A day out on your luxury yacht can be a good old time—if you’re properly dressed for the occasion. Every fashion maven will want to take her entire wardrobe aboard, when obviously we can’t, so being prepared for the right occasion is key. Being caught without a bikini or with too many can put a damper on your relaxation that no amount of piña coladas can fix. So we’ll prepare you for the best (and worst) weather has to offer and for all the different occasions on your yacht, because while bikinis and heels may look cute, let’s be honest, it’s just not practical. All the fun and glamour can get ruined by a quick change of weather or a slip on the deck, so prepare yourself for the bad and you’ll always look good.
If you’re having a swanky soiree or just a little cocktail bash for you and 100 of your closest friends then you’re going to need a party dress. And while I’m sure you’re aware of the obviousness of the statement, let me toss an idea your way. While sitting in a harbor, anchored out at sea or even sailing to your favorite exotic locales, you’re on the ocean—it gets cold and windy. Why would you want your super-skimpy, but knockout cocktail dress covered with your husband’s jacket an hour into the party? Don’t avoid going out on the deck because of your thigh-baring hemline—you’re on a yacht, take in the view. Find a dress made of a heavier material with long sleeves and a short length, (or the opposite—a long, sleeveless number for your black tie anniversary) and try to find a form fitting dress, anything loose will turn into a flying mess when the wind kicks up. Wools, brocade, even velvet (it’s coming back!) would keep your warm and looking hot all night. If you still get chilly you can grab a quick jacket or even better, layer a tank top underneath to give an added barrier of warmth.

Remember that the boat will rock a bit (or possibly a lot) so take that into consideration in regards to seasickness and clumsiness. Slap a patch on underneath your dress to solve the sea-sickness issue and bring a Tide stick with you just in case. And since the deck will be rocking to some degree, make sure that you’re wearing heels that you’re comfortable and surefooted in. Saying away from your sky-high stilettos will be a safer option; in the event you hit a bump or misstep, you have a better chance of recovering gracefully. If you can, think ahead, and stick on some non-slip grips to the bottom of your shoes to prevent tumbles even if the deck gets wet.
If you’re lucky enough to have a few days where there’s nothing but swim and surf in your plans than you might need a few of those teeny tiny bikinis that men like to sing about. Depending on your sport of choice (sunbathing’s a sport, right?) then you’ll need anything from a bathing suit to a wetsuit. The plus side to a great bikini is you can always toss on your shirt and pants over it if the weather turns. Layering a sweater and windbreaker over that will be simple and quick, saving you from freezing out on the deck.

When you are soaking up sun, pulling off that casual I’m-just-tanning-but-don’t- I-look-great style, don’t forget your sunnies, and maybe one of those big floppy hats (some people can pull it off, if you can’t don’t worry about it—I never met a hat I looked good in.) If you’re not keeping your sun-bleached hair hidden under a hat or scarf, try to keep it up or at least have a hair tie nearby. As sexy as long hair can look blowing in the breeze, a quick change in the wind or boat speed can leave you scrambling to keep it from frizzing up and getting in your face. And while flip-flops are great for beachgoers, a slippery deck is no place for sandals with no grip, so make sure you think that one through. Instead, you can grab some grip socks if it's cold (there are cute ones, I promise) or go barefoot, because if you try to wear less-than-practical sandals on a rocking, wet deck, you’re going to have a bad time.
Unlike the woman in the photo above, (who’s obviously never done any sailing before) keep your jewelry minimal and simple. The last thing you need is your dangling earring whipping in the wind and your hair tangling around them; plan for studs and simple, short chains if you need a little sparkle. Avoid any metals or gems that can become corroded or tarnished by sea spray.

For lounging, you can indulge in a little tradition and go with a classic blazer, button shirt, pants or shorts, and boat shoes. While the look is a little overdone, it’s the most practical thing you can wear—if you get too hot or cold you can take off or add on layers as needed. Every piece in this outfit can pull double-duty: use your tank top for under layers, your blazer if it gets windy, and dress your shirt up or down with pants or bikini bottoms. Even though you have all your functional, mix-and-match pieces (look at you, you excellent packer) always bring a change of clothes. Always. You’re on a boat at sea, surrounded by water and so the likelihood that you’ll get wet (or just hit a bump and spill something) is pretty high.

Although, you’re probably jumping on a yacht to get away for a few weeks and snag some much needed R & R, taking the time to pack a few more things and be mindful of what you’re taking can make a huge difference in your trip. If you can bring half your wardrobe then lucky you, if not then double duty clothes (not to mention a big purse) can help to make sure you’re covered in every situation.