What To Wear In Cape Cod This Summer How To Pack Like A Local In Cape Cod
Not sure what to wear in Cape Cod? I’ve got you covered with eight outfit ideas perfect for your next coastal getaway. I just got back from a late summer trip and it was magical— from quaint towns to charming storefronts to fresh seafood it’s hard not to fall in love with the atmosphere of the Cape.
While this destination’s peak season is definitely during the summer, an early September trip was perfect. We enjoyed lots of sunshine and 75-degree temperatures during the day but got to break out our fall sweaters in the evenings for smores, fireworks, and cozy firepits.
Nothing better than breaking out the “coastal granddaughter” outfits. Sharing my favorite preppy looks down below complete with links to shop! Enjoy.
Holiday Spirit
We got to the Cape just in time for Labor Day weekend which meant I had the perfect excuse to pull out my American Flag sweater. No destination will give you more of the “All American” feel so regardless of when you’re visiting, you can rep your red white, and blue proudly!
These white linen pants are a must. The perfect relaxed low-rise fit that you can dress up or down. I wore these almost every evening around the house!
sweater | shirt | pants | sunglasses | shoes
photo location ✈ Del Mar
Nautical in Nantucket
It still feels like summer during the day on the Cape! I had to break out this blue ruffle set from Fortunate One while I still could. Grab it for 10% off with my code MCKENZIE.
photo location ✈ Toppers Nantucket
Keeping Casual
You’ll definitely want to pack a pair of jeans and a few sweaters with you. There’s no humidity in Cape Cod so temperatures cool off quite a bit in the evenings. This was the perfect casual outfit for happy hour on the beach. I never go without a light layer around the shoulder here… regardless of the time of year!
tee | sweater | jeans | shoes | purse | sunglasses
photo location ✈ Lighthouse Inn
On The Cape
The people of Cape Cod have a very polished, preppy, old-money vibe to them so it’s better to be overdressed than under. People everywhere are dressed to the nines, even if just grabbing their morning coffee. I highly recommend packing a few simple sundresses that you can slip into for shopping, exploring, and happy hour-ing.
I always brought a sweater with me that I could tie around my shoulders for later in the day.
dress | shoes | purse | sunglasses
photo location ✈ Chatham Bars Inn
Little White Dress
One of my favorite linen numbers! Such an easy piece to style that scored me a gazillion compliments. Of course, I had to put my new red purse to the test. Loving the touch of fall this instantly adds to an outfit.
dress | shoes | purse | sunglasses | sweater
photo location ✈ Hotel AKA Backbay
A Day Exploring
When in doubt, a sundress and sandals are always the answer. I slipped into something of the sort every day as we explored new towns. Something lightweight and linen like this dress is perfect for all of the walking around.
dress | shoes | purse | sunglasses
photo location ✈ Bass Hole
Beach Day
Craving some saltwater and sunshine? It’s too cold to get in the water (for this Florida girl!) but definitely still warm enough to sit outside and catch some rays! This martini swimsuit from Dippin Daisys is just too cute. Their sustainable styles are some of my favorites. Use code MCK15 for 15% off your purchase.
bikini top | bikini bottom | skirt | purse
photo location ✈
Chasing Sunsets
Is it even a successful girls’ trip if you don’t end it with matching sweatshirts?! We got these from a local boutique in Chatham! They have an online store too if you’re out of state and want one. They are printed on Comfort Colors so they are extra cozy!
We ended up wearing these every night.
photo location ✈ Lighthouse Inn
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It’s always a pleasure getting to be back in New England. It’s hard not to fall in love with all of its charm, especially during this time of year— a taste of summer while sensing fall on the horizon… pure magic! I hope to be back soon. Until then, check out my travel guides for 30+ other destinations around the US here.
