How to Dress Like a Surfer's Lifestyle

Dressing like a surfer means developing a no-fuss closet of informal clothing you can strip off in no time to catch a set of waves. The surfer lifestyle is depicted by a laid-back attitude that revolves around the beach scene and catching waves. Surfer fashion, comprised of casual articles of clothing that offer a natural low-maintenance look, correlates to this minimalist mindset. Gear is inspired by renowned surf brands including Billabong, Quicksilver, Rip Curl and Roxy, and draws from styles worn in big wave destinations, such as Hawaii and Indonesia.

Things You'll Need

  • Board shorts
  • Bikini
  • Wetsuit (optional)
  • Skirts, sundresses and baggy, distressed jeans
  • Tank top or T-shirt
  • Straw hat or baseball cap
  • Button-down Hawaiian, flannel or pull-over Batik shirt
  • Cargo pants
  • Hooded sweatshirt, long sleeve T-shirt or fleece jacket
  • Flip-flops, canvas sneakers or shoes
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Instructions

    • 1

      Wear board shorts that lace up and tie when surfing in warm water. Girls can wear a bikini or pair board shorts with a bikini top. Both genders can add a neoprene board wetsuit shirt to prevent against board rash. Wear a full neoprene wet suit, surfing booties and gloves when surfing cold waters to keep your body warm.

    • 2

      Pair surf brand board shorts, skirts, sundresses or baggy, distressed jeans with a surf brand tank top or T-shirt for a day time look. Accessorize with surf brand sunglasses and a floppy straw hat for females or a surf brand baseball cap with a logo for males. Surf brand gear advertises the logo of the brand and offers designs such as waves, Hawaiian flowers or quotes related to the surfer lifestyle.

    • 3

      Dress up a surfer outfit for a nighttime look by adorning a button-down Hawaiian shirt, flannel or pull-over batik shirt with jeans, cargo pants, a skirt or sundress. Add a hooded sweatshirt, long sleeve T-shirt or fleece jacket for night time bonfires or parties. Add a beanie or baseball cap.

    • 4

      Wear flip-flops, canvas sneakers or canvas shoes made by a surf brand with all looks.