5 Outfit Ideas You Need to Know Before Heading to Miami (2024)

Pack Smarter, Not Harder

Perhaps the biggest factor to consider while prepping for a trip to Miami is how much you’re actually packing. Avoid as much stress before, during, and after the trip by opting to pack lighter and smarter (For the anti-outfit repeaters, that means that you may or may not have to re-wear some of the same pieces more than once, sorry!) Airlines tend to lose checked-in luggage all too often (It happened to me once on a trip back home from Miami, coincidentally), so you might want to consider storing everything you need in a carry-on and personal bag.

Having trouble deciding what to bring? Christina Caruso, a New York City-based fashion accessory designer, says she always relies on suitcase-friendly items, many of which can fit in storage cubes. “I pack like an editor and lay out classic lewks,” Caruso tells InStyle. If you happen to check in a bag, keep track of what’s inside via Airtag, and don’t pack anything of too much value you’d freak out over if you lost (Again, like me).

As for her wardrobe, Caruso’s foolproof tip is to stick to a color palette that works harmoniously together. “I mostly stick to neutrals,” she says, recalling a recent visit to the city. “I focused on a cream, neutral palette with denim accents that my gold jewels can really pop off of.

Heat-Proof Your Daytime ‘Fits

Though Miami is a fan-favorite for its ideal weather all year long, sometimes the heat can get too much, especially in the summer. Take it from Floridians and frequent travelers, who have nailed down how to bear the scorching rays—the best way to combat it is to heat-proof your outfits, says Daniella Jassir, Head of Brand Relations for Colombian fashion brand Francesa Miranda. And it doesn’t necessarily mean going for less (Though you could be perfectly fine in a bathing suit wherever you’re heading, I’m sure).

Whether enjoying a spa day at The Standard or hitting up some local hotspots all along Miami Beach, Jassir commits to anything that’s easy and breezy. Think lightweight fabrics like sensual lace, for instance. As for her favorite silhouettes? Of course, Francesca Miranda’s Claire Fringe Dress. “They’re the ideal day-to-night pieces I always pack with me,” she says. “You can wear it during the day with flats and then dress it up with stilettos and bold jewelry at night, like these Paula Mendoza’s Hoop earrings that make any outfit come together.”

Andrea Jassir, Head of Sales of Francesa Miranda, adds that her packing essentials would definitely include an oversized white linen button-down—a versatile piece that she likes to wear as a dress to the beach. “I also can style it with a flirty skirt and cute sandals. My favorite white button-down at the moment is my Guayabera Top.”

Channel the “Less Is More Mindset” With Your Jewelry

Most fashion experts can co-sign this one message: The most crucial part of any outfit is how it’s accessorized, and a vacay in Miami is no different. Straw hats and tan lines are not the only ways to pair your looks, and your jewelry of choice doesn’t have to be the most elaborate, either. If not anything, keep it on the simple front, and remember: When in doubt, gold is always the perfect route.

“I make a point to bring a nice selection of my statement jewelry that compliment and elevate my look,” says Caruso. The “perfect Miami jewelry,” according to the designer, consists of a nice assortment of statement jewelry pieces. “[I usually opt for pieces from] my collection that really tie these classic looks together, such as the oversized Palm, the classic hoop (Triple or Pavé), and Shell Earrings…[I also prefer] a chunky Link Bracelet, and the versatile Tassel Necklace that can also be worn as a belt.” She also stores her accessories in a travel-friendly case, which “makes it easy to transport and keep your jewels safe when en route.”

Cover-Ups Are Your Best Friends

Between the beach and a full day of travel adventure, there can be little time to make an outfit change throughout the day. A quick styling hack that’ll transform your look from day to night is none other than the ‘ole reliable cover-up—and you won’t need to swap out your swimsuit.

Luckily the cover-up, whether it’s a pareo (sarong), or a flowy robe, is an underrated fashion staple that can easily pass as a going-out style in Miami, says Andrea Jassir. “The trick is to tie them in different ways for maximum looks,” she tells InStyle. “My go-to formula for a night out would be a fitted bodysuit with a sarong tied to create a mini, asymmetrical skirt.” She finishes her outfit with my favorite kitten heels and oversized earrings, and boom, she’s “ready for a night out at Cafe La Trova to the sounds of salsa and disco with a carajillo in hand.”

Don’t Be Afraid to Lean Into Lots of Layers

Just because Miami is quite literally a “hotspot” doesn’t mean that you have to ditch the layering hack. Layering isn’t only reserved for wintertime—the city is a sound place to experiment with the concept, and adding on a layer or two to dinner and late-night outings will help you knock out your itinerary with ease.

If you’re looking for a clever way to tackle the layering trick, opt for lightweight silhouettes. Marlien Rentmeester, writer for the Substack newsletter, Le Catch, suggests bringing a couple of flowy button-downs in your luggage. Her perfect daytime outfit, Rentmeester explains, includes throwing on a pair of leggings, a trusty bikini, and a pair of linen trousers. “[I wear this outfit formula] while biking around South Beach, and then re-fueling at True Loaf with an almond milk cappuccino and an only-in-Miami-airy croissant in the mornings,” she says.

Rentmeester also suggests wearing a one-and-done dress, something that’s lightweight and layerable. “It can be worn over a swimsuit during the day and with strappy heels at night,” she says. While cutouts have been a go-to design for locals, Rentmeester says she prefers something sleek and simple from brands like Faithfull the Brand, Khaite, and Cult Gaia “rather than overly sexy.”