth outfits have the mighty power to transfix your situation.

The Captain’s Hat…

Yep, you guessed it, the fastest coronation to yacht rock royalty is the Captain’s Hat.  Buy one, make one, bedazzle one or borrow one. In fact, the sky is the limit here so let your creativity reign if you are gonna go for it.  But, just get one somehow, some way and you are on the yacht. In fact, Broner makes a very comfortable, quality, straightforward and good looking hat that fits well.  Additionally, it avoids the cheap fit and look of those basic hats on Amazon. Do yourself a favor, get a hat or dig deep in the vault and find a classic, vintage, or authentic captain’s hat online. Additionally, we’ve seen some pretty cool and unique creations out there, but for simplicity, fit, and value, Broner is the answer.  Lastly, remember what Hefner did for the captains hat!

Yacht Rock Stripes get it done…

No matter what color, stripes will be the 2nd easiest way to begin your yacht fashion transformation. Put on a red and white striped shirt (or blue or black mainly) and you’ll be sailing in no time. In fact, stripes are probably the #1 most sighted outfit at a yacht rock party. Just know that it’s only the start. When you accessorize over the stripes with a complementary pant color or scarf, ascot, belt, and obviously the captain’s hat or more, you’ve earned your captain’s bars quicker than you can say Ship Shape! Don’t forget to keep it simple, too much or conflicting stripes will sink that ship just as fast.

That 70’s look…

Gettin’ Yachty @ Costello’s in Mission Viejo

Due to the strong connection between the silly, the goofy, the fun and the yacht party, going retro will set a course for adventure. Call it the Ron Burgundy effect or just throwing back to the 1977 duds they wore on Midnight Special , this look is uber sexy and may attract the opposite sex faster than any other yacht look. In fact, you don’t have to look too far to find polyester or denim clad jean meat at many yacht rock concerts. Additionally, the fake mustache works wonders whether you go 70’s vintage or any different yachty outfit.  More importantly, get bonus points on your yacht rock outfits if you can get the feathered hair going!  Polyester, print shirts, and for the ladies, buy that disco dress and some fabulous glasses and you’re ready to yacht!

The Yacht Club, Tennis Club, Golf Club…

Think Caddyshack, Marina del Rey, golfing, the harbor, and tennis. Moreso, put a tennis sweater over that polo or even better go up the ladder and put on that navy blue blazer with an ascot and some yellow glasses. Actually, that’s the calling card for us in Yachty by Nature! Pretend that you’re christening the Flying Wasp or dropping anchor with Rodney Dangerfield in Caddyshack and you’ll be flying indeed. Or even better, watch Caddyshack to get in the mood for your party and let inspiration take hold…and even a few classic movie lines. In fact, if you look around the golf club or yacht club scenes, your creativity is sparked immediately.  The outfits jump right off the screen and wreak of Yacht Club greatness.  Speaking of movies, we’ve even seen a die hard Yachty arrive in the Goldie Hawn outfit from the movie Overboard. Keep your yacht rock outfits classy San Diaaaaaago!

Go Hawaiian on your Yacht Rock outfits…

Get Nauti !

Lastly, this category is a catch all for everything nautical, yachty, and seaworthy.  Use your imagination or stick to the basics.  You can don the captain’s outfit with shoulder bars easily for the Love Boat vibe.  Or, you can just look like Charlie’s Angels coming off a yacht in 1978.  Literally any type of ocean, beach, seaside, or otherwise yachty type of clothing will do.  The scarf around the neck, the boat shorts and the Nantucket red pants and plaid shirt all qualify as supremely yachty fashion.  When in doubt, check yourself by asking, “would I wear this outfit in the summer in Nantucket or Martha’s Vineyard?”  Most importantly, if the answer is yes, you are yacht rock camera ready.  In fact, let’s not forget the boat shoes, deck shoes, or Sperry Top Siders all together.

Yacht Rock Outfits Wildcard…

Never forget that there’s really no authority on this subject so you can always just go for it.  Sometimes, the more uniform, standard, and strict we get on the yacht, the more mundane we become.  Therefore, don’t be afraid to dive into the vanity t-shirt, go stripes and ascot, and generally mix it up.  There are no hard and fast rules behind the Yacht Rock outfit, just your creativity and passion for the music.  From experience, we’ll go captain’s outfit one day and crazy boat shirt the next.  Ultimately, we’ve seen it all from the stage and relish the moments when people go wild with it.  In fact, there’s probably even a yacht rock adjacent area for the Pirate Party as well.  Captain Crunch sightings aside, those parties can really bring together the nauti, yachty, knotty by nature and then some.  In the end, go for it and see what happens.  It’s all fun and games until someone loses an eyepatch.  Honestly, it’s all about the fun so get Kraken!!!

As always, let the vibe be your guide.  Thus, for your next yacht rock themed party, concert, or just a Yachty night on the town, get your ensemble going.  Whether you are new to the yacht or an old deck hand, that outfit will crank up the experience.  So, commit to making that statement with your yacht clothing or up your game and improve on the garb you already have.  As we well know, you can never have enough options to mix it up for a fun night with Yachty by Nature or some other occasion.

Happy to be your guide here.  Feel free to comment and add some great ideas on this post or on social media. #yachtrock #yachtrockoutfits #yachtybynature #yachtattire #yachtrockfashion

About Author

Thanks for giving props to Tiki Caliente! I would like to point out that the most proper Hawaiian shirt to wear to a Yacht Rock concert is one that would have been for sale between 1978 and 1983! Think to yourself, would Magnum PI or Pablo Cruise wear this? And if so, bring it on! Most Magnum PI kind of Hawaiian shirts go great with a white jacket and white shorts. Vintage late ‘70s and early ‘80’s Hawaiian shirts can be found Online in Etsy yacht rock shops, and on eBay. Not expensive, and so ”vintage smooth”. Look like a pro, and be “era appropriate”. Girls can find vintage 70’s nautical dresses on Etsy, too!

THIS is everything!!! I love it Carl!!!

Ahoy Jenny! THanks so much for the kind compliment 🙂 As you know, we’re super inspired and love switching up the outfits, attire, clothing, and costumes. Yacht Rock rules!

Awesome show this past weekend at Circa Caliente glad the rain stopped so the show could go on.

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*2024* YACHT ROCK vintage party attire for real![16 looks + elements]

Posted on Published: January 5, 2024

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Wondering what to wear to a vintage Yacht rock party that screams the 70s and 80s vibes?

You have come to the right place as I’m gonna share all key elements in yacht rock party attire!

First thing first, what EXACTLY is yacht rock? Is that different from the regular yacht party attire?

Broadly speaking, yacht rock is a type of popular music genre in the mid-1979s and ’80s.

It blends soft rock, smooth jazz, and blues with southern yachty vibes that are as refreshing as it’s cozy and chill to people.

In the outfit sense, think of the nautical sailing looks with a dash of good 70s and 80s vintage vibes together with some playful and funky elements.

Ahead, I’ve gathered 16 real-life yacht rock-themed party outfit ideas from Instagram along with some pro tips.

Ready? Get inspired!

1. Fun yacht-themed party attire

If you are looking for a failproof look for your coming yacht rock party, embracing the nautical theme always works wonders.

That said, think white, red, and blue for the classic color palette and corporate it with the sailor stripe details or a small navy anchor print.

Trust me, patterns x patterns in one look can never be too over the top for a wild yacht rock party time!

It’s time to get out of your comfort zone!

Trust me, there’s definitely NOT ENOUGH content for vintage fashion these days

If you are the retro girlies, there’s one thing for sure – you have impeccable taste ❤️

If you find this recommendation useful – please kindly share and pin some of the shoes so more vintage girls like you can enjoy the info!

2. A fun nautical striped top

Some of you may worry the horizontal stripes will make them look bigger.

Well, not the case anymore when you pick the flattering design!

In case you wonder, I love this fitted off-shoulder striped top from Amazon.

As a girl with chubby cheeks, the off-shoulder neckline just elongates my neck and instantly sheds down the boldness of the print like magic.

The best part? The fabric type is 95% cotton and 5% spandex so it’s super stretchy and curve-flattering.

Together with the high-waist jean shorts and nice pumps, you’re bound to feel the fanciest and most feminine.

Check out this gorgeous piece here!

3. A statement captain hat for every look

For the lazy girls who want to look party-ready with minimal effort, I’d say throw on a captain hat to nail the look.

But really, it’s the core element of the yacht rock look of all time!

If you don’t want to look too costumey, pair up the yacht rock look with a cute summer dress and espadrilles wedge just looks equally instagrammable.

Again, to blend in with the crowd, think of bright fun hues instead of the classy neutral nude or dark shades.

5. When in doubt, wear a headscarf

This beautiful lady just demonstrates this hip, headscarf-wearing chic look in the best possible way.

Whether you are going to this yacht rock party or a tropical vacation, this styling just looks irresistibly carefree and tasteful.

To add in some retro flare, spice things up with the colorful round sunglasses that scream the perfect vibes.

6. 80s yacht tie-dye attire

To look the finest in the late 70s soft rock fashion, what about having fun with the tie-dye co-ord set that was all the rage during the 1980s? 

Of course, tie-dye is always in style every few years so you can wear them on a ton of occasions!

7. What to wear to a yacht rock radio party

To stand out from the yacht rock radio party, those Barbie pink palm tree suits are sure to boost the aesthetic tenfold.

And guess what, to dress like Popeye, get yourself a pipe just such an extra pop of fun!

8. A retro sailor top for a yacht rock party

For the ladies who prefer a lowkey yacht rock party look, this top below is another lovely piece.

The elegant boat-cut neckline and the darling ribbon details just highlight the beauty of the figure and make you look curvier visually.

The big plus?

There’s a rubber lining around the neckline to make sure the top is in place. I must say that’s a rare design for this price range!

According to the Amazon review, you want to order a size down. 

9. Hawaiian shirt for a yacht rock party

When in doubt, Hawaiian shirts will give you the right dose of yachty vibes.

That said, picking the right pattern is key otherwise you will gravitate towards the luau party.

Take the right balance of tropical vibes and introduce more marine elements to the look.

When in doubt, searching “reclaimed vintage-inspired beach shirt” or treasure hunting from a thrift store always helps!

The skirt from Lilly Pulitzer is always so darling – obsessed .

10. Funny T-shirt for the yacht rock fun

All the navy party costumes are cliché? Well, think again.

This funny captain hat and T-shirt set just breathe sailing and fun into the personal vibe.

Whether you wear this for the Sunday boat party or just randomly throw it on during the weekend, this piece just screams fun in all different ways.

This set sold out quickly. Check out Amazon !

( ´ ▽ ` )ﾉ MY JUNE PICKS !! ʕ•̬͡•ʔ

(Continue scrolling for the article!)

11. Couple yacht rock party outfits

When it comes to other essentials, khaki short shorts, and a colorful cami top just give the yacht rock attire a modern mix. 

For petite girls, consider pairing up the body-hugging top with wide-leg pants and wedges.

It just contours the body proportion and helps you achieve an effortlessly chic look.

Yes, I’m a born fashionista.

12. One-piece retro sailor swimsuit

It takes me a long time to find the perfect yacht rock swimsuit and I just can’t be any more proud when I find this gorgeous piece.

A swimsuit with a halter neck is a big plus for me as it just comes in extra support and gives your chest the right boast.

With the horizontal stripe on the chest area, the voluminous effect is sure to impress.

As a pear-shaped girl, this swimsuit just flatters my figure in every single way.

13. Fun leaf print captain cap

If you are bored with the classic white and blue captain hat, this one with the leaf print just complements your nautical-themed party in the most distinctive way. 

Those gold embroidered badges on the front just scream “I’ve got a style and I KNOW it”.

Be the chicest captain in the house!

This is so random… BUT

hey ladies, why not quickly do an affirmation and feel instantly better?

This new year, I’m trying not only to share fashion tips but come up with ways to instill body positivity in all women who are reading my articles – aka YOU !

Instead of just reading it, say it loud or murmur the quotes (if you are in public) to maximize the effect.

Ready? Here we go.

I love my body. She is my forever home and sanctuary.

Sassy isn’t a shape, it’s an attitude.

Work out because I love my body – not because I hate it.

I can love myself and change my body at the same time. No guilt about that.

It is completely normal to have tummy rolls. I come to realize that social media isn’t showing the reality… at all.

My happiest moments in life had nothing to do with the way my body looked.

I don’t have to be pretty like her, I can be pretty like …ME.

I AM perfect imperfection.

What are your thoughts on that? I hope that makes you feel better (as you deserved).

Please help me pass the body positivity message in your community. #womenhelpwomen

Alright, now keep on reading!

14. 70s yacht rock fashion

Sometimes, having fun is as simple as dressing up and striking a pose with your besties together!

Don’t know about you but I’m the happiest when floating in the sea. That’s for sure!

15. What to wear to a yacht rock concert

To show your love towards the yacht rock style in parties and everyday life, a statement “Prestige worldwide boats & hoes” tee is such a lovely choice.

These days, people love mixing classic and casual pieces together.

To jazz up the T-shirt look, consider adding in the blue blazer, white pants, and loafers to finish up the set.

16. What to wear to a yacht rock party

Last but not least, here’s my favorite look.

A captain hat with a striped cut-out jumpsuit that looks as simple as it looks hot and sassy.

To bring this look to the good old 70s, slip in the red kitten heels just add an unexpected twist to the get-up.

TIME FOR GLAM SIS.

If you are reading till this point, I’m sure you are the fashion girlies. If yes, check out my newly set-up (Like literally this June) insta @hannahnfashion for more <3 See you there pretty ladies!

And guess what, if a guy ever asks you “what you bring to the table”, show him this reel lol

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hannah💕 Wearable feminine outfit ideas & styling tips (@hannahnfashion)

FINAL THOUGHTS:

So there you go – the 16 yacht rock party attire to look the best in all kinds of nautical themes boat parties! 

What are your thoughts on these smooth-sailing soft rock from the 70s and 80s?

Hope these tips help you settle on the right outfit!

At the end of the day, don’t overstress the outfit as I’m sure it will turn out great anyway.

All you need is to throw all the stress behind you and embrace the freedom, open air, and adventure!

Looking for more yacht outfit ideas?

Check out my other blog posts below! See you there loves ♥

• [38 updated outfits!] What to wear for the boat cruise?
• *15 vintage elements!* 90s plaid skirt & dress outfits
• [FULL LIST] What to wear on a Viking & Scenic river cruise (Summer + winter!)
• 21 Comfortable Vintage shoes heels *8 types!* (Read this post before you buy any vintage shoes!)
• 20 Prohibition party outfits + tips (more than a flapper dress!)

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Style Ideas For Women

21 Epic Yacht Party Outfit Ideas + Tips

Inside: Amazing yacht party outfit ideas that you need to sea

So…you’ve been invited to a yacht party…welcome aboard! As someone who has had the pleasure of sailing the seas and attending my fair share of glamorous yacht gatherings, I can’t help but get excited about sharing some fabulous outfit ideas with you all.

Yacht parties are undoubtedly the epitome of sophistication and style, and choosing the perfect ensemble is a delightful part of the experience. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a first-time deck adventurer, I’ve got some fantastic insights on how to dress to impress while maintaining comfort and charm.

So, let’s set sail on a fashion journey together and discover the chicest and most awe-inspiring yacht party outfits that will make waves and leave a lasting impression on everyone aboard! I am going to be adding these to my 20th birthday outfit ideas , because they are just perfect.

Table of Contents

Epic Yacht Party Outfit Ideas + Tips

Before I show you some examples of amazing yacht party outfits, I wanted to go over some of my top tips. This way, these can be fresh in your mind as you go through looking for inspiration!

1. Nautical Chic

Embrace the maritime theme by opting for nautical-inspired attire. A classic white and navy striped shirt paired with well-fitted khaki or white shorts or trousers can create a stylish and relaxed look.

If you are thinking about going a little more dressy, then you can always wear an evening gown that fits under this theme as well! I think the ideas below will help you find what style you are looking for.

2. Light and Breezy

Take it from me…since you’ll be out on the water, comfort is key. You need to choose lightweight and breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, or chambray to stay cool and composed even in the summer sun. I genuinly cannot push this point enough. You absolutely want to be stylish…but you also need to be practical.

Lucky for you, practicality and style actually do have many lines that intersect.

3. Dress to Impress

If the yacht party calls for a more formal dress code, consider a classy sundress for ladies or a tailored blazer over a crisp button-down shirt for gentlemen. It strikes the perfect balance between elegance and leisure. I love any excuse to dress up, so whenever I get invited to a fancier party, I really take advantage of it.

4. Hats and Sunglasses

This one is a subsection attached to tip number two. You are going to be on a boat, so you are going to want to include a cute hat and some sunnies. You can protect yourself from the sun while adding a touch of glamor with a wide-brimmed hat and a stylish pair of sunglasses that match your outfit.

Not only do they serve as practical accessories, but they also exude an air of sophistication. If you are going with your parents, you can look at these mom daughter matching outfits!

5. Deck Shoes or Sandals

Leave the stilettos and heavy boots at home! Opt for comfortable deck shoes or trendy sandals, as they are both practical and in line with the yacht ambiance. I once wore heels on a yacht and went home 4 hours later with the worst blisters I have ever had in my life.

Plus, with all of the swaying, I found myself exhausted from just standing in my heels. This is definitely not the vibe you want to bring to a party.

6. Accessorize Minimally

Keep your accessories simple and minimalistic. A statement piece like a beautiful necklace or a stylish bracelet can add that extra touch to your outfit without being too overpowering.

If you have too many accessories, you may find yourself on the more high-maintenance side. If you are up for that, then you go for it.

7. Neutral and Pastel Colors

Embrace the coastal vibe with a palette of soft and breezy colors. Think whites, pastel blues, seafoam greens, and sandy beiges for a fresh and sophisticated look. If you couldn’t tell already…the whole goal you are going for is sophistication. I mean, this is true for most yacht parties, but it does depend on the person throwing it.

Yacht Party Outfit Ideas –  8. Versatility is Key

Yacht parties often involve different settings, from lounging on the deck to dancing in the evening. Choose outfits that can transition seamlessly from day to night with a few adjustments. There are quite a few outfits like this below, so make sure you keep an eye out for them.

9. Layer Up

Evenings on the water can get a bit chilly, so be prepared by bringing along a lightweight cardigan or a stylish jacket that complements your outfit. This might feel a little counterintuitive, but at the end of the day, I just want you to be comfortable. I have spent one too many nights uncomfortable on a boat. Life is too short!

Yacht Party Outfit Ideas  10. Confidence

Above all, wear your outfit with confidence and a smile! Your attitude is the ultimate accessory, and it’ll radiate positivity and charm throughout the entire yacht party. I think if you listen to all of my tips and tricks from above, you are going to show up to this party the most comfy and confident version of yourself.

I recommend saying some simple affirmations to yourself before you leave your house. You are the life of the party. Everyone loves you. And, of course, you’re outfit rocks!

Yacht Party Outfit Ideas

Now that you have some of the most important tips covered, I think you can start looking for creative inspiration! I am honestly super obsessed with these looks.

1.  Green Flowey Pants Set

2.  Cute 2 Tone Set Outfit

3.  Classy Light Blue Dress Outfit

4.  Black Sleek Dress Outfit

5.  Light Boho Outfit Idea

6.  Crochet Dress Idea

7.  Green Dress Idea

8.  All White Dress

9.  Button Up Shirt and Low Rise Pants

10.  Jeans and Tank Top

Epic Yacht Party Outfit Ideas

To finish up this list, I wanted to show you some truly epic yacht party outfit ideas. I made sure to include different styles that reflect different kinds of dress codes. These would also be perfect for my Hawaiian party outfit ideas!

11.  Bikini Outfit with Cover Up

12.  Two Piece Striped Set

13.  Blue Dress Idea

14.  Flowy Green Two Piece

15.  Cute White Two Piece

16.  White Blazer and Shorts

17.  Button Up Green Shirt and White Pants

18.  adorable Linen Outfit

19.  Simple White Dress

20.  Pink Shirt and White Pants

21.  Lined 2 Piece Set

As the sun sets on our fashion voyage through the world of yacht party outfit ideas, I hope you’ve been inspired to embrace the elegance and playfulness that these gatherings offer.

Remember, the key to a successful yacht party ensemble is finding that perfect balance between style and comfort. Whether you opt for nautical chic, a touch of sophistication, or a laid-back coastal vibe, always let your personality shine through.

As I bid adieu to this yacht party fashion adventure, I raise a toast to the captivating memories you’ll create, the laughter shared, and the friendships formed while adorned in your most fabulous attire.

So, next time you receive that coveted invitation, go ahead and dive into your wardrobe with confidence, knowing that you have the power to make every yacht party a fashion spectacle to remember. Smooth sailing and stylish adventures await you!

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