Every day is Casual Friday in Key West. Its laid-back, tropical vibe is perfect for lightweight, comfortable, effortless clothing. However, you may wonder exactly what type of effortless clothing to wear in this sun-kissed paradise.
You don’t have to go it alone. Check out our Key West outfit ideas to help you go from land to water and day to night in style! Dive into our top 7 tips on what to wear in Key West, and get ready to turn heads while you explore this tropical gem.
Whether you’re lounging on the beach, enjoying a sunset cruise, or dining at a local seafood joint, the right outfit can elevate your experience. So, let’s get started on your journey to style and comfort in Key West!
1) Wear Low-Key Clothes For High Seas Adventures!
Leave your high heels, hose, dresses and pantsuits behind – you’re in casual Key West now! On a Key West Boat Trips tour, the words “dress code” aren’t part of our vocabulary. Climb aboard in your flip flops, bathing suit and shorts as we embark on an exciting seafaring adventure sure to thrill you and create an unforgettable experience.
Ready to set sail? Stop dreaming and make it happen! Whether it’s snorkeling, sunset sailing or just a relaxing cruise we have the adventure for you. Book with us today and get ready to sail the beautiful waters of Key West in style!
2) Must-Have Bathing Suits
No Key West packing list would be complete without bathing suits. You’ll spend long beach days splashing in the turquoise waters or lounging on the powdered-sugar beaches, so bathing suits are a must. Bring a minimum of two to keep in rotation, so you’ll never be stuck with a damp suit.
A boldly colored, one-piece bathing suit or a fun floral bikini make great waterfront statements. Pack a few billowy cover-ups as well, to slip into between dips in the warm, glistening waters. Complete your outfit with a vibrant beach bag that will look chic while keeping your personal items safe and dry.
Fun fact: Diana Nyad, famously known as the first person to swim from Cuba to Florida unassisted (and without a shark cage), donated her bathing suit, goggles and customized anti-jellyfish face mask to Key West’s Custom House Museum in 2017.
3) Easy, Breezy T-Shirts
One of the best ways to reveal that you’re a tourist is by wearing the wrong clothes. So, if you want to know how to not look like a tourist in Key West, leave your pants, formal dresses, high heels, heavy fabrics and dark colors at home. T-shirts in lightweight, breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen and chambray will help you look like a local.
They’re excellent options for Key West’s balmy temperatures and carefree lifestyle. One of the great things about t-shirts is that they can be mixed and matched with other pieces for a variety of looks. This can ease confusion about what to wear in Key West.
Add tank tops and camisoles to your packing list, too, for comfort and Conch Republic flair. Subtly elevate the look with a delicate necklace, sleek cuff bracelets, turquoise rings or earrings that incorporate shells or other natural materials. Check out the famous Duval Street, where you can find everything from fun costume jewelry to high-end bling.
Pro tip: When you visit Key West, consider using packing cubes to keep clothes organized and wrinkle-free. Packing cubes are small square or rectangular bags, usually made of fabric and mesh, that make packing – and unpacking – a breeze.
4) Ultra-Comfortable Shorts
In Key West, you can’t get much more casual than a pair of shorts. If you wear shorts on the island, it won’t create a national scandal. Bars and restaurants typically have a casual dress code, which in essence means no dress code! Pull on a pair of white shorts, tan shorts or cutoff jean shorts and hit the town or beach. Since Key West is a tropical island, play with tropical prints such as bright florals, palm trees and multicolored birds and fruit.
A skort is also a great island option. Part skirt, part shorts and all comfort, skorts are shorts covered with an extra front panel of fabric made to resemble a skirt. Skorts can help you stay comfortable and are a great addition to your Key West wardrobe because:
They provide the ease of shorts while remaining fun and flirty
They offer freedom of movement while preventing you from flashing innocent bystanders
They can be dressed up or dressed down
They’re made of sweat-resistant, lightweight fabrics
Fun fact: Skorts were originally designed in the 1970s to provide comfort and freedom of movement while maintaining a feminine look. They quickly became popular for sports and casual wear, making them a perfect choice for your Key West adventures!
5) Carefree Flip Flops Or Water Shoes?
Flip flops are a staple of Key West living. Airy and versatile, they’re perfect for Key West’s mellow, casual vibe and warm weather. They’re a great example of what to wear in Key West. Don’t visit the island without these essential items because:
They’re Versatile
You can wear flip-flops just about anywhere when you’re visiting Key West. Slip them on while having a long stroll on the beach, dining in restaurants, sightseeing in historic Old Town or on an indulgent shopping spree.
They’re Comfortable
In Key West’s humid, sunny weather, flip flops are the way to go. If your question is what to wear in Key West, flip-flops are your answer. They keep your feet cool and dry and are featherlight. They can also be easily slipped on and off – who wants to fumble with shoelaces in paradise?
You Can Find Them Anywhere
If you didn’t pack a pair, this breezy footwear can be found anywhere on the island, from souvenir shops to high-end boutiques.
They Can Be Casual Or Dressy
Some flip-flops are the simple, classic “thong” style that goes with anything and everything. Others are adorned with charms, beads, rhinestones or stylish patterns for a fancier look.
However, make sure your flip-flops have adequate support if you’re going to do a lot of walking. Although Key West is small, it might feel enormous if your feet hurt. You might want to pack a pair of comfy tennis shoes just in case. They can be a handy item.
Prepare Water Shoes
Water shoes are also a smart choice when you’re visiting the Florida Keys. They’re specially fashioned footwear with rubber soles that grip moist or slippery surfaces and prevent skids or falls. They’re ideal for fishing, boating, kayaking and snorkeling.
Water shoes also protect your feet when you’re walking on rocky or shell-strewn beaches. If you’re wondering what to wear on a boat tour, these shoes can provide traction on a sea-sprayed deck.
6) Classic Maxi Dresses
Your Florida Keys packing list won’t be complete without a maxi dress. Exuding a breezy island vibe, flowy maxi dresses are ideal for the tropics. These dresses are perfect for Key West because:
They’re Comfortable
Maxi dresses are typically made from lightweight fabrics such as cotton, jersey or chiffon, making them a perfect go-to for Key West’s balmy climate.
They’re Versatile
Whether they’re strapless or V-neck, short-sleeved or sleeveless, maxi dresses have a style to suit every taste. You can also find them in a wide variety of solids and prints, including fun designs such as seashell motifs, florals, geometric patterns and abstracts. These popular dresses can easily transition from beach-bum mode to restaurant chic – no inconvenient stop at your hotel room to change clothes necessary.
Pro tip: You can even wear maxi dresses to Key West’s Fantasy Fest, a 10-day mask, costume and live music extravaganza held in October. Much of the action takes place on world-famous Duval Street. Be sure to wear the most colorful, outrageous maxi dress you can find for this Halloween-meets-Mardi Gras romp. Remember, the more ridiculous, the better!
They Flatter Any Figure
Maxi dresses come in a variety of styles that complement any body type. Whether you’re tall, petite, slim or curvy, you can confidently wear a maxi dress.
They’re Effortless
One of the best things about maxi dresses is that they’re extremely casual and effortlessly chic. They pair perfectly with flip-flops, understated jewelry and a distinctive beach bag.
And if you’re trying to decide what to wear in Key West at night, maxi dresses are your answer.
7) Lightweight Sweaters And Jackets
If you’ve never visited the Florida Keys before, you might be under the impression that it’s blissfully warm all year round. However, during the winter months, nighttime temperatures can dip into the 60s.
When making a packing list for this season, be sure to include a light cardigan or light sweater. Regardless of the season, it’s helpful to have a lightweight jacket handy. Even during the summer months, temperatures can be a bit chilly when the sun goes down.
A Boat Trip With Us Is Always In Style!
When you cruise with Key West Boat Trips, our only fashion statement is casual, comfortable and chill.Don’t worry about what to wear on a boat tour. We want you to relax and enjoy the magic of Key West’s postcard-perfect destinations and exciting water activities. Call us now and we’ll give you the experience of a lifetime!
The post 7 Tips On What To Wear In Key West – Dress To Impress first appeared on Key West Boat Trips.
