What’s the Difference Between Hamptons and Nantucket Style?

At first glance, packing for a weekend in the Hamptons and packing for a weekend in Nantucket might look exactly the same. Linen dresses? Check. Raffia bag? Obviously. Boat shoes, striped sweaters, chic sunglasses, and a white button-down? Nonnegotiable.

That’s where the similarities end.

The Hamptons have been a summer style destination for decades, but lately it’s become even more of a cultural phenomenon. Every weekend seems to bring another celebrity-filled dinner, designer pop-up, brand activation, or social media moment. Fashion has naturally become part of that conversation, too. The clothes still feel relaxed, but they’re a little more trend-conscious and always ready for whatever the day holds.

A few hundred miles north, though, Nantucket is having a summer of its own. The Five-Star Weekend has introduced a whole new audience to the island’s unmistakable charm, while openings from brands like Loeffler Randall and La DoubleJ have given fashion lovers even more reason to hop on the ferry. Dairy Boy’s flagship even had shoppers queuing up before they unpacked their weekender bags. Then came the now-viral “No Influencers” sign, which sparked an internet-wide conversation about the island’s newfound popularity.

Even with all the buzz, the island’s style remains refreshingly understated—and that’s exactly what makes comparing it to the Hamptons so interesting. Each island’s visitors are shopping many of the same brands and reaching for many of the same pieces, yet the finished looks couldn’t feel more different.

Hamptons style feels more fashion-forward. The pieces are polished without looking overly precious, trend-aware without trying too hard, and always ready for wherever the day ends up taking you. Nantucket takes a different approach. The vibe is preppier and refreshingly unconcerned with what’s trending that week. Instead of chasing the newest “It” item, the wardrobe leans into pieces that feel timeless.

Neither aesthetic is necessarily better dressed than the other. They simply capture two different versions of an East Coast summer.

Ahead, we’ve rounded up outfit ideas for every kind of seaside itinerary, with a Hamptons and Nantucket take on each—because whether you’re stopping at Round Swamp or Bartlett’s Farm, browsing boutiques in Sag Harbor or on Main Street, or settling in for sunset by the water, the dress code isn’t quite as interchangeable as it first appears.

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Morning Coffee Run

Nantucket

Whether you’re walking to Wicked Island Bakery for a pastry or grabbing an iced coffee before heading to the beach, creator Lauren Fishbein’s easy summer wardrobe is a perfect point of reference. A breezy cotton cover-up, simple sandals, and classic sunglasses are all you need.

Hamptons

Unlike Nantucket’s throw-on-and-go approach, even a coffee run in the Hamptons can feel like a fashion moment. Take a cue from Alix Earle and pair sporty separates with statement sunglasses before grabbing a smoothie or stopping by Carissa’s for a pastry on your way to the beach.

Farm Stand Stop

Nantucket

No Nantucket itinerary is complete without a stop at Bartlett’s Farm. Channel Gigi’s wardrobe in The Five-Star Weekend with a breezy cotton dress, simple bag, a just-in-case cardigan, and comfortable sandals—perfect for picking up flowers, fresh produce, or something sweet for dessert.

Hamptons

Even a quick stop at Round Swamp or Balsam Farms calls for something a little more styledol than the Nantucket equivalent. Look to Hamptons regular Lilly Sisto for the formula: feminine separates, colorful accessories, and pieces that feel a little more fashion-forward.

Beach Day

Nantucket

Beach style on Nantucket is refreshingly timeless. Creator Olivia Manni, who frequently spends her summer weekends on the island, is a perfect example of the aesthetic. A classic one-piece and a scarf tied over your hair feel far more in the spirit of Nantucket than chasing the latest swimwear trend.

Hamptons

If Nantucket keeps beach style classic, the Hamptons likes to have a little more fun. Hamptons regular Alexa Schimel proves a simple bikini can become a full outfit with statement shorts, bold accessories, and a great hat.

Shopping in Town

Nantucket

Downtown Nantucket is made for lingering. Maybe you’re stopping into Ralph Lauren, Dairy Boy, or one of the island’s independent boutiques before rewarding yourself with a cone from The Juice Bar. A lightweight blouse, denim shorts, and simple accessories feel just right for an afternoon in town.

Hamptons

An afternoon in East Hampton or Sag Harbor usually includes a stop at Dôen, Veronica Beard, LoveShackFancy, Stoney Clover Lane, Zimmermann, or Brunello Cucinelli. Tailored linen, polished sandals, and investment accessories feel right at home among the storefronts.

Sunset Cocktails

Nantucket

Dinner might be at The Pearl, Cru, or Claudette, but the formula is simple. Slip dresses, lace skirts, delicate jewelry, and understated sandals fit right in.

Hamptons

By golden hour, Hamptons style leans a little dressier. Whether you’re meeting friends at Crow’s Nest for cocktails or heading to dinner at Duryea’s, Arielle Charnas has influenced more than a few Hamptons mood boards, and this coordinated set makes a compelling case for why.

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