Coastal Cool Fashion: Biking, Beaches & Breezy Dresses

by Sandhya Garg & Melissa from BikePretty.com

When summer hits, coastal chic becomes more than a style—it’s a whole state of mind. Whether you’re biking through the breezy streets of San Francisco or sipping sunset cocktails in Cabo, it’s all about looking effortlessly fabulous while staying comfortable.

I’m Sandhya Garg, Project Runway designer and creator of wearable art at SandhyaGarg.com. Joining me is Melissa, the creative genius behind Bike Pretty, maker of iconic Straw Hat Bike Helmets loved by Martha Stewart and Cameron Mannheim. Together, we bring you “Yummy Mummies”—our weekly style chat about fashion, humor, and real life.

🌴 What Is Coastal Chic Fashion?

Coastal Chic (or as we call it, Coastal Cool) is where laid-back luxury meets timeless style. Think flowing linen, nautical blue tones, breezy whites, and sun-washed prints that feel like a vacation in your closet.

Melissa, who bikes through San Francisco, channels the look with Victorian blouses, wide-leg jeans, and vintage details. My version? Resort wear dresses and lightweight cotton maxis—effortless, feminine, and flattering.

Style Tip:

Don’t be afraid to mix textures—cotton, silk, and linen layer beautifully for coastal ease. Bonus: they travel well, too.

🩵 Look 1: Vacation in a Dress

I wore my Gustav Maxi Dress—a floaty chiffon statement piece that practically hums with “vacation energy.” With its adjustable tie-up straps and elegant flow, it transitions easily from resort brunch to beach dinner.

Melissa paired her navy blue straw hat bike helmet with a Victorian blouse and sailor jeans—proof you can ride safely and look chic doing it.

Pro Tip:

Steam your sleeves before stepping out (but never while wearing them!). It’s the easiest way to keep your look fresh all day.

🦋 Look 2: Blue, White & Bold

We leaned into Fourth of July color inspiration—patriotic yet elevated. I styled the Casablanca Midi Dress—crafted from stretch cotton with a one-shoulder lace neckline. Chic, comfortable, and ready for oceanside cocktails.

Melissa kept it coastal with her denim-inspired bike helmet and sailor jeans. Her secret: layer light fabrics to stay warm without losing style.

🐚 Look 3: The Ultimate Beach Cover-Up

Every coastal wardrobe needs a versatile cover-up. My pick? A hand-embroidered chiffon kaftan that doubles as a chic duster for resort dinners. Elegant, breathable, and practical.

Melissa added a crisp white cotton eyelet set and a silk butterfly scarf—perfectly polished yet whimsical. It’s giving “Audrey Hepburn on vacation.”

Style Note:

Mix shades of white and cream for depth. Coastal style doesn’t have to mean basic neutrals—it’s about texture and tone.

☀️ The Coastal Chic Lifestyle

Coastal cool fashion is more than outfits—it’s an attitude. It’s about learning, living, and loving the process of dressing beautifully. Melissa shared her love of slow living—walking her SF neighborhood, taking in color and culture. I believe in learning something new daily and spreading kindness.

As we joked, “You’re either growing or you’re shrinking—there’s no standing still in life or fashion.”

✨ Shop the Coastal Cool Collection

• Designer Dresses by Sandhya Garg
• Straw Hat Bike Helmets by Bike Pretty
• Plus Size Fashion Tips
• Destination Wedding Attire
• Broadway Dress Code
• Cruise Wear Fashion

From bold prints to breezy fabrics, each piece embodies wearable art and sustainable designer style. Because whether your coast is Pacific blue or desert gold, the right outfit can make you feel like the main character of your own summer story.