Grab your boardshorts and puka shells—a sporty surfer aesthetic is officially heating up for summer 2026. Think mismatched, expressive swim and activewear, tankinis, and rash guards in the fashion space, but beauty lovers also have skin in the game with sea salt sprays, beachy body mists, and glistening highlighters that resemble a fresh spray of ocean surf. Summer does typically beget a breezy beauty aesthetic, don’t get me wrong, but I know I’m not the only one noticing this season leaning a little more athletic. (I credit the World Cup craze!)
How does one channel the “surf’s up” energy of summer 2026? In my opinion, it’s all about creating subtle contrasts—androgynous swim trunks with a kiss of sparkle on the lids, sporty, wraparound sunglasses with a dainty shell necklace, plus, of course, plenty of bronzer-blush hybrids and water-resistant sunscreens to drive home the “spent all day at the beach” effect. Ahead, find everything you need to ace the aesthetic.
