A clambake is the perfect occasion to rock a nautical look, and nothing says sailor-inspired like stripes. Go for a classic look with a white and navy pattern -- a striped T-shirt, tank or boat neck sweater can work well for your party. You can also opt for a white and navy striped sundress or maxi skirt for a more dressed up look. If you want a slight twist on traditional nautical stripes, choose red and white or red and navy stripes instead. Wear a red and white striped tunic top or a navy and red striped bathing suit for the clambake.

For a clambake on the beach, you don’t want to wear full length pants that can get wet and sandy -- cropped pants are a much better option when you’re sitting at the shoreline. Denim or khaki capris can work with virtually any color or patterned top, so they’re a versatile choice. You can also opt for even shorter pants like a clam digger style that ends just a few inches below the knees. If your clambake is during the day when it’s warm, Bermuda shorts can you help stay even cooler. Look for a pair with a whimsical embroidered pattern that fits the beach theme, such as fish, seashells, sailboats or crabs.

Since clambakes usually take place on a beach, you may want to stay casual and just wear your bathing suit to the festivities. But if you don’t want to sit around exposed all day, choose a stylish cover-up to wear over your suit. A sheer tunic style cover-up is an ideal option if you still want to show off some of your suit -- a white, navy or red tunic can help keep up the nautical theme. You can also opt for a tube style dress in cotton or terrycloth or a sarong that easily wraps over your suit. For a low-key, relaxed look, throw an oversized button-down shirt on over your suit.

Choosing the right shoes for a clambake on the beach can be tricky. Heeled sandals and wedges won’t work because you’ll be sinking into the sand the entire time. If you’re dressing up, traditional boat shoes are an attractive, practical option. Flat gladiator style sandals with gold hardware can give your clambake outfit a polished look. For a more casual style, basic white or navy tennis shoes can work well. If you’re really dressing down, though, you can’t go wrong with simple flip-flops that match your outfit.