Women:

Embroidered Tunic
Target, $16.99
A great beach coverup,
this light and airy number packs three-quarter-length sleeves that casually cover the upper arms. The sexy sheerness keeps you from feeling overly, well, exposed.

Summer-Weight Chino Cropped Pants
J. Crew, $68
Too shy for shorts? Merely crop your pants to a cool length (below the knee, midcalf or at the ankle). Daisy Duke, eat your heart out.

Shades
(street vendor), $10
Big splashy sunglasses (pick a pair with UV protection) give an air of mystery worthy of Brangelina or Vaughniston. They’ll lure other beachgoers, getting the conversation—and the party—started.

Tote Bag
J. Crew, $68
Load the beach towel, sunscreen, an afternoon snack and your medications into the ultimate
summer tote. Now you’re cool—and packing some heat.

Men:

Striped Linen Shirt
The Gap, $49.50
Linen is the perfect lightweight antidote for sweltering afternoons. Shirts with vertical stripes help slim a paunch, and the long sleeves beg to be rolled down if you’re bashful about your arms.

Summer-Weight Relaxed-Fit Chinos
J. Crew, $68
Pants don’t have to suffocate you; ’tis the season to go lightly. Roll ’em up to your calves and wear with flip-flops for a casual chic that eases leggy self-consciousness.

Mossimo Newport Print Board Shorts
Target, $17.99
The surfer classic is ideal for guys with thinning thighs. Wanna camouflage your behind? Pick large patterns: Hawaiian flowers and bright colors.